Vision

Saint Louis University (SLU) envisions a world shaped by knowledge, faith, and service. As one of the oldest and most prestigious Catholic institutions in the United States, SLU aspires to be a global leader in higher education, advancing academic excellence, research innovation, and social impact. Grounded in the Jesuit tradition, we seek to empower individuals to think critically, act compassionately, and lead courageously.

Mission

Founded in 1818, Saint Louis University is a private Catholic, Jesuit research university committed to teaching, research, health care, and service. With campuses in St. Louis, Missouri, and Madrid, Spain, SLU offers students a rigorous, transformative education that develops both intellect and character. Our mission is to pursue truth for the greater glory of God and for the service of humanity, preparing students to be men and women for others.

Core Values and Objectives

Rooted in the 500-year-old Jesuit tradition, SLU emphasizes values such as academic excellence, ethical leadership, social justice, and service to the marginalized. We foster a diverse, inclusive environment where individuals from all walks of life can flourish. Integrity, compassion, and respect are at the heart of our university culture, guiding our efforts to build a just and humane world.

We aim to:

• Educate the whole person — mind, body, and spirit.

• Promote interdisciplinary collaboration and lifelong learning.

• Uphold a strong commitment to faith and reason.

• Engage in research and service that address urgent societal needs.

Strategic Excellence

Saint Louis University champions strategic investment in research, academic distinction, and community engagement. Our centers of excellence and research institutes tackle global challenges in fields such as health sciences, sustainability, entrepreneurship, and social justice. Through international partnerships and community collaboration, SLU amplifies its impact beyond the classroom, reinforcing its role as a catalyst for positive change locally and globally.

Educational Approach

Offering more than 80 undergraduate majors and over 100 graduate and professional programs, SLU combines rigorous academics with real-world experience. Our faculty—renowned scholars and practitioners—mentor students in a learner-focused environment that integrates research, reflection, and service. We encourage study abroad opportunities, including our fully accredited Madrid campus, and promote a global perspective rooted in cultural awareness and ethical responsibility.

Join Us

At Saint Louis University, education goes beyond earning a degree—it’s a calling to discover, serve, and transform. Whether in St. Louis or Madrid, our community of students, educators, researchers, and leaders is united by a passion for excellence, justice, and human dignity. Join us in shaping a brighter, more compassionate world through innovation, scholarship, and service.