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
Alvernia to welcome record incoming class this fall
Milestone marks the seventh consecutive year with over 475 new students
Nine Student Undergraduate Research Fellows Present Summer Projects
Faculty members provide mentorship and valuable experiential learning opportunity through annual SURF program
Penn Medicine named Alvernia's official sports medicine provider
Care provided at the Penn Medicine - Alvernia Medical and Counseling Center will expand to include specialized sports medicine expertise, strengthening a shared commitment to high‑quality, inclusive care for every student.
Information Session
- Aug 17, 2026
- 10:00 AM - 2:00 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
Application Completion Workshop
- Aug 17, 2026
- 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM
- Zoom Virtual Event
Join us for an Application Completion Workshop, where you’ll learn more about how to finalize your application to Alvernia University.
Grad & Adult Admissions
What's Possible With a Leadership Degree?
- Aug 17, 2026
- 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Join us for What's Possible With a Leadership Degree at Alvernia University on August 17, where you’ll learn more about our Leadership programs.
Grad & Adult Admissions
