Santa Clara University: A Historic Jesuit Institution in Silicon Valley

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Discover California's oldest university, a blend of Jesuit tradition and Silicon Valley innovation, surrounding the historic Mission Santa Clara de Asís.

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Santa Clara University

Founded in 1851, Santa Clara University (SCU) is California's oldest operating institution of higher learning, rooted in the Jesuit tradition. Its beautiful mission-style campus surrounds the historic Mission Santa Clara de Asís, offering a blend of academic rigor and historical charm in the heart of Silicon Valley.

A brief summary to Santa Clara University

500 El Camino Real, Santa Clara, California, 95053, US
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Santa Clara University.

Visit the Mission Santa Clara de Asís, the heart of the university, to appreciate its historical and architectural significance.
Check the SCU Presents schedule for dance, musical, and dramatic performances on campus.
Explore the de Saisset Museum, which offers free admission to a diverse collection of art and historical exhibits.
Take a self-guided walking tour of the campus to admire the Spanish-style architecture and gardens.
Consider attending a daily mass at the Mission Church to experience the spiritual heart of the university.

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Getting There

Public Transport

Santa Clara University is accessible via multiple VTA bus lines that stop at the Santa Clara Transit Center, located on the northeastern end of campus. From the transit center, it's a short walk to the heart of the university. VTA single ride fare is $3. Alternatively, the Santa Clara Caltrain station is located across the street from the university on the Alameda. From the Caltrain station, it is a short walk to the campus. Caltrain fares vary depending on the number of zones traveled; check the Caltrain website for details.
Walking

From downtown Santa Clara, Santa Clara University is easily accessible by foot. From Santa Clara City Hall, walk east on Santa Clara Street, then turn right onto El Camino Real. The main entrance to the university will be on your left. The walk is approximately 1 mile and takes about 20 minutes.
Taxi/Ride-Share

Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in the Santa Clara area. A taxi ride from downtown Santa Clara to Santa Clara University typically costs between $8 and $10. From San Jose Mineta International Airport (SJC), a taxi or ride-share will cost approximately $16-$20.
Driving

Santa Clara University is located at 500 El Camino Real, Santa Clara, CA 95053. From Highway 101, take the De La Cruz Boulevard exit and follow the signs to Santa Clara. Turn right onto Lafayette Street, then right onto El Camino Real. The main entrance to the campus will be on your right. Visitor parking is available in the Main Parking Structure located at 500 El Camino Real. Parking rates are $4 for four hours and $6 for all day. Parking rules are in effect Monday through Friday from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

Discover more about Santa Clara University

Santa Clara University, a private Jesuit, Catholic university, stands as a unique intersection of history and innovation in the heart of California's Silicon Valley. Established in 1851 on the site of the Mission Santa Clara de Asís, which dates back to 1777, SCU is the oldest operating institution of higher education in California. The campus architecture reflects its rich heritage, with Spanish-style buildings surrounding the iconic Mission Santa Clara de Asís.Originally founded as Santa Clara College, the institution initially served as an all-boys preparatory school before offering college-level courses in 1853. In 1912, with the addition of the schools of engineering and law, it transitioned into the University of Santa Clara. The Leavey School of Business, established in 1926, quickly gained national recognition. For over a century, SCU remained a male-only institution until 1961, when it became the first coeducational Catholic university in California. In 1985, the university officially adopted the name Santa Clara University.Today, Santa Clara University offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines, including arts and sciences, business, engineering, law, and theology. SCU is known for its strong connections with Silicon Valley's high-technology industry and its Jesuit tradition of educating the whole person for a life of service and leadership. The 106-acre campus features world-renowned gardens and state-of-the-art facilities. Visitors can explore attractions such as the de Saisset Museum, which houses a collection of art and historical artifacts, and attend events at the Performing Arts Center.