Saint Leo University: A Tradition of Excellence in Higher Education
Saint Leo University, a private Catholic institution rooted in Benedictine values, has a longstanding commitment to providing a transformative education for students of all faiths. Founded in 1889 by Benedictine monks, the university has evolved from a small religious school into a comprehensive university offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. With a focus on academic excellence, personal development, and values-based learning, Saint Leo University prepares students for success in their chosen fields and empowers them to become ethical leaders in their communities.
A Rich History and Enduring Mission
Saint Leo University traces its origins to August 10, 1881, when Edmund F. Dunne acquired a large tract of land in Florida and established a Catholic colony. To serve the German-speaking colonists, Bishop John Moore requested a German-speaking priest from Saint Vincent Archabbey in Pennsylvania. In 1889, Holy Name Monastery was founded, followed by Saint Leo College and Saint Leo Abbey on June 4 of the same year.
The institution, initially known as St. Leo's College, underwent several transformations over the years, including periods as a military college, preparatory school, and academy. In 1959, Saint Leo returned to its college roots, opening a junior college. Finally, in 1999, it achieved university status, becoming Saint Leo University.
Throughout its history, Saint Leo University has remained dedicated to its mission of providing a values-based, student-centered learning environment. The university's commitment to academic excellence and personal development is reflected in its diverse academic programs, supportive faculty, and emphasis on practical learning experiences.
Diverse Academic Programs for Career Advancement
Saint Leo University offers more than 60 high-demand undergraduate and graduate majors and minors, providing students with the flexibility to pursue their academic interests and career goals. Whether on campus, online, or at regional education centers nationwide, students can access a wide range of programs designed to enhance their knowledge, improve their skills, and broaden their value as professionals.
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Graduate Programs: Elevating Expertise and Leadership
For those seeking to advance their careers or become leaders in their industries, Saint Leo University's graduate programs offer a pathway to enhanced expertise and professional growth. These programs are designed to develop real-world skills and prepare students for high-demand fields.
Business Programs: Saint Leo's business programs are highly respected in the professional sphere, offering flexible degree options that prepare students for diverse career paths. Coursework covers all aspects of business, including marketing, finance, management strategies, ethics, law, and human resources.
Master of Creative Writing: This program allows students to transform their careers and hone their craft, working closely with published faculty. The creative writing program is conveniently offered as an online degree.
Criminal Justice Degrees: Saint Leo University offers a range of criminal justice degrees with concentrations in areas such as legal studies, criminal investigation, and forensic science.
Education Degrees: Recognizing the importance of flexibility, Saint Leo offers high-quality graduate education degrees with concentrations in education leadership, reading, instructional leadership, and more.
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Master's Degree in Human Services: This program equips students with the skills to lead others and serve the community, preparing them for careers in mental health, community outreach, child welfare, and nonprofit management.
Advanced Degrees in Information Technology or Cybersecurity: These degrees open doors to new career paths in web development, cyber analysis, security administration, and security engineering.
Online Master's Degree in Psychology: This program expands students' knowledge of the human mind and behaviors, preparing them for advanced careers in the field.
Master's in Social Work: With a rapidly growing demand for skilled social workers, this program offers a flexible learning option with courses available full-time online or in person at education centers across the country, leading to clinical positions and other advanced career opportunities.
Master's Degree in Theology: As Florida's oldest Catholic college, Saint Leo University offers a robust master's degree in theology, providing students with a unique opportunity to study in the shadows of the Benedictine brothers and sisters at Saint Leo Abbey and Monastery.
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Undergraduate Programs: Shaping Future Leaders
Saint Leo University's undergraduate programs focus on the individual student, providing dedicated faculty guidance and practical learning experiences to prepare them for their future goals.
A Supportive and Inclusive Learning Environment
Saint Leo University is committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive learning environment where students can thrive academically, personally, and professionally. The university offers a variety of resources and programs to support students throughout their college journey, including:
- Student Advising: Counselors assist students with course selection, academic planning, and access to resources such as the course catalog and registrar's office.
- Library Services: Comprehensive library services provide students with access to a wide range of resources to support their research and learning.
- Honors Program: Academically talented students can participate in a challenging and supportive honors program that develops critical thinking skills and prepares them for leadership roles.
- Study Abroad Programs: Students have the opportunity to participate in transformative international education experiences, including full semesters abroad, faculty-led trips, and service-learning opportunities.
- Military Support: Saint Leo University has a long history of supporting students in the military, understanding the unique lifestyle that comes with military service.
Cutting-Edge Online Education
Saint Leo University is a pioneer in online education, offering cutting-edge virtual university experiences that provide students with the flexibility to learn on their own schedules. The university's online programs are designed to prepare students for growing career opportunities in high-demand fields, with professors who understand the importance of balancing school with life.
Online students at Saint Leo University benefit from rigorous academic coursework, user-friendly programs and tools, and a welcoming virtual community that shares their passion for learning. The university's online programs foster a sense of community, allowing students to build valuable, lifelong friendships and connections all over the world.
Accreditation and Recognition
Saint Leo University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate, bachelor's, master's, specialist, and doctoral degrees. The Saint Leo School of Business is accredited by the International Assembly for Collegiate Business Education, and the university's social work program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of the Council on Social Work Education. The undergraduate sport business program and MBA sport business concentration are accredited by the Commission on Sport Management Accreditation. In May 2025, the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) granted accreditation to Saint Leo University's Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program.
Saint Leo University has also received recognition for its academic excellence and commitment to serving veterans. The university is ranked in the U.S. News & World Report Best Colleges rankings and has earned top placements in the Military Times Best for Vets: Colleges rankings.
A Vibrant Campus Community
Saint Leo University's athletic teams, known as the Lions, compete in the National Collegiate Athletic Association's Division II as a member of the Sunshine State Conference (SSC). The university offers a variety of men's and women's sports, providing students with opportunities to participate in athletics and develop teamwork and leadership skills.
In addition to athletics, Saint Leo University offers a variety of campus activities and organizations, including Greek life, student clubs, and volunteer opportunities. The university's low-power FM radio station, WLSL-LP, provides students with hands-on experience in broadcasting and allows them to serve the communities of Saint Leo, Dade City, San Antonio, Wesley Chapel, and Zephyrhills.
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