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La Salle University

Philadelphia, PA

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

1,966
Total Students
$36K
Tuition (In-State)
$36K
Tuition (Out-State)
$21K
Avg Net Price
86%
Acceptance Rate
58%
Graduation Rate
6-year
69%
Retention Rate
Doctoral/Professional Universities
Classification

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

About La Salle University

La Salle University: A historic institution in Philadelphia, dedicated to resilience and student access.

La Salle University stands as a testament to enduring educational commitment, rooted in a rich history within the vibrant city of Philadelphia. Founded by Brother Teliow and Archbishop James Wood, La Salle has consistently evolved to meet the needs of its students, overcoming significant challenges to offer a transformative learning experience. The university is particularly noted for its bold decision in 2016 to decrease tuition by 29 percent, making a high-quality Lasallian education more accessible and affordable for a diverse range of prospective students.

From its establishment as an all-male college in 1863, La Salle embarked on a journey that saw multiple campus relocations and periods of intense financial strain. Despite nearly closing on several occasions, including during the late 1930s and World War II, the institution demonstrated remarkable resilience, fueled by community support and dedicated leadership. A pivotal moment arrived in 1970 when La Salle opened its doors to women, becoming a fully co-educational university, further expanding its impact and community.

Today, La Salle boasts a dynamic and expanding campus, significantly enhanced by the 2007 acquisition of the former Germantown Hospital, now known as West Campus, which increased its size by 25 percent. Modern facilities like the renovated Holroyd Science Center, a new business school on West Campus, and the vibrant Hansen Family Quad provide cutting-edge resources. Students benefit from comprehensive amenities, including new residence halls like St. Basil Court, a contemporary dining experience at Tree Tops Cafe, and the convenience of The Shoppes at La Salle. This commitment to campus development and student well-being, coupled with a recent resurgence in enrollment to 3263 by 2025, underscores La Salle's revitalized spirit and appeal.

Key Highlights

  • ✦Founded in March 1863 by Brother Teliow and Archbishop James Wood in Philadelphia.
  • ✦Transitioned to a fully co-educational institution in 1970, admitting women to its regular classes.
  • ✦Granted University status in 1984, reflecting its growth and comprehensive academic offerings.
  • ✦Expanded its campus by 25% in 2007 with the acquisition of the former Germantown Hospital, now West Campus.
  • ✦Decreased undergraduate tuition by 29% in 2016 to enhance accessibility and affordability for students.
  • ✦Features modern academic facilities including the renovated Holroyd Science Center and a new business school on West Campus.
  • ✦Experienced a significant rebound in enrollment, reaching 3263 students by 2025 after a period of decline.

Timeline

1863
Founded as La Salle College by Brother Teliow and Archbishop James Wood.
1930
Moved to its current campus at the intersection of 20th Street and Olney Avenue.
1938
Prevented from closing by a successful 75th Anniversary Fund Drive.
1970
Admitted women to its regular classes, becoming a fully co-educational institution.
1984
Granted University status and acquired the Belfield Estate.
2007
Acquired the former Germantown Hospital for $10 million, establishing West Campus.
2016
Decreased undergraduate tuition by 29% to improve accessibility.
2020
Daniel J. Allen became president, initiating a period of revitalization and growth.
2025
Enrollment rebounded to 3263 students, demonstrating significant positive momentum.

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