Overview: University of St. Thomas – Minnesota
The University of St. Thomas, founded in 1885, is Minnesota’s largest private, nonprofit university. Located in St. Paul and Minneapolis, United States, the institution has evolved from a Catholic liberal arts college to a comprehensive university. St. Thomas serves more than 9,800 students across undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels. Its operations span two main campuses and a suburban graduate center. As a comprehensive, teaching-focused university, St. Thomas maintains a strong commitment to practical research, global engagement, and community service. The institution’s vibrant scale, history, and metropolitan location have enabled it to become a prominent member of the regional and national higher education landscape.
Academic Strengths and Structure
St. Thomas is renowned for programs in business (Opus College of Business), engineering, computer science, education, and the liberal arts. Its AACSB-accredited business school ranks among the top in the country for entrepreneurship and ethics. The School of Engineering emphasizes experiential and interdisciplinary learning, while other signature programs include health sciences, law, and theology. The university champions a “practical integration” philosophy, blending theory with real-world application, and promotes undergraduate research through initiatives like the Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program. St. Thomas is a Carnegie-classified doctoral/professional university and participates in global partnerships, such as the Catholic Universities Partnership and International Education Exchange. Its faculty are regularly recognized for scholarly and community-engaged achievements.
Student Life and Community
The University of St. Thomas offers a dynamic campus experience, hosting over 140 student clubs, diverse cultural organizations, and numerous service learning opportunities. Annual events, such as International Education Week, foster global awareness and inclusivity. The campus features state-of-the-art recreational facilities, NCAA Division III athletics with 22 varsity teams, and robust fine arts programming. Student support services address academic, wellness, and career development needs, while on-campus housing creates a close-knit, supportive environment. The university prioritizes diversity, equity, and internationalization, with students from over 60 countries contributing to a vibrant multicultural community.
Mission, Vision, and Values
Guided by Catholic intellectual tradition, St. Thomas advances the common good by fostering leadership, global understanding, and ethical innovation. The university is dedicated to equity, sustainability, and developing graduates who are thoughtful, principled global citizens.
