University of St Francis

About University of St Francis

The University of St. Francis in Joliet, Illinois stands as a distinguished private Catholic institution rooted in the Franciscan tradition of learning, spirituality, and service. Founded in 1920, this intimate liberal arts university has cultivated a reputation for providing transformative educational experiences that prepare students for meaningful careers and lives of purpose. With approximately 1,300 students, the university maintains an exceptionally personalized learning environment where faculty members serve as mentors and guides rather than distant lecturers. The suburban campus provides an ideal balance between the tranquility needed for focused academic work and convenient access to the cultural and professional opportunities of the greater Chicago metropolitan area. St. Francis emphasizes the development of the whole person, integrating intellectual growth with spiritual formation and community engagement. The Franciscan values of respect, integrity, service, and compassion permeate campus life, creating a welcoming community where students from diverse backgrounds find support and belonging. The university has evolved to offer contemporary programs in healthcare, business, education, and the sciences while maintaining its commitment to the liberal arts foundation that develops critical thinking and communication skills essential for success in any field.

The University of St. Francis welcomes applications from students who demonstrate academic potential, personal integrity, and a desire to grow within a values-based educational community. With an acceptance rate of approximately 64%, the university practices holistic admissions, considering each applicant's complete profile including academic achievement, extracurricular involvement, personal character, and fit with the university's mission. Prospective students should submit high school transcripts, standardized test scores (though test-optional policies may apply), a personal essay, and letters of recommendation. The admissions team evaluates applicants' preparation for college-level work while recognizing that grades and test scores tell only part of each student's story. Campus visits are strongly encouraged, as experiencing the welcoming atmosphere and meeting current students and faculty often helps prospective students envision themselves as Fighting Saints. Transfer students receive personalized credit evaluations and benefit from articulation agreements with regional community colleges. The university offers rolling admissions, though applying early is recommended for priority consideration for housing and scholarships. Graduate program admissions requirements vary by program but typically include undergraduate transcripts, professional references, and program-specific prerequisites. International students must also demonstrate English proficiency and submit additional documentation.

Academically, the University of St. Francis offers over 80 undergraduate majors, minors, and pre-professional programs alongside robust graduate offerings in nursing, business, education, and social work. The university is particularly renowned for its health sciences programs, with the nursing program maintaining exceptional NCLEX pass rates that consistently exceed state and national averages. The College of Business offers IACBE-accredited programs that prepare students for leadership roles in various industries, while the College of Education produces highly sought-after teachers who impact classrooms throughout the region. Class sizes average fewer than 20 students, ensuring meaningful faculty-student interaction and individualized attention. The university embraces experiential learning through required internships, clinical placements, and undergraduate research opportunities that give students practical experience before graduation. The recently renovated science facilities feature state-of-the-art laboratories where students conduct original research alongside faculty mentors. Academic support services including tutoring, writing assistance, and career counseling ensure students have resources to succeed. The university also offers accelerated degree programs for working adults and online options that provide flexibility without sacrificing educational quality or the personalized attention that defines the St. Francis experience.

Key Highlights

• Private non-profit institution with strong academic tradition
• Suburban campus with easy access to city resources
• Research-intensive with extensive graduate programs
• Diverse academic programs across multiple disciplines

Student Life & Environment

Student life at the University of St. Francis creates a vibrant, close-knit community where lasting friendships form and personal growth flourishes alongside academic achievement. The Fighting Saints compete in NCAA Division III athletics, offering 22 varsity sports that allow student-athletes to excel competitively while maintaining rigorous academic commitments. Intramural sports and fitness programs ensure all students can stay active and healthy. Over 40 student organizations span interests from academic and professional clubs to cultural organizations, service groups, and recreational activities. Campus Ministry plays a central role in university life, offering spiritual programming, service opportunities, and reflection retreats that nurture students' faith journeys regardless of their religious background. The university hosts numerous cultural events, guest speakers, and performances throughout the academic year, enriching the intellectual and social fabric of campus life. Residence halls provide comfortable living spaces where resident assistants create programming that builds community and supports student success. The dining facilities offer diverse meal options accommodating various dietary needs and preferences. Student government empowers students to contribute to campus governance and advocate for their peers, developing leadership skills that serve them well beyond graduation.

Location & Surroundings

Located in Joliet, Illinois, the University of St. Francis enjoys a strategic suburban position approximately 35 miles southwest of downtown Chicago. This location provides students with the best of both worlds: a peaceful, safe campus environment conducive to focused study and personal growth, combined with easy access to one of America's greatest cities and its unparalleled internship, cultural, and recreational opportunities. Joliet itself is a dynamic community with a rich history, diverse dining options, entertainment venues, and the natural beauty of the Des Plaines River valley. The university's proximity to numerous hospitals, businesses, and schools facilitates the clinical placements, internships, and student teaching experiences that complement classroom learning. Interstate highways and Metra commuter rail service connect the campus to Chicago and surrounding suburbs, making travel convenient for students and visitors. The region offers abundant outdoor recreation including forest preserves, golf courses, and the I&M Canal Trail. Students benefit from the lower cost of living compared to urban campuses while still accessing metropolitan amenities. The campus itself features a blend of historic and modern buildings set amid mature trees and well-maintained grounds that create an attractive collegiate atmosphere.

Costs & Career Outcomes

The University of St. Francis is committed to making quality education accessible through generous financial aid packages that significantly reduce the net cost for most students. Nearly all full-time undergraduates receive some form of financial assistance through scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study opportunities. The university offers merit scholarships recognizing academic achievement, talent-based awards in athletics and the arts, and need-based grants that ensure financial circumstances don't prevent qualified students from attending. Franciscan values include stewardship and accessibility, principles reflected in the university's efforts to keep education affordable while maintaining program quality. Career services support students from enrollment through graduation and beyond, offering career counseling, resume workshops, interview preparation, job fairs, and alumni networking opportunities. The university's strong regional reputation opens doors with employers in healthcare, education, business, and social services who actively recruit St. Francis graduates. Nursing graduates achieve exceptional employment rates, often receiving multiple job offers before graduation. Education majors benefit from partnerships with local school districts that facilitate student teaching placements and hiring opportunities. Alumni remain connected through mentorship programs and networking events, supporting current students' career development while advancing their own professional growth.