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Message from the Dean

Dean Donna LaVoie Headshot

As dean of the oldest college at Saint Louis University, it is my pleasure to welcome you to the College of Arts and Sciences. It is an honor and a privilege to serve as dean of the college. As the largest college at SLU, we offer more than 40 undergraduate options leading to a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science degree across our programs in the humanities, arts, natural sciences, social sciences and mathematics, and over 20 post-graduate degree options leading to a Master of Arts, Master of Science or doctorate (Ph.D.). No matter what you choose to study, we aim to develop your passion for your chosen major or academic discipline while at the same time opening your mind to think about the complex questions (and answers) addressed by a Catholic, Jesuit liberal arts education. A degree from SLU’s College of Arts and Sciences will do more than set you on a pathway for career success. It will prepare you to tackle the problems facing the world today by teaching you how to think analytically, to reflect before acting, to imagine new possibilities, and to communicate and dialogue effectively with others. You will develop content expertise, as well as gain an understanding of how to apply your knowledge and skills to the betterment of humanity.

In the College of Arts and Sciences we are committed to preparing you for your future. In the last two years, students have worked alongside our faculty in over 230 distinct research experiences in the lab or field sites, and have received over 225 distinct internship or practica placements in the local St. Louis Metropolitan region. Survey data from these graduates indicates that over 95% of our graduates are employed or seeking a post-graduate degree. These numbers point to our success in a period of rapid change and disruption and serve as an important reminder that the education we offer, motivated and guided by Jesuit spiritual and intellectual ideals, is an education that provides you with the tools to meet the unknown demands of the future with confidence.

Thank you for your interest in the college and for your support and personal witness to our mission in the world.

In warm appreciation,

Donna J. LaVoie, Ph.D.
Dean and professor
College of Arts and Sciences

College of Arts and Sciences Mission

As the core of liberal arts education at Saint Louis University, the College of Arts and Sciences is central to advancing the University’s Jesuit mission—pursuing truth, cultivating knowledge and serving humanity for the greater glory of God.

We fulfill this mission by:

  • Educating students in a supportive, intellectually rigorous environment
  • Fostering critical thinking, creativity and moral reflection
  • Preparing ethical leaders committed to justice and lifelong learning
  •  Advancing research and applying knowledge to address human and societal challenges
  • Facilitating real-world experiential training, internships and job placement