The Society of Jesus established Santa Clara University in 1851 on the site of Mission Santa Clara de Asis, one of the original missions founded in the state. Remnants of the mission remain at the center of the campus and is commemorated by a perimeter of roses and palm trees. After the Civil War, the institution served as a preparatory school. Today, the campus offers more than 45 majors. The institution remained an all-male facility for higher learning until 1961. During that year, Santa Clara became the first co-ed Catholic university in the state of California.
Mission/Vision
The facility continues the tradition of educating the whole student in preparation for a life of leadership and service. Learning remains the primary focus and the university continually improves the curriculum while strengthening creativity and scholarship work in order to serve local, national and global communities.
Campus Setting
Santa Clara University encompasses 106 acres in Santa Clara, California, which lies on the southern tip of the San Francisco Bay. SCU is also a mere two miles from the San Jose International Airport. The location ensures a moderate climate year round that enjoys approximately 300 days of sunshine. Optional housing includes three separate residential halls that welcome freshman to senior students. The buildings offer a choice of single, double, triple, suite or apartment type accommodations in addition to common areas, fitness and recreation areas and landscaped exteriors.
Academics
The university features five schools and colleges providing instruction in undergraduate and graduate studies. Students might obtain undergraduate or graduate degrees in the arts and sciences, business, engineering or law. Engineering students also have the option of progressing to a Ph.D. The facility also offers extended learning certificates in a number of professions.
Athletics
A 100-year-old basketball program is but one of the many Division I sports teams belonging to the National Collegiate Athletic Association at Santa Clara. Men’s sports options include baseball, cross-country/track, golf, rowing, soccer, tennis and water polo. Women’s sports opportunities include basketball, cross-country/track, golf, rowing, soccer, softball, tennis, volleyball and water polo. The campus features a variety of indoor and outdoor fitness and sports centers that encourage intramural, team or recreational athletic opportunities.
Tuition & Financial Aid
As a private educational institution, annual tuition for undergraduate studies is very expensive for resident and non-resident students. Tuition for graduate students varies and depends on individual programs of study. Additional costs include books and supplies, room and board, transportation and miscellaneous expenses. Students may apply for financial aid in the form of grants, scholarships or loans. On-campus student employment is also an option. Please refer to the school’s website for the most up-to-date tuition and financial aid information.
Accreditation
Santa Clara University is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges. The School of Business, the School of Education, the School of Engineering, the School of Law and the School of Law are but some of the programs of study having individualized accreditation within a particular field of study.
Admissions
Admission to Santa Clara University remains competitive and all applicants must meet minimum requirements. The institution receives applications from October through June of each fiscal year. Consideration for acceptance includes a review of academic grades, completion of college preparatory classes, results of standardized testing, extracurricular activities, letters of recommendation and demonstration of leadership.
Applicants must submit all of the necessary documents, an online application and a $55.00 application fee online through the common application portal. Potential students might also send the required documents for applicant consideration through the U.S. Postal Service via:
Santa Clara University
Undergraduate Admission
500 El Camino Real
Box F101
Santa Clara, CA 95053
https://www.commonapp.org/Login
For more information concerning admissions, programs of study, campus or student resources, individuals may direct inquiries at:
Phone: 408-554-4000
or
http://www.scu.edu/utility/feedback.cfm
