La Salle University is a private Catholic university located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Founded in 1863 by the Christian Brothers, La Salle is known for its values-driven education and commitment to teaching and mentoring students. The university has a long history and reputation built on providing a practical and ethical education.
Academics
La Salle offers over 40 undergraduate majors, 29 master’s degree programs, and two doctoral programs. It is organized into two schools: The School of Arts and Sciences and the School of Business. Here are some of the notable academics at La Salle:
- Nursing Program – La Salle has had a nursing program since 1980 and is known in the region for nursing education. The program leads to a BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) and emphasizes clinical practice and service learning.
- MBA Program – The MBA program focuses on leadership, ethics, and developing practical business skills. Students can choose between part-time, full-time, and online options.
- Psychology – Psychology is one of the most popular undergraduate majors. Research opportunities allow students to work alongside faculty members.
- Integrated Science, Business, and Technology (ISBT) – This multidisciplinary program combines science, technology, business, and ethics. Students develop skills for biotechnology, pharmaceutical, medical device, and other science-based careers.
- Education – La Salle has had a strong tradition in teacher preparation dating back to its founding. Students receive early classroom exposure and graduate prepared to make a difference in urban schools.
In addition to traditional majors, La Salle offers interdisciplinary programs in fields like neuroscience, digital arts and multimedia design (DArt), communication, environmental studies, and more. Class sizes are small and allow for group discussion and one-on-one attention from professors.
Values-Driven Education
As a Catholic university, La Salle is committed to the educational values and traditions of the Christian Brothers. This means having a strong sense of ethics, service, community, and social justice. Some key aspects of the values-driven education at La Salle include:
- Service learning – Students engage in service projects at over 60 community partner sites to combine learning objectives with meeting real community needs.
- Experiential education – Programs like travel study courses, internships, and undergraduate research provide real-world experiences.
- Lasallian traditions – La Salle focuses on developing the whole person intellectually, morally, and spiritually in the tradition of St. John Baptist de La Salle.
- Ethics across the curriculum – Ethics are incorporated into courses university-wide, not just in philosophy and religion classes.
Faith and service initiatives like the annual Hunger Awareness Week bring these values directly into campus life. Through the values-driven education, students gain practical skills while learning to make a positive impact on their communities.
Student Life
La Salle offers a range of student activities and services that enhance the educational experience. Here are some highlights of student life at La Salle:
- Division I Athletics – La Salle competes in the Atlantic 10 conference with 20 Division I men’s and women’s teams including basketball, soccer, lacrosse, and more.
- 350+ Student Clubs and Organizations – Students can join interest clubs, cultural groups, professional societies, performing arts, volunteer organizations, and more.
- Greek Life – Fraternities and sororities emphasize service, philanthropy, academics, and campus involvement.
- Honor Societies – Groups like Gamma Sigma Sigma, Sigma Phi Lambda, and Alpha Epsilon foster academic excellence and service.
- Intramural Sports – For sports recreation, students can participate in flag football, volleyball, soccer, basketball, and other intramural leagues.
- Performing Arts – Vocal and instrumental performing groups put on concerts throughout the year. Masque puts on theatrical productions annually.
Housing options include traditional dorms, apartment-style units, specialty-interest housing, and townhouses. New facilities like the Shoppes at La Salle add dining and retail to campus. The scenic campus provides a close-knit community feel while being located in the heart of Philadelphia.
Location in Philadelphia
La Salle’s location is one of its biggest advantages. The campus covers over 130 acres in Northwest Philadelphia. Being minutes from the city provides easy access to internships, careers, culture, dining, and entertainment. Here are some of the benefits of La Salle’s location:
- Cultural attractions – Easy access to museums, theater, historical sites, and major league sports.
- City resources – Partnerships with businesses and nonprofits provide volunteering, networking, and learning opportunities.
- Public transportation – The SEPTA regional rail train station is on campus for access to the city and suburbs.
- Dining and nightlife – Students enjoy Philadelphia’s food, music, and bar scenes.
- Job pipeline – Philadelphia is a major employment hub and companies recruit graduates.
- Urban impact – Students frequently engage with the community through service, clinics, partnerships, and more.
While conveniently urban, campus still provides a sense of community and safety. La Salle’s graduates are prepared to live and work in Philadelphia or other cities.
Accessible Education
As part of the Lasallian heritage of providing education to marginalized populations, La Salle continues to focus on access and affordability. The university works to make earning a degree attainable for motivated students from all backgrounds through initiatives like:
- Generous need-based financial aid and merit scholarships.
- Partnering with local community colleges to improve transfers and completion.
- Offering evening, part-time, and online programs for adult learners.
- Providing student employment, work study, and loan counseling.
- Supporting first-generation students through programs like the Academic Discovery Program.
- Resources for veterans and military students.
- Need-blind admissions to make the process fair for all students.
With over 70% of students receiving financial aid, La Salle is succeeding in its mission to provide access to education and opportunity.
Graduate Employment
A survey conducted by La Salle found that 99% of graduates from the Class of 2019 were employed, pursuing advanced degrees, or volunteering full-time within a year of graduation. Here are some stats about outcomes for La Salle graduates:
- 83% of employed graduates worked in Pennsylvania, 57% within Philadelphia.
- The top employers of new graduates were Jefferson Health, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, La Salle University, and PwC.
- 90% felt their jobs related to their major and allowed them to apply their education.
- Average starting salary was $51,000, with the highest average salaries in business fields.
La Salle’s career services office provides resume reviews, networking events, corporate recruiting, internship guidance, and job search support. Strong local partnerships mean students have opportunities to gain experience and make connections before graduation.
History and Campus
La Salle has a long, rich history as one of the country’s oldest Catholic universities. Here are some key facts about the university’s past and campus today:
- Founded in 1863 by the Christian Brothers religious order.
- Named for St. John Baptist de La Salle, founder of the Christian Brothers.
- Originally located at St. Michael’s parish in the Kensington neighborhood before moving to current location in 1929.
- Was an all-male institution until 1970 when it began admitting women.
- Designated a university in 1984.
- 30+ acre central quad and arboretum with historic architecture.
- Over 50 buildings including residence halls, labs, art gallery, theater, library, student center, athletic facilities, and more.
- National historic landmark status granted in 1998.
La Salle’s historic collegiate gothic campus provides an ideal setting for learning and student life. The grounds have been thoughtfully maintained to accommodate modern needs while retaining the original architecture and design.
Distinguished Alumni
La Salle has over 50,000 living alumni worldwide. Graduates are highly engaged through regional club events, fundraising, and volunteering. Here are some of La Salle’s many successful alumni:
- John DiIulio – Political scientist who served as first director of White House Office of Faith-Based and Community Initiatives under President George W. Bush.
- Richard Hayne – Founder and CEO of Urban Outfitters.
- Joe Morton – Emmy-winning film, television, and stage actor known for roles in Scandal, American Gangster, and more.
- Elizabeth Regan – Tony-nominated actress known for Broadway roles in Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? and Ah, Wilderness!
- Fran Dunphy – Long-time La Salle basketball coach and former head coach at University of Pennsylvania.
- Tom Curley – Former President and CEO of The Associated Press.
- William R. Sasso, Esq. – Co-founder and Chairman of law firm Stradley Ronon.
- J. Michael Luttig – Executive Vice President and General Counsel for Boeing.
La Salle takes pride in the achievements of its alumni and the impact they continue to make in their fields and communities.
Global Reach
While strongly connected to its Philadelphia location, La Salle also provides opportunities to engage globally. Some examples include:
- Study abroad programs in Europe, Latin America, Australia, Africa and more.
- Travel study courses taking students to destinations tied to coursework.
- Over 20 international partnerships for studying and exchanges.
- International students representing over 40 countries in the student body.
- Diplomat-in-Residence program bringing foreign ambassadors to teach and speak on campus.
- Globally-focused events like the international film festival.
- Interdisciplinary minors like Asian studies, European studies, and Catholic studies.
Through international experiences and engagement, La Salle students gain global awareness and perspective to prepare them for an interconnected world.
Research
While focused primarily on undergraduate education, La Salle also provides research opportunities to engage students and contribute to the work of various fields. Some examples include:
- Collaborative research projects pairing students with professors.
- Presenting at regional academic conferences.
- The La Salle University Art Museum with art research and internships.
- The Neuroscience Institute supporting interdisciplinary neuro research.
- Published papers and articles in collaboration with faculty.
- Holroyd Science Facility with specialized labs and equipment.
- Digital Arts and Multimedia Design studio and facilities.
- Psychology research labs and the Albert Ellis Cognitive Behavioral Institute.
Research experience at La Salle boosts students’ skills in analysis, critical thinking, and hands-on learning while allowing them to be part of developing new knowledge in the field.
Tuition and Affordability
La Salle aims to provide an accessible, affordable private university education. Here are some key facts about tuition and aid:
- Annual tuition for 2022-2023 is $46,040.
- Over 70% of students receive financial aid, with an average package over $35,000.
- Scholarships rewards academic achievement, community service, leadership, and special talents.
- Grants, student employment, and loan counseling provided for those with financial need.
La Salle has committed to increasing scholarship funds and is focused on limiting tuition increases. Multiple affordable options exist for motivated students at different economic levels.
Athletics
La Salle competes in NCAA Division I sports as part of the Atlantic 10 conference. The Explorers field 20 men’s and women’s teams:
- Men’s: Baseball, Basketball, Cross Country, Golf, Rowing, Soccer, Swimming and Diving, Tennis, Track and Field
- Women’s: Basketball, Cross Country, Field Hockey, Golf, Lacrosse, Rowing, Rugby, Soccer, Softball, Swimming and Diving, Tennis, Track and Field, Volleyball
The men’s basketball team has a storied history including a NCAA championship in 1954. The program has launched many players to the NBA. All teams compete strongly within the A-10 and aim to make deep runs during championship seasons.
Fitness facilities are available for student use including the Hayman Center with courts, a pool, weight rooms, and more. Students can attend games and matches for free and show their school spirit.
Rankings
La Salle consistently earns recognition from major college rankings. Here are some recent placements:
- U.S. News & World Report: #7 Regional University North, #3 Most Innovative School, #3 Best Undergraduate Teaching
- Wall Street Journal: #176 nationally out of over 800 schools
- Forbes: #293 Top Colleges
- Washington Monthly: #139 National Universities
- Money: #232 Best Colleges for Your Money
La Salle earns praise for its academics, affordability, innovation, career outcomes, and commitment to service. The university delivers on providing an impactful, practical education.
Conclusion
For over 150 years, La Salle University has established itself as a leading private university grounded in Catholic values and ideals. While continuing to evolve and innovate, La Salle remains committed to the traditions that define its mission – accessible education, ethics, community, mentorship, and service.
Through strong academics, real-world preparation, a close-knit community, and an urban location, La Salle provides transformative educational experiences. Students from across Philadelphia, the nation, and the world will continue to benefit from all the university has to offer.
