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University of San Francisco

San Francisco, CA

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

“Traditional: Pro Urbe et Universitate (Latin) For the City and University”(Current motto: "Change the World from Here")

1855
Founded
Private university
Type
5,697
Total Students
5,287
Undergrad
3,504
Graduate
$566M
Endowment
(2024)
$58K
Tuition (In-State)
$58K
Tuition (Out-State)
$39K
Avg Net Price
51%
Acceptance Rate
71%
Graduation Rate
6-year
80%
Retention Rate
Doctoral/Professional Universities
Classification
President: Salvador Aceves

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

About University of San Francisco

A Jesuit legacy of learning in the heart of dynamic San Francisco since 1855.

Nestled in the vibrant heart of San Francisco, the University of San Francisco (USF) stands as a beacon of Jesuit education, deeply committed to fostering critical thinkers and compassionate leaders. Established in 1855, USF combines a rich historical foundation with a forward-looking approach, challenging students to "Change the World from Here." Its prime location offers unparalleled opportunities for engagement with one of the world's most innovative cities, enriching both academic pursuits and personal growth.

USF's journey began as St. Ignatius Academy, a modest one-room schoolhouse, eventually evolving into a robust university. Despite facing challenges, including the devastating 1906 San Francisco earthquake and fire, the institution demonstrated remarkable resilience, rebuilding and growing to become the University of San Francisco in 1930. This enduring spirit is woven into the fabric of the university, inspiring students to overcome obstacles and strive for excellence in an ever-changing world.

Today, USF welcomes nearly 9,000 students, offering a diverse array of 59 undergraduate and graduate major programs. Students benefit from an intimate learning environment shaped by Jesuit values, focusing on intellectual rigor, social justice, and a commitment to service. The university became fully coeducational in 1964, expanding its vibrant community, and continues to provide an engaging and supportive academic experience across its main campus and satellite locations, preparing graduates to make a meaningful impact globally.

Key Highlights

  • ✦Founded in 1855, USF is one of California's oldest and most respected private universities.
  • ✦A Jesuit institution, committed to rigorous academics and social justice, with a motto of "Pro Urbe et Universitate" (For the City and University).
  • ✦Located in San Francisco, with satellite campuses, offering students a dynamic urban learning experience.
  • ✦Serves nearly 9,000 students across 59 undergraduate and graduate degree programs.
  • ✦Boasts an endowment of $0.6 billion, supporting its mission and academic endeavors.
  • ✦Became fully coeducational in 1964, welcoming women into all programs and expanding its diverse community.

Timeline

1855
Founded by the Jesuits as St. Ignatius Academy in San Francisco.
1859
Received charter to issue college degrees and officially renamed St. Ignatius College.
1863
Awarded its first Bachelor of Arts degree.
1906
College building destroyed in the San Francisco earthquake and ensuing fire.
1927
Moved to its present site on Fulton Street.
1930
Renamed the University of San Francisco to celebrate its diamond jubilee.
1964
Became fully coeducational, with women attending all programs.
1969
High school division moved and became St. Ignatius College Preparatory.
1978
Acquired Lone Mountain College.
2005
Celebrated its 150th anniversary.
🏛️
171 Years
of Excellence

Leadership

Salvador Aceves
President
Eileen Chia-Ching Fung
Provost

Data from Wikipedia – CC BY-SA 4.0

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