The compass rose window at the top of the dome in Grawemeyer Hall, with the rotunda in view

About UofL

Founded in 1798 as one of the nation’s first city-owned, public universities, UofL is a vital ecosystem that creates thriving futures for our students, our community and our society.

Why UofL?

As one of only 84 universities in the United States to earn recognition by the Carnegie Foundation as both a Research 1 and a Community Engaged university, we impact lives in areas of student success and research and innovation, while our dynamic connection with our local and global communities provides unparalleled opportunities for students and citizens both. 

Cishella Durling
Finding her voice
With UofL’s individualized major program, Cishella Durling crafted a career path centered on changing the status quo. Now, she’s using her personalized education to speak out for those who haven’t felt heard.

We prepare today’s students to be tomorrow’s leaders, whatever their passions may be. UofL’s more than 23,000 students can choose from undergraduate degrees in more than 60 fields, master’s degrees in over 75 areas, and doctoral and professional degrees in more than 35 disciplines.

We harness the power of innovation to better our community and beyond, pushing boundaries in research, scholarship and creative activity. UofL is an anchor institution for the city and state, one of Louisville’s largest employers and contributes significantly to the cultural and intellectual life of the community.

Get to know UofL

For more than two centuries, UofL has been uniquely positioned to meet the changing needs of the city, state and beyond.
History
Near the end of the 18th century early Louisvillians took the first steps on a journey to the modern University of Louisville.
Two students talking on a bench on Belknap Campus
Mission, vision & principles
Our reason for being, core philosophies and what we want to achieve
President Kim Schatzel giving her inaugural address
Leadership & administration
UofL’s president, cabinet and Board of Trustees
The Minerva in front of the oval where Grawemeyer Hall sits
Accreditations
UofL is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

UofL by the numbers

23,000

Enrolled students

$150 million

Total research funding in 2023

160,000

UofL alumni network

The UofL way

Through the university’s approach to education, innovation and connection Cardinals make impacts that make a difference, shaping a better future for all.

Redefining student success

UofL is a producer of top scholars, including over 160 Fulbright Scholarships awarded since 2003 – more than all other Kentucky public institutions combined. 

Research and innovation powerhouse

The university aims to advance health, empower communities and engineer the future economy through discoveries that will build a better world.

Premier metropolitan university

The city serves as a classroom for UofL students, who benefit from internships and co-ops with businesses including local startups and global corporations. 

Inclusion and access

We are committed to ensuring access to higher education for all. UofL is recognized among the nation’s best institutions for African American, LatinX and LGBTQ+ students.

Alumni

With an alumni network more than 160,000 strong, the magnitude of Cardinal achievements is felt across the world.

Athletics

UofL was the first university ever to win a BCS Bowl game, place both men’s and women’s basketball teams in the NCAA Final Four and reach the College World Series in the same year.

Join the Cardinal community

UofL invests in the whole student, providing support and resources that allow for transformative, purpose-driven and engaged learning, while a dynamic tapestry of perspectives helps Cardinals fuel positive change. Find your place here.