Overview of DeSales University
DeSales University, located in Center Valley, Pennsylvania, is a private Catholic institution known for its commitment to providing a holistic education rooted in the teachings of St. Francis de Sales, the patron saint of writers and journalists. Established in 1964 by the Oblates of St. Francis de Sales, the university emphasizes a values-based education that combines academic excellence, professional preparation, and a strong sense of community. Let’s explore various aspects of DeSales University:
Catholic and Salesian Identity: DeSales University is proud of its Catholic and Salesian identity, and it integrates the teachings of St. Francis de Sales into its educational philosophy. The university emphasizes values such as kindness, humility, and gentleness, fostering a community that values moral integrity and service to others.
Academic Programs: DeSales University offers a diverse array of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines. These include business, healthcare, liberal arts, performing arts, sciences, and theology. The university’s commitment to academic excellence is reflected in its rigorous curriculum and dedicated faculty members.
The Division of Business: The Division of Business at DeSales is notable for its comprehensive programs in business administration, accounting, finance, marketing, and more. The curriculum is designed to prepare students for leadership roles in the business world, integrating practical experiences and a strong foundation in business principles.
Healthcare Programs: DeSales University has a strong focus on healthcare education, offering programs in nursing, physician assistant studies, healthcare administration, and more. The university’s healthcare programs emphasize hands-on experiences, clinical rotations, and ethical considerations in healthcare delivery.
Access to Internships and Professional Experiences: DeSales University places a significant emphasis on providing students with access to internships, cooperative education, and professional experiences. The university’s location in the Lehigh Valley and its network of industry partnerships contribute to opportunities for students to gain practical insights and enhance their career readiness.
Salesian Center for Faith and Culture: The Salesian Center for Faith and Culture serves as a hub for promoting the integration of faith and culture in the academic environment. The center organizes lectures, seminars, and events that encourage dialogue and exploration of the intersection between faith, reason, and contemporary culture.
Values-Based Education: The values-based education at DeSales extends beyond the classroom, emphasizing character development, ethical decision-making, and a commitment to social justice. The university encourages students to live out the Salesian virtues in their personal and professional lives.
Theology and Ministry Programs: DeSales University offers programs in theology and ministry, providing students with the opportunity to explore their faith and engage in theological studies. The programs prepare individuals for roles in ministry, education, and service within the Catholic tradition.
Campus Ministry: Campus Ministry at DeSales plays a central role in fostering spiritual growth and community engagement. The ministry organizes religious services, retreats, community service projects, and other activities that promote spiritual development and a sense of community.
Residential Life: DeSales University is a residential campus, and the residential life experience is designed to enhance students’ overall college experience. Living on campus provides students with opportunities for social interaction, participation in campus activities, and a supportive community.
Athletics and Campus Life: DeSales University competes in NCAA Division III athletics as the Bulldogs. The university offers a variety of sports, contributing to campus life, school spirit, and a sense of community. In addition to athletics, DeSales provides a range of student organizations, clubs, and cultural activities to enrich the student experience.
The Performing and Fine Arts: DeSales University has a strong focus on the performing and fine arts. The university is home to the Labuda Center for the Performing Arts, which features a state-of-the-art theater. Students in the performing arts have opportunities to showcase their talents through productions, exhibitions, and performances.
Adult and Graduate Education: DeSales University recognizes the diverse needs of adult learners and offers programs tailored to their schedules and career goals. The ACCESS program provides adult students with flexible learning options, including evening and weekend classes, online courses, and accelerated formats.
Alumni Success: DeSales University has a network of alumni who have made significant contributions in various fields, including business, healthcare, education, and the arts. The university’s alumni serve as ambassadors and contributors to the institution’s legacy, showcasing the impact of a DeSales education.
DeSales University Today: Today, DeSales University continues to uphold its mission of providing a holistic education that integrates faith, values, and academic excellence. The university’s commitment to developing well-rounded individuals with a sense of purpose aligns with its Salesian tradition and prepares students to make positive contributions to society.
DeSales University stands as an institution committed to providing a values-based education rooted in the teachings of St. Francis de Sales. With a focus on academic excellence, professional preparation, and a vibrant campus community, DeSales continues to shape the lives of its students and contribute to the broader community through its emphasis on faith, reason, and service.
2755 Station Avenue Center Valley, PA 18034-9568
Phone: (610) 282-4443
Email: admiss@desales.edu
Web site: http://www.desales.edu
Rankings: DeSales University
Located in Valley, PA , DeSales University is one of the best universities in the state of Pennsylvania. On this page, you will find in-depth rankings for DeSales University in the following areas: graduation rates, teaching resources, financing opportunities, and alumni donations. Latest acceptance rate is also given to show how competitive is DeSales University.
| Rankings, Ratings, and Admissions Statistics | |
| Overall Ranking: | 59 |
| Score: | 42 |
| Peer college rating (out of 5) | 2.5 |
| Graduation and retention ranking: | 25 |
| Average freshman retention rate: | 81.8% |
| 6-year graduation rate: | 68.3% |
| Predicted graduation rate: | N/A |
| Overperformance(+)/Underperformance(-): | N/A |
| Faculty resources ranking: | 134 |
| Classes with under 20 students (2020): | 39.0% |
| Classes with 50 or more students (2020): | 1.4% |
| Student faculty ratio (2020): | 13:1 |
| Percent of faculty who are full-time (2020) | 64.4% |
| Student selectivity ranking: | 44 |
| SAT/ACT 25th-75th percentile (2020) | 980-1200 |
| 2020 Freshmen in top 10 percent of high school class: | 22% |
| Freshmen in top 25 percent of high school class (2020): | 52% |
| Fall 2020 Acceptance rate: | 74.6% |
| Financial resources rank: | 80 |
| Alumni giving rank: | 57 |
| Average alumni giving rate (2020): | 14.2% |
Essential Facts: DeSales University
- DeSales is also a member of the Lehigh Valley Association of Independent Colleges (LVAIC), which offers cross-registration and interlibrary loan with other Lehigh Valley-based institutions.
- DeSales University is located in Center Valley, PA. DeSales University is a privateCatholic university for men and women, located in Lehigh County, Pennsylvania, in the United States.
- DeSales University has a total undergraduate enrollment of 2,492, with a gender distribution of 36% male students and 64% female students. In sports, DeSales University is part of the NCAA III.
Rules and regulations Sports Activities
| General Information | |
| Percent of undergraduate students who live in college-owned, operated, or affiliated housing: | 65% |
| Percent of undergraduates who are members of a fraternity: | 0% |
| Percent of student body who are members of a sorority: | 0% |
| Average percentage of students on campus during weekends: | 75% |
| Are all students permitted to have cars on campus? | Yes |
| Percent of students who have cars on campus: | 84% |
| Is alcohol permitted on campus for students of legal age? | Yes |
| Additional policies and regulations: | other |
| Collegiate athletic association: | NCAA III |
| Men’s scholarship sports: | N/A |
| Women’s scholarship sports: | N/A |
| Student activities: | campus ministries, choral groups, dance, drama/theater, literary magazine, musical theater, radio station, student government, student newspaper, student film society, yearbook |