Saint Louis University

Saint Louis University (SLU) stands as a beacon of academic excellence and historical significance in St. Louis, Missouri. As a private Jesuit research university, SLU is not just an institution of higher learning but a vibrant community dedicated to the pursuit of knowledge and service. Founded in 1818, it proudly holds the distinction of being the oldest university west of the Mississippi River, making it a pivotal part of American educational history. Classified among "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very High Spending and Doctorate Production," SLU offers a rigorous academic environment where groundbreaking research thrives.

SLU's rich history began as Saint Louis Academy, quickly evolving into a college and then a university under the care of the Society of Jesus. This Jesuit tradition continues to inform its mission, emphasizing intellectual rigor, social justice, and personal growth. A testament to its forward-thinking ethos, SLU was among the first Catholic universities to courageously desegregate in 1944, a landmark decision that underscored its commitment to equality and moral leadership. Later, in 1967, it again broke new ground by empowering laypeople with a majority on its board of trustees, demonstrating adaptability and a progressive vision for its future.

Today, SLU is a dynamic institution with a diverse student body of over 15,300 students, representing all 50 states and 96 countries. This global reach is further exemplified by its unique Madrid Campus in Spain, which has offered international opportunities for over 50 years. Students at SLU benefit from a comprehensive educational experience, supported by a dedicated faculty and a robust endowment of nearly $1.9 billion. Whether pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate studies, Billikens engage in a challenging curriculum designed to prepare them for meaningful careers and lives of purpose, all within the vibrant urban setting of St. Louis.