University Information
Founded in 1858 in the interest of promoting Catholic-Franciscan education, St. Bonaventure University continues to pursue academic excellence through personalized attention that reflects the Franciscan tradition of valuing human relationships.
The pages in this section highlight our commitment to Diversity and Sustainability, while also giving detailed information on our Accreditations, HEOA Compliance (and designation as a Military Friendly School) and Conduct policies.
The value of an SBU education
Our students and graduates understand the value of a St. Bonaventure education. Those outside our tight-knit community recognize the value of what we do as well. Learn more about the
rankings and
accreditations that set us apart from other universities.
Why choose a liberal arts college?
- Liberal arts college graduates report a higher degree of academic challenge, greater involvement in community service, stronger leadership skill development, greater benefits from high quality teaching-oriented faculty, and greater satisfaction with
the overall quality of their education.
- “Sixty percent of liberal arts college graduates said they felt 'better prepared' for life after college than students who attended other colleges, compared to 34 percent who attended public flagship universities.” — Hardwick Day
consultant firm, 2002, 2011.
- By their mid-50s, liberal arts majors with an advanced or undergraduate degree are on average making more money those who studied in professional and pre-professional fields. — Inside Higher Ed January 22, 2014.
- In 2011, a report issued by the Center for Education and the Workforce stated that those holding bachelor's degrees earn nearly a million dollars more over a lifetime than those with only a high school diploma.
Worried that you don't know which major field of interest to study in college?
A University with a commitment to the liberal arts is a great place to enroll -- especially if you do not know what major you want to pursue. St. Bonaventure University
understands the concerns of the undeclared student. In fact, we celebrate the undeclared student with a special program that guides them through the process of declaring a major -- and keeps them on-track to graduate on time.
For
more information about the Major Adventures Program, please visit the Major Adventures Program website,
If you are interested in pursuing an individualized major, please visit our Individualized Major Program.
We prepare you for life after SBU
Our innovative
Career and Professional Readiness Center aims to provide the most comprehensive and progressive career and professional development programs in the region. With programs starting freshman year and continuing through graduation, we strive to ensure that every student is exceptionally well prepared to make a successful transition to graduate school or that first job.