Overview: University of St. Thomas - Minnesota
The University of St. Thomas, founded in 1885, is Minnesota’s largest private, non-profit university, located in St. Paul and Minneapolis, United States. Originally established as a Catholic seminary, it has grown into a comprehensive institution with a strong liberal arts foundation. As of 2023, St. Thomas enrolls approximately 9,000 students across undergraduate and graduate programs, supported by eight academic colleges and schools on two primary urban campuses. Its mission-driven approach combines rigorous academics with ethical leadership, catering to an internationally diverse community.
Academic Strengths and Structure
St. Thomas is renowned for its programs in Engineering, Business (home to the AACSB-accredited Opus College of Business), Education, Law, and Social Sciences. Its interdisciplinary approach integrates experiential learning across disciplines. The university actively supports research through centers such as the Schulze School of Entrepreneurship—a national leader in innovation education—and expertise in areas like Catholic Studies, Data Science, and Sustainability. St. Thomas fosters global engagement through more than 150 partner institutions worldwide and joint research initiatives. In U.S. News & World Report’s 2024 rankings, it is placed among the top national universities, reflecting consistent academic quality and robust graduate outcomes.
Student Life and Community
Campus life at the University of St. Thomas is vibrant, with over 140 student clubs, diverse cultural events, and strong student support services encompassing academic advising, mental health resources, and intercultural programs. The institution emphasizes diversity and inclusion, with students from all 50 U.S. states and over 60 countries. Residential options include modern dormitories and themed living communities. Students participate in NCAA Division III athletics and a flourishing arts scene featuring music, theater, and visual arts. Service-learning and community engagement are integral, fostering a sense of social responsibility and global citizenship.
Mission, Vision, and Values
St. Thomas’s mission is to inspire morally responsible leaders who advance the common good, emphasizing innovation, equity, and sustainability. The university is committed to developing global citizens equipped to address society’s complex challenges with compassion and integrity.
