The University of St. Thomas is a private Catholic liberal arts university located in St. Paul and Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA. Founded in 1885, it is one of the largest private universities in the state, rooted in the Catholic intellectual tradition and committed to academic excellence, personal growth, and service. It offers students a blend of rigorous academics, real-world experience, and a vibrant campus community that encourages leadership and ethical engagement.
Overview
With more than 9,000 undergraduate and graduate students, St. Thomas offers over 150 undergraduate majors and minors and 55+ graduate and professional programs through its eight schools and colleges. These include the Opus College of Business, School of Engineering, Morrison Family College of Health, School of Law, School of Education, College of Arts and Sciences, and more, fostering a diverse and intellectually stimulating academic environment.
Academic Programs
St. Thomas provides a comprehensive range of academic programs across liberal arts, business, education, engineering, health sciences, humanities, social sciences, and professional disciplines. Popular undergraduate majors include:
- Business Administration
- Nursing
- Engineering
- Psychology
Graduate offerings include Master’s degrees, doctorates, and a Juris Doctor (J.D.) program. All undergraduate classes are taught by faculty rather than teaching assistants, fostering a more personal learning environment. The university also offers honors programs, interdisciplinary study options, and career development resources.
Campus Life
- Housing: Comfortable and well-maintained residence halls for both first-year and upperclass students, offering opportunities to live on campus and enjoy a complete college experience.
- Dining: A variety of on-campus dining options that provide diverse and convenient meal choices for students.
- Student Activities: A wide range of student clubs and organizations, along with opportunities to participate in athletics, performing arts, and student government.
- Spiritual and Community Engagement: Campus ministry programs and active involvement in community service, helping students grow spiritually while making a positive impact in the community.
Tuition and Estimated Costs (2025–2026)
Undergraduate Tuition
• Full-time Tuition & Fees : $35,754 per year for students enrolled in 12–18 credit hours each fall and spring semester.
Graduate Tuition
Graduate tuition is typically charged by credit hour:
- Arts & Sciences graduate courses: $680 per credit
- AI Leadership: $900 per credit
- School of Education graduate courses: around $727 per credit (varies by program)
- Professional programs (e.g., Nursing, Psychology, Social Work) have different per-credit or per-term rates.
Additional fees may apply, including technology and health fees.
Financial Aid
St. Thomas offers various financial aid options including grants, loans, work-study, and institutional scholarships. Nearly all first-year students receive some form of scholarship support, and additional awards recognize academic merit, leadership, and other achievements.
Scholarships
Scholarships at St. Thomas include:
- Merit-based scholarships awarded at admission
- Department or major-specific awards (e.g., business, engineering)
- Need-based grants and aid packages for qualifying students
- Honors and leadership scholarships, as well as support for transfer and international students.
Each scholarship has its own eligibility criteria and application process.
Why Choose University of St. Thomas
Students choose St. Thomas for its academic excellence, strong career outcomes, and supportive community atmosphere. The university fosters leadership, ethical reasoning, and hands-on learning experiences that prepare graduates for meaningful careers and advanced study. The urban Twin Cities setting offers internship opportunities with major employers, cultural diversity, and a high quality of life, all within an inclusive Catholic liberal arts tradition.
Conclusion
The University of St. Thomas stands out as a respected choice for students seeking a robust education grounded in values, personal attention from faculty, and extensive academic options. With competitive programs, strong financial aid support, and a dynamic campus life in a major metropolitan area, St. Thomas equips students with the knowledge, skills, and experiences necessary for success in a changing world.