Overview of Saint Louis University
Saint Louis University (SLU), founded in 1818, is a distinguished private, research-intensive university located in St. Louis, Missouri, USA. Recognized as the oldest university west of the Mississippi River, SLU has a proud Jesuit heritage that shapes its academic and community ethos. The institution enrolls over 12,000 students annually—including undergraduate, graduate, and professional students—and boasts two primary campuses: the main St. Louis campus in the United States and a second campus in Madrid, Spain. SLU’s comprehensive scope and historic standing establish it as a respected leader within the global higher education community.
Academic Strengths and Structure
Saint Louis University is acclaimed for its rigorous programs in health sciences—especially medicine, nursing, and public health—alongside prominent offerings in law, business, engineering, and the humanities. The university’s approach is characterized by a commitment to interdisciplinary learning and cura personalis, emphasizing intellectual growth and holistic development. SLU is an R2 classified research university, consistently producing impactful scholarship and ranking among the top Catholic universities in the United States. Notably, it collaborates with leading institutions worldwide and offers over 90 undergraduate programs and 100 graduate degrees. Its research enterprise is reflected in more than $50 million in annual research expenditures and a vibrant culture of innovation.
Student Life and Community
Campus life at Saint Louis University is vibrant and inclusive, with more than 150 student organizations, ranging from academic societies to cultural, service, and recreational groups. Regularly hosted events, such as Billiken Bash and International Education Week, foster a sense of community and cultural exchange. SLU values diversity, drawing students from all 50 U.S. states and over 80 countries, and offers dedicated support services for academic, psychological, and career development needs. Modern residential facilities, Division I athletics, and opportunities in visual and performing arts provide a fulfilling, holistic student experience beyond the classroom.
Mission, Vision, and Values
Guided by Jesuit values, Saint Louis University is dedicated to promoting truth, justice, and service. Its mission emphasizes academic excellence, leadership for social change, and the cultivation of global citizens prepared to contribute ethically to an interconnected world.
