Temple University, founded in 1884 as a night school for working-class Philadelphians, has evolved into one of the nation’s most dynamic public research universities—rooted in accessibility, diversity, and a mission to connect learning with real-world change. Situated in the heart of Philadelphia, a city steeped in history and innovation, Temple bridges classroom rigor with community engagement, preparing students to thrive in an interconnected world. With over 37,000 students across 17 schools and colleges, Temple University offers an inclusive environment where curiosity meets action, and perseverance fuels success.
Academic Excellence Across Disciplines
At Temple University, academic excellence is not just a goal—it’s a promise. The university’s programs are designed to equip students with the skills, knowledge, and adaptability to lead in fast-changing fields. The Fox School of Business, a global leader in business education, holds dual AACSB accreditation (a mark of distinction earned by fewer than 5% of business schools worldwide) and offers specialized tracks in entrepreneurship, fintech, and digital marketing. For media enthusiasts, the Klein College of Media and Communication stands out with state-of-the-art facilities—including a student-run TV station (TUTV) and radio station (WHIP)—and partnerships with industry giants like Comcast and NPR, giving students direct access to professional opportunities.
The Lewis Katz School of Medicine combines cutting-edge research with community-focused care, offering programs in osteopathic medicine, biomedical sciences, and public health that address critical issues like healthcare disparities and chronic disease. Meanwhile, the College of Liberal Arts fosters interdisciplinary thinking through programs in data science, environmental studies, and global security—encouraging students to connect ideas across disciplines. Temple’s commitment to accessibility shines through its tuition structure: over 80% of students receive financial aid, ensuring a high-quality education is within reach for first-generation learners, low-income students, and international scholars alike.
For students seeking hands-on learning, Temple’s Experiential Learning requirement mandates internships, co-ops, or research projects—ensuring graduates enter the workforce with practical experience. From a marketing intern at Philadelphia’s iconic Reading Terminal Market to a research assistant in Temple’s cancer biology lab, students gain skills that set them apart.
Innovation and Research That Drives Change
As an R1 research institution (the highest classification for research activity), Temple University is at the forefront of solving global challenges. In 2023, the university secured over $200 million in research funding from organizations like the National Science Foundation (NSF), National Institutes of Health (NIH), and Department of Energy—supporting projects that range from developing targeted cancer therapies to designing sustainable urban infrastructure.
The Center for Advanced Pharmaceutical Delivery Systems (CAPDS) collaborates with pharmaceutical companies to create novel drug delivery methods, while the Temple University Ambler Campus leads research in sustainable agriculture and environmental restoration. Students are integral to this work: the Undergraduate Research Program pairs undergraduates with faculty mentors on projects like studying the impact of artificial intelligence on mental health or engineering low-cost solar panels for rural communities. Graduate students benefit from competitive fellowships and access to cutting-edge labs, including the Nanotechnology Characterization Laboratory and Neuroimaging Center, where researchers map brain activity to understand neurodegenerative diseases.
Temple’s focus on translational research ensures discoveries move from the lab to the real world. For example, engineers in the College of Engineering developed a portable water purification system now used in rural India, while the Temple University Health System partners with local hospitals to test new treatments for diabetes and heart disease. This “research with purpose” mentality defines Temple’s approach—where innovation serves the common good.
Community Engagement: Temple’s Commitment to Philadelphia
Temple University’s motto—Perseverantia Conquirit (“Perseverance Conquers”)—is embodied in its deep ties to Philadelphia. As an anchor institution in North Philadelphia, Temple invests in neighborhood revitalization, education, and health. The Temple Community Garden, run by students and local residents, provides fresh produce to food-insecure families and serves as a living classroom for environmental science students.
Through the Temple University Center for Community Partnerships, students volunteer over 100,000 hours annually at local schools, shelters, and nonprofits. The Beasley School of Law’s Legal Clinic offers free legal services to low-income Philadelphians, handling cases related to housing, immigration, and consumer rights. For healthcare access, the Temple University Hospital operates community health centers in underserved areas, providing primary care, mental health support, and wellness programs—ensuring that vulnerable populations receive quality care.
Temple also celebrates Philadelphia’s cultural diversity through events like the Temple International Festival, which features food, music, and art from over 50 countries, and the Philadelphia Film Festival, co-hosted by Klein College. The university’s athletic teams—the Temple Owls—are a source of city pride, with men’s basketball games drawing thousands of fans to the Liacouras Center and football games at Lincoln Financial Field. For Temple students, Philadelphia isn’t just a city—it’s a classroom, a community, and a home.
Student Life: A Diverse and Inclusive Campus Experience
Temple University’s campus is a microcosm of the world, with students from all 50 states and over 120 countries. The Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion fosters belonging through programs like the Multicultural Affairs Leadership Council and LGBTQ+ Student Resource Center, ensuring every student feels seen and supported. With over 300 student organizations—from the Temple Anime Club to the Entrepreneurship Society—there’s a community for every interest.
Athletics play a central role in campus life: the Temple Owls compete in the American Athletic Conference (AAC), and games are a highlight of the academic year. The IBC Gym and Temple Sports Complex offer state-of-the-art facilities for students to stay active, with classes in yoga, rock climbing, and spin. For art lovers, the Boyer College of Music and Dance presents over 300 concerts and performances annually, while the Tyler School of Art and Architecture hosts exhibitions of student and faculty work—from painting and sculpture to graphic design and urban planning.
Housing options range from traditional dorms to apartment-style living, with communities like Johnson Hall (for honors students) and 1300 Residence Hall (for upperclassmen). The Charles Library—a LEED Gold-certified building—features a rooftop garden, quiet study rooms, and a vast collection of books and digital resources, making it a hub for collaboration and creativity. Whether you’re grabbing coffee at the on-campus Starbucks or attending a poetry reading at the Temple University Press, campus life at Temple is vibrant and welcoming.
Alumni Success: Carrying the Temple Legacy Forward
Temple University’s alumni network—over 350,000 strong—spans the globe, with graduates leading in fields like business, media, healthcare, and public service. Jennifer Weiner, best-selling author of Good in Bed and In Her Shoes, credits her time at Temple’s College of Liberal Arts with honing her storytelling skills. Mark Weinberger, former global chairman and CEO of EY (Ernst & Young), earned his MBA from the Fox School of Business and now serves on Temple’s Board of Trustees.
The Temple Alumni Association supports graduates throughout their careers with networking events, job boards, and mentorship programs. The Temple Career Center offers resume reviews, mock interviews, and connections to employers like Comcast, Johnson & Johnson, and the Philadelphia Phillies. A 2022 survey found that 92% of Temple seniors had completed an internship, co-op, or research project before graduation—and 85% of graduates are employed or in graduate school within six months of earning their degree.
Temple graduates are known for their grit and adaptability—traits forged by the university’s focus on real-world learning. From a Fox School alum leading a startup in Silicon Valley to a Lewis Katz School of Medicine graduate working as an emergency room physician in Philadelphia, Temple alumni embody the university’s mission: to turn potential into impact.
Why Temple University? Because Your Future Starts Here
Temple University isn’t just a place to earn a degree—it’s a community where students learn to lead, innovate, and make a difference. Whether you’re interested in business, medicine, media, or the arts, Temple offers the programs, resources, and support to help you succeed. With its prime location in Philadelphia, world-class faculty, and commitment to accessibility, Temple University is a top choice for students who want to turn their passion into purpose.
If you’re ready to join a community of learners, creators, and change-makers, Temple University is waiting for you. Apply today and become part of a legacy that spans over 130 years—one defined by perseverance, excellence, and impact. Your future starts here.