Lewis University is a private Roman Catholic university located in Romeoville, Illinois, about 35 miles southwest of Chicago. Founded in 1932, it is sponsored by the De La Salle Christian Brothers and reflects a Lasallian educational tradition. The university offers more than 80 undergraduate majors and numerous graduate and doctoral programs across colleges that include aviation, business, education, nursing and health sciences, humanities, and science and technology. Lewis University is particularly known for its aviation programs and strong professional preparation in fields such as nursing, education, and business. It serves traditional undergraduates, transfer students, and working adults seeking flexible and career-focused academic pathways.
With a 71.29% acceptance rate, Lewis University is moderately selective. Applicants are expected to show good academic performance and readiness for college-level coursework. Students with consistent grades, extracurricular involvement, and a well-prepared application are typically competitive for admission.
Lewis University was founded in 1932 in Romeoville, Illinois, under the direction of the Chicago Archdiocese and Bishop Bernard J. Sheil as the Holy Name Technical School. Established on farmland donated by Michael and Frances Fitzpatrick, the school initially focused on technical and aviation education for young men. During World War II, the campus was used by the U.S. Navy for flight instructor training. After reopening in 1944, the institution expanded into a junior college and soon developed a broader arts and sciences curriculum. Renamed Lewis College of Science and Technology in 1946, it admitted women in 1949 and granted its first bachelor’s degrees in 1952. The De La Salle Christian Brothers assumed leadership in 1960, strengthening its Catholic and Lasallian identity. In 1973, Lewis University officially adopted its current name and later expanded graduate programs, professional schools, and additional campuses to serve a growing and diverse student body.
Lewis University has a 13:1 student-to-faculty ratio, providing a balance between personalized instruction and a broader classroom environment. Students can expect opportunities to engage with professors while also benefiting from diverse perspectives in class discussions.
Applying to Lewis University involves submitting an online application, academic transcripts, and any program-specific requirements. Located in Romeoville, Illinois, Lewis University reviews applicants for undergraduate, transfer, and graduate programs across fields such as aviation, business, education, nursing, and the sciences. Prospective students should check deadlines, entrance criteria, and testing policies that may vary by program. Campus visits and virtual information sessions can help applicants better understand academic expectations and student life at Lewis University.
Lewis University offers a range of financial aid options, including federal and state grants, institutional scholarships, work-study opportunities, and student loans. Students applying to Lewis University are encouraged to complete the FAFSA to determine eligibility for need-based assistance. Merit scholarships and program-specific awards may also be available, helping make a private Catholic education more accessible.
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