Indiana University Bloomington, founded in 1820, is a public, comprehensive institution. The most common reasons for students choosing IU over other similar schools are the reputation of its academic programs, flexibility in curricula, especially for exploratory students, a smorgasbord of academic and extracurricular opportunities, access to faculty and current technology, beauty of campus; an institutional philosophy of personal attention, a friendly and diverse college town and the promise of a true college experience. Programs are offered through the College of Arts and Sciences; the Division of Allied Health Sciences; and the Schools of Business, Education, Dentistry, Health/Physical Education/Recreation, Music, Nursing, Optometry, Public and Environmental Affairs, and Social Work. Its 1,878-acre campus is located in the city of Bloomington, 45 miles from Indianapolis.