Explore What Inspires You
Find Your Program
Online Degrees
Student-Teacher Ratio
of students gain real-world experience before graduation
of graduates are employed or in grad school within 6 months
hours of student-driven community service annually
Why Alvernia?
Breaking Ground, Remaining Grounded
At Alvernia, we care. When you are here, you feel it. Our Franciscan heritage fosters a culture of care that touches all of our students and employees. You're not just a number here. Our faculty members are accomplished scholars, experts in their fields and supportive mentors who are committed to their students’ success.
Upcoming Events
Fall Open House II
- Nov 01, 2026
- 1:30 PM - 4:30 PM
Whether you're just beginning your college search or getting ready to submit your application, our first Fall Open House is the perfect opportunity to experience the Alvernia community. During this open house, you'll learn more about our academic programs, the application process, connect with faculty and staff, hear firsthand from current students, and explore the many resources available to support your success. Our campus resource fair will showcase academic programs, student services, campus involvement opportunities, and more! The day will conclude with a major-specific campus tour, giving you a closer look at the spaces where you'll learn and grow, followed by lunch in the Student Center Dining Hall. No matter where you are in your college search journey, we invite you to take your first step into the Pack and discover what it means to be part of the Alvernia community!
Admissions
Discover Your Major: Addictions & Mental Health Treatment
- Nov 03, 2026
- 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
- Zoom Virtual Event
With over 40 years of history, Alvernia’s Addictions and Mental Health Treatment degree is one of the oldest and best of its kind to be found at the college or university level. Now, you can experience this same level of excellence in a flexible, online degree program. Through this program, you’ll earn academic credentials required to take you one step closer for the certified alcohol and drug counselor (CADC) certification.
Grad & Adult Admissions
Alvernia Theatre presents "Paradise"
- Nov 05 - Nov 15, 2026
- 8:00 PM - 5:00 PM
- Alvernia University, Francis Hall Theatre
Alvernia University Theatre will present the American premiere of "Paradise" by Kae Tempest, a bold re-telling of a tale of the Trojan War.
Arts & Culture
Anthony Kuklinski '23, MAOL '25
When an Alvernia student graduates, they are ready to face real life situations and go right into a workplace and do the best that they can possibly do. I just really, really love this school.
Community Engagement
Total Experience Learning®
At the Total Experience Learning (TExpL)® Institute, learning isn’t confined to the classroom, it’s an adventure that connects knowledge to the real world.
Holleran Center
The Holleran Center for Community and Global Engagement empowers students to engage with the community through service, learning, and leadership, creating meaningful impact in Reading and beyond.
O'Pake Institute
The O’Pake Institute for Economic Development and Entrepreneurship allows students to work with entrepreneurs, small businesses, regional partners and faculty.
Success Stories
"Alvernia recognized me as a person and gave me the love and care that I needed mentally," said former football captain Jamel Fleming '25. Read his story and other tales of leadership, service, and innovation that reflect Alvernia's mission. Ready to see where your story begins? Explore how you can join a community that leads with purpose.
Recent News
Over 80 students volunteer for RHA Trunk-or-Treat, drawing record number of attendees
Alvernia University celebrates more than $82 million raised through historic Partners in Progress campaign
Landmark campaign brings Alvernia’s CollegeTowne vision to life
Alvernia Running Club grows through fitness and community
What started as a small group of students meeting for casual runs has grown into an increasingly active campus organization that brings Alvernia University students together through fitness, wellness, and community.
Locations
Alvernia has two instructional sites in Reading, a location in Pottsville and a soon-to-open Allentown location. It also offers courses and resources to residents in Montgomery County and North Philadelphia through partnerships in those regions.