Tracing USJ’s origin
On 8 June 2008, the Archbishop of Mbarara, His Grace Paul K. Bakyenga, appointed a Planning and Working Committee (PWC) with 4 Sub-committees to start a Catholic University in Mbarara Archdiocese.

The name "University of Saint Joseph Mbarara" (USJ) was unanimously recommended by the Planning and Working Committee.

Mission statement: To provide accessible university holistic knowledge, relevant skills and innovative technology for integral, sustainable development.

Vision: A leading centre for contemporary community responsive university education.

USJM Objectives 
In accordance with human and Christian values, the objectives of the University shall be:-

• To provide accessible, affordable and practical university education to diverse, eligible candidates.
• To promote and nurture general university studies with demand-oriented specialisations.
•  To promote the pursuit of relevant basic and applied research, aiming at producing graduates for sustainable and societal development.
• To promote proper use and management of the environment.
• To educate persons of integrity concerned about promoting the common good.
• To promote and use cultural values in university education.
• To enhance the various services rendered by the Archdiocese of Mbarara.
• To promote the pastoral mission of the Archdiocese of Mbarara.

Motto: Foster excellence and integrity.

P. O. Box 218, Mbararara. Uganda.. Telephone: +256 772 65669; 
Website: www.usj.ac.ug. Offices: At Nyamitanga, Mbarara. 
Fax: +256 382 276 853. E-mail: usj@usj.ac.ug;