Overview
Founded in 1920 by the Sisters of St. Francis of Mary Immaculate, the University of St. Francis grew from a teacher training institution into a comprehensive Catholic university rooted in Franciscan values of service, compassion, and respect for the dignity of all people. Located in Joliet, Illinois, the university has built a strong reputation for its nursing and health sciences programs, as well as its education, business, and social work degrees. It serves a diverse population of traditional undergraduates, adult learners, and graduate students across multiple modalities.
At a Glance
| Type | Private |
| Location | Joliet, Illinois |
| Founded | 1920 |
| Total students | 3,500 |
| Student–faculty ratio | 13:1 |
| Acceptance rate | 65% |
| Graduation rate | 50% |
| Average starting salary | $48,000 |
Tuition & Costs (estimates)
| In-state tuition | $29,000 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $29,000 |
| Room & board | $11,000 |
| Average financial aid | $18,000 |
| Students receiving aid | 95% |
Admissions
| SAT range | 950-1150 |
| ACT range | 18-24 |
| Average GPA | 3.30 |
| Regular deadline | Rolling |
Top Programs
- Nursing
- Occupational Therapy
- Education
- Business Administration
- Social Work
Figures are estimates for exploration — verify current costs, deadlines, and requirements on the university's official website.