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Delaware Valley University

Doylestown, PA

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

1896
Founded
Private university
Type
1,777
Undergrad
401
Graduate
$31M
Endowment
(2020)
Master's Colleges & Universities
Classification
President: Benjamin E. Rusiloski

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About Delaware Valley University

Delaware Valley University: Where 'science with practice' has cultivated innovation since 1896.

Delaware Valley University, nestled in Doylestown, Pennsylvania, stands as a testament to the power of hands-on learning and practical application. Known for its 'science with practice' approach, the university has a rich history rooted in agricultural education, evolving into a diverse institution offering a wide array of programs across science, agriculture, and professional studies. It's a place where students don't just learn theories; they actively engage with them, preparing for real-world challenges.

The university's journey began in 1896 as the National Farm School, a visionary project by activist Reform rabbi Joseph Krauskopf. Inspired by Leo Tolstoy, Krauskopf aimed to equip Jewish immigrants with farming skills, blending rigorous science with practical experience on the school's own farm. While initially supported by the Federation of Jewish Charities of Philadelphia, the institution quickly opened its doors to men of all backgrounds, fostering a diverse and inclusive learning environment from its earliest days. Its growth from just two teachers and eight students to a thriving institution laid the groundwork for its future expansion.

Following World War II, the school transformed into a four-year college, broadening its academic scope beyond agriculture to include various sciences, leading to its renaming as Delaware Valley College of Science and Agriculture in 1960. The commitment to growth continued with the admission of women in 1969, the introduction of its first graduate programs in 1998, and the significant dedication of the 398-acre Gemmill Campus in 2011. This continuous evolution culminated in 2014 when the college earned well-deserved university status, officially becoming Delaware Valley University in 2015. Today, it remains dedicated to its founding principles of practical education, preparing students not just for careers, but for meaningful contributions to society.

Key Highlights

  • Founded in 1896 as the National Farm School, pioneering the 'science with practice' educational philosophy.
  • Evolved from a specialized farm school into a comprehensive private university, gaining university status in 2014.
  • First admitted women students in 1969, expanding access and inclusivity in its educational mission.
  • Expanded its physical footprint significantly with the dedication of a 398-acre Gemmill Campus in 2011.
  • Offers advanced learning opportunities, including graduate programs since 1998 and diverse continuing and professional studies.

Timeline

1896
Founded as the National Farm School by Joseph Krauskopf.
1904
Enrollment grew to 45 students under the directorship of John Hosea Washburn.
1960
Renamed Delaware Valley College of Science and Agriculture.
1969
Began admitting women students for the first time.
1998
Introduced its first graduate programs.
2011
Dedicated the 398-acre Gemmill Campus in Jamison, Pennsylvania.
2014
Granted university status.
2015
Officially changed its name to Delaware Valley University.
🏛️
130 Years
of Excellence

Schools & Colleges

1 notable schools within Delaware Valley University

🏫

Office of Continuing and Professional Studies

Offers various for-credit degrees, certificates, and noncredit options for lifelong learning and professional development.

Leadership

Benjamin E. Rusiloski
President

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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