St. Joseph's College will now be called St. Joseph's University after its status was elevated by the New York State Department of Education.

School officials say the transition marks the school's next chapter as it will give its students more opportunities.

“This acknowledgement signifies to all our campus groups the remarkable resilience, continued progress and excellence the college has made even in the face of a pandemic," says Shantey Hill-Hanna, vice president for student life at St. Joseph’s. "A university distinction will certainly increase the appeal of our student degrees to potential employers and open up new opportunities both professionally and personally long after they leave St. Joseph’s.”

School officials also say the university designation will improve its competitiveness when applying for state and federal funding, as well as research grants.

St. Joseph's University offers degrees in 60 majors, special course offerings and certificates, affiliated and pre-professional programs.