Overview of Saint Xavier University
Founded in 1846, Saint Xavier University (SXU) is Chicago’s oldest Catholic university and among the first established in Illinois, United States. Located on a 74-acre campus in the southwestern part of Chicago, the institution serves as a vital educational hub in the Midwest. As a private, teaching-focused university, SXU primarily dedicates itself to undergraduate and professional education, currently enrolling approximately 3,500 students each year. The university operates with two main colleges—College of Liberal Arts and Education, and Graham School of Management—offering a comprehensive array of programs while maintaining a personalized approach to education.
Academically, Saint Xavier University is acclaimed for its strong programs in nursing, business administration, education, and the liberal arts. Its School of Nursing and Health Sciences is recognized as a Center of Excellence by the National League for Nursing, reflecting outstanding training and graduate performance. SXU’s curriculum balances rigorous discipline with interdisciplinary opportunities, emphasizing hands-on learning and community engagement. While research is not the institution’s primary focus, it supports faculty and student scholarship, evidenced by regular conference presentations and publications, particularly in applied fields. The university regularly collaborates with healthcare providers and educational organizations in Chicago, enhancing both internship access and employment outcomes for graduates.
Saint Xavier University fosters a vibrant, inclusive campus life with over 30 student-led clubs and honor societies spanning cultural, academic, and service interests. Signature events such as SXU Homecoming, Cougarpalooza, and International Education Week celebrate both tradition and diversity. The university provides comprehensive student support services, including mentoring, career counseling, and wellness programming. On-campus housing accommodates students in apartment-style and traditional residences, supplemented by extensive athletic and fitness facilities. The arts thrive through music ensembles, campus publications, and theater groups, supporting a dynamic and well-rounded student community committed to academic achievement and social responsibility.
Guided by its Catholic heritage and Mercy values, Saint Xavier University is dedicated to fostering academic excellence, ethical leadership, and lifelong learning. The university’s mission centers on empowering students to achieve personal and professional growth while contributing to a just, compassionate, and globally conscious society.
