Catholic Studies Program

Our Program

Some models of the Catholic traditions are Gregor Mendel and Charles Darwin, the discoverers of genetics and evolution, who studied nature as a book of revelation; Michelangelo, one of the greatest artists of all times; and Mother Teresa, whose goodness inspires people across traditions. Since Seattle University is Jesuit Catholic, a number of required courses are already infused with Catholic traditions, so they are counted toward the Minor. Many other courses across the university in different fields can be supplemented and deepened with Catholic traditions to count toward the Minor. The director will help students with this supplement. In addition, various academic and social activities are open to Catholic Studies Minor students, including research, conference, and publication opportunities.

Catholic tradition rests on a vision of the transcendent meaning and value of the human person, and of the earth and its life forms. In Ignatian terms, appropriate to Seattle University's Jesuit identity, the tradition attempts to assist human beings to become who they really are precisely by seeking and seeing The Divine in all things. The Catholic Studies Minor is intended for students in all disciplines of the university.