Private liberal arts college aligned with LDS values, offering small classes and strong graduate placement.
SVU offers 17 majors and 18 minors with a liberal arts focus, emphasizing core courses, major specialization, and career concentrations. The university features small collaborative classes (average 15 students) taught by faculty whose primary focus is student success. All students receive an iPad, Smart Keyboard, and Apple Pencil at no extra cost. The institution is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACSCOC) and categorized by Carnegie Classification as a very small baccalaureate-only college with an arts & sciences focus.
The 155-acre rural campus in Buena Vista features 12 main buildings, including the historic Main Hall (originally the Buena Vista Hotel, listed on the National Register of Historic Places). Student housing includes residence halls and apartments. SVU integrates LDS Church principles throughout campus life, including an Institute of Religion and optional service trips to the Washington D.C. Temple. The university maintains a Code of Honor emphasizing honesty, chastity, abstinence from alcohol and tobacco, and respect for law. Students enjoy performing arts programs (choir, dance, theatre), athletics, esports, and numerous clubs.
SVU accepts applications from new students, transfer students, returning students, and international applicants. An ecclesiastical endorsement from a student's religious leader is part of the application process, reflecting the university's alignment with LDS values. The admissions team responds to inquiries within 24 hours. The university offers scholarships and grants, and provides financial aid counseling through its Financial Aid office.
SVU reports a 93% placement rate for professional schools and 90% placement into professional graduate programs overall. The university ranks in the top 7% nationally for freshman-to-senior improvement. Notable alumni include Beezie Madden (Olympic show jumping competitor) and Gustavo Ramos (internationally renowned fine artist). Faculty include Orson Scott Card (science fiction author) and Jeff Benedict (sports writer).