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.
National rankings and local recognition highlight Alvernia's commitment to student success and values
University recognized by Colleges of Distinction, Money magazine and Berks County Living's People's Choice Awards
AICUP names President Fitzgerald to Board of Directors
Leadership Boot Camp Participants Ring Closing Bell at New York Stock Exchange
Alvernia, Customers Bancorp, Inc. celebrate international graduates after two-week immersive experience
Remembering John R. Post
The transformational benefactor’s legacy lives on through Reading CollegeTowne and Alvernia’s School of Engineering.
Summer Open House
- Jul 10, 2026
- 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Summer Open House consists of a general admissions presentation, tours of a campus, and a FREE catered lunch in the Student Center Dining Hall. With the support from our dedicated faculty members and the undergraduate admissions team, we are available to talk more about your program's curriculum, internships, research opportunities, career pathways and application process. Whether you’re just beginning your college search or narrowing down your options, you'll leave feeling confident and excited about your next steps.
Admissions
DPT Virtual Information Session
- Jul 15, 2026
- 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM
- Zoom Virtual Event
Join us for a virtual information session on July 15, where you’ll learn more about our Doctor of Physical Therapy program.
✔️ Explore the program and curriculum
✔️ Meet our expert faculty
✔️ Get your questions answered about requirements & the application process
Whether you’re advancing your education after earning a bachelor’s degree or seeking an accelerated path, Alvernia University’s DPT program offers a comprehensive and compassionate learning experience tailored to your goals.
Grad & Adult Admissions
Summer Open House
- Jul 20, 2026
- 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Summer Open House consists of a general admissions presentation, tours of a campus, and a FREE catered lunch in the Student Center Dining Hall. With the support from our dedicated faculty members and the undergraduate admissions team, we are available to talk more about your program's curriculum, internships, research opportunities, career pathways and application process. Whether you’re just beginning your college search or narrowing down your options, you'll leave feeling confident and excited about your next steps.
Admissions
Summer Open House
- Jul 27, 2026
- 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Summer Open House consists of a general admissions presentation, tours of a campus, and a FREE catered lunch in the Student Center Dining Hall. With the support from our dedicated faculty members and the undergraduate admissions team, we are available to talk more about your program's curriculum, internships, research opportunities, career pathways and application process. Whether you’re just beginning your college search or narrowing down your options, you'll leave feeling confident and excited about your next steps.
Admissions
