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Viterbo University

La Crosse, WI

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

1890
Founded
Private university
Type
1,392
Total Students
1,179
Undergrad
725
Graduate
$32K
Tuition (In-State)
$32K
Tuition (Out-State)
$23K
Avg Net Price
73%
Acceptance Rate
65%
Graduation Rate
6-year
70%
Retention Rate
Master's Colleges & Universities
Classification
President: Richard C. Trietley, Jr.

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

About Viterbo University

Viterbo University: Rooted in Franciscan values, evolving into a comprehensive academic hub.

Viterbo University, a private institution established in 1890, serves a vibrant community of 1904 students under the leadership of President Richard C. Trietley, Jr. Born from the compassionate vision of the Franciscan Sisters of Perpetual Adoration, Viterbo has consistently championed academic excellence and holistic development, fostering an environment where students can thrive.

Its journey began as St. Rose Normal School, dedicated to preparing religious sisters for vital teaching roles. This foundational commitment to education quickly evolved, introducing college-level courses by 1923 and becoming St. Rose Junior College by the 1931-32 school year. By 1939, it was recognized as a four-year degree-granting institution for teacher preparation and subsequently renamed Viterbo College, marking its significant expansion beyond its initial roots.

Over the decades, Viterbo College broadened its horizons, receiving accreditation as a four-year liberal arts college in 1952. This commitment to a broad, enriching curriculum culminated in its renaming to Viterbo University in 2000, reflecting its growth into a comprehensive institution offering a rich array of undergraduate, graduate, and outreach programs. In 2013, it further solidified its academic prowess with the launch of its first doctoral program in nursing practice, demonstrating a forward-looking approach to professional education. Students at Viterbo benefit from a long-standing tradition of academic rigor within a supportive learning environment, fully accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Key Highlights

  • Established in 1890 by the Franciscan Sisters of Perpetual Adoration.
  • Evolved from St. Rose Normal School to a comprehensive university.
  • Serves 1904 students, offering a personalized academic experience.
  • Renamed Viterbo University in 2000 to reflect expanded graduate and undergraduate offerings.
  • Introduced its first doctoral program (Nursing Practice) in 2013.
  • Fully accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, ensuring high academic standards.

Timeline

1890
Founded as St. Rose Normal School by the Franciscan Sisters of Perpetual Adoration.
1923
College courses were first introduced.
1931
Became known as St. Rose Junior College.
1939
Approved as a four-year degree-granting institution and renamed Viterbo College.
1940
Held its first commencement exercises.
1952
Received accreditation as a four-year liberal arts college.
2000
Renamed Viterbo University, reflecting growth into a comprehensive institution.
2013
Introduced its first doctoral program, in nursing practice.
🏛️
136 Years
of Excellence

Leadership

Richard C. Trietley, Jr.
President

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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