<p>St. Francis College has a proud heritage of preparing students to take their places as leaders in their fields and to become contributing members of society. With a mission founded on the ideals and teachings of St. Francis of Assisi, the College plays a vital role in the community and in the lives of its students and alumni.</p><p><br></p><p>A group of Franciscan Brothers first came to Brooklyn in 1858, opening St. Francis Academy several months later in 1859. It was the first private school in the diocese of Brooklyn. The school, which was opened to educate the boys of the diocese, started in a building on Baltic Street and grew quickly. In 1884, just 25 years later, the trustees of St. Francis received permission from the state legislature to "establish a literary college" under its current name and giving it the power to confer diplomas, honors, and degrees. In June 1885, St. Francis College conferred its first Bachelor of Arts degree, and seven years later the first Bachelor of Science degree was granted.</p><p><br></p><p>Rooted in the vibrant community of Brooklyn Heights and minutes from Manhattan, St. Francis College is the Small College of Big Dreams.</p><p><br></p><p><strong>Why St. Francis College</strong></p><ul><li><u>Enhanced teaching environment:</u>&nbsp;Small classes are taught only by our&nbsp;distinguished faculty members&nbsp;and a network of highly successful alumni actively mentor both undergraduate and graduate students.</li><li><u>Hands-on experience:</u>&nbsp;Outstanding internship opportunities train students to navigate an increasingly global world.</li><li class="ql-indent-1">The College's emphasis on life-long education and service-oriented leadership puts all students on the path to meaningful careers and personal success.</li></ul><p><br></p>