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Niagara University is a private, liberal arts university in the Vincentian and Catholic traditions, located in Niagara University, New York on the northern limits of the city of Niagara Falls. Niagara University’s roots reach back to 1856 when the institution was established by Vincentian Fathers and Brothers. The Vincentians derive their name from their founder, Vincent de Paul, a French priest who lived from 1581 to 1660 and who was especially dedicated to the poor and helpless.” Due to its Vincentian heritage, Niagara University endeavors to instill within its students a “deep concern for the rights and dignity of the human person, especially for the poor, the suffering, the handicapped, and the outcast.” The University has been recognized by The Templeton Foundation as one of the top 100 colleges in the nation for its offering of programs which inspire students to lead ethical and civic-minded lives.
Academic Programs
Niagara University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education and has been so since 1922. The University offers approximately 50 degree programs through its four academic divisions, which include the colleges of Arts and Sciences, Business, Education, and Hospitality and Tourism Management. Niagara University’s baccalaureate program in travel and tourism is oldest in the United States, having been established in 1968. The University also offers an Academic Exploration Program, which provides a learning environment for students who are still undecided in their major. Niagara University’s academic calendar includes fall and spring semesters plus graduate and undergraduate summer sessions.Niagara University’s mission is to educate “students and enrich their lives through programs in the liberal arts and through career preparation, informed by the Catholic and Vincentian traditions.” Niagara University’s conviction is that students need “to be prepared for productive roles in society and to be provided with the opportunity to fulfill their physical, emotional and spiritual potential.” A holistic approach to education is taken, and Niagara University offers a broad based, integrated program of liberal arts and science courses, which are supported by a range of extracurricular activities designed to educate the whole person.
Student Life
Niagara University has a total enrollment figure of more than 4,000, including over 3,000 undergraduate students. Niagara University has the capacity to accommodate more than 1,400 students through its several residence halls, houses, and apartment complex. Situated on a 160 acre campus, Niagara University’s grounds runs along the top of the picturesque Monteagle Ridge, overlooking the Niagara River gorge just four miles away from the world-famous waterfalls. Niagara University’s campus is adjacent to the international border and is relatively near the American and Canadian cities of Buffalo and Toronto.Large spaces of Niagara University’s campus are available for outdoor sports including football, soccer, baseball and softball. The Gallegher Center serves as hub of campus activities where students gather and enjoy “an atmosphere of relaxation”. Niagara University’s Castallani Art Museum is located in the center of campus and features a wonderful collection of 20th century and contemporary art which is available to both students and the public. Competing in 15 sports at the NCAA Division I-AAA level, Niagara University’s teams are a member of the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference while the men’s hockey team competes in the College Hockey America Conference.