St. Mary's University, founded in 1852 by Marianist brothers and priests, is the first institution of higher learning in San Antonio and the oldest Catholic university in the Southwest. Personal attention and powerful academic programs have made St. Mary's, located on 135 acres northwest of downtown San Antonio, a nationally recognized liberal arts institution. With a diverse student population of about 4,000 of all faiths and backgrounds, St. Mary's is home to four schools: Humanities and Social Sciences; Greehey School of Business; Science, Engineering and Technology; and Law. The University provides a Catholic education experience that evokes academic excellence while integrating liberal studies, professional preparation and ethical commitment. St. Mary’s has more than 75 academic programs, including graduate studies and law. The student-to-faculty ratio of 12-to-1 permits small classes and promotes active learning.