Overview: University of San Francisco
The University of San Francisco (USF), founded in 1855, is a distinguished private Jesuit university located in the heart of San Francisco, California, USA. As the city’s first university, USF has remained deeply engaged in the cultural and intellectual life of San Francisco. With a student body of over 10,000 undergraduate and graduate students and a faculty of approximately 600 full-time academics across five schools, USF offers a robust, urban educational environment. Its single main campus is complemented by several branch locations in the Bay Area, supporting both breadth and community engagement.
USF is nationally recognized for its excellence in the social sciences, business, health sciences, education, and law—its School of Management and School of Law are particularly noted for innovation and social impact. USF’s interdisciplinary curriculum integrates liberal arts with professional training, emphasizing experiential learning and global perspectives. The university is committed to impactful research, with faculty and students collaborating on projects in health equity, sustainability, entrepreneurship, and urban studies. USF is ranked among the top National Universities by U.S. News & World Report (2024) and is consistently recognized for community-engaged scholarship. Strategic partnerships link USF to Silicon Valley and a host of international institutions, enabling dual degrees and collaborative research.
Life at USF is shaped by a vibrant campus culture offering over 100 student organizations, including academic societies, cultural clubs, and service groups. Students benefit from comprehensive support services, mentoring, and leadership development programs. The university fosters a strong sense of community, celebrating diversity—international students comprise nearly 15% of enrollment—and promoting inclusivity through events and dedicated resources. On-campus housing, NCAA Division I athletics, extensive arts programming, and regular cultural festivals enrich the extracurricular experience. USF’s urban setting provides unique access to professional opportunities in one of the world's most dynamic cities.
Guided by a mission rooted in Jesuit values, the University of San Francisco is committed to shaping leaders who pursue social justice, global citizenship, and innovation. The institution emphasizes academic excellence, ethical responsibility, and service to humanity, striving to make a meaningful impact locally and globally.
