Saint Francis University

Saint Francis University's 600-acre campus sits atop a gorgeous mountaintop in Loretto, Pa. (near Pittsburgh). Founded in 1847, the university is one of the oldest Catholic universities in the country, and the oldest dedicated to Franciscan values.

The university is an inclusive learning community that welcomes all people. The students, faculty, and staff have unique attributes, yet share a common bond: a desire to improve themselves and the world around them.

Fueling the Mind

Students may choose from high-demand academic degrees in the health sciences, business, education, arts and humanities, and STEM-fields (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics). These academic programs are designed to fuel the mind AND feed the soul by combining academically rigorous, career-directed studies with a focus on personal and professional ethics.

The teaching emphasis is on small classes with personal mentorship from faculty. This allows students to match theory with hands-on opportunities such as undergraduate research, portfolio building projects, labs, study abroad, service mission trips, clinical experiences, fieldwork, and internships. Many of the students also spend time abroad as part of their courses or through service projects.

Inspiring the Spirit

St. Francis of Assisi, through his Catholic-Franciscan teachings, left an abundance of clues for living a meaningful life. The university is at the forefront of providing students with a Catholic, Franciscan education based on these teachings.

The welcoming, values-based environment allows students of all faiths to develop their academic interests in the spirit of simplicity and joy. They also develop a humble and generous attitude toward learning, an eagerness to share their talents through service, and a soul to create peace and justice in the world.

A Heart for Service

Service-learning is part of the DNA of the university. The university's heart for service comes from the lessons of its patron St. Francis of Assisi. St. Francis taught that talents are gifts from God and meant to be shared for the greater good.

Students organize hundreds of local efforts including a community-service day called Project Red and conduct daily charity work through the Dorothy Day Center on campus. Other service projects take place around the globe. Students, faculty, and staff have traveled to places such as Bolivia and the Dominican Republic for meaningful service-learning experiences.

A Place to Belong

SFU has a club or organization for just about every interest group including Greek life, marching band, faith-based clubs, academic societies, cheerleading and club sports. Through a strong Student Government Association (SGA), the student body is constantly creating new clubs and organizations, and leading new movements that shape their college experience.

Saint Francis University is a beautiful campus setting.  Located on over 600-acres the campus provides students a comprehensive residential experience complete with ten residence halls, several eateries/cafes, modern academic and research facilities, a fitness center and two athletic complexes.   

SFU is home 23 NCAA Division-I Athletic teams. This close-knit program is one of the smallest in the nation, yet extremely competitive. The Red Flash athletic program is recognized for academic excellence and sportsmanship! Go Red Flash!