1846
Chicago, IL

About Saint Xavier University

Founded in 1846 by the Sisters of Mercy, Saint Xavier University is Chicago’s oldest Catholic University. It is recognized as one of the top comprehensive master’s universities in the Midwest. SXU was originally serving as a higher education institution for women and the poor, but today it serves a diverse student body. SXU’s education is grounded in the tradition of the liberal arts. Its goal is to prepare graduates who are successful, productive, and compassionate members of society.

SXU offers undergraduate, graduate, and post-graduate programs that are recognized and respected by employers. SXU online degrees are also available at all levels, providing a quality program with greater flexibility than the programs on campus. Online programs are delivered by professional faculty who are experts in their fields.

Accreditation & Licensing

Saint Xavier University is accredited by:

Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

Type:

4-year, Private not-for-profit

Highest Level Offered:

Post-master's certificate

Religious Affiliation:

Roman Catholic

Enrollment:

Undergraduate: 3,351 ; Graduate: 504

Percent of Fully Online Students:

Undergraduate: 5% ; Graduate: 44%

Graduation Rate:

57%

Transfer Rate:

25%

Median Earnings, 10-Years After Degree Completion:

$58,656

Median Debt After Graduation (4-Year Degree):

$22,223

Average Undergraduates Receiving Aid:

97%

Per Undergraduate Average Aid Award:

$28,545

Yellow Ribbon Program:

Yes

Credit for Military Training:

Yes

Online Programs offered by Saint Xavier University

Check Program Availability

All Programs

Nursing

Best Buy degree
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN)
Master of Science in Nursing
Best Buy degree
Master of Science in Nursing / Clinical Leadership
Best Buy degree
Master of Science in Nursing / Executive Leadership
Best Buy degree
Master of Science in Nursing / Family Nurse Practitioner
Best Buy degree
Master of Science in Nursing / Nurse Educator
Post-Master's Clinical Leadership Certificate
Post-Master's Nurse Educator Certificate
GetEducated Team Takes
Tony’s Take

Saint Xavier University works best for students who want close contact with professors. Small classes help students feel known and supported. One-on-one help is common, and staff guide students to useful services.

Classes are rigorous and move at a steady pace. Many students find that challenge worth it. At times, limited course openings can delay progress and push back graduation plans. Service across offices can also vary.

Cost feels different from student to student. Many families see good value in strong support and regular instructor interaction. Others feel the price is high when course access or facilities fall short. SXU is a strong fit for students who want structure, challenge, and consistent faculty connection.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Saint Xavier University

Is Saint Xavier University accredited?

Yes. Saint Xavier University is institutionally accredited by Higher Learning Commission.

How many online programs does Saint Xavier University offer?

Saint Xavier University offers 8 online programs currently listed on GetEducated.

What degree levels does Saint Xavier University offer?

Saint Xavier University offers both bachelor's and master's level programs.

How should students contact admissions at Saint Xavier University?

Ready to connect? Check Admission Details to get admissions, tuition, and timeline details directly from the school.

Is Saint Xavier University expensive, and what are the tuition costs?

Roughly speaking, Saint Xavier University falls into GetEducated’s $$$ tuition tier, which points to a higher tuition range.

How quickly can I enroll at Saint Xavier University?

Enrollment at any school can be a quick process; if all required admission requirements are met. This is where students can get hung up and slow down the process by taking too long to gather required documentation.

What should transfer students ask Saint Xavier University first?

The first thing you must do is order your transcripts from any previous school you attended and have them provided to the new school immediately with the hopes of receiving an unofficial transfer credit evaluation quickly. In an ideal world, students would have an official transfer credit evaluation done prior to committing to enrollment at any school; however with the vast majority of schools, official transfer credit evaluations happen after you are already enrolled, typically in the first semester.

What GPA do most Saint Xavier University programs require?

GPA requirements typically range from 2.5 to 3.0, and 3.0 appears most often.

Is Saint Xavier University military friendly?

Saint Xavier University shows Yellow Ribbon support. Check Yellow Ribbon eligibility before you apply, since program-level benefits can vary.

How can students request information from Saint Xavier University through GetEducated?

Comparing schools right now? Request Information to get admissions, tuition, and start-date details sent directly to you.

What documents are most commonly required for Saint Xavier University applications?

Most listed programs ask for Occupational License, Official College Transcript(s), Recommendation/Reference Letter(s), and Resume/CV. Getting these ready early can keep the application process moving.

Does Saint Xavier University accept life experience credit?

Saint Xavier University accepts life experience credit, but qualifying can be harder than expected and fees may still apply. Check Transfer Options to confirm what applies to your program.

Are Saint Xavier University programs fully online or mixed?

Saint Xavier University programs are primarily listed as 100% Online, which can help students screen for schedule fit before applying.

Do any Saint Xavier University programs have specialized accreditation?

Program-specific accreditors include Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

Are any admission tests required for Saint Xavier University programs?

One recurring admissions-test item is Proof of English Language Proficiency (International Students). Students should confirm whether it applies to their specific program.

Do in-state and out-of-state tuition totals differ at Saint Xavier University?

For programs with both totals published, in-state and out-of-state tuition totals are typically the same.

Do any Saint Xavier University programs have state authorization limitations?

State authorization restrictions are not prominent across available programs, but students should still confirm eligibility for their state. Check State Eligibility before applying to confirm whether your program is available where you live.

How often can students start at Saint Xavier University?

Start times per year typically range from 3-6 for most schools. For Saint Xavier University, students should confirm the next available start date for their specific program before applying.

How should working adults compare Saint Xavier University programs?

Working adults should confirm program format, total cost, timeline, and application requirements before choosing a path.

What should students compare before choosing a Saint Xavier University program?

Students should compare accreditation fit, program format, application requirements, total cost, and whether the timeline works with their schedule.

Featured Ranking Reports

Saint Xavier University is featured in 1 of our ranking reports!

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Geographic and Educational Overview

Google Map

Saint Xavier University is located in Illinois

Illinois at a Glance:

State flag of IL
Springfield
12,812,508
57,914 sq mi
12
85
48
$13,500.00

Top Majors in Illinois:

Top Incentives in Illinois:

Top Career Pathways in Illinois:

Financial Analysis
  • Entry Level: Financial Analyst ($65,000)
  • Mid Level: Senior Analyst ($95,000)
  • Senior Level: Finance Director ($150,000+)
  • Required Education: BS Finance
  • Certifications: CFA, FRM
* Data is approximate and may be AI-enhanced