University of Scranton | Scranton

University of Scranton — Detailed Overview

History and Founding

Established in 1888 as Saint Thomas College by Bishop William G. O’Hara, the first bishop of Scranton. It was founded to provide higher education opportunities in the Lackawanna Valley, originally serving primarily local Catholic students.

In 1942, the Society of Jesus (Jesuits) took over administration, aligning the university with Jesuit educational traditions emphasizing rigorous academics, ethical leadership, service to others, and intellectual growth.

It officially became the University of Scranton in 1938, reflecting its expansion beyond a college into a comprehensive university.

Jesuit Identity and Mission

As a Jesuit institution, the university emphasizes the cura personalis principle (care for the whole person), striving to educate students intellectually, morally, and spiritually.

The Jesuit tradition focuses heavily on liberal arts education, fostering critical thinking, social justice, and global citizenship.

The university encourages students to engage in service and leadership activities, preparing them to contribute meaningfully to society.

Academic Programs and Colleges

The University offers over 60 undergraduate majors and minors and a variety of graduate programs including master's degrees, doctoral programs, and professional certifications.

Academic divisions include:

College of Arts and Sciences

Kania School of Management

Panuska College of Professional Studies (including education, health sciences, nursing, and occupational therapy)

Weinberg Memorial Library supports research and academic work.

Fields of study range from humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences to business, health professions, education, and engineering.

Enrollment and Student Body

Total enrollment is around 5,000 students combining undergraduate and graduate populations.

The student-faculty ratio is approximately 13:1, allowing for small class sizes and personalized instruction.

The university attracts students from across the U.S. and internationally, fostering a diverse campus community.

Campus and Facilities

Located on a 58-acre campus in downtown Scranton, the university’s campus blends historic and modern buildings.

Facilities include:

State-of-the-art science labs and research centers

Modern classrooms and lecture halls

Athletic facilities, including the recently developed Kevin P. Quinn, S.J., Athletics Campus with NCAA regulation fields for soccer, lacrosse, and field hockey.

The DeNaples Center, a student activities and dining hub

The Weinberg Memorial Library with extensive academic resources

Residential halls and student housing close to campus amenities

Academic Excellence and Accreditation

The university holds accreditation from 16 different accrediting agencies, ensuring high standards in various disciplines including business (AACSB), nursing, computer science, physical therapy, and education.

It is recognized nationally for its academic rigor, with rankings placing it among the top regional universities in the North by U.S. News & World Report.

It boasts a strong record of Fulbright Scholars and research achievements, reflecting commitment to scholarly excellence.

Student Life and Campus Engagement

A rich array of student clubs, organizations, and cultural groups promotes involvement and leadership opportunities.

The university places a strong emphasis on service learning and volunteerism — students contribute over 170,000 community service hours annually.

Numerous cultural events, lectures, and service projects engage students both on and off campus.

Global Education and Study Abroad

The University of Scranton encourages students to study abroad, with opportunities in more than 50 countries worldwide.

Programs focus on immersing students in new cultures, languages, and academic perspectives to prepare them for global citizenship.

Exchange programs, faculty-led trips, and international internships are key components of global education.

Athletics and Recreation

The university competes in NCAA Division III sports, with teams known as the Royal Royals.

Sports include basketball, soccer, lacrosse, field hockey, tennis, swimming, and more.

Facilities support a robust intramural and club sports program in addition to varsity athletics.

Notable Achievements and Alumni

Since 1972, over 130 University of Scranton graduates have received Fulbright awards.

Alumni have succeeded in fields ranging from business and healthcare to public service and academia.

The university prides itself on producing graduates with strong ethical foundations and professional readiness.

Location and Community

Situated in downtown Scranton, the university benefits from proximity to cultural institutions, theaters, restaurants, and parks.

The city of Scranton provides opportunities for internships, community engagement, and cultural experiences.

The university maintains partnerships with local businesses and nonprofits to foster student experiential learning.

Visitor Information

Address: 800 Linden Street, Scranton, PA 18510

Website: www.scranton.edu

Campus Tours and Admissions: Prospective students and visitors can arrange campus tours and attend open house events year-round.

Summary

The University of Scranton is a distinguished Jesuit university with a long history of academic excellence, community service, and holistic education. It combines rigorous academics with a strong commitment to social justice and leadership, preparing students for meaningful careers and engaged citizenship in a global society. The university’s vibrant campus life, extensive programs, and downtown location make it a significant educational and cultural institution in Northeastern Pennsylvania.