About Loyola University Chicago
Founded in 1870 as St. Ignatius College, Loyola University Chicago is home to 11 schools and colleges, including the Marcella Niehoff School of Nursing. With 14 schools, colleges, and institutes, we’re the country's largest Jesuit Catholic university ― and the only one in Chicago.
Keep in mind, however, you don’t have to be Catholic to attend our university. Our doors are open to all.
Offering more than 80 undergraduate and 170 graduate programs, we employ some of the best faculty members in higher education, with the majority holding the highest degree possible in their fields. We’re also the alma mater of more than 150,000 alumni, including:
- Bob Newhart, actor and comedian
- Charles D. Connor, former president and CEO of the American Lung Association
- Francesca Maher Edwardson, former CEO of the American Red Cross of Greater Chicago
- Ian Brennan, co-creator, co-writer, and co-executive producer for “Glee”
- Mary Tolan, founder and former CEO of Accretive Health, Inc.
- Michael Quinlan, former chairman and CEO of McDonald’s Corporation
- Sandra Cisneros, award-winning author, essayist, and poet
Loyola University Chicago consistently ranks among the top national universities in U.S. News and World Report and has received several accolades for its emphasis on community service and engagement. Loyola attracts students from as far away as Brazil, China, India, and Switzerland.
Jesuit Education Philosophy
The Jesuit educational philosophy focuses on academic excellence, service, and leadership. It caters to students who want to grow intellectually, morally, and spiritually while learning to serve and care for others.
Inspired by the tenets of Catholic social teaching, our university infuses Jesuit values into every academic program. We believe in educating the whole student — mind, body, and spirit — to promote care for oneself, others, and the community.
Loyola students learn in the classroom and the community. It’s not only important for them to learn the fundamentals of their chosen profession but also to experience first-hand the moral implications their academic work has on society.
By combining faith and reason with intellectual rigor, our university develops competent, ethical, and compassionate leaders who serve with a commitment to social justice and the common good.
