Valparaiso University

Valparaiso University, affectionately known as Valpo, has been a beacon of academic excellence and vibrant student life since its establishment in 1859. Nestled in the picturesque city of Valparaiso, Indiana, Valpo offers a unique blend of warm community spirit and world-class education.

Imagine a place where the corridors of knowledge intertwine with the corridors of friendship. Picture a campus nestled amidst the scenic beauty of Lake Michigan and the enchanting Indiana State Dunes National Park. At Valpo, you'll find this captivating landscape, where nature's grandeur serves as an inspiration for both introspection and exploration.

Step onto Valpo's sprawling campus, spanning over 350 acres, and you'll discover a vibrant tapestry of academic disciplines and passionate individuals. Valparaiso University is committed to providing an educational experience that is holistic, and that affects each student mentally. Valpo believes that true growth comes not solely from textbooks and lectures but also from engaging experiences that challenge and inspire.

Here, you are more than just a name on a roster or a face in a crowd. Valpo embraces the uniqueness of every individual, celebrating the mosaic of backgrounds, perspectives, and aspirations that enrich its community. Valpo fosters an inclusive environment where diversity is not only acknowledged but embraced as a strength. Valpo’s dedication to diversity, equity, and inclusion goes beyond mere words – it is ingrained in the fabric of the university, shaping every aspect of campus life.

Valparaiso University's academic colleges offer over 70 programs in many different disciplines. Each Valpo college acts as a gateway to a world of knowledge with a rigorous and intellectually stimulating environment where students can explore their passions, challenge conventional wisdom, and uncover new horizons.

Valpo is more than just classrooms and textbooks. It is a tapestry of experiences that extend beyond the boundaries of academia. Valpo’s Student Life Division, committed to the holistic development of students, creates a vibrant tapestry of clubs, organisations, and campus events that bring the campus to life. These opportunities allow students to find their niche, cultivate leadership skills, and forge lifelong friendships.

Picture the Harre Student Union as a bustling marketplace of ideas, where students gather to exchange thoughts, engage in recreation, and nourish their minds and bodies. Visualise the Chapel of the Resurrection, a beacon of solace and spiritual contemplation, standing tall as a symbol of unity and faith. Imagine the Center for the Arts as a gateway to creativity, where artistry and imagination converge in captivating performances and exhibitions.

Valparaiso University's commitment to student well-being is exemplified by its comprehensive support systems. Valpo understands that education is all about academics as well as the physical and emotional well-being of students. Valpo’s campus resources empower students to navigate the challenges of college life, promoting a balanced lifestyle and fostering personal growth.

As you embark on your educational journey, Valpo's distinguished alumni network stands ready to support and guide you. Valpo’s graduates work in diverse fields and continue to leave an indelible mark on society. Their success stories are a testament to the transformative power of a Valpo education.

In this place where academic excellence and community converge, Valparaiso University opens doors to possibilities. Here, you will be challenged, inspired, and transformed. Step into the embrace of Valpo, and let your journey of self-discovery and intellectual exploration begin.

Campus Locations

Located in Valparaiso, Indiana, Valparaiso University offers a scenic campus with the charm of a small town coupled with the convenience of urban amenities. In the Midwest, Valpo provides an easily accessible location for students from all over the region. It is an ideal place of study for people who seek quality education in a welcoming community.

Valparaiso's location offers more than just proximity to a major city. Valpo is also fortunate to be situated near the stunning shores of Lake Michigan and the renowned Indiana State Dunes National Park. With easy access to outdoor recreational activities and natural beauty, students have the opportunity to explore and unwind in their surroundings.

Study Areas

Valparaiso University offers a diverse range of academic programs through its five distinguished colleges, which are as follows:

• The College of Arts and Sciences
• The College of Business
• The College of Engineering
• The College of Nursing and Health Professions
• Christ College – The Honors College

With over 70 program offerings at Valpo, students can pursue their passions and achieve their academic goals in fields such as humanities and social sciences, business, STEM disciplines, and health professions.

Valpo’s dedicated faculty members are experts in their respective fields, committed to providing a supportive and engaging learning environment. They go beyond the traditional classroom experience, employing innovative teaching methods and encouraging active participation. Small class sizes foster meaningful connections between students and professors, allowing for personalised attention and mentorship that nurtures intellectual growth.

Valparaiso University believes in the value of a well-rounded education, and its curriculum reflects this commitment. Alongside their major courses, students are encouraged to explore various disciplines through Valpo's robust liberal arts foundation.

Diversity and Inclusion

Valparaiso University firmly believes that diversity is a strength. Valpo’s community is built on values of mutual respect, positive regard, and freedom, creating an inclusive environment where individuals from various backgrounds feel welcomed and valued. Valpo celebrates the unique contributions and perspectives that each student brings to its campus, recognising that it enriches the educational experience for everyone.

Grounded in the Lutheran tradition, Valpo's commitment to inclusion extends beyond mere tolerance. Valpo strives to create a community that embraces and appreciates differences in age, appearance, ethnicity, race, colour, religion, sexual orientation, gender, sex, and so forth. By fostering a culture of respect, empathy, and collaboration, Valpo creates an environment where all individuals can thrive and grow.

Valparaiso University actively promotes diversity and inclusion through various initiatives and programs. Valpo provides support services, resources, and spaces that cater to the needs of underrepresented communities on campus. Cultural organisations, student-led initiatives, and diversity-focused events contribute to a vibrant and inclusive atmosphere that encourages dialogue, understanding, and appreciation of diverse perspectives.

Student Life - Clubs and Societies

At Valparaiso University, the student experience extends far beyond the classroom. The Student Life Division is dedicated to the holistic development of students and recognises the importance of their personal growth, social connections, and extracurricular involvement. Valpo believes that on-campus engagement is an integral part of a well-rounded education.

Valpo’s campus offers a myriad of opportunities for students to get involved and find their niche. Joining clubs and organisations is a good way of connecting with like-minded individuals, exploring new interests, and building lifelong friendships. With a wide range of student-run clubs, from academic and professional organisations to cultural and recreational groups, there is something for everyone at Valpo.

These student-led clubs and societies provide a platform for students to exercise their leadership skills, develop teamwork abilities, and enhance their organisational acumen. Whether you want to join a service-oriented club, a performing arts group, an entrepreneurial society, or a sports team, at Valpo, there will be a supportive group of peers who share your passion.

In addition to clubs, Valparaiso University hosts numerous campus events and traditions throughout the year. These events serve as opportunities to connect with others, celebrate the diversity of Valpo's community, showcase talents, and foster personal growth. From Homecoming festivities and cultural showcases to academic conferences and guest speaker series, Valpo's campus calendar is brimming with engaging and enriching experiences.

Valparaiso University also recognises the importance of physical and emotional well-being in students' lives. Campus resources are readily available to aid students in navigating their own health and wellness journeys. Whether through counselling services, fitness facilities, health education programs, or campus initiatives promoting self-care, Valpo prioritises the well-being of its students and strives to create an environment that supports their holistic development.

Campus Facilities

Valparaiso University's campus provides a conducive environment for learning, creativity, and personal growth. Spanning over 350 acres, Valpo's campus is home to a multitude of exceptional facilities that enhance the student experience.

The Harre Student Union serves as the bustling hub of student life, encompassing 202,000 square feet of space. Here, students can engage in recreational activities, attend meetings and events, utilise the computer lab, purchase books and merchandise from the bookstore, access career services, and enjoy dining options at Founders Table and the Campus Cafe. The Student Union aims to encourage the development of a sense of community and camaraderie among students.

Another prominent feature of Valpo's campus is the Chapel of the Resurrection. Perched on the highest point of the campus, the chapel has been a Northwest Indiana landmark for over 50 years. It serves as a spiritual centre for the university community, offering a place for worship, reflection, and contemplation. The chapel's stunning architecture and serene atmosphere provide a peaceful sanctuary for individuals of all faiths.

The Center for the Arts is a dynamic space that fosters artistic expression and exploration. It houses a theatre with 275 seats, a recital hall with 170 seats, and the renowned Brauer Museum of Art, which showcases a diverse collection of works from various artists and periods. This centre serves as a creative hub for students, faculty, and visiting artists, encouraging artistic growth and appreciation.

Valparaiso University also boasts the Christopher Center for Library and Information Resources, which houses an extensive collection of over 600,000 volumes. With 180 public computers, multimedia resources, and collaborative spaces, the library is a vital academic resource for students. It provides a quiet and conducive environment for research, study, and intellectual exploration.

Additionally, Valpo's campus offers state-of-the-art facilities and equipment to support various academic disciplines. From campus-wide Internet access and media-equipped classrooms and laboratories to advanced research light microscopes and an electron microscope, students have access to cutting-edge resources that facilitate their educational pursuits.

Valparaiso University is committed to supporting students' physical well-being and promoting an active lifestyle. Valpo’s athletic facilities cater to the diverse needs of sports enthusiasts and recreational athletes alike. The campus features gyms, an indoor track and pool, racquetball courts, and a fitness centre equipped with cardio machines and weights. These facilities allow students to stay fit, participate in intramural sports, and/or engage in recreational activities with their friends.

Alumni Network

Valparaiso University takes great pride in its alumni community, which spans the globe and represents a vast array of professional fields. Each year, the Valparaiso University Alumni Association recognises students, faculty, and graduates with notable contributions to society and the university. These awards highlight the achievements and impact of Valpo's graduates, honouring their dedication and commitment to excellence.

The alumni network serves as a valuable resource for current students, offering mentorship, career guidance, and networking opportunities. Many alumni actively engage with the university, returning for events, guest lectures, and workshops to share their expertise and experiences with the next generation of Valpo graduates. The strong bond between alumni and the university fosters a sense of community and perpetuates the legacy of excellence that Valparaiso University represents.

Why Study at Valparaiso University

• Academic Excellence: Valparaiso University is known for providing exceptional academics across a wide variety of disciplines. Valpo’s distinguished faculty is committed to mentoring and guiding students to reach their full potential.
• Supportive Community: At Valpo, you will find a warm and friendly community that values each individual. Valpo’s inclusive environment promotes mutual respect, fostering personal and intellectual growth.
• Experiential Learning: Valpo believes in learning beyond the classroom. Valparaiso University offers experiential learning opportunities that allow students to use their classroom knowledge in real-life settings and prepare for successful careers.
• Beautiful Campus: Valpo’s campus provides a scenic and serene setting for your educational journey. With modern facilities, ample green spaces, and state-of-the-art resources, Valpo offers an environment that inspires learning and personal development.
• Global Perspectives: Valparaiso University welcomes students from around the world, creating a diverse and vibrant community. By engaging with peers from different cultures and backgrounds, you will gain valuable global perspectives and broaden your horizons.
• Career Readiness: Valpo is dedicated to preparing students for successful careers and meaningful contributions to society. Through internships, research opportunities, and career services, Valpo equips students with the skills and experiences they need to excel in their fields.
• Spiritual Growth: Grounded in the Lutheran tradition, Valparaiso University supports students' spiritual development. The Chapel of the Resurrection and various campus ministries provide spaces for worship, reflection, and exploration of faith.

With its commitment to academic excellence, inclusive community, and diverse opportunities, Valpo provides a foundation for success and personal growth.