The Catholic University of America (CUA) is a private, Catholic research university located in Washington, D.C. Established in 1887, it is the national university of the Catholic Church in the United States and is the only higher education institution founded by the U.S. Catholic bishops. Here are some key aspects of The Catholic University of America:
1. History: CUA was founded by Pope Leo XIII and the U.S. Catholic bishops, with the aim of creating a Catholic institution dedicated to research and education in the United States. The university officially opened in 1889, offering graduate degrees, and began offering undergraduate programs in 1904.
2. Campus: The main campus of The Catholic University of America is located in the Brookland neighborhood of Washington, D.C., covering 176 acres. The campus features a mix of historic and modern buildings, including academic facilities, residence halls, and research centers.
3. Academics: CUA offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional degree programs through its various schools and colleges. These include the School of Theology and Religious Studies, the School of Philosophy, the School of Arts and Sciences, the School of Engineering, the School of Music, Drama, and Art, the Benjamin T. Rome School of Music, the School of Nursing, the School of Architecture and Planning, the National Catholic School of Social Service, the Columbus School of Law, and the Metropolitan School of Professional Studies.
4. Faculty: The Catholic University of America has a dedicated faculty committed to teaching, research, and mentorship. The university has a relatively low student-to-faculty ratio, allowing for personalized attention and support for students.
5. Research: CUA is a research-intensive institution, with a focus on interdisciplinary collaboration and addressing contemporary issues from a Catholic perspective. The university is home to various research centers and institutes, such as the Institute for Policy Research & Catholic Studies, the Vitreous State Laboratory, and the Center for the Study of Early Christianity.
6. Student Life: CUA has a diverse and engaged student body, with over 100 student clubs and organizations catering to various interests, including academic, cultural, social, and community service groups. The university also offers a range of support services, such as academic advising, career counseling, and tutoring.
7. Athletics: The Catholic University of America's athletic teams, known as the Cardinals, compete in the NCAA Division III as part of the Landmark Conference. The university offers a variety of sports for both men and women, including basketball, soccer, lacrosse, and swimming and diving, among others.
8. Financial Aid: CUA is committed to making education accessible to students from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds. The university offers need-based financial aid packages, which may include grants, loans, and work-study opportunities. Merit-based scholarships are also available for eligible students.
9. Notable Alumni: The Catholic University of America has produced many notable graduates who have made significant contributions to various fields. Some distinguished alumni include Emmy Award-winning actress Susan Sarandon, former Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives John Boehner, and Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Jon Robin Baitz.
10. Rankings: The Catholic University of America consistently ranks well in various college ranking publications, such as U.S. News & World Report, Forbes, and The Princeton Review. The university is recognized for its strong programs in theology, philosophy, and the arts, as well as its commitment to the Catholic intellectual tradition and research.
