Several dates highlight the growth of Nichols College: It was founded in 1815. In 1958, Nichols was granted authority to become a four-year college. In November 1970, the Board of Trustees voted to admit women. In 1971, the College was granted authority to grant the degrees of Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, and Bachelor of Science in Public Administration. In 1974, authority was given to grant the degree of Master of Business Administration.
Nichols' main emphasis is on training and preparation for a successful working career. Twenty seven buildings are situated across more than 200 acres of rolling hills. Full-time undergraduate enrollment is 825, with an average of 18 students per class. Nichols' campus is within one-hour of Boston.