Saint Louis University (SLU): Higher Purpose. Greater Good.

Saint Louis University (SLU) is a prestigious private, Jesuit research university with a main campus in St. Louis, Missouri, and an international campus in Madrid, Spain. Founded in 1818, it is the oldest university west of the Mississippi River, deeply rooted in its mission to prepare students for the greater good.

Academic Programs

• SLU is a top-tier national Research-1 (R1) university. It offers nearly 100 majors for undergraduates. Programs focus on a strong education with a commitment to service.
  • Popular studies include Nursing, Health Sciences, Business, and Engineering.
  • SLU is known for a fast Physical Therapy (DPT) degree path.
  • Many classes involve community service or volunteering.

Research and Service

As a leading research institution, SLU is committed to groundbreaking discoveries, with faculty and students contributing over 1 million service hours each year through a strong ethic of service and Jesuit values.

• Research Status: Research-1 (R1) classification.
• Service Ethic: Over 80 courses combine volunteering with academic study.

Student Experience and Campus Life

• SLU’s main campus is a vibrant area in Midtown St. Louis. It’s a diverse community with students from all 50 US states and over 80 countries. The university has a strong emphasis on the whole student—mind, body, and spirit.
  • You can join over 215 student organizations and clubs.
  • SLU competes in NCAA Division I athletics as the Billikens.
  • Students perform over 1 million hours of service yearly.

Facts and Figures

• Founded: 1818
• Type: Private, Catholic (Jesuit) Research University (R1)
• Students: Over 15,300 (undergraduate and graduate)
• Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 9:1
• Undergraduate Tuition (St. Louis Campus): Approximately $56,960 per year (2024-2025 data, does not include fees, housing, or aid).
• International Campus: SLU-Madrid (Spain)