The University of St. Thomas, founded in 1885, is a private, Catholic-affiliated institution nestled in the vibrant urban setting of St. Paul and Minneapolis, Minnesota. Its medium-sized enrollment offers students an intimate learning experience, with the university consistently maintaining a low student-to-faculty ratio. Encapsulating the essence of a liberal arts education within a larger context, St. Thomas provides undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines, catering to a diverse student body seeking comprehensive academic and personal development.
Distinctive in its mission, the University of St. Thomas prides itself on its innovative programs such as the Schulze School of Entrepreneurship, which fosters a spirit of business acumen infused with ethical decision-making. The university also stands out with its unique offerings like the Dougherty Family College, an associate degree-granting college embedded within the university that seeks to provide accessible education to underserved communities, thus addressing educational inequalities. In addition to these endeavors, St. Thomas operates the Center for Common Good, which acts as a conduit for community engagement and service learning, reflecting its commitment to social justice and societal contribution.
The University of St. Thomas boasts several positive attributes that contribute notably to its reputation. Its School of Engineering is widely recognized for producing industry-ready professionals through hands-on learning and partnerships with local businesses. On the sustainability front, the university has made significant advancements, including the development of a Climate Action Plan aimed at achieving carbon neutrality by 2035. Moreover, the institution's positive impact on the community is evident through programs like the Tommies Together Volunteer Center, which encourages student involvement in local volunteer efforts, fostering a culture of service and reciprocity with the surrounding community.
However, pursuing excellence comes with its own set of challenges. The University of St. Thomas has encountered hurdles such as the need to enhance its diversity and inclusion efforts. Despite initiatives to broaden its student demographics, it continues to strive for a more representative campus climate. The university's geographic location in the Upper Midwest can also prove challenging for attracting students from a wider range of climates, particularly international students who might find the Minnesota winters daunting. Additionally, as a private institution, St. Thomas faces challenges related to the cost of attendance. Though it offers financial aid, the rising expenses of higher education necessitate a persistent effort to increase accessibility and affordability for its prospective and current students.
