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Spalding University

Louisville, KY

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

597
Total Students
$28K
Tuition (In-State)
$28K
Tuition (Out-State)
$24K
Avg Net Price
99%
Acceptance Rate
57%
Graduation Rate
6-year
70%
Retention Rate
Master's Colleges & Universities
Classification

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

About Spalding University

Spalding: A pioneering university with a rich history and inclusive spirit since 1814.

Spalding University stands as a testament to enduring educational commitment, tracing its roots back to 1814 with the founding of Nazareth Academy by the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth. This makes it one of the oldest educational institutions west of the Alleghenies, holding a significant place in Kentucky's history. Named after the visionary Mother Catherine Spalding, the university embodies a legacy of compassionate service and academic innovation.

The institution's journey saw significant evolution, including the establishment of Nazareth College in Louisville in 1920—a landmark as Kentucky's first four-year Catholic college for women. Over the decades, the college underwent various transformations and consolidations, always striving to meet the educational needs of its community. These changes ultimately led to the formation of Spalding College, solidifying its presence in the heart of Louisville.

Today, Spalding University proudly operates as an independent, co-educational institution in the Catholic tradition, openly welcoming students of all faiths and backgrounds. Since achieving university status in 1984, Spalding continues to provide a supportive and engaging learning environment, blending its deep historical roots with a forward-looking approach to education and student experience. It's a place where tradition meets progress, fostering a diverse community dedicated to learning and personal growth.

Key Highlights

  • Founded in 1814 as Nazareth Academy, making it one of the oldest educational institutions west of the Alleghenies.
  • Named after Mother Catherine Spalding, foundress of the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth.
  • Granted a charter by the Commonwealth of Kentucky in 1829, allowing it to confer degrees.
  • Established Louisville's first four-year Catholic college for women in 1920 (as Nazareth College).
  • Became co-educational and an independent university in the Catholic tradition, welcoming all faiths and backgrounds, in 1973.

Timeline

1814
Nazareth Academy founded by the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth.
1829
Granted a charter by the Commonwealth of Kentucky to confer degrees.
1920
Nazareth College opened in Louisville, Kentucky's first four-year Catholic college for women.
1940
Nazareth Junior College (former campus) folded into the main campus in Louisville.
1961
Nazareth College split into "Nazareth College at Nazareth" and "Catherine Spalding College."
1969
Reunited into one institution as "Spalding College."
1971
All instructional activity moved to the Louisville campus.
1973
Became co-educational and an independent college in the Catholic tradition, open to students of all faiths and backgrounds.
1984
Became "Spalding University."

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