Saint Louis University
Saint Louis, MO
Quick Facts
“Ad maiorem Dei gloriam”("For the greater glory of God")
Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education
About Saint Louis University
Saint Louis University: The oldest university west of the Mississippi, empowering students since 1818.
Saint Louis University (SLU) stands as a beacon of academic excellence and historical significance, a private Jesuit research university nestled in the heart of St. Louis, Missouri. Founded in 1818, SLU holds the distinct honor of being the oldest university west of the Mississippi River and one of the oldest Jesuit universities in the United States. It is globally recognized as an "R1: Doctoral University – Very High Spending and Doctorate Production," highlighting its profound commitment to cutting-edge research and advanced scholarship. Guided by its motto, "Ad maiorem Dei gloriam" (For the greater glory of God), SLU cultivates a vibrant community dedicated to discovery, service, and a holistic educational experience.
SLU's history is marked by a pioneering spirit and a commitment to social justice. Notably, in 1944, the university made history by becoming one of the first Catholic institutions to open its doors to African Americans, a courageous move that challenged prevailing segregationist policies. This legacy of progressive action continued in 1967 when SLU became a trailblazer among Catholic universities by transitioning to a majority lay board of trustees, empowering a broader community in its governance. These milestones underscore SLU's enduring dedication to creating an inclusive and forward-thinking environment.
Today, SLU continues to offer a dynamic academic landscape designed to challenge and inspire. With a diverse student body exceeding 15,334, representing all 50 U.S. states and 96 countries, students benefit from a rich tapestry of perspectives and cultures. Beyond its main campus, SLU extends its reach internationally with a renowned Madrid Campus, which has been fostering global education for over 50 years. This global perspective, combined with its robust research capabilities, ensures that SLU graduates are prepared to lead and make a difference in an interconnected world.
Life at SLU is an engaging blend of rigorous academics, spirited campus life, and active community involvement. Students can immerse themselves in a wide array of programs, participate in NCAA Division I athletics as the Billikens, and engage with the vibrant city of St. Louis. SLU provides an environment where intellectual curiosity is nurtured, faith is explored, and a lifelong commitment to service is instilled, preparing students not just for careers, but for lives of purpose and impact.
Key Highlights
- ✦Established in 1818, making it the oldest university west of the Mississippi River and one of the oldest Jesuit universities in the U.S.
- ✦Classified as an "R1: Doctoral University – Very High Spending and Doctorate Production," signifying its top-tier research status.
- ✦A pioneer in civil rights, becoming one of the first Catholic universities to admit African Americans in 1944.
- ✦Boasts a substantial endowment of $1.9 billion, supporting extensive academic programs and institutional growth.
- ✦Home to a diverse community of 15,334 students from all 50 U.S. states and 96 countries.
- ✦Maintains a long-standing international presence with its Saint Louis University Madrid Campus, active for over 50 years.
- ✦Features the Saint Louis University School of Law, founded in 1843, the oldest law school west of the Mississippi River.
Timeline
Schools & Colleges
1 notable schools within Saint Louis University
Saint Louis University School of Law
Established in 1843, it is the oldest law school west of the Mississippi River, now located in downtown St. Louis.
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