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University of Scranton

Scranton, PA

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

Religio Mores Cultura ()("Religion, Morals, Culture")

1888
Founded
Private university
Type
3,589
Total Students
3,586
Undergrad
1,033
Graduate
$343M
Endowment
(2025)
$52K
Tuition (In-State)
$52K
Tuition (Out-State)
$31K
Avg Net Price
84%
Acceptance Rate
81%
Graduation Rate
6-year
87%
Retention Rate
Master's Colleges & Universities
Classification
President: Joseph G. Marina

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

About University of Scranton

Experience a values-driven education at Scranton, rooted in Jesuit tradition since 1888.

Nestled in Scranton, Pennsylvania, the University of Scranton stands as a distinguished private Jesuit institution with a rich history dating back to 1888. Guided by its enduring motto, "Religio Mores Cultura" (Religion, Morals, Culture), the university is committed to fostering a holistic educational experience that shapes students intellectually, morally, and culturally. With a vibrant community of approximately 4,619 students, Scranton provides a close-knit yet dynamic environment for learning and growth.

Originally founded as St. Thomas College by Bishop William O'Hara, the university evolved significantly over the decades. It gained university status and its current name in 1938, marking a pivotal moment in its history. While initially overseen by the Diocese and the Lasallian Christian Brothers, the Society of Jesus assumed ownership and control in 1942, embedding the deep Jesuit traditions that continue to define the institution today. By the 1960s, the university transitioned to an independent status under a lay board of trustees, further broadening its governance.

Academically, the University of Scranton is robust, offering a comprehensive range of programs across its three colleges. Students can pursue 65 bachelor's degrees, 29 master's degrees, and 4 doctoral programs, ensuring diverse opportunities for specialized study. The institution boasts a dedicated faculty of about 300 full-time members, approximately 200 of whom are tenured, providing expert guidance and mentorship. This commitment to academic excellence ensures a rigorous and supportive learning environment.

Beyond academics, the University of Scranton cultivates a vibrant student experience on its urban, 58-acre campus. Significant expansions since the mid-20th century have introduced modern facilities like the Loyola Science Center, the Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Memorial Library, and various residence halls, creating a conducive atmosphere for living and learning. From its beginnings as a commuter school to its present-day role serving a wide region, Scranton remains dedicated to its Jesuit heritage, striving to provide an education that is engaged, integrated, and globally minded for all its students.

Key Highlights

  • A private Jesuit university founded in 1888, guided by the motto "Religio Mores Cultura" (Religion, Morals, Culture).
  • Offers an extensive academic portfolio including 65 bachelor's, 29 master's, and 4 doctoral programs.
  • Serves approximately 4,619 students with a dedicated faculty of around 300 full-time members.
  • Operates with an endowment of approximately $0.3 billion.
  • Pioneered its first doctoral program in Physical Therapy in 2004, receiving CAPTE certification in 2007.
  • Features state-of-the-art facilities such as the Loyola Science Center (2011) and the Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Memorial Library (1992).

Timeline

1888
Founded as St. Thomas College by Bishop William O'Hara.
1938
Elevated to university status and renamed The University of Scranton; began admitting women to the evening division.
1942
Governance of the university passed to the Society of Jesus.
1950
The Graduate School opened, admitting women from the start.
1956
Began a decade of expansion, producing fifteen new buildings by 1966, including Loyola Hall of Science and first residence halls.
1969
Lay members first admitted to a newly independent Board of Trustees.
1972
Women first admitted to the College of Arts and Science; Fitch Hall opened as the first women's residence.
1980
Linden Street was closed to form the university commons.
1992
Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Memorial Library completed.
2004
The Department of Physical Therapy became the university's first doctoral program.
2011
The new Loyola Science Center opened, adding class and seminar rooms and laboratories.
🏛️
138 Years
of Excellence

Schools & Colleges

2 notable schools within University of Scranton

🏫

Kania School of Management

Moved to a new, five-storey hall named for John E. Brennan ‘68 in 2000.

📚

Panuska College of Health, Education, and Human Resources

Founded in 1987 and later renamed in honor of Jesuit priest Joseph A. Panuska.

Leadership

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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