In an era where the landscape of higher education is rapidly evolving, Thomas Jefferson University stands as a beacon of innovation, inclusivity, and excellence. Born out of the historic merger between Philadelphia University and Thomas Jefferson University in 2017, Thomas Jefferson University is rewriting the rules of professional education and resetting the odds for its students. With a mission to improve lives and a vision to reimagine health, education, and discovery, Thomas Jefferson University is not just preparing students for the future of work—it is actively shaping that future. By combining two institutions with over 300 years of combined history, Thomas Jefferson University has created a model professional university that is unparalleled in its commitment to experiential learning, transdisciplinary collaboration, and social responsibility.
A Legacy of Innovation and Excellence
Thomas Jefferson University’s roots run deep, tracing back to the founding of Jefferson Medical College in 1824 and the Philadelphia Textile School in 1884. Both institutions were pioneers in their respective fields, emphasizing the importance of hands-on, experiential learning long before it became a cornerstone of modern education. The merger of these two esteemed universities in 2017 was not just a union of institutions but a fusion of legacies, creating a powerhouse of innovation and excellence. Today, Thomas Jefferson University continues to honor its rich history while boldly forging ahead, redefining what’s possible in higher education.
Mission and Vision: Improving Lives Through Education
At the heart of Thomas Jefferson University’s mission is a simple yet profound statement: We Improve Lives. This mission is brought to life through a commitment to inclusive and experiential learning, groundbreaking research, and creative discovery. Thomas Jefferson University’s vision—Reimagining health, education, and discovery to create unparalleled value—reflects its dedication to pushing boundaries and challenging the status quo. By fostering transdisciplinary collaboration and embracing social responsibility, Thomas Jefferson University ensures that its students are not only equipped with the skills they need to succeed but also inspired to lead with integrity and compassion.
Core Values: Guiding Principles for a Better Future
Thomas Jefferson University’s values serve as the foundation for everything it does. These values—Put People First, Be Bold and Think Differently, Do the Right Thing, and Commitment to Diversity, Equity & Inclusion—are more than just words; they are guiding principles that shape the university’s culture and actions. Thomas Jefferson University holds itself accountable to nurture an environment of inclusion and respect, valuing the uniqueness of every individual and celebrating the rich diversity of its communities. By taking meaningful action to cultivate fairness, belonging, and opportunity, Thomas Jefferson University ensures that every student, faculty member, and staff member feels valued and empowered.
The Thomas Jefferson University Advantage: Preparing Students for the Future of Work
At Thomas Jefferson University, the future of work is not a distant concept—it is a present reality. The university’s distinctive and award-winning curriculum is designed to prepare students for the challenges and opportunities of tomorrow. By encouraging students to cross disciplines and discover new possibilities, Thomas Jefferson University fosters a culture of innovation and creativity. Expert faculty members, who are leaders in their fields, provide students with the knowledge and skills they need to break the mold and redefine what exists.
The results speak for themselves: 97% of Thomas Jefferson University undergraduates are employed, enrolled in graduate programs, or engaged in military or volunteer service within six months of graduation. This remarkable success rate is a testament to the university’s commitment to providing unparalleled value and ensuring that its students are ready to thrive in a rapidly changing world.
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A Commitment to Community and Social Responsibility
Thomas Jefferson University’s dedication to improving lives extends beyond the classroom. Through its Office of Community Service Learning, the university connects students with community partners, hosts service-learning days, and organizes fundraising events. These initiatives not only benefit the community but also instill in students a sense of social responsibility and a commitment to making a difference.
Thomas Jefferson University’s commitment to social justice is also evident in its unwavering stance against racial oppression and injustice. In the wake of the tragic deaths of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, and others, Thomas Jefferson University reaffirmed its dedication to standing united against racial oppression. The university recognizes that the suffering of anyone in its community injures everyone and is committed to creating a more just and equitable society.
A Campus That Inspires
Thomas Jefferson University’s campuses are as diverse and dynamic as its student body. Spanning the Philadelphia area—from the bustling Center City to the scenic East Falls—and reaching into the suburbs of Montgomery, Bucks, and Delaware Counties, as well as New Jersey, Thomas Jefferson University’s locations offer students a wealth of opportunities for inspiration and action. Whether it’s state-of-the-art labs, cutting-edge academic buildings, or vibrant athletic fields, Thomas Jefferson University’s campuses are designed to foster creativity, collaboration, and discovery.
For those unable to visit in person, Thomas Jefferson University offers an immersive virtual tour of its East Falls Campus, providing an inside look at the facilities and resources that make Thomas Jefferson University a leader in professional education.
Celebrating History, Shaping the Future
As Thomas Jefferson University celebrates its bicentennial, it continues to honor its rich history while looking ahead to the future. The university’s historical walking tour, which highlights the sites of the original Jefferson Medical College, serves as a reminder of the institution’s enduring legacy of innovation and excellence. At the same time, Thomas Jefferson University is committed to discovering new knowledge and defining the future through groundbreaking research and creative discovery.
The Thomas Jefferson University Enterprise: A Partnership for Progress
Thomas Jefferson University’s impact extends far beyond its campuses. As part of the Thomas Jefferson University Enterprise—which includes Jefferson Health and Jefferson Health Plans—the university is a key player in educating the professionals of tomorrow, providing excellent clinical care, and advancing research that will shape the future. With over 65,000 employees, Thomas Jefferson University is Philadelphia’s second-largest employer and a vital part of the communities it serves.
Conclusion: Redefining What’s Possible
Thomas Jefferson University is more than a university—it is a movement. By rewriting the rules of higher education and resetting the odds for its students, Thomas Jefferson University is creating a new model of professional education that is inclusive, innovative, and impactful. Through its commitment to improving lives, fostering diversity and inclusion, and preparing students for the future of work, Thomas Jefferson University is not just shaping the future—it is redefining what’s possible. As the university continues to build on its rich legacy and embrace new challenges, one thing is clear: Thomas Jefferson University is a place where inspiration meets action, and where the future is being created today.