University Overview
Saint John’s University, established in 1857, is a private, Catholic, liberal arts university located in Collegeville, Minnesota, USA. With a rich history and strong academic tradition, Saint John’s has earned a reputation for excellence in teaching, research, and service.
The university’s mission is to educate students in the Benedictine tradition, emphasizing intellectual inquiry, personal growth, and social responsibility. Saint John’s offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs in the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and business.
Rankings and Reputation
Saint John’s University consistently ranks among the top liberal arts colleges in the United States. It is recognized for its strong academic programs, dedicated faculty, and vibrant campus community.
- Ranked #1 in the Midwest and #25 nationally among liberal arts colleges by U.S. News & World Report (2023).
- Recognized as a “Best Value College” by Kiplinger’s Personal Finance.
- Named a “Top Producer of Fulbright Scholars” by the Chronicle of Higher Education.
Notable Alumni
Saint John’s University has produced a distinguished group of alumni who have made significant contributions in various fields.
- Tom Emmer, U.S. Representative for Minnesota’s 6th Congressional District.
- James P. Shannon, former Director of the National Institutes of Health.
- Patrick Reusse, sports columnist and author.
- William Diebold, Jr., economist and author.
Campus and Student Life
Saint John’s University is nestled in the scenic city of Collegeville, Minnesota, just 30 miles northwest of Minneapolis. The campus sprawls across 2,300 acres of rolling hills, woodlands, and lakes, offering a tranquil and picturesque setting for learning and living.
The university boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including the newly renovated Saint John’s Abbey and University Church, which is a National Historic Landmark. Other notable buildings include the Saint John’s Abbey Library, the Science Center, and the Herb Brooks National Hockey Center.
Student housing options are diverse, ranging from traditional residence halls to apartments and townhouses.
Student Body
Saint John’s University has a vibrant and diverse student body of over 1,700 undergraduate and graduate students. The student population is primarily male, with a small but growing number of female students. The university attracts students from all over the United States and several countries worldwide.
Student Organizations and Campus Events
The university offers a wide range of student organizations, including academic clubs, athletic teams, and cultural groups. Students are encouraged to get involved in campus activities, as they provide opportunities for leadership development, personal growth, and community engagement.
Throughout the year, Saint John’s University hosts a variety of campus events, including concerts, lectures, sporting events, and cultural festivals. These events foster a sense of community and provide students with opportunities to engage with the broader university community.
Academic Programs
Saint John’s University offers a comprehensive range of academic programs at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. With a commitment to academic excellence and personal growth, the university provides students with a rigorous and transformative educational experience.The undergraduate curriculum encompasses over 50 majors and minors, spanning a wide range of disciplines including the arts, sciences, humanities, business, and education.
Students benefit from small class sizes, personalized attention from renowned faculty, and access to state-of-the-art facilities.
Graduate Programs, Saint John’s University
Saint John’s University also offers a diverse array of graduate programs, including master’s, doctoral, and professional degrees. These programs are designed to enhance students’ professional skills, deepen their knowledge, and prepare them for leadership roles in their respective fields.
Faculty and Research
The university’s faculty are renowned scholars and educators who are dedicated to both teaching and research. They engage in cutting-edge research projects, providing students with opportunities to participate in hands-on research experiences. Saint John’s University also boasts numerous research centers and institutes, fostering a collaborative and interdisciplinary research environment.
Career Services
Saint John’s University is committed to supporting students’ career development. The university’s Career Services office provides a wide range of services, including career counseling, resume writing assistance, mock interviews, and networking opportunities. Students have access to a comprehensive online career database, job fairs, and employer presentations, ensuring a smooth transition from academia to the professional world.
Athletics and Extracurricular Activities
Saint John’s University fosters a vibrant athletic and extracurricular community, providing students with diverse opportunities to pursue their passions, develop their talents, and contribute to the university’s spirit and camaraderie.
The university’s athletic programs are highly competitive and have a long history of success at the NCAA Division III level. Saint John’s boasts a wide range of varsity teams, including basketball, football, hockey, soccer, and track and field. The university’s state-of-the-art athletic facilities include a modern gymnasium, a football stadium, and an indoor track and field complex.
Extracurricular Activities
Beyond athletics, Saint John’s offers a multitude of extracurricular activities and clubs that cater to a variety of interests. These include academic clubs, student government organizations, service-oriented groups, and cultural and religious associations. The university’s Student Activities Center provides support and resources for student-led initiatives and events, fostering a sense of community and engagement.
Location and Community: Saint John’s University
Saint John’s University is situated in Collegeville, Minnesota, a small town located approximately 30 miles northwest of Minneapolis. This strategic location provides students with easy access to the vibrant urban amenities of the Twin Cities while immersing them in a tranquil and picturesque college town setting.
Collegeville is a charming community with a population of around 500 residents. The town boasts a rich history, dating back to the 1850s when Benedictine monks established Saint John’s Abbey, which remains a central landmark and spiritual hub of the community.
The town’s economy is primarily driven by the university, as well as tourism and small businesses.
Demographics
- Population: Approximately 500 residents
- Median age: 38.5 years
- Median household income: $95,000
- Racial makeup: 96% White, 2% Asian, 1% Black, 1% Hispanic
Cultural Offerings
Despite its small size, Collegeville offers a surprising array of cultural attractions. The town is home to the Saint John’s Abbey and University Art Museum, which houses a diverse collection of over 12,000 works of art. The Saint John’s Bible, a renowned calligraphic masterpiece, is also on display at the museum.
Collegeville is also known for its music scene. The Saint John’s University Concert Series brings world-renowned musicians and performers to campus throughout the year. The university also boasts a strong choral tradition, with several choirs performing regularly.
Last Word
Saint John’s University stands as a beacon of academic excellence, offering a transformative educational experience that empowers students to thrive in their chosen fields and make a meaningful impact on the world. Its commitment to innovation, research, and community engagement ensures that its legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.
