| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
Location: Joliet, Illinois
Type: Private, Catholic University
Founded: 1920
Motto: "Leadership and Service"
Affiliation: Roman Catholic (Franciscan)
Campus: Suburban setting
Colors: Brown & Gold
Mascot: Bernie the St. Bernard
USF offers undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs across various disciplines, including:
Business & Management
Education
Health Sciences & Nursing
Arts & Sciences
Social Work
It is particularly well-regarded for its nursing and education programs.
USF has an active student community with various clubs, organizations, and service opportunities.
The university competes in the NAIA (National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics) under the team name "Fighting Saints".
Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Recognized for affordability and quality education in regional and national rankings
USF offers Bachelor’s degrees in the following areas:
College of Arts & Sciences
Biology
Biochemistry
Chemistry
Computer Science
Criminal & Social Justice
English
Environmental Science
History
Mathematics
Political Science
Psychology
Social Work
Theology
College of Business & Health Administration
Accounting
Business Administration
Digital Marketing
Finance
Health Care Management
International Business
Management
Marketing
Risk Management & Insurance
Sports Management
College of Education
Early Childhood Education
Elementary Education
Middle Level Education
Secondary Education
Special Education
College of Nursing & Allied Health
Nursing (BSN – Bachelor of Science in Nursing)
Radiation Therapy
Respiratory Therapy
Business & Health Administration
MBA (Master of Business Administration)
Accounting
Business Analytics
Finance
Health Administration
Management
Supply Chain Management
M.S. in Health Administration (MSHA)
M.S. in Training & Development
Education
M.Ed. (Master of Education)
Curriculum & Instruction
Educational Leadership
Reading Specialist
Special Education
M.S. in Teaching & Learning
Nursing & Health Sciences
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
Nursing Administration
Nursing Education
Doctor of Education (Ed.D.)
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
College of Arts & Sciences |
|
|
|
Biology |
4 years |
$37,000 |
|
Biochemistry |
4 years |
$37,000 |
|
Chemistry |
4 years |
$37,000 |
|
Computer Science |
4 years |
$37,000 |
|
Criminal & Social Justice |
4 years |
$37,000 |
|
English |
4 years |
$37,000 |
|
Environmental Science |
4 years |
$37,000 |
|
History |
4 years |
$37,000 |
|
Mathematics |
4 years |
$37,000 |
|
Political Science |
4 years |
$37,000 |
|
Psychology |
4 years |
$37,000 |
|
Social Work |
4 years |
$37,000 |
|
Theology |
4 years |
$37,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
College of Business & Health Administration |
|
|
|
Accounting |
4 years |
$37,000 |
|
Business Administration |
4 years |
$37,000 |
|
Digital Marketing |
4 years |
$37,000 |
|
Finance |
4 years |
$37,000 |
|
Health Care Management |
4 years |
$37,000 |
|
International Business |
4 years |
$37,000 |
|
Management |
4 years |
$37,000 |
|
Marketing |
4 years |
$37,000 |
|
Risk Management & Insurance |
4 years |
$37,000 |
|
Sports Management |
4 years |
$37,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
College of Education |
|
|
|
Early Childhood Education |
4 years |
$37,000 |
|
Elementary Education |
4 years |
$37,000 |
|
Middle Level Education |
4 years |
$37,000 |
|
Secondary Education |
4 years |
$37,000 |
|
Special Education |
4 years |
$37,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
College of Nursing & Allied Health |
|
|
|
Nursing (BSN – Bachelor of Science in Nursing) |
4 years |
$37,000 |
|
Radiation Therapy |
4 years |
$37,000 |
|
Respiratory Therapy |
4 years |
$37,000 |
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
College of Business & Health Administration |
|
|
|
Master of Business Administration (MBA) |
1-2 years |
$14,400 |
|
Master of Science in Health Administration (MSHA) |
1-2 years |
$14,400 |
|
Master of Science in Training & Development |
1-2 years |
$14,400 |
|
|
|
|
|
College of Education |
|
|
|
Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Curriculum & Instruction |
1-2 years |
$14,400 |
|
M.Ed. in Educational Leadership |
1-2 years |
$14,400 |
|
M.Ed. in Reading Specialist |
1-2 years |
$14,400 |
|
M.Ed. in Special Education |
1-2 years |
$14,400 |
|
Master of Science in Teaching & Learning (MSTL) |
1-2 years |
$14,400 |
|
|
|
|
|
College of Nursing & Allied Health |
|
|
|
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) – Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) |
2-3 years |
$14,400 - $15,000 |
|
MSN – Nursing Administration |
1-2 years |
$14,400 |
|
MSN – Nursing Education |
1-2 years |
$14,400 |
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
College of Business & Health Administration |
|
|
|
Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) |
3-4 years |
$14,400 |
|
|
|
|
|
College of Education |
|
|
|
Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Educational Leadership |
3-4 years |
$14,400 |
|
|
|
|
|
College of Nursing & Allied Health |
|
|
|
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) |
2-3 years |
$14,400 - $15,000 |
Small Class Sizes & Personalized Attention – 13:1 student-to-faculty ratio
Diverse Campus Community – Students from over 20+ countries
STEM & Business Programs – Offers STEM-designated programs and an MBA with career advantages
Scholarships Available – Merit-based scholarships for international students
Optional Practical Training (OPT) & Curricular Practical Training (CPT) – Work opportunities for F-1 visa students
International students can apply for:
Bachelor’s (Undergraduate) Degrees
Master’s (Graduate) Degrees
Doctoral (Ph.D./DBA/DNP/Ed.D.) Programs
Online & Hybrid Programs (for some degrees)
For details on available programs and tuition fees, see previous messages.
Completed Application Form (through the USF website or Common App)
High School Transcripts (translated into English & evaluated by an approved agency)
English Proficiency Test Scores (one of the following):
TOEFL iBT: 79+
IELTS: 6.5+
Duolingo English Test: 105+
PTE: 53+
SAT/ACT (optional, but can help with scholarships)
Statement of Purpose (SOP) (500–600 words)
Letter of Recommendation (1-2 letters from teachers or counselors)
Financial Statement (proof of funds for at least one year’s tuition & living expenses)
Completed Online Application
Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree Transcripts (officially translated & evaluated)
English Proficiency Test Scores (same as undergraduate)
Resume/CV (for some programs)
Statement of Purpose (SOP)
Letters of Recommendation (usually 2-3, depending on the program)
GRE/GMAT Scores (only required for certain programs, such as MBA or DBA)
Step 1: Choose Your Program & Check Requirements
Visit the to explore available undergraduate programs.
Check the specific admission requirements for your chosen major.
Step 2: Submit an Online Application
Apply through one of the following:
USF Online Application: Apply Here
Common App (for first-year students only)
Step 3: Submit Required Documents
Completed Application Form
Official High School Transcripts (must be translated & evaluated for international students)
English Proficiency Test Scores (for non-native English speakers)
TOEFL iBT: 79+
IELTS: 6.5+
Duolingo: 105+
PTE: 53+
SAT/ACT Scores (Optional, but recommended for scholarships)
Personal Statement (Optional, but can strengthen your application)
Letter(s) of Recommendation (Optional, but recommended)
Step 4: Pay Application Fee
USF does not charge an application fee for most undergraduate applicants.
Step 5: Receive Admission Decision
USF reviews applications within 2-4 weeks.
If admitted, you’ll receive an offer letter and instructions on next steps.
Step 6: Accept Offer & Pay Enrollment Deposit
Accept the admission offer by paying the $100 enrollment deposit (for domestic students).
International students must submit the Financial Affidavit Form to receive the I-20 form for their visa application.
Step 7: Apply for Visa (For International Students)
After receiving the I-20 form, apply for an F-1 Student Visa at the nearest U.S. Embassy.
Attend the visa interview and prepare required financial documents.
Step 8: Register for Classes & Attend Orientation
Meet with an academic advisor to register for courses.
Attend USF Orientation to get familiar with the campus.
Step 1: Choose Your Program & Check Requirements
Visit the Graduate Programs page to explore available Master’s & Doctoral programs.
Review specific program requirements (e.g., some MBA programs require work experience).
Step 2: Submit an Online Application
Apply through the USF Graduate Admissions Portal:
USF Graduate Application
Step 3: Submit Required Documents
Completed Application Form
Official Bachelor’s or Master’s Transcripts (must be evaluated for international students)
English Proficiency Test Scores (for non-native English speakers)
TOEFL iBT: 79+
IELTS: 6.5+
Duolingo: 105+
PTE: 53+
Resume/CV (for MBA, DBA, and professional programs)
Statement of Purpose (SOP) / Personal Statement
Letters of Recommendation (2-3, depending on the program)
GRE/GMAT Scores (Only for certain programs, like MBA or DBA)
Step 4: Pay Application Fee
USF may waive the application fee for some graduate programs.
Step 5: Receive Admission Decision
USF reviews graduate applications in 2-6 weeks, depending on the program.
If admitted, you’ll receive an offer letter with further instructions.
Step 6: Accept Offer & Complete Enrollment
Confirm your enrollment by submitting any required deposit or documents.
International students must submit proof of financial support to receive the I-20 form.
Step 7: Apply for Student Visa (For International Students)
Apply for an F-1 visa using the I-20 form from USF.
Prepare for the visa interview and submit financial documents.
Step 8: Register for Classes & Attend Orientation
Work with a graduate advisor to register for courses.
Attend USF’s graduate orientation program.
Intake |
Application Deadline (Recommended) |
Programs Available |
|---|---|---|
|
Fall (August) |
May 1 (International), Rolling for Domestic |
All undergraduate, graduate & doctoral programs |
|
Spring (January) |
November 1 (International), Rolling for Domestic |
Selected undergraduate, graduate & doctoral programs |
|
Summer (May/June) |
March 1 (Limited seats) |
Some graduate & doctoral programs |
Note:
USF follows a rolling admissions policy for most programs, meaning applications are reviewed continuously until seats are filled.
International students should apply at least 3-4 months before their intended intake to allow time for visa processing.
Requirement |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Academic Qualification |
High school diploma (equivalent to U.S. Grade 12) |
|
Minimum GPA Requirement |
2.5/4.0 (Higher GPA may qualify for scholarships) |
|
English Proficiency (For Non-Native English Speakers) |
TOEFL iBT: 79+ / IELTS: 6.5+ / Duolingo: 105+ / PTE: 53+ |
|
Standardized Test Scores (Optional) |
SAT/ACT not required, but recommended for scholarships |
|
Letters of Recommendation (Optional) |
1-2 letters (not mandatory but recommended) |
|
Personal Statement (Optional) |
Encouraged, especially for scholarship consideration |
Note: Students with a lower GPA may be considered for conditional admission or USF’s pathway programs.
Requirement |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Academic Qualification |
Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution |
|
Minimum GPA Requirement |
3.0/4.0 (Some programs accept 2.75/4.0 with additional documents) |
|
English Proficiency (For Non-Native English Speakers) |
TOEFL iBT: 79+ / IELTS: 6.5+ / Duolingo: 105+ / PTE: 53+ |
|
GRE/GMAT Requirement |
Not required for most programs (MBA & DBA may require GMAT/GRE in some cases) |
|
Letters of Recommendation |
2-3 letters (varies by program) |
|
Resume/CV |
Required for MBA, DBA, Nursing, and some other programs |
|
Statement of Purpose (SOP) |
Required for most graduate programs |
Note: Some master’s programs, such as MBA, MS in Nursing, and MS in Health Administration, may require work experience.
Requirement |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Academic Qualification |
Master’s degree in a relevant field |
|
Minimum GPA Requirement |
3.0/4.0 (Some programs may accept 2.75+ with strong work experience) |
|
English Proficiency (For Non-Native English Speakers) |
TOEFL iBT: 79+ / IELTS: 6.5+ / Duolingo: 105+ / PTE: 53+ |
|
GRE/GMAT Requirement |
Not required for most programs |
|
Letters of Recommendation |
2-3 letters from academic or professional references |
|
Resume/CV |
Required for all doctoral applicants |
|
Statement of Purpose (SOP) |
Required, detailing research interests & career goals |
|
Research Proposal (For Ph.D.) |
May be required for research-intensive doctoral programs |
Note:
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) applicants must have an active RN license.
Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) applicants must have educational leadership experience.
Ranking Source |
Ranking/Rating |
|---|---|
|
QS World University Rankings |
Not Ranked (USF is a regional university and not included in QS global rankings) |
|
US News & World Report (National Universities - USA) |
#62 (Regional Universities Midwest) |
|
US News & World Report (Best Value Schools - Midwest) |
Top 25 |
|
US News & World Report (Best Colleges for Veterans - Midwest) |
Top 30 |
|
Niche (Best Small Colleges in Illinois) |
Top 10 |
|
College Factual (Best Nursing Schools in the U.S.) |
Top 15% |
|
Princeton Review |
Listed as a Best Regional College |
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Amount Per Year (USD) |
Renewable? |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Trustee Scholarship |
GPA 3.9+ |
$18,000 |
Yes |
|
Presidential Scholarship |
GPA 3.5 – 3.89 |
$15,000 |
Yes |
|
Dean’s Scholarship |
GPA 3.0 – 3.49 |
$12,000 |
Yes |
|
USF Grant |
GPA Below 3.0 |
$9,000 |
Yes |
|
International Student Scholarship |
Open to all international students |
Up to $15,000 |
Yes |
|
Catholic School Graduate Award |
Graduated from a Catholic high school |
$2,000 |
Yes |
|
Alumni Legacy Scholarship |
Parent/Grandparent is a USF alum |
$1,000 |
Yes |
Notes:
Renewable for up to 4 years if the student maintains the required GPA.
Scholarships cannot be combined beyond the highest award amount.
No separate application is required—awards are based on admission application.
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Amount (USD) |
Renewable? |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Graduate Merit Scholarship |
GPA 3.5+ in undergraduate studies |
Up to $5,000 |
Yes |
|
Graduate Assistantships |
Work as a research or teaching assistant |
Partial tuition waiver + stipend |
Yes |
|
MBA & Business Scholarships |
Based on academic & professional achievements |
Up to $3,000 |
Yes |
|
Nursing & Healthcare Scholarships |
For MS in Nursing & Health Admin students |
Up to $4,000 |
Yes |
|
Doctoral Student Funding (DBA, Ed.D., DNP) |
Research-based funding for select students |
N/A |
Yes |
Notes:
Graduate scholarships are competitive and may require additional applications or interviews.
Assistantships include tuition discounts + stipends in exchange for research or teaching work.
Facility |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Campus Location |
Joliet, Illinois, USA (Suburban Setting) |
|
Campus Size |
Small, close-knit campus with modern facilities |
|
Library & Study Spaces |
LaVerne & Dorothy Brown Library, multiple quiet study areas |
|
Student Housing Options |
Residence Halls, Apartment-Style Living |
|
Dining Services |
On-campus cafeteria ("The Terrace Café") + meal plans |
|
Fitness & Recreation |
Recreation Center, Fitness Center, Intramural Sports |
|
Student Clubs & Activities |
40+ student organizations, leadership programs, and cultural events |
|
Athletics |
Competes in NAIA as the Fighting Saints |
|
Technology & Wi-Fi |
Free high-speed internet, computer labs, and smart classrooms |
|
Health & Counseling Services |
On-campus health center and mental health support |
|
Transportation |
Campus shuttle services, nearby public transit |
Housing Type |
Room Type |
Cost Per Year (USD) |
Features |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Marian Hall |
Double Room |
$5,000 |
Traditional dorm, shared rooms, community bathrooms |
|
Tower Hall |
Single Room |
$5,500 |
Quiet study areas, shared lounges, community bathrooms |
|
Motherhouse Residence |
Apartment-Style |
$6,500 |
Private bathroom, kitchenette, shared common areas |
|
Saint Clare Campus |
Suite-Style |
$7,000 |
Larger rooms, private bathrooms, shared living space |
|
Off-Campus Housing |
N/A |
$8,000+ |
Apartments near campus, independent living |
Additional Costs:
Meal Plans (Required for On-Campus Housing): $4,500 – $5,500 per year
Housing Deposit: $100 - $300 (one-time, refundable)
Notes:
On-campus housing is guaranteed for first-year students.
Upperclassmen can choose suite-style or apartment-style housing.
Off-campus housing is available but requires independent arrangements.
USF has a friendly and welcoming campus, where students can easily connect with professors, classmates, and staff. The university promotes Franciscan values, emphasizing service, leadership, and community engagement. Small class sizes ensure individual attention, allowing students to build strong relationships with faculty and peers.
USF offers on-campus residence halls and apartment-style living, providing students with a comfortable and convenient place to stay. Meal plans are available at the Terrace Café, which serves a variety of cuisines, including vegetarian and healthy options.
Students can also opt for off-campus housing in nearby apartments, with easy access to campus facilities.
USF has 40+ student organizations, covering a wide range of interests, including:
Academic Clubs – Business Club, Nursing Student Association, Pre-Med Club
Cultural & Diversity Clubs – International Student Club, Latinx Club, Black Student Association
Service & Leadership Groups – Student Government Association (SGA), Campus Ministry, Social Justice Club
Performing Arts & Media – Choir, Theater Club, Student Newspaper
Special Interest Groups – Esports, Outdoor Adventure Club, Gaming & Anime Club
If students don’t find a club that matches their interests, they can start their own!
USF competes in the NAIA (National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics) as the Fighting Saints. The university offers 15+ varsity sports, including:
Basketball (Men’s & Women’s)
Football
Soccer (Men’s & Women’s)
Volleyball
Tennis
Softball & Baseball
Track & Field & Cross Country
For non-athletes, intramural sports and fitness classes are available at the USF Recreation & Fitness Center, which includes a gym, weight room, and group fitness programs.
USF hosts a variety of annual events and traditions, such as:
Welcome Week – Kickstarts the academic year with fun activities.
Halloween Bash & Haunted House – Organized by student groups.
Homecoming Week & Spirit Fest – Sports, concerts, and pep rallies.
Christmas at USF – Holiday celebrations with music and performances.
Wellness & Mental Health Days – Focused on student well-being.
USF also partners with the local Joliet community for service projects, giving students the opportunity to give back and engage in meaningful work.
USF prepares students for successful careers through:
Career Counseling & Resume Workshops
Internship & Job Placement Assistance
Networking Events with Employers & Alumni
Optional Practical Training (OPT) & Curricular Practical Training (CPT) for International Students
Many students secure internships in Chicago, just 45 minutes from campus, providing valuable work experience before graduation.
USF supports student well-being with:
On-Campus Health Clinic – Basic medical care & wellness services.
Counseling Services – Mental health support & therapy sessions.
Fitness & Recreation Programs – Yoga, meditation, and fitness challenges.
USF provides shuttle services and is close to public transportation, making it easy to explore Chicago and Joliet. Popular nearby attractions include:
Chicago (45 minutes away) – Museums, theaters, shopping, and nightlife.
Six Flags Great America – A fun amusement park nearby.
Sports Events – Chicago Bulls (NBA), Cubs/White Sox (MLB), Bears (NFL).
Small, supportive community – Easy to make friends & get involved.
Great location – Close to Chicago, offering endless opportunities.
Diverse student organizations & leadership roles.
Excellent career support & internships.
Active campus life with events, athletics, and recreation.
Overall Placement Rate: 94% of USF graduates find employment or pursue further education within six months of graduation.
Internship & Job Opportunities: 80%+ of students complete at least one internship before graduation.
Top Hiring Industries:
Healthcare & Nursing
Business & Finance
Education & Teaching
Information Technology & Cybersecurity
Marketing & Communications
Social Services & Psychology
Top Companies Hiring USF Graduates:
Amazon
JPMorgan Chase
Northwestern Medicine
AdventHealth
Deloitte
University of Chicago Medical Center
Google (for IT & cybersecurity roles)
Joliet Public Schools (for education graduates)
STEM & Healthcare graduates see some of the highest placement rates due to industry demand.
USF has strong partnerships with companies and organizations across Illinois and the Midwest, providing students with internship and co-op opportunities in various fields.
Internship Locations:
Chicago (45 minutes from campus)
Joliet and surrounding Illinois cities
Remote & hybrid internship options
Programs Offering Internships:
Business & MBA: Internships at Fortune 500 companies.
Nursing & Health Sciences: Clinical placements at top hospitals.
Education: Student-teaching experiences at partner schools.
Computer Science & IT: Hands-on experience with tech firms.
Social Work & Psychology: Fieldwork in community organizations.
International Students (F-1 Visa Holders) can apply for:
Curricular Practical Training (CPT) – Work while studying.
Optional Practical Training (OPT) – 12-36 months of work after graduation (STEM students get an additional 24-month extension).
The Career Services Center at USF provides:
Resume & Cover Letter Assistance – One-on-one coaching.
Mock Interviews – Practice sessions with industry professionals.
Career Fairs & Networking Events – Meet recruiters & employers.
LinkedIn & Professional Branding Workshops – Build a strong online presence.
Job & Internship Listings – Access exclusive job portals.
USF organizes Career Fairs twice a year, connecting students with over 100+ employers from various industries.
Field of Study |
Average Starting Salary (USD/Year) |
|---|---|
|
Nursing & Healthcare |
$70,000 - $100,000 |
|
Business & Finance |
$55,000 - $85,000 |
|
Computer Science & IT |
$65,000 - $100,000 |
|
Education & Teaching |
$45,000 - $60,000 |
|
Social Work & Psychology |
$40,000 - $55,000 |
STEM and Healthcare graduates tend to earn the highest starting salaries due to strong industry demand.
Visit the USF Career Services Office on campus.
Log in to Handshake (USF’s online job portal) to find internships & jobs.
Attend career workshops & networking events.
Work with career advisors to improve job application strategies.
The University of St. Francis (USF), USA, has an acceptance rate of approximately 47-50%, making it a moderately selective institution.
Key Factors Influencing Admission:
Academic Performance (GPA) – Strong applicants typically have a GPA of 2.5 – 3.5+.
Test Scores (Optional for Undergraduate Admissions) – SAT/ACT scores are not required but may be submitted for scholarships.
English Proficiency (For International Students) – TOEFL iBT: 79+, IELTS: 6.5+, Duolingo: 105+.
Letters of Recommendation & Personal Statement – Recommended for graduate and competitive programs.
Work Experience (For Graduate & Doctoral Programs) – Some programs, such as MBA & DBA, prefer candidates with prior work experience.
Main Campus Address:
500 Wilcox St, Joliet, IL 60435, USA
Suburban Setting: Safe and friendly community with a small-town feel.
Close to Chicago: Only 45 minutes from downtown Chicago, providing access to internships, cultural attractions, and entertainment.
Accessible Transportation:
Public transit & Metra Train connect Joliet to Chicago.
Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) and Midway International Airport (MDW) are nearby.
Nearby Attractions:
Joliet Mall – Shopping and dining options.
Joliet Slammers Stadium – Minor league baseball.
Hollywood Casino & Rialto Square Theatre – Entertainment venues.
Starved Rock State Park – Hiking and outdoor activities.
