Overview of Catholic University of America
The Catholic University of America (CUA), located in Washington, D.C., is the national university of the Catholic Church in the United States. Established in 1887 by Pope Leo XIII and the U.S. Catholic bishops, CUA is known for its commitment to Catholic intellectual tradition, rigorous academics, and its central role in advancing the intersection of faith and reason. The university offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs across various disciplines.
Academic Excellence: CUA is dedicated to providing a high-quality education that integrates faith and reason. The university offers programs through 12 schools and 21 research centers, covering fields such as arts and sciences, architecture and planning, business, engineering, music, law, social work, theology and religious studies, and more. The curriculum is designed to promote critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and a strong foundation in Catholic intellectual tradition.
Catholic Identity: As the national university of the Catholic Church in the U.S., CUA places a strong emphasis on its Catholic identity. The university is guided by Catholic principles and values, fostering an environment that encourages the integration of faith and reason. Campus life is enriched with liturgical celebrations, spiritual retreats, and opportunities for students to engage in community service and social justice initiatives.
Theology and Religious Studies: CUA is renowned for its School of Theology and Religious Studies, which plays a central role in the university’s mission. The school offers undergraduate and graduate programs that explore Catholic theology, biblical studies, religious education, and pastoral ministry. CUA’s commitment to theological education contributes to the formation of future religious leaders and scholars.
Law School: The Columbus School of Law at CUA has a distinguished history and is recognized for its commitment to legal education based on moral and ethical principles. The law school offers Juris Doctor (JD) programs, as well as advanced degrees in law. Students benefit from a strong emphasis on legal ethics, service to others, and a commitment to justice.
Architecture and Planning: CUA’s School of Architecture and Planning is known for its comprehensive programs in architecture, city and regional planning, and sustainable design. The school integrates a focus on beauty and ethics in design, aligning with the Catholic tradition’s appreciation for the arts and the importance of responsible stewardship of the environment.
Music and the Arts: The Benjamin T. Rome School of Music, Drama, and Art is dedicated to fostering creativity and artistic expression. CUA offers programs in music, drama, art, and other related fields. The university’s commitment to the arts contributes to a vibrant cultural atmosphere on campus.
Science and Engineering: The School of Engineering at CUA provides programs in biomedical engineering, civil engineering, electrical engineering, and mechanical engineering. The university’s emphasis on science and engineering education aligns with the Catholic intellectual tradition’s appreciation for the pursuit of knowledge and understanding in the natural sciences.
Global Perspectives: While rooted in its Catholic identity, CUA recognizes the importance of global perspectives. The university encourages students to engage in study abroad programs, international research, and cross-cultural experiences. This global engagement aligns with the Catholic Church’s commitment to solidarity and a universal perspective on human dignity.
Campus Ministry and Service: CUA’s commitment to service and social justice is reflected in its vibrant campus ministry and community service programs. Students have opportunities to participate in service trips, engage in volunteer work, and connect their faith with action to make a positive impact on the community.
Ethical Leadership: CUA aims to instill in its students a commitment to ethical leadership. The university emphasizes the development of character, moral discernment, and a sense of responsibility to contribute to the common good. CUA graduates are encouraged to apply their education and values to lead with integrity in their respective fields.
Alumni Success: CUA has a notable alumni community that includes leaders in various fields, including law, politics, academia, the arts, and religious institutions. The university’s emphasis on intellectual and moral formation contributes to the success and impact of its alumni.
The Catholic University of America stands as a prominent institution that integrates academic excellence with Catholic values. The university’s commitment to the Catholic intellectual tradition, ethical leadership, and a well-rounded education prepares students to navigate the complexities of the modern world with a strong foundation in faith, reason, and service to others. CUA continues to play a significant role in shaping individuals who contribute to the Church, society, and the pursuit of knowledge.
620 Michigan Avenue NE Washington, DC 20064
Phone: (800) 673-2772
Email: cua-admissions@cua.edu
Web site: http://www.cua.edu
Rankings: Catholic University of America
Located in Washington, DC, Catholic University of America is one of the best universities in the state of Washington DC. On this page, you will find in-depth rankings for Catholic University of America in the following areas: graduation rates, teaching resources, financing opportunities, and alumni donations. Latest acceptance rate is also given to show how competitive is Catholic University of America.
| Rankings, Ratings, and Admissions Statistics | |
| Overall Ranking: | 121 |
| Score: | 35 |
| Peer college rating (out of 5) | 2.8 |
| Graduation and retention ranking: | 92 |
| Average freshman retention rate: | 81.2% |
| 6-year graduation rate: | 71.0% |
| Predicted graduation rate: | 72% |
| Overperformance(+)/Underperformance(-): | -1 |
| Faculty resources ranking: | 132 |
| Classes with under 20 students (2020): | 52.8% |
| Classes with 50 or more students (2020): | 7.1% |
| Student faculty ratio (2020): | 11:1 |
| Percent of faculty who are full-time (2020) | 75.6% |
| Student selectivity ranking: | 163 |
| SAT/ACT 25th-75th percentile (2020) | 1010-1220 |
| 2020 Freshmen in top 10 percent of high school class: | 24% |
| Freshmen in top 25 percent of high school class (2020): | 50% |
| Fall 2020 Acceptance rate: | 81.1% |
| Financial resources rank: | 102 |
| Alumni giving rank: | 178 |
| Average alumni giving rate (2020): | 8.5% |
Essential Facts: Catholic University of America
- The Catholic University of America is in a vibrant international metropolis that offers everything.
- The Catholic University of America is unique as the national university of the Catholic Church and as the only higher education institution founded by the U.S. bishops.
- Catholic University is the only American university with ecclesiastical faculties and granting canonical degrees in theology, philosophy, and canon law.
Rules and regulations Sports Activities
| General Information | |
| Percent of undergraduate students who live in college-owned, operated, or affiliated housing: | 68% |
| Percent of undergraduates who are members of a fraternity: | 1% |
| Percent of student body who are members of a sorority: | 0% |
| Average percentage of students on campus during weekends: | N/A |
| Are all students permitted to have cars on campus? | No |
| Percent of students who have cars on campus: | N/A |
| Is alcohol permitted on campus for students of legal age? | Yes |
| Additional policies and regulations: | class attendance mandatory, class attendance policies set by individual instructors, honor code, hazing prohibited |
| Collegiate athletic association: | NCAA III |
| Men’s scholarship sports: | N/A |
| Women’s scholarship sports: | N/A |
| Student activities: | campus ministries, choral groups, dance, drama/theater, international student organization, jazz band, literary magazine, music ensembles, musical theater, opera, radio station, student government, student newspaper, student film society, symphony orchestra, yearbook |