Saint Xavier University

Key Highlights

• Private non-profit institution with strong academic tradition
• Located in a major metropolitan area with excellent opportunities
• Research-intensive with extensive graduate programs
• Diverse academic programs across multiple disciplines

Student Life & Environment

Campus life at Saint Xavier University creates a welcoming community where students from varied backgrounds find connection and support. The residential experience houses students in dormitories on the Mount Greenwood campus, creating a living-learning environment where friendships form naturally. Student organizations span interests from academic honor societies to cultural groups celebrating student heritage to service organizations continuing the Mercy tradition. Athletic programs compete in NCAA Division II, with loyal fan bases supporting teams in basketball, soccer, softball, and other sports. The student government provides leadership opportunities and channels student perspectives into university decision-making. Campus Ministry coordinates religious services, retreats, and service opportunities for students of all faith backgrounds, while the Center for Academic Success offers tutoring and academic support. The Counseling Center provides mental health services, recognizing that student wellbeing extends beyond academics. Campus events throughout the year include performances, lectures, cultural celebrations, and community-building activities. Chicago's attractions remain accessible via public transportation, offering world-class museums, professional sports, music venues, and dining options. The Mount Greenwood neighborhood provides a safe, residential setting while remaining connected to urban opportunities.

Location & Surroundings

The main SXU campus spreads across 75 acres in Mount Greenwood, a stable residential neighborhood on Chicago's far southwest side known for its strong community ties and relatively affordable housing. The campus combines historic buildings with modern additions, creating a traditional college atmosphere within the city limits. Academic buildings include classrooms, laboratories, and specialized facilities for nursing simulation, art studios, and athletic training. The Shannon Center houses athletics facilities including a gymnasium, fitness center, and pool used for intercollegiate competition and student recreation. Outdoor athletic fields support soccer, baseball, and softball programs while providing recreational space for informal activity. The library offers both quiet study space and collaborative areas, with access to electronic resources extending research capabilities beyond physical collections. Dining facilities serve students living on campus and commuters, with options ranging from cafeteria meals to grab-and-go items. The Orland Park campus in a nearby suburb offers convenient access for students from south suburban communities. A downtown Chicago location serves graduate students and working professionals. Public transportation connections link the Mount Greenwood campus to the broader Chicago area.

Costs & Career Outcomes

Graduates from Saint Xavier University enter careers prepared by both professional training and the broader education the university provides. Nursing graduates find positions at hospitals throughout the Chicago region, often at clinical sites where they completed placements during their studies. Education program graduates take teaching positions in Chicago Public Schools and suburban districts, with the university's reputation in education circles opening doors. Business graduates join companies in accounting, finance, marketing, and management, with some pursuing graduate studies in business. Arts and sciences graduates follow varied paths into careers in healthcare, social services, communications, and other fields, sometimes after graduate or professional school. Career Services supports students from freshman year through graduation and beyond, providing resume assistance, interview preparation, and job search guidance. Internship programs connect students with employers during their studies, often leading to job offers upon graduation. Alumni networks in Chicago provide mentorship and hiring opportunities, with graduates remembering the support they received and paying it forward. Graduate school acceptance rates demonstrate student preparation for advanced study. The university tracks graduate outcomes, reporting strong employment rates and satisfaction scores among recent graduates.

Compare with Similar Universities