The University of Scranton

The University of Scranton is a private, Catholic and Jesuit university founded in 1888 and located in Scranton, Pennsylvania. Scranton is nationally recognized for its academic excellence, close-knit community, and commitment to preparing students to lead lives of meaning, service, and impact. With approximately 4,600 students, Scranton offers the personalized attention of a smaller university while providing the opportunities and resources of a larger institution. Inspired by Jesuit values, the University encourages students to pursue academic excellence, care for others, and develop into thoughtful leaders dedicated to the common good. For more than 30 years, Scranton has consistently been ranked among the top regional universities in the North by U.S. News & World Report.

The University of Scranton enrolls approximately 4,600 students, including undergraduate and graduate students from across the United States and around the world. Students bring diverse perspectives, experiences, and aspirations to a community grounded in respect, service, and the dignity of every person. Known for its welcoming and supportive atmosphere, Scranton fosters meaningful connections among students, faculty, and staff that often last long after graduation. With small class sizes and a strong sense of community, students are encouraged to grow academically, personally, and professionally throughout their time at the University.

Student life at Scranton extends far beyond the classroom. Students can participate in more than 100 clubs and organizations, including academic societies, service organizations, cultural groups, performing arts organizations, student government, club sports, and intramural athletics. The University also offers leadership development programs, community service opportunities, campus traditions, recreational activities, and NCAA Division III athletics. These experiences help students build friendships, discover new interests, develop leadership skills, and create a rewarding college experience both on and off campus.

The "diverse student body" is full of people who are "friendly, kind, and warm." This "environment creates a cozy atmosphere where it's easy to make friends and share small talk," and students say their peers "have made this school...a comforting community." As one student shares, "Our school has always been described as extremely welcoming and friendly, which is one of the reasons why I chose it nearly four years ago." Students at Scranton "embody a unique combination of academic ambition and a strong sense of social responsibility, [and] tend to be actively involved in service projects, campus organizations, and outreach programs." The student body is "close-knit, supportive, and grounded in Jesuit values like service and reflection" and "always willing to lend a helping hand when in need."

The atmosphere on campus at Scranton "is typically rather lively," and students "fill their days with schoolwork [and] socializing with other students." The campus is "pretty walkable," and there are many "comfortable and beautiful places to study and do work, or you'll see people on the green playing games." Recreational sports "are generally well run and pretty fun," and one student finds them to be a good way to "keep me active and allow me to connect with others." There are "plenty of events [to attend]" and numerous clubs and organizations to join, including the Cyber Investigation Club, Liva Arts Company, and Student Occupational Therapy Association. Students enjoy the unique activities they sponsor, "such as the art exhibition, the dog day where people bring their dogs in so you can pet them and sit with them, and random activities like giving out Dunkin' coffee to students." There are also a number of service-oriented clubs, and "activities like volunteering at food pantries or helping with educational programs for underserved communities [are] especially meaningful." Many students appreciate that at Scranton, housing is guaranteed for all four years, and "having so many students live on campus helps it stay alive and vibrant year-round."