About
Alvernia University defines the community. It is a vibrant intellectual environment in which students learn, discover, give and grow as leaders with moral courage. Guided by Franciscan values and the ideal of “knowledge joined with love,” and rooted in the Catholic and liberal arts traditions, Alvernia is a rigorous, caring, and inclusive learning community committed to academic excellence and to being and fostering:
• Broadly educated, life-long learners
• Reflective professionals and engaged citizens
• Ethical leaders with moral courage
Core Values
The Alvernia community embraces service, humility, peacemaking, contemplation and collegiality.
History
It began in 1926 when the Bernardine Sisters established an orphanage in Francis Hall.
Strong Reputation
Alvernia consistently ranks among U.S. News and World Report’s top regional universities in the North.
Experiential Learning
Defining the Alvernia experience, experiential and service learning empowers students to apply knowledge through hands-on practice, building a solid foundation for real-world success.
Recent News
Academic Success Center Welcomes Record Number of Peer Tutors
46 students to serve their peers for the 2026-27 academic year
Alvernia Marks 25th Anniversary of Sept. 11 Through Service and Interfaith Remembrance
University launches new Franciscan Fridays service series and gathers faith and community leaders to honor the lives lost and legacy of service
2026 Hispanic Heritage Month at Alvernia
A.B.D. to Ph.D.: A Pathway to Complete Your Doctorate
- Oct 06, 2026
- 5:30 PM - 6:30 PM
- Zoom Virtual Event
Join us for A.B.D. to Ph.D.: A Pathway to Complete Your Doctorate at Alvernia University on June 23, where you’ll learn more about our ABD (All But Dissertation) pathway for students who have completed doctoral coursework elsewhere.
Grad & Adult Admissions
Physician Associate Virtual Information Session
- Oct 09, 2026
- 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
- Zoom Virtual Event
Join us for a virtual information session on October 9, where you’ll learn more about our Master of Medical Science in Physician Associate Studies program.
✔️ Explore the program and curriculum
✔️ Meet our expert faculty
✔️ Get your questions answered about requirements & the application process
Grad & Adult Admissions
Information Session
- Oct 10, 2026
- 10:00 AM - 1:30 PM
Are you starting your college search? Come experience what it's like to be part of the Alvernia University community! Our Information Sessions are the perfect opportunity for prospective students and their families to explore campus, learn about academic programs, and discover what makes Alvernia unique.
Admissions
