Alvernia University
Alvernia University is a Franciscan educational institution, founded way back in 1926 by the Bernardine Sisters of The Third Order of St. Francis. Back then, the school was dedicated to the education of the sisters. Today, the institution has expanded into a four-year liberal arts college. Alvernia University continues to provide excellent education based on Franciscan values.
The university offers undergraduate degree programs as well as graduate programs. Continuing education programs are also available. Alvernia University has over 50 majors to choose from in the undergraduate program and around 22 in the graduate program. These programs are offered in its three campuses – Reading, Philadelphia, and Pottsville. Certain programs are available through online courses.
The Reading campus is the university’s main campus. It is situated very strategically, about only 3 miles from the city of Reading. The ones in Philadelphia and Pottsville are satellite sites, offering more flexibility in terms of class schedules. The whole system has almost 3,000 students in attendance. The student to faculty ratio is 13 to 1, with classes averaging 20 students.
About 77% of the students reside inside the campus. Alvernia University offers five different styles of on-campus residence. Only full times students are qualified to stay in the residence halls.
The tuition costs for one year attendance is $23,900 for full time students. Additional fees, such as room and board, apply. Senior citizens, those aged 65 and above, can enroll for free, as long as there are available slots.
Interested students may get in touch with their admissions office to arrange a visit or ask for more information. Alternatively, Alvernia University offers an interactive online map of the campuses to cater to those who cannot make a physical visit.
