If you’ve heard of Valparaiso University, you’re probably on a first-name basis with Valpo. Since the University first opened its doors in 1859, there’s been a special sense of familiarity here. It’s that feeling of belonging, no matter who you are — no matter what you want to become.
Valpo is where all the wide-ranging things that define you come together — and the University is committed to supporting you every step of the way. As an independent Lutheran school with a comprehensive liberal arts curriculum and doctoral/professional program, Valpo has a reputation for academic excellence. If you look at the numbers, you’ll see it: The University has a 97 percent graduate placement rate. And, if you look at its heart, you’ll feel it: There’s a bright, energetic spirit there that inspires students to make a difference in this world.
The Campus and Curriculum
Valpo’s campus is designed to offer both a personal and inclusive experience. Across Valpo’s 350 acres, you’ll discover state-of-the-art facilities and tools, including science laboratories, Doppler radar equipment, art and digital media studios, and the James S. Markiewicz Solar Energy Research Facility, which houses the only solar furnace at an undergraduate research facility in the United States.
Valpo continually develops new programs to stay on the cusp of innovation and shape tomorrow’s leaders, including bioengineering, data science, environmental engineering, integrated business and engineering, mechatronics, music therapy, physician assistant studies, and supply chain and logistics management.
Expect the learning to extend far beyond campus, with experiential programs that empower you to make real change, like internships at NASA, undergraduate research projects on campus, or even service projects that bring health care and clean water to communities around the world.
Valpo’s students learn from esteemed faculty who are not only experts in their field and have earned their terminal degrees, but who teach at Valpo because they want to work with undergraduate students. They see the value in collaborating with and helping to mold the next generation to make huge impacts on the world.
A Sense of Community
Furthering the Valpo bond is its tradition of scholarship, freedom, and faith. Valpo is a Lutheran university where students come from around the world, representing a variety of religious and cultural backgrounds. Thoughtful dialogue flows and it’s normal to feel an instant connection with someone you just met.
Take advantage of numerous opportunities to expand leadership skills through Study Abroad programs, sorority and fraternity life, NCAA Division I Athletics, thriving arts programs, and more than 100 student clubs and organizations.
A Culture of Recognition
Valpo is nationally recognized for the quality of its academic programs. Yet it’s not just about Valpo being recognized for its standout academics. It’s also about Valpo students being recognized for their achievements. The University’s faculty members thrive on connecting you with opportunities. They’ll empower you to “run with it” — because they know you can.