Thomas Jefferson University logo

Thomas Jefferson University

Philadelphia, PA

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

"Redefining humanly possible"

1824
Founded
Private research university
Type
3,708
Total Students
3,665
Undergrad
4,361
Graduate
$1.5B
Endowment
(2021)
$46K
Tuition (In-State)
$46K
Tuition (Out-State)
$28K
Avg Net Price
86%
Acceptance Rate
68%
Graduation Rate
6-year
82%
Retention Rate
Doctoral Universities
Classification

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

About Thomas Jefferson University

Thomas Jefferson University: Pioneering research, bold innovation, and a legacy of merging minds.

Thomas Jefferson University, a distinguished private research institution nestled in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, stands as a beacon of innovation and collaborative spirit. Since its earliest inception in 1824, Jefferson has been dedicated to "Redefining humanly possible," a motto that encapsulates its forward-thinking approach. Known for its high research activity, classified as an "R2: Doctoral Universities – High research activity" institution, the university fosters an environment where groundbreaking discoveries meet practical application, preparing students to lead in diverse fields.

A pivotal moment in Jefferson's rich history occurred in 2017 when it officially combined with Philadelphia University, bringing together two legacies of educational excellence. Philadelphia University itself boasts a fascinating evolution, starting in 1884 as the Philadelphia Textile School, born from a drive to advance local industry. Over the decades, it transformed, expanding its curriculum beyond textiles to include arts, sciences, and business, eventually earning university status in 1999. This merger created a powerhouse institution, blending Jefferson’s deep roots with Philadelphia University’s strengths in design, business, and textiles.

Today, Thomas Jefferson University offers a comprehensive academic landscape designed to prepare students for the challenges of tomorrow. With a vibrant student body of 7,831 individuals, the university emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach, offering robust undergraduate and postgraduate programs across a wide array of fields. Students benefit from an expansive 104-acre campus in East Falls, which has grown significantly to include modern classrooms, advanced research laboratories, comfortable residences, and top-tier athletic facilities, all contributing to a dynamic and supportive learning environment that encourages both academic rigor and personal growth.

Key Highlights

  • Founded in 1824, with a rich heritage spanning two centuries.
  • A private research university classified among "R2: Doctoral Universities – High research activity."
  • Embraces the motto: "Redefining humanly possible."
  • Boasts an endowment of $1.533 billion (as of 2021).
  • Home to a diverse student body of 7,831 individuals.
  • Expanded significantly through its landmark 2017 merger with Philadelphia University.
  • Features a sprawling 104-acre campus in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Timeline

1824
Established in its earliest form as the Medical Department of Jefferson College in Philadelphia.
1838
Renamed Jefferson Medical College.
1884
Philadelphia Textile School founded (later to become Philadelphia University).
1942
Philadelphia Textile Institute, granted the right to award baccalaureate degrees.
1961
Renamed Philadelphia College of Textiles & Science.
1976
Offered its first graduate degree, the Master of Business Administration.
1999
Granted university status and renamed Philadelphia University.
2017
Officially combined with Philadelphia University, forming Thomas Jefferson University.
🏛️
202 Years
of Excellence

Leadership

Matt Dane Baker
Provost

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

Find Scholarships at Thomas Jefferson University

Sign up free to discover grants and scholarships you qualify for at this school and thousands more.

Start Your Free Search