University of the Incarnate Word
San Antonio, TX
Quick Facts
“"Your Journey. Our Mission."”
Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education
About University of the Incarnate Word
Texas's largest Catholic university with a global mission of service and learning.
Nestled in the heart of San Antonio, Texas, the University of the Incarnate Word (UIW) stands as the largest Catholic university in the state, offering a vibrant academic community guided by its motto, "Your Journey. Our Mission." Founded in 1881 by the Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word, UIW extends its reach far beyond its picturesque 154-acre main campus, fostering a truly global educational experience with campuses in Mexico, a European Study Center, and online programs connecting students across Latin America and China.
The university's rich history began with a compassionate mission when the Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word arrived in San Antonio in 1869 to aid during a cholera outbreak, eventually establishing the city's first hospital, Santa Rosa Infirmary. This foundational spirit of service led to the opening of the Incarnate Word School in 1881, initially a college for women. Over the decades, the institution grew, becoming fully coeducational in 1971 and officially adopting the University of the Incarnate Word name in 1996, evolving into the comprehensive institution it is today, offering educational pathways from Pre-K to doctoral degrees through its innovative Brainpower Connection program.
Academically, UIW boasts a diverse array of eleven schools and colleges, reflecting a commitment to comprehensive education. From the rigorous Feik School of Pharmacy and Rosenberg School of Optometry to the innovative School of Osteopathic Medicine, which welcomed its inaugural class in 2017, students have access to advanced studies in vital fields. The H-E-B School of Business & Administration, Ila Faye Miller School of Nursing and Health Professions, and the School of Professional Studies—designed for adult learners seeking accelerated degrees—further exemplify UIW's dedication to meeting varied educational needs and preparing students for meaningful careers in a dynamic global landscape.
Key Highlights
- ✦The largest Catholic university in Texas.
- ✦Founded in July 1881 by the Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word.
- ✦A robust student body of 9,188 students (Fall 2025 figures).
- ✦Supported by an endowment of $188 million (2024).
- ✦Features an expansive global presence with campuses in Mexico, a European Study Center, and a China Education Center.
- ✦Offers a wide range of academic programs, including doctoral degrees since 1998, across eleven schools and colleges.
- ✦Known for its Brainpower Connection program, providing an educational pathway from Pre-K to Ph.D. level.
Timeline
Schools & Colleges
11 notable schools within University of the Incarnate Word
College of Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences
Offers diverse programs in humanities, arts, and social sciences.
Dreeben School of Education
Dedicated to preparing future educators and leaders.
Feik School of Pharmacy
Provides comprehensive pharmacy education and training.
H-E-B School of Business & Administration
Offers programs in business and administration.
Ila Faye Miller School of Nursing and Health Professions
Focuses on nursing and various health professions.
Rosenberg School of Optometry
Provides education in optometry.
School of Mathematics, Science and Engineering
Offers programs in mathematics, science, and engineering.
School of Media and Design
Dedicated to studies in media and design.
School of Osteopathic Medicine
Welcomed its inaugural class of 150 learners in July 2017.
School of Professional Studies (formerly AdCAP)
Offers accelerated degree programs for adult learners.
School of Physical Therapy
Provides education in physical therapy.
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