Professor leading sensory and motor skills lab in occupational therapy classroom.

About St. Ambrose University

A dynamic environment with a diverse community of learners

For more than 140 years, St. Ambrose has welcomed students from all religious faiths, ethnic backgrounds, and economic circumstances. Join a community that is committed to helping students from all backgrounds achieve their educational dreams.

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Living the St. Ambrose mission and vision

Every day, our community aims to serve others, dream big, act globally, and search for meaning. In other words, we stay true to our institution’s mission and vision.

Mission: An inclusive, Catholic, and diocesan community of learners, St. Ambrose University empowers all Ambrosians to act courageously, to seek wisdom through faith and reason, to work for justice and to lead lives of service.
Vision: St. Ambrose University will be a vibrant, sustainable, and learner-focused model for Catholic higher education, preparing individuals from all walks of life to lead lives characterized by courage, wisdom, justice, and service.

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Our brand - Become who you are meant to be

The true brand of St. Ambrose University isn’t a commercial or a billboard. It’s not our blues and whites or the logo across our chests. It’s our people and the exceptional experiences and support we provide to students and the community, both on campus and out in the world. Our brand makes us unique. We change lives by living our core values, mission and vision statements, and our Catholic tenets. We hope you’ll see yourself in our St. Ambrose University brand as you become who you are meant to be.

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Catholic traditions and values

As a Catholic institution of higher learning, St. Ambrose University embodies our faith tradition through teaching, learning, and scholarship rooted in faith and reason. Guided by the life and legacy of Saint Ambrose of Milan, our faith drives us to act with courage, seek wisdom, work for justice, and lead lives of service. As one of only 11 diocesan colleges and universities in the country, we treasure our connections to the Diocese of Davenport and our surrounding community.

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SAU Leadership

President Amy Novak, along with our deans, cabinet, and board of trustees, bring a wealth of experience and expertise to St. Ambrose. Our leaders are committed to providing students with a high-quality education that prepares them to succeed in their careers and lead meaningful lives of service.

Meet our leadership team

Dr. Amy Novak speaking in front of a crowd in the new Higgins Hall

Diversity and inclusion statement

St. Ambrose University commits to ensuring diversity, equity, and inclusion in our campus community. We demonstrate this through the intentional design of policies, procedures, resource allocations, and practices that welcome and celebrate all people. Inspired by Catholic social teaching, we resolve to foster an environment designed to dismantle all discrimination, whether based on sex, gender identity, sexuality, race, ethnicity, color, ability, language, religion, or socioeconomic status.

SAU Campus and the Davenport community

Nestled in the heart of Davenport, Iowa, St. Ambrose University's vibrant campus provides a dynamic and welcoming environment for students to thrive. Our tree-lined campus features state-of-the-art facilities, a variety of student organizations, recreational activities, and a thriving arts and culture scene. St. Ambrose students also actively engage in the Davenport community, volunteering with local organizations, participating in community events, and contributing to the city's vibrant social fabric.

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What we offer our students

As a leader in Catholic education for more than 140 years, we know how to create transformative educational opportunities for students from all walks of life. Our programs are academically rigorous and professionally aligned to help students meet current and future career challenges.

Bachelors, masters, and doctoral degrees

With more than 60 undergraduate majors, ten masters degrees, and three doctoral programs, we have the curriculum to meet a range of academic goals. Our programs are designed to prepare you for success in your chosen field and in life.

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Career counseling

Counselors can help you explore your career options, develop your resume and cover letter, and prepare for job interviews.

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Financial aid

St. Ambrose offers financial aid options to help make college affordable for everyone. We provide access to scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study opportunities.

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Athletics

Our 31 varsity athletic teams offer opportunities to compete at a high level, build relationships, and develop life skills.

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Supportive community

SAU is an inclusive community where students feel supported by peers, faculty, and staff. We offer several types of student activities to enhance your college experience.

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Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission

Accreditation and recognition demonstrate that we meet standards for quality of faculty, curriculum, learner services, and fiscal stability. This is why St. Ambrose is proud to have its accreditation by the Higher Learning Commission since 1927. Many of our undergraduate and graduate programs are individually accredited, too, which means you get a high-quality education backed by the resources, facilities, and experiences to help you thrive.

View SAU's accreditations

About SAU FAQ

What is St. Ambrose University known for?

St. Ambrose University is known for its strong academic programs, commitment to student success, vibrant campus life, and dedication to community engagement. Here are some of the specific things that St. Ambrose University is known for:

Academic excellence: St. Ambrose University offers a rigorous and challenging curriculum that prepares students for success in their careers. The university has been recognized for its academic excellence by national organizations such as U.S. News & World Report and The Princeton Review.
Student success: St. Ambrose University is committed to helping students succeed in both their academic and personal lives. The university offers a variety of support services, including tutoring, academic advising, and career counseling.
Vibrant campus life: St. Ambrose University offers a variety of student organizations, clubs, and activities. There is something for everyone at St. Ambrose, from sports and recreation to arts and culture.
Community engagement: St. Ambrose University is committed to making a positive impact on the Davenport community. Students, faculty, and staff volunteer their time and talents to a variety of organizations and initiatives. In addition, we are known for our beautiful campus, friendly and welcoming atmosphere, and dedication to providing a values-based education.

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Do I have to be Catholic to attend St. Ambrose University?

No, you do not have to be Catholic to attend St. Ambrose University. Although the university is rooted in Catholic tradition, it welcomes students of all faiths and backgrounds. In fact, 69% of St. Ambrose University students do not identify as Catholic.

St. Ambrose values diversity and inclusion, and it believes that students from different backgrounds can enrich the learning environment and campus culture. The university offers a variety of religious and spiritual opportunities for students of all faiths, and it also respects the decision of students who choose not to participate in religious activities.

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How much does a degree at St. Ambrose cost?

The cost to attend St. Ambrose University varies depending on several factors, including the student's residency status, program of study, and housing choices. To get a more accurate estimate of costs, visit our tuition and fees page to learn more about the breakdown of tuition based on your degree level. You can also use our Net Price Calculator to get an estimate of your costs.

We encourage you to explore our tuition and fees page, browse the program pages, and contact our admissions office. That way you can get a better idea of the cost of attendance at St. Ambrose University and determine if our institution is a good fit for your financial needs.

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Tuition & Fees

Does St. Ambrose offer online and in person learning?

St. Ambrose University offers learning options to accommodate the diverse needs and preferences of our students. We provide both in-person and online opportunities that allow students to choose the delivery mode that best suits their learning style and lifestyle.

In-person learning: Our traditional in-person learning experience offers a dynamic and interactive environment. Students can engage directly with faculty and peers, participate in hands-on learning activities, and immerse themselves in the vibrant campus life. Our in-person programs provide a comprehensive educational experience that fosters intellectual growth, personal development, and a strong sense of community.
Online learning: Our online learning programs offer flexibility, convenience, and accessibility for students who may have time constraints, geographic limitations, or other circumstances that make in-person learning challenging. Our online programs are designed to be rigorous and engaging, utilizing innovative technologies and interactive learning tools to deliver high-quality instruction.

By offering a variety of learning options, St. Ambrose University empowers students to choose the educational pathway that best aligns with their individual needs, goals, and preferences. This commitment to flexibility and accessibility ensures that our university remains a welcoming and inclusive learning environment for all.

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What are the career outcomes for St. Ambrose graduates?

St. Ambrose graduates are well-prepared for success in their careers. The university's emphasis on academic rigor, experiential learning, and career development ensures that graduates have the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in a variety of fields. According to our most recent Outcomes Survey, 95% of St. Ambrose graduates in the class of 2023 were employed, serving, or in graduate school within six months of graduation.

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Graduate waving during commencement ceremony.

View of oak tree leaves from below with white gradient.

Explore the possibilities at St. Ambrose

At SAU, the Fighting Bees are encouraged to explore every opportunity to grow and learn, finally becoming the person they are meant to be.