Founded in 1842 by the Order of Saint Augustine, Villanova University is located in a suburban community 12 miles west of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. To this day, Villanova’s Augustinian Catholic intellectual tradition is the cornerstone of an academic community in which students learn to think critically, act compassionately, and succeed while serving others. Villanova prepares students to become ethical leaders who create positive change everywhere life takes them.

The strength of the Villanova experience comes in part from the University’s welcoming community. Students and staff alike are bonded together by a shared responsibility to uphold the ideals of Saint Augustine and let the principles of truth, unity, and love guide their lives. The Villanova community helps students grow intellectually, professionally, and spiritually and challenges them to reach their full potential.

The University’s rigorous academic experience, rooted in the liberal arts, creates an environment in which students and professors are partners in learning. The Villanova community is dedicated to providing a personalized experience that fosters every student’s unique intellectual and spiritual well-being. As part of their education, students are encouraged to enrich their lives by working for those in need. Through academic and service programs, students use their knowledge, skills, and compassion to better the world around them.

There are 11,000 undergraduate, graduate, and law students in the University’s six colleges— the Charles Widger School of Law, the College of Engineering, the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, the College of Professional Studies, the M. Louise Fitzpatrick College of Nursing, and the School of Business. These colleges are the setting for an educational experience that develops both the heart and mind and creates an atmosphere where students are called to ignite change.

ACCOLADES
Top 50 universities in the nation | U.S. News & World Report

Top producer of Fulbright Scholars | The Chronicle of Higher Education

#1 nationwide for best undergraduate business schools | Bloomberg Businessweek

College of Nursing designated as a “Center of Excellence in Nursing Education” | National League for Nursing 

TESTIMONIALS
"At Villanova, you’re surrounded by people who want to see you succeed. Faculty and friends are consistently here to support you along the way." — John Michael Kinsella; Finance; Dallas, TX

"Every time I visited campus, everybody was so welcoming. The passion for Villanova from current students is palpable." — Ariel Smith; Nursing; Malvern, PA

"I was looking for a school where students were really well rounded, and I found that at Villanova. Students are passionate about what they do in the classroom but also really into what whatever they do outside the classroom as well." — Michelle Charles; Political Science/Spanish; Charlotte, NC

"Villanova really prepares you for the next step." — Stephen Taing; Computer Engineering; Philadelphia, PA