Its founder and first president, Joseph Krauskopf, was an activist Reform rabbi who, inspired by discussions with Leo Tolstoy, hoped to train Jewish immigrants to the United States as farmers.

In its early years the school's main private funder was the Federation of Jewish Charities of Philadelphia, but the institution also received funding from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and was open to men from all ethnic and religious backgrounds.

[4][5] The school opened with only two teachers and eight students, but by 1904 under the directorship of John Hosea Washburn enrollment had grown to 45.

The program is part of the university's legacy of linking theoretical learning with practical training.

[8] Many graduates of Delaware Valley University take positions with the pharmaceutical and food industries, work in government or business, go on to become veterinarians or start their own companies.

[12][13] The Office of Continuing and Professional Studies offers several for credit degrees and certificates along with noncredit options.

[16] Men's Sports:[17] Baseball, Basketball, Cross Country, Football, Golf, Lacrosse, Soccer, Tennis, Track & Field (Indoor & Outdoor), and Wrestling.

Delaware Valley University has produced 12 individual national champions in its athletic history.