
The Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C., is the largest college campus in the district, spanning 173 acres. It is also the only U.S. university with an ecclesiastical faculty of canon law and one of the few with faculties of philosophy and sacred theology. The university has a rich history, with its establishment granted by Pope Leo XIII in 1887. Visitors can explore the campus through walking tours, taking in the green surroundings and major buildings. The nation's capital also offers easy access to cultural landmarks, museums, and libraries, providing a wealth of educational and inspirational resources for students and visitors alike.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Campus size | 173 acres |
| Campus location | Washington, D.C. |
| Number of schools | 12 |
| Number of research centers and institutes | 40+ |
| Number of major buildings | 50 |
| Library volumes | 1.4 million |
| Number of undergraduates | 3,139 |
| Number of graduates | 2,032 |
| Number of states represented | 50 |
| Metro Center proximity | 6 stops away |
| Waterfront/Navy Yard-Ballpark proximity | 8-9 stops away |
| Internship/work opportunities | D.C.-based organizations |
| Nearby cultural institutions | Smithsonian Institution, museums, libraries |
| Historical fact | Admitted Black students in 1895, despite segregationist policies |
| Unique programs | Ecclesiastical faculty of canon law, School of Theology and Religious Studies |
| Nearby accommodations | Hampton Inn Convention Center, Embassy Suites Convention Center, Courtyard Convention Center, etc. |
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What You'll Learn

The nation's capital: political, cultural and international resources
Washington, D.C., is a city steeped in history and culture, and is home to a plethora of political, cultural, and international resources. The Catholic University of America, with its 173-acre campus, is the largest and greenest campus in the city. Its location in the nation's capital provides students with unique opportunities to engage with influential organisations and gain access to a wide range of resources.
Political Resources
The proximity to political institutions and organisations in Washington, D.C., allows students at Catholic University to gain valuable political insights and connections. The university's location provides easy access to the Metro, which connects students to various parts of the city and its political centres. Students can intern, network, and attend seminars and conferences, gaining practical experience and a deeper understanding of political science and international relations.
Cultural Resources
Washington, D.C., is a cultural hub, boasting renowned cultural institutions such as the Smithsonian Institution and numerous other museums and libraries. Students at Catholic University can explore these cultural resources, enriching their educational experience and gaining inspiration. The city's diverse cultural offerings provide opportunities for research and reflection, complementing the university's academic programmes.
International Resources
As the nation's capital, Washington, D.C., is home to international organisations and embassies, providing international resources and connections. Students at Catholic University can engage with global issues and gain an international perspective through internships, seminars, and networking opportunities. The university's location facilitates interactions with international organisations and individuals, fostering a global mindset and enhancing students' career prospects.
Historical Significance
Catholic University itself carries historical significance. Despite being founded in a segregated era, the university admitted Black Catholic men as students in the late 19th century, demonstrating an early commitment to racial equality. The university has a long history of working with Catholic organisations, such as the Knights of Columbus, and its ecclesiastical faculty of canon law, philosophy, and sacred theology sets it apart from other U.S. universities.
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Internships and work experience at well-known companies
The Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C., offers its students access to internships in every field imaginable, thanks to its location in the heart of the US capital. The Center for Academic and Career Success helps students prepare for their careers, acquire experience, learn job search skills, and find employment.
The Center for Academic and Career Success assists students in identifying and landing internships that will help them advance their careers. Some of the nation's most well-known companies are just a few miles or Metro stops away from campus. Students have interned at the U.S. Census Bureau, the U.S. Congress, and the U.S. Navy's Carderock Division, to name a few.
The Busch School of Business provides access to internships and job opportunities at Fortune 500 companies, tech start-ups, US government agencies, and international non-governmental organizations (NGOs). Washington, D.C., is a global city where students can access a wide network of contacts and dynamic business development, career opportunities, and cultural engagement.
The university also offers education abroad internships and encourages students to identify opportunities before participating in study abroad programs. Additionally, the office coordinates the Federal Work-Study Program and career fairs, assisting students with identifying careers, creating resumes, cover letters, and networking strategies.
Some specific examples of internships available to students include those at Consigli, an employee-owned construction company with a robust internship program, and the Night Vision and Electronic Sensors Directorate, located within Fort Belvoir, which offers opportunities for mechanical and electrical engineering and computer science graduates.
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History of racial integration
The Catholic University of America (CUA) in Washington, D.C., is the only institution of higher education founded by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops. It was established in 1887 as a graduate and research centre, following approval by Pope Leo XIII, who also gave his support for the university in 1882.
The history of racial integration at CUA can be divided into several periods. During the university's founding in 1887 until 1914, there was no policy of overt discrimination against African Americans. In fact, in 1896, William Tecumseh Sherman Jackson became the first African American to earn a Bachelor of Social Science from the university.
However, from 1914 to 1936, a policy of discrimination against African Americans was implemented, influenced by the resegregation of the federal government under President Woodrow Wilson. This period also saw anti-Black riots in Washington, D.C., which further entrenched discrimination at the university. Despite this, some African Americans were still admitted to the university during this time, including two African American religious sisters who graduated from the Catholic Sisters College in 1934.
The third period, from 1936 to the 1950s, saw the efforts of individuals like administrator and Professor Roy DeFerrari, as well as protests by local and national Black civil rights groups, lead to the admission of African Americans to the university's educational programs. By 1939, 40 Black students were enrolled, although discrimination persisted in extracurricular activities, dining halls, and dorms until the mid-1940s.
Today, CUA is committed to welcoming students from all faiths and backgrounds, offering a unique experience among universities in the United States, even among other Catholic universities. The university also recognizes the need to improve access to Catholic higher education for Hispanic students, who make up a significant portion of the Catholic population in the United States.
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Ecclesiastical faculty of canon law
The Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C., stands out as the only university in the United States with an ecclesiastical faculty of canon law. This unique distinction is one of many attractions for prospective students considering a degree in Canon Law.
The School of Canon Law, as it is commonly known, offers a graduate program with ecclesiastical, civil, and dual degree options. This includes the Licentiate of Canon Law and the Doctor of Canon Law as ecclesiastical degrees. Notably, the School of Canon Law is the only graduate program in the U.S. dedicated to this field of study.
Students pursuing a degree in Canon Law at Catholic University gain access to a wealth of knowledge and resources. The small size of the school fosters close bonds between students and renowned faculty members, ensuring a holistic understanding of Canon Law's practical and theoretical aspects. Professors leverage the endless resources of Washington, D.C., as a hub of research, enriching the academic experience.
The location of the School of Canon Law within the nation's capital is strategic. Students benefit from proximity to influential organisations and landmarks, including the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops and The Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception. This provides invaluable opportunities for internships, networking, and gaining practical experience in implementing Canon Law within dioceses.
A degree in Canon Law from Catholic University prepares graduates for a crucial role in supporting the Catholic Church. With ecclesiastical degrees authorised by the Vatican, graduates are equipped to serve God and the Church, filling the global need for well-trained canonists. The School of Canon Law's focus on matrimonial tribunal practice further equips clergy, religious, and laity with specialised knowledge.
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Campus attractions and tours
The Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C., is the largest college campus in the city, spanning 173 acres. It is also the greenest campus in the district. The university offers walking tours of its campus, where prospective students can get their questions answered.
The university is closely connected with the Catholic Church and Catholic organisations. It is the only university in the U.S. with an ecclesiastical faculty of canon law, established by the Holy See in 1923. The School of Theology and Religious Studies is a member of the Washington Theological Consortium. The Theological College, the university seminary, prepares men for the priesthood.
The university's history is steeped in racial equality. Despite being founded in a segregated city, it admitted Black Catholic men as students in 1895. At the time, only Howard University, founded for African-American education after the Civil War, did the same.
The university is also home to 50 major buildings, 40+ research centres and institutes, and 1.4 million library volumes.
The campus is conveniently located near several D.C. attractions, including the Metro Centre, the National baseball stadium, and the Audi soccer stadium. The nation's capital also offers access to political, cultural, and international resources, as well as internships, networking opportunities, and seminars.
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Frequently asked questions
Catholic University in Washington, DC, is the largest college campus in the city, with 173 acres of green space. The campus has over 50 major buildings, 1.4 million library volumes, and 40+ research centres and institutes to explore.
Catholic University is the only university in the US with an ecclesiastical faculty of canon law. It is also one of the few US universities with ecclesiastical faculties of philosophy and sacred theology. The university has a long history of working with the Knights of Columbus, and its law school is dedicated to their involvement and support.
The university is located near several attractions, including the Nationals baseball stadium and Audi soccer stadium, which are 8-9 metro stops away. The Smithsonian Institution and numerous other cultural and educational museums and libraries are also nearby.
Catholic University was established in 1887 when Pope Leo XIII sent a letter granting permission to create the university. It officially opened its doors on November 13, 1889, with a curriculum focused on mental and moral philosophy, English literature, sacred scriptures, and theology. The university has a history of admitting Black students since its founding in the segregated city of Washington, DC, though this policy was reversed in 1914.
Yes, the university offers walking tours of its campus, where you can learn more about the university and its programmes. Virtual tours are also available.




































