Points of Pride

Founded in 1850 by the Society of Mary (the Marianists), a group of visionary leaders who knew that consistent change was necessary for constant growth, the University has grown into a top-tier Catholic university.

Because of UD's commitment to student belonging, mentorship, success and return on investment, the University UD was named one of 75 "dream schools" across the nation, as well as one of 50 "colleges that create futures".

UD students are bold thinkers and servant leaders who use their gifts and talents to make a positive impact on the world. More than 6,900 full-time undergraduates and 2,400 graduate and law students call UD "home," and our 90% retention rate shows that students love UD.

Last year, the University conducted more than $278 million in annual sponsored research. To top it off, the University is the No. 1 Catholic university for engineering research and development — and No. 1 in the U.S. for materials research and development.

Our entrepreneurship program ranks among the top 50 in the U.S., according to the Princeton Review and Entrepreneur magazine.

UD is recognized as a national leader in service and partnership with the Carnegie Community Engagement Classification. At UD, students can cultivate their faith-life and engage in a variety of service opportunities and programs.

The University of Dayton is a leader in sustainability. Through our sustainability efforts, UD achieved a gold STARS ranking, and The Princeton Review named us a "green school."

We were among the first university to establish an undergraduate program in human rights studies, and our Human Rights Center creates positive change through research, education, and dialogue.

We are passionate about making a UD education affordable and accessible to all who are qualified. Approximately 97% of students receive financial assistance, and we are ranked among the top 25 in the nation for "great financial aid," according to The Princeton Review. U.S. News & World Report also named UD a top "best value" school.

Thirteen UD schools and programs are listed among the 2026 Best Graduate Schools, according to U.S. News & World Report. In addition, UD is included in The Princeton Review's best online Doctor of Education programs and FORTUNE's best online MBA programs.

The Dayton Flyers compete at the NCAA Division I level, and our teams that have advanced to the postseason in the past decade include: baseball, men's and women's basketball, men's cross country, football, men's and women's soccer, women's track and field (indoor and outdoor), and volleyball.

The Princeton Review listed us in the top 25 of students who love their school teams — and we've earned a consistent top-30 national ranking in fan attendance.