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College Profile: Catholic University

I recently had a wonderful visit to Catholic University (on a fabulous Washington DC spring day) to tour the school and visit with a student of mine who had recently gained admission to Catholic’s law school. This was my first time on the campus and I now consider that delay a huge oversight. If you’re looking for a university that blends academic rigor, vibrant campus life, and a strong sense of purpose, The Catholic University of America (often called CUA) offers a unique college experience right in the heart of Washington, D.C. This is a school with a great location and a huge amount of access.



History:


Founded in 1887, Catholic University was established by the U.S. Catholic bishops with approval from Pope Leo XIII as a graduate research institution. 


  • Originally focused on graduate studies, it added undergraduate programs in 1904. 

  • It is the only university founded by the U.S. Catholic bishops. 

  • Today, it’s classified as a top-tier (R1) research university. 

  • Its campus sits in the Brookland neighborhood, nicknamed “Little Rome” for its concentration of Catholic institutions. 


A cool historical moment: President Grover Cleveland attended the laying of the university’s cornerstone in 1888. 


Fun Facts:


  • Located just 3 miles from the U.S. Capitol, offering unmatched internship opportunities. 

  • Home to or adjacent to over 60 Catholic institutions. 

  • One of the few U.S. universities with ecclesiastical faculties in theology, philosophy, and canon law. 

  • Offers 100+ student organizations, from arts to service groups. 

  • Strong arts scene with performances ranging from Broadway-style shows to opera. 

  • Nearly all faculty hold top degrees, emphasizing serious academic mentorship. 


Traditions & Campus Life:


CUA has a tight-knit campus culture built on tradition and community:


Signature Events


  • Homecoming Week - A full week of school spirit and events

  • Beaux Arts Ball & Mistletoe Ball - Elegant campus dances

  • Mr. CUA Competition - A fun, student-favorite showcase


Faith & Service


  • Campus ministry offers retreats, liturgies, and service opportunities

  • Many students participate in community service and faith-based groups


School Spirit


  • Athletic teams are known as the Cardinals

  • The university has multiple fight songs and alma maters, including “Hail CUA” 


Student Stats & Academics:


  • Total students: ~5,000+ 

  • Undergraduates: ~3,000 

  • Programs: 70+ undergraduate majors, 100+ graduate programs 

  • Student-faculty ratio: ~7:1 

  • Financial aid: ~91% of undergraduates receive aid 

  • Religious identity: ~84% of undergrads identify as Catholic 


Academic Structure


CUA is made up of 12 schools, including:


  • Arts & Sciences

  • Engineering

  • Business

  • Nursing

  • Music, Drama & Art

  • Philosophy & Theology 


The “D.C. Advantage:”


One of the biggest perks of Catholic University is its location in Washington, D.C.:


  • Internships at government agencies, nonprofits, and media outlets

  • Access to world-class museums and cultural institutions

  • Networking opportunities in politics, arts, and global organizations


Students are drawn to Catholic University for its combination of a liberal arts foundation, amazing opportunities in the D.C. area, and its close-knit, welcoming community. If this sounds like a good fit for you, I encourage you to visit the gorgeous campus and take a tour. Check out the website at https://www.catholic.edu/.


 
 
 

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