Universidad del Salvador was established and approved by a National decree passed by the Argentine Executive National Power in May, 1956. This period is known as ´the first wave´ (primera ola) for the establishment of private higher education institutions in Argentina.Its Jesuit origin and, thus its consequent humanistic orientation, have been the relevant characteristics of USAL since its creation. This also outlined its mission and USAL´s institutional culture.
Universidad del Salvador is a typical generalist higher education institution, it offers consolidated programs in almost all areas of study at the three different levels of education: undergraduate, master´s and PhD degrees.It registers lasting and consistent international links, which not only refer to international student mobility but also to participation in international projects. Undergraduate and graduate programs with dual degrees with Europe and the United States and a growing collaboration with higher education institutions of the Southern Region, is a strong sign of the University’s commitment to the diverse world and with a particular interest in the future of Latin America.
Universidad del Salvador is an urban institution that, although it does not have a central campus, concentrates most of its academic activities in the Buenos Aires city area, that allows USAL to identify itself with the city as well.At the same time, the University has been committed to an ambitious project in the city of Pilar in the Province of Buenos Aires. Over 5000 undergraduate students study at this campus which is situated in the suburbs of the city of Buenos Aires. Students in Pilar find a more relaxed environment with cultural activities offered on campus and where there is a project to build dormitories for both students and faculty in the near future.Buenos Aires is considered today one of the most cosmopolitan capital cities in the world. This allows USAL students (over 20 % being from the interior of the country) to benefit from the city`s rich and diverse cultural setting.