Founded in 1853, St. Francis Xavier University, formerly known as St. Francis Xavier College & Seminary, is one of Canada's top Universities. With a population of over 5,000 students, St. FX provides its students with 10 undergraduate and 5 graduate degrees, all at the master's level. St. Francis Xavier University has 38 different departments to choose from ranging from the, Faculties of Arts, Business, Information Systems, and Science along with certificates and diplomas in the areas of Adult Education, Engineering, Education, and Jazz Studies. There are also some more unique programs available in Aquatic Resources, Celtic Studies, Education, and Jazz Studies.

Currently the University is undergoing an $85 million expansion and upgrade project, including two new residences, the Physical Sciences Complex, and the Charles V. Keating Millennium Centre, as well as conference facilities, an IT teaching centre, a physical fitness facility, and two ice rinks.