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Delaware Valley University

Doylestown, PA

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

Wikipedia
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" cultivates future leaders through hands-on learning.

Delaware Valley University, affectionately known as DelVal, offers a unique and enriching educational experience rooted in its "science with practice" philosophy. Since its founding, the university has been dedicated to providing a hands-on approach to learning, ensuring students gain practical skills alongside theoretical knowledge. This distinctive method prepares graduates not just with degrees, but with real-world expertise in their chosen fields, making them highly sought after by employers.

The university's history is as rich and inspiring as its curriculum. Established in 1896 as the National Farm School by activist Reform Rabbi Joseph Krauskopf, DelVal was born from a vision, inspired by Leo Tolstoy, to train Jewish immigrants in farming. Though its initial focus was specific, the institution quickly opened its doors to men from all backgrounds, and notably began admitting women in 1969, demonstrating a long-standing commitment to inclusivity. This foundational spirit of innovation and community continues to define the DelVal experience today.

Over the decades, DelVal has continuously evolved, expanding its academic offerings from its original three-year farm curriculum to a comprehensive four-year college, adding its first graduate programs in 1998. The dedication of the expansive 398-acre Gemmill Campus in 2011 further solidified its capacity for growth and cutting-edge research. This commitment to academic excellence and expansion culminated in its transformation from a college to Delaware Valley University in 2015, reflecting its broad range of programs and advanced scholarly pursuits. Students at DelVal benefit from this vibrant history, learning in an environment that values practical application, community, and forward-thinking education.

Key Highlights

  • Pioneering "science with practice" education since its founding in 1896.
  • Established by activist Reform Rabbi Joseph Krauskopf, inspired by Leo Tolstoy, to provide practical skills.
  • Initially focused on training Jewish immigrants, but quickly became open to men of all ethnic and religious backgrounds.
  • First admitted women students in 1969, demonstrating a long-standing commitment to inclusivity.
  • Expanded its footprint significantly with the dedication of the 398-acre Gemmill Campus in 2011.
  • Elevated to university status in 2014, reflecting its comprehensive academic offerings and graduate programs.
  • Offers extensive hands-on learning on its own Doylestown, Pennsylvania farm.

Timeline

1896
Opened as the National Farm School with a "science with practice" curriculum.
1904
Enrollment grew to 45 students under John Hosea Washburn's directorship.
1960
Changed its name to Delaware Valley College of Science and Agriculture.
1969
First admitted women students to its programs.
1998
Added its first graduate programs, expanding academic opportunities.
2011
Dedicated the 398-acre Gemmill Campus in Jamison, Pennsylvania.
2014
Granted university status, recognizing its broad academic scope.
2015
Name officially changed to Delaware Valley University on April 8.
🏛️
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 non-credit options for ongoing education and professional development.

Leadership

via Wikipedia
Benjamin E. Rusiloski
President

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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