Overview: University of San Francisco
The University of San Francisco (USF), founded in 1855, is a distinguished private Jesuit institution located in San Francisco, California, United States. With a history stretching back over 165 years, USF is recognized for its deep ties to the urban, cultural, and innovation epicenter of the Bay Area. The university enrolls approximately 10,000 students across undergraduate and graduate levels. USF operates five schools and colleges on its main Hilltop campus as well as locations throughout the Bay Area, positioning itself as a comprehensive, teaching-focused university with an expanding research agenda.
Academic Strengths and Structure
USF is renowned for its programs in business, law, nursing and health professions, education, and the arts and sciences. The School of Management and School of Law are particularly well-regarded, with the business school accredited by AACSB and its nursing programs ranked among the top in California. USF emphasizes a values-driven, interdisciplinary curriculum that integrates rigorous academics with experiential learning and community engagement. Research productivity is growing, with faculty engaged in over $10 million in annual sponsored research and collaborations with Silicon Valley and global partners. USF regularly features among the top 100 national universities in U.S. News & World Report, and is recognized for its commitment to social justice, innovation, and diversity.
Student Life and Community
Campus life at USF is vibrant, offering more than 100 student organizations, from cultural societies to academic clubs and service groups. The university is committed to nurturing a diverse and inclusive community—students hail from over 80 nations, with nearly 40% identifying as students of color. Comprehensive student support services include multicultural centers, peer mentoring, and career advising. USF provides modern residential facilities, competitive NCAA Division I athletics, numerous arts and cultural events, and extensive opportunities for leadership development and civic engagement, encouraging holistic student growth beyond the classroom.
Mission, Vision, and Values
USF’s mission is to educate leaders who will fashion a more humane and just world. Rooted in Jesuit values, the university prioritizes academic excellence, intercultural understanding, sustainability, equity, and global citizenship in pursuit of societal transformation and innovation.
