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
Rhapsody & Song
- Sep 18, 2026
- 7:30 PM - 9:30 PM
- Alvernia University, Francis Hall Theatre
An evening of classical, jazz and Broadway music benefiting Alvernia's Hope Fund, which benefits students facing unexpected financial hardships. With special guest vocalist Glynis Fitzgerald, Ph.D., Alvernia University president.
Arts & Culture
Latinos Unidos: A Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration
- Sep 25, 2026
- 5:00 PM - 8:30 PM
- Alvernia University, Francis Hall Theatre
Alvernia University’s O’Pake Institute for Economic Development and Entrepreneurship, through its Cultural Coalition, is proud to present Latinos Unidos: A Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration, an inspiring event that honors the rich cultures, traditions, achievements and enduring contributions of Hispanic and Latino communities.
Multicultural Engagement
Fall Open House I
- Sep 26, 2026
- 10:00 AM - 2:00 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
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
Alvernia Marks 25th Anniversary of Sept. 11 Through Service and Interfaith Remembrance
University launches new Franciscan Fridays service series and gathers faith and community leaders to honor the lives lost and legacy of service
2026 Hispanic Heritage Month at Alvernia
Alvernia University forms alliance with Independence Blue Cross to Expand Educational Opportunities
The new relationship creates flexible, affordable pathways for IBX associates to earn undergraduate and graduate degrees while advancing their careers
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.