Editing Saint Josephs University (section)

== History ==

The Society of Jesus founded Saint Joseph's College in 1851 to serve Philadelphia's growing Catholic population, offering classical education grounded in the Jesuit ratio studiorum tradition. The institution developed through the nineteenth and twentieth centuries, adding professional programs while maintaining Jesuit educational philosophy emphasizing rigorous inquiry, ethical development, and service to others. Achievement of university status in 1978 recognized growth in graduate programs and academic scope.<ref name="sju"/>

The 2022 merger with University of the Sciences, founded in 1821 as the Philadelphia College of Pharmacy, combined Saint Joseph's strengths in business, education, and liberal arts with the sciences' programs in pharmacy, health sciences, and natural sciences. This combination created a comprehensive university with distinctive profile—Jesuit mission joined with science and health professions traditions. The merger preserved both institutions' legacies while creating stronger combined institution.<ref name="sju"/>