Saint Francis University - Overview
Saint Francis University's Study Abroad and Honors Programs Offer Big Opportunities in a Small College Setting
Pennsylvania's Saint Francis University (SFU) has been nationally recognized for its excellence as a Catholic institution of higher education since its founding in 1847. Within the context of a university committed to Franciscan values and educational goals, Saint Francis offers students a variety of unique opportunities for pursuing and achieving academic excellence. Highly motivated students may participate in the school's honors program that allows them to become part of a learning community while pursuing a personalized program of study. Among other benefits they receive, students who take part in the honors program are granted priority registration. Honors students capitalize on their opportunities for intellectual, personal, and spiritual development by completing capstone research projects in addition to various service-learning activities.
All students have opportunities to study abroad while attending Saint Francis University. In addition to programs in Mexico, Quebec, and Italy, Saint Francis has its own campus in the southwest of France. Because it is an SFU campus, students can study abroad in France for a semester for the same cost as a semester at Saint Francis' Pennsylvania campus.
Whether students choose to study abroad, participate in the honors program, or take part in the numerous other academic opportunities available to SFU students, all the exciting potential of a large university is available to them in a value-oriented small college setting.
Franciscan Education Encourages Students to Value Learning and to Contribute Positively to Society
The example of Saint Francis of Assisi has inspired generations of Franciscan-educated students around the world. As the oldest Franciscan institution of higher education in the United States, Saint Francis University (SFU) is at the forefront of Franciscan education and remains devoted to the values and goals that have benefited society for so long. Students at SFU develop a humble and generous attitude toward learning and are committed to respecting and serving their communities and all of society. The values-based environment at Saint Frances allows students of all faiths to connect with the college community and develop their academic interests in the spirit of simplicity and joy.
Fostering opportunities for students to make impacts on society in positive ways is an important part of maintaining the Franciscan values-based environment of SFU. The values of Franciscan education require students to confront the realities of the world in which they live and make realistic plans for their futures and for the future of society. An in-class focus on ethical issues, critical and analytical thinking, and the integration of theory and practice combines with a vibrant student life to give students a well-rounded university experience that enriches them personally and allows them to develop mind, spirit, and heart. It is for these reasons that students seeking a values-based environment in which to receive their education and experience growth choose SFU as their home.
A Liberal Arts Education is a Great Foundation For Nursing, Physical Therapy, Physician Assistant Sciences, and Public Health Students
Individuals who wish to begin careers in physical therapy, physician assistant sciences, public health, and nursing are often required to compromise other academic interests in pursuit of degrees in these areas. Many universities require students to follow educational paths that force them to develop scientific knowledge at the expense of the intellectual development a liberal arts curriculum can offer. The Franciscan values of Pennsylvania's Saint Francis University encourage students to develop in all areas and provide a well-rounded education in the process. For example, the university's programs in nursing, physician assistant sciences, physical therapy, public health, and other areas are designed to integrate the rigorous scientific education necessary for these service professions with a foundation in the liberal arts.
In addition, by following an academic path in the liberal arts tradition, students entering the health professions can develop the complex perspectives and values necessary to enter into their careers with humility and senses of dedication to serving the community. Nursing students who have understandings of cultural history are committed to the betterment of society for reasons that go beyond individuals and recognize the missions of humanity. Similarly, studying physical therapy alongside ethics can improve the lifelong integrity of a student's career. Many schools in the liberal arts tradition do not offer programs in physician assistant sciences and other health professions, but Saint Francis University believes that building these degrees on a liberal arts foundation better prepares graduates to make positive impacts in society.