Saint Leo University
Saint Leo, FL
Quick Facts
“Courage to Be More”
Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education
About Saint Leo University
Saint Leo University: Pioneering Benedictine education since 1889, on campus and globally online.
Saint Leo University, a private Catholic institution rooted in Benedictine tradition, offers a vibrant and comprehensive educational experience from its picturesque campus in St. Leo, Florida. Established in 1889 as Florida's first Catholic college, Saint Leo has a rich history of innovation and inclusivity. It stands today as one of the fifteen largest Catholic colleges in the United States, recognized for its commitment to academic excellence and a student-centered approach.
The university provides a diverse array of over 55 associate, baccalaureate, and master's degrees, alongside certificate and doctoral programs, including its Doctor of Business Administration. What truly sets Saint Leo apart is its pioneering spirit in distance learning, having offered educational opportunities to military personnel since 1973, long before online education became mainstream. This legacy continues with a robust Center for Online Learning and regional education centers, extending its reach to students across all 50 states, three U.S. territories, and more than 80 countries.
Beyond its traditional University Campus, Saint Leo fosters a "Courage to Be More" spirit, encouraging students to thrive academically and personally. Its strong Benedictine affiliation, through the Holy Name Monastery and Saint Leo Abbey, imbues the campus with a sense of community and service. With a total enrollment of 10,231 students, Saint Leo offers a dynamic environment where individuals are prepared to lead and make a meaningful impact in their chosen fields, supported by a dedicated faculty. The recent launch of the Lionova Institute further underscores its commitment to faith-anchored, technology-enabled education for the future.
Key Highlights
- ✦Founded in 1889, Saint Leo University holds the distinction of being the first Catholic college in Florida.
- ✦One of the fifteen largest Catholic universities in the United States, serving 10,231 students globally.
- ✦Pioneered distance learning opportunities for U.S. military personnel beginning in 1973, long before widespread online education.
- ✦Offers over 55 associate, baccalaureate, master's, and certificate programs, including a Doctor of Business Administration.
- ✦Educates a diverse student body from all 50 U.S. states, three territories, and more than 80 countries.
- ✦Launched the Lionova Institute in 2026, focusing on faith-anchored, technology-enabled, and workforce-connected learning.
- ✦Maintains deep Benedictine roots through its association with the Holy Name Monastery and Saint Leo Abbey.
Timeline
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