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Saint John’s University has created a strong foundation for young men from both a national and international presence since it offers such a unique learning experience. Operating as a partner school with the College of Saint Benedict, the woman’s college, all students can appreciate a co-educational learning experience while living on separate campuses. With a strong focus on leadership and an overall well-rounded personal development, Saint John’s University holds the experience of a quality residential liberal arts education in high regard both on and off-campus. In addition to the valued liberal arts programs offered at the University, many students also take advantage of pursing the various professional and science-based programs such as Biology and Business Administration. Students who prefer to pursue double majors can find their selection in over 45 different course offerings.
Giving students a sense of home away from home, is vital to their academic success. By providing a well-suited and enriching collegiate atmosphere that helps students to develop their social and leadership skills in addition to their academic preparation, enhances the college experience for all students. Saint John’s has established a strong presence on campus and throughout the country, presenting students with various opportunities to achieve their goals and push their education to the next level. Helping young men develop the skills, education and professional preparation they need to succeed has continuously achieved through generations of graduates and alumni.
School History
Saint John’s University was founded in 1857 and is currently one of the oldest educational facilities in the Midwest. Since the beginning of their existence, the University has been in famously known for their production of Johnnie Bread, coarse-grained bread that is harvested right on campus grounds and sold to fund academic and community projects. The University was established after a long history of Catholic schools established by the Benedictine Fathers of St. John’s Abbey. In early 1856, an Abbot from St. Vincent’s Abbey was sent to Minnesota to develop both a monastery and a school. Originally called Saint John’s Seminary, the name was change to Saint John’s University in 1863 when the Act of the State Legislature was signed.
Saint John’s University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association. Many individual programs offered hold additional accreditation such as from the American Chemical Society, The American Dietetic Association and the Council on Social Work Education.
The Saint John’s University Presidents that have served throughout the years have been an iconic part of the school’s history. Early presidents such as Rupert Seidenbusch and Alexius Edelrock were responsible for establishing the foundation, creating the Vicariate of Northern Minnesota and transformed the main building of the campus. By 1908, the theology course was attracting students from various communities and territories, starting a trend over the next few years to incorporate and fine-tune an eclectic curriculum.
Campus Life
The Saint John’s University campus consists of a wide variety of terrains that give students an array of opportunities to enjoy such as nature walks, relaxing waterfront picnic areas by the lakes, and the beautiful scenes from the wetlands. Since the University is partnered with the College of Saint Benedict, the women’s college, all students can access the resources that are available on both campuses. This type of diverse setting offers students a sense of structure yet gives them the freedom to learn. There is a strong focus on leadership throughout the campus, giving students the tools needed to take initiative in their professional, spiritual and academic success. The close community bond that is developed on campus enables students to also help each other achieve their goals.
Saint John’s University offers a wide array of activities, groups, clubs and organizations that meet throughout both campuses. Students can enjoy the extensive services and opportunities of the International Student Program or take advantage of the various resources in the Intercultural Center. Despite personal preference, the campus offers something to attract every student while offering them the experiences needed to develop their skills. With over 85 clubs and organizations, the majority of students are involved in at least one special interest group or athletic team.
Living on campus offers a unique experience for students, maintaining access to a variety of health and wellness counseling, career development, as well as athletics and recreation opportunities. When it comes to residence life on campus, students reside in variety of residence houses, international halls and special interest complexes. With a strict structure implemented to ensure student safety, all students are required to a break request form if remaining on campus during holiday breaks and semester recess. All students have access to the dining facilities as well as the Residence Hall Linen Program that offers access to laundry facilities on campus.
Financial Aid
Saint John’s University offers extensive assistance to students when it comes to financial aid options. With several deadlines stretched throughout the school year, staff members from the Office of Financial Aid are available to assist students in the application process to ensure optimized schedules, with the least amount of financial stress. Highly known for the Early Action programs, the University offers students a variety of different scholarships and grant options to help cover the costs of tuition and related expenses.
All students that attend Saint John’s are encouraged to apply for all financial aid options available to them. Utilizing the FAFSA loan application is recommended to initialize the process, giving students an idea of the funding options they may qualify for. The University offers merit-based scholarships based on need and academic achievement. At Saint John’s, all students are considered for internal grants that do not require repayment to assist with the cost of their college experience. These grants may range from full tuition coverage to assistance with books and supplies throughout the school year.
