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Temple University

Philadelphia, PA

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Quick Facts

Perseverantia Vincit("Perseverance Conquers")

1884
Founded
Public state-related research university
Type
21,249
Total Students
21,747
Undergrad
8,258
Graduate
$927M
Endowment
(2024)
$22K
Tuition (In-State)
$37K
Tuition (Out-State)
$29K
Avg Net Price
83%
Acceptance Rate
75%
Graduation Rate
6-year
83%
Retention Rate
Doctoral Universities
Classification
President: John Fry

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

About Temple University

Temple University: A Philadelphia R1 research powerhouse born from a mission of accessible education.

Nestled in the heart of Philadelphia, Temple University stands as a dynamic public state-related research institution, classified among the elite "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity." With a vibrant campus and a commitment to innovation, Temple offers an expansive educational landscape that attracts ambitious students from around the globe.

Temple's storied journey began in 1884 when Baptist minister Russell Conwell started offering night classes to working-class citizens. This pioneering spirit, encapsulated by its motto "Perseverantia Vincit" (Perseverance Conquers), laid the foundation for a university dedicated to providing education to those who might not access it through traditional channels. From these humble beginnings, Temple expanded significantly, establishing medical and dental schools, and eventually becoming the second-largest university in Pennsylvania by enrollment.

Academically, Temple is a powerhouse, home to 17 schools and colleges, including five professional schools, offering over 640 academic programs and more than 160 undergraduate majors. Prospective students can delve into diverse fields, from business and law to medicine and media, all within a hands-on, research-intensive environment. Beyond academics, the vibrant campus life is deeply intertwined with its urban setting, known for its unique food truck culture that emerged from student advocacy.

With a global alumni network exceeding 378,000, Temple graduates are making an impact worldwide. The university's strong athletic programs, the Temple Owls, compete in NCAA Division I, fostering a strong sense of community and pride. Temple offers a comprehensive and engaging student experience, preparing graduates to thrive in an ever-evolving world.

Key Highlights

  • Founded in 1884 with a mission to provide accessible education.
  • The second-largest university in Pennsylvania by enrollment, with 30,005 students (Fall 2024).
  • Classified as "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity," with over $301 million in R&D expenditures in 2022.
  • Offers more than 640 academic programs and over 160 undergraduate majors across 17 schools and colleges.
  • Boasts a worldwide alumni base of 378,012.
  • Home to the Temple Owls, competing in 18 NCAA Division I varsity sports, with three team national championships.
  • Motto: "Perseverantia Vincit" (Perseverance Conquers).

Timeline

1884
Founded by Baptist minister Russell Conwell, offering night classes to working-class citizens.
1888
Chartered as The Temple College of Philadelphia.
1901
Established the Medical School (now Lewis Katz School of Medicine).
1907
Officially reincorporated as Temple University.
1965
Became a public state-related university in Pennsylvania.
1982
Peter J. Liacouras begins his influential 18-year presidency, during which the iconic 'T' logo was designed.
2016
Classified as an 'R1: Doctoral University – Very High Research Activity' by the Carnegie Foundation.
2020
Adapted to a hybrid learning model and utilized the Liacouras Center as a COVID-19 Surge Facility during the pandemic.
2023
Experienced a graduate student workers' strike and subsequent changes in university leadership.
2024
John Fry appointed as the 15th president of the university.
🏛️
142 Years
of Excellence

Schools & Colleges

7 notable schools within Temple University

💼

Fox School of Business

Established in 1918, offering 15 undergraduate majors, 10 professional master's programs, and two PhD programs.

🏫

Maurice H. Kornberg School of Dentistry

Established in 1863, it is the second oldest dental school in continuous existence in the United States, providing comprehensive dental care.

⚖️

Beasley School of Law

Founded in 1895, offering full- and part-time programs focused on trial advocacy, transnational law, and taxation; ranked tied for 54th best law school in the U.S. in 2024.

🏥

Lewis Katz School of Medicine

Founded in 1901, it was Pennsylvania's first co-educational medical school, known for pioneering research like removing HIV from human cells.

💊

School of Pharmacy

One of six schools of pharmacy in Pennsylvania, conferring Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) and other advanced degrees.

🏥

School of Podiatric Medicine

Houses the Foot and Ankle Institute, the largest podiatric medical treatment facility, logging over 40,000 patient visits annually.

🏫

School of Social Work

Part of the College of Public Health, offering full-time, part-time, and online programs for social work students.

Leadership

President

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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