Alvernia University, USA

Overview

History, Affiliations & Rankings

Starting its journey in 1926, the Bernardine Sisters of the Third Order of Saint Francis had established an orphanage, which gradually saw itself turn into an elementary school and finally a college. Alverna University has been recognised as one of the top regional universities in the North by the US News and World Report. The Carnegie foundation also recognised and selected Alvernia University as one among the 23 institutions in Pennsylvania which received the 2015 Community Engagement Classification. Alvernia University has also been recognised as one of the top 100 Character-Building Colleges in the country with a model of excellence in education.

Infrastructure, Campus & Courses

Alvernia University’s main campus, which is situated in Berks County, is spread over 191 acres of open land. With nearly 3,000 students on campus, the student to teacher ratio is around 12:1 and average classroom sizes of nearly 20, Alvernia University offers one of the best learning environments for students. Alvernia University offers undergraduate, graduate and online education on the main campus and three other centres, viz. Philadelphia Centre, Schuyhill Centre, and few other offsite locations as well. A range of programmes in Arts, Applied and Pure Sciences, Commerce, Management, Engineering and more, which are also properly accredited by the relevant institutions in the US, are offered by Alvernia University.

Accomplishments & Alumni

Over the years of operations, Alvernia University has garnered a reputation for being a leader in civic learning and democratic engagement. Alvernia University has also earned the President’s Higher Education Interfaith Community Service Honour Roll in 2014 as well. The Alumni members of Alvernia University also commit themselves to give to the community through various opportunities such as scholarships and career opportunities for students, staff and faculty members alike. 

Student Diversity & Visiting Companies

Accepting students from all across the world, Alvernia University helps build a warm and welcoming environment for all those who wish to pursue higher education from the institution. Through various student support systems, Alvernia University ensures that the international student experience remains as impeccable as possible. From applying to the university to arriving on campus to begin the higher education journey, Alvernia University takes pride in its effort to support and assist the international students in accommodating themselves with the environment.

COVID-19 Response

Waking up after the effects of the pandemic, Alvernia University is dedicated to providing the students with the best possible solutions and way forward. As per the current COVID-19 Response of Alvernia University, a blend of online and in-person classes along with strict social distancing measures have been adopted by the university.

• While most classes are scheduled to be conducted in-person, Alvernia University has directed its professors and the departments to be ready to pivot back to online learning if needed.

• Increased social distancing measures have been implemented such as modifying the common public areas such as cafeterias and public seating areas to accommodate the norms.

• Students will be offered housing accommodations if they choose to apply. However, the availability of spaces will be limited in view of the social distancing norms.

• All students, staff and faculty members are required to wear face-masks or covering while travelling in public areas on the Campus.