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Valparaiso University

Valparaiso, IN

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

“In luce tua videmus lucem”(In Thy light we see light)

1859
Founded
Private university
Type
2,451
Total Students
2,071
Undergrad
380
Graduate
$321M
Endowment
(2025)
Doctoral/Professional Universities
Classification
President: Rev. Brian E. Konkol

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

About Valparaiso University

Valparaiso University: Educating with enduring purpose since 1859.

Nestled in Valparaiso, Indiana, Valparaiso University stands as a private institution with a rich history and a commitment to comprehensive education. Founded in 1859, it quickly became a beacon of progressive learning, notably as one of the nation's first coeducational colleges. With a current student body of 2,451, Valpo embraces its motto, "In luce tua videmus lucem" (In Thy light we see light), fostering an environment where students are encouraged to seek knowledge and purpose.

The university's roots are deeply embedded in innovation and accessibility. Originally established as Valparaiso Male and Female College, it offered an affordable and broad curriculum, from elementary levels to collegiate courses in math, literature, history, sciences, and philosophy, alongside studies in Christian faith. This pioneering spirit laid the groundwork for its transformation into the Northern Indiana Normal School and Business Institute, demonstrating an early dedication to practical and professional education that continues to influence its academic offerings today.

Under the leadership of President Rev. Brian E. Konkol, Valparaiso University continues to build on its legacy. While its highly regarded School of Law, founded in 1879 and accredited by the ABA and AALS, has concluded operations, the university's foundational strengths in diverse academic disciplines and its private university structure ensure a focused and engaging learning environment. Students benefit from a supportive community dedicated to intellectual growth and personal development.

Prospective students and families will find Valparaiso University offers a distinct collegiate experience, balancing a deep respect for its historical mission with a forward-looking approach to education. Its heritage as an institution committed to accessible, coeducational learning from its very beginning makes it a unique place for students seeking a meaningful and impactful college journey.

Key Highlights

  • ✦Established in 1859, Valparaiso University was one of the first coeducational colleges in the United States.
  • ✦A private university serving 2,451 students, fostering a close-knit academic community.
  • ✦Operates with an endowment of $0.3 billion, supporting its educational mission.
  • ✦Guided by the meaningful motto: "In luce tua videmus lucem" (In Thy light we see light).
  • ✦Historically provided diverse curriculum, including math, literature, sciences, and philosophy.
  • ✦The Law School achieved accreditation from the American Bar Association (1929) and the Association of American Law Schools (1930).

Timeline

1859
Founded as Valparaiso Male and Female College, one of the first coeducational colleges.
1871
The college closed due to financing problems.
1873
Reopened by Henry Baker Brown as the Northern Indiana Normal School and Business Institute.
1879
Valparaiso University School of Law was founded.
1929
The Law School was accredited by the American Bar Association.
1930
The Law School was accredited by the Association of American of Law Schools.
2016
The Law School received a censure from the ABA.
2017
The university announced the Law School would not enroll a new class for 2018.
2018
The university announced the closure of the Law School.
🏛️
167 Years
of Excellence

Schools & Colleges

2 notable schools within Valparaiso University

💼

Northern Indiana Normal School and Business Institute

The institution's name after reopening in 1873, focusing on practical and business education, laying foundational academic strengths.

⚖️

Valparaiso University School of Law

Founded in 1879, it achieved ABA and AALS accreditation in 1929 and 1930 respectively, though it ceased operations after 2018.

Leadership

Rev. Brian E. Konkol
President

Data from Wikipedia – CC BY-SA 4.0

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