Saint Louis University's campus in Madrid, Spain, dates from a study abroad program launched by Raymond L. Sullivant, S.J., in the 1960s. Its success led Father Sullivant to offer classes in conjunction with the University of Comillas and then to establish an independent, permanent program, with its administrative offices and classrooms located between Madrid's Complutense University and the city center in 1967.
Shortly thereafter, several Spanish students, attracted to the University's liberal
arts curriculum, enrolled in classes. Within a decade the campus was home to hundreds
of students. Our program expanded, providing a full range of courses and a library,
which permitted Spanish and European students to complete the first two years of their
undergraduate studies in Madrid.
Our distinct position as the American Jesuit University in Spain prompted SLU to build
a campus. In 1990, it purchased the buildings that now stand as Padre Rubio and Padre
Arrupe Halls. In 1996, SLU-Madrid was the first U.S. university to receive official
recognition from the Consejería de Educación y Cultura, Madrid's higher education authority; degree programs offered in Madrid are also
accredited by the University's regional accrediting agency in the U.S., the Higher
Learning Commission.
In 2011, the University expanded its Madrid Campus further with the acquisition and
renovation of San Ignacio Hall, providing additional space to support both students
and faculty, including a new library, cafeteria and auditorium.
In addition to expanding its facilities, SLU-Madrid has increased its academic offerings,
most recently opening majors in computer science and marketing as well as a master's
degree in political science. The campus received special recognitions for its international
programs in nursing and hosts visiting students pursuing undergraduate degrees in
engineering and the natural sciences.
Our campus is recognized today for its highly rigorous and transformative educational
programs in Spain. SLU-Madrid remains committed to the ideals of service and leadership
that the University, its students, faculty and staff have upheld since 1818.