Catholic School CompassTrue north for Catholic families.
DeSales University: Gambet Center for Business and Healthcare at DeSales University
Photo: Bradley Barnhorst, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons.

Catholic college

DeSales University

  • LocationCenter Valley, PA
  • Type and sizePrivate nonprofit · 4-year · 2,919 students
  • SponsorOblates of St. Francis de Sales
Official website

DeSales University in Center Valley, Pennsylvania, was established by the Oblates of St. Francis de Sales. Campus Ministry lists Mass in Connelly Chapel every weekday and twice on Sundays, confession on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, and Eucharistic adoration on the first Wednesday of each month; an Oblate priest serves as University Chaplain. The Connections Curriculum required of all students includes Introduction to Theology, Philosophical Thinking, and a Catholicism in Dialogue requirement, and the university offers a theology major.

Mass, confession, and adoration

Confirm with the parish

Mass 4

  • Monday, Wednesday, Friday12:00 PMConnelly Chapel · No activities during winter break.
  • Tuesday, Thursday5:00 PMConnelly Chapel · No activities during winter break.
  • Sunday10:30 AMConnelly Chapel
  • Sunday5:00 PMConnelly Chapel

Confession 2

  • Tuesday10:00 AMSacristy behind Connelly Chapel
  • Wednesday3:00 PMSacristy behind Connelly Chapel

Adoration 1

  • Wednesday6:00 PMConnelly Chapel · First Wednesday of each month only.

Times come only from official parish, chaplaincy, or school pages, and can change with the season. Last verified Oct. 8, 2026.

Sources for these times (1)
  1. Campus Ministry & Spiritual Life | DeSales Universitydesales.edu/student-life/campus-ministry · verified Oct. 8, 2026
    “Daily Mass at Connelly Chapel: Monday, Wednesday, Friday at noon Tuesday, Thursday at 5:00pm Sunday Mass in Connelly Chapel: 10:30am and 5:00pm”
    Mass is celebrated in Connelly Chapel every weekday (noon or 5 PM) and Sundays at 10:30 AM and 5:00 PM.
    “Daily Mass at Connelly Chapel: Monday, Wednesday, Friday at noon Tuesday, Thursday at 5:00pm Sunday Mass in Connelly Chapel: 10:30am and 5:00pm”
    Mass is celebrated in Connelly Chapel every weekday (noon or 5 PM) and Sundays at 10:30 AM and 5:00 PM.
    “Daily Mass at Connelly Chapel: Monday, Wednesday, Friday at noon Tuesday, Thursday at 5:00pm Sunday Mass in Connelly Chapel: 10:30am and 5:00pm”
    Mass is celebrated in Connelly Chapel every weekday (noon or 5 PM) and Sundays at 10:30 AM and 5:00 PM.
    “Daily Mass at Connelly Chapel: Monday, Wednesday, Friday at noon Tuesday, Thursday at 5:00pm Sunday Mass in Connelly Chapel: 10:30am and 5:00pm”
    Mass is celebrated in Connelly Chapel every weekday (noon or 5 PM) and Sundays at 10:30 AM and 5:00 PM.
    “Weekly Confession Times: Tuesdays at 10am & Wednesdays at 3pm in the Sacristy behind Connelly Chapel”
    Confession is scheduled twice a week, Tuesdays at 10 AM and Wednesdays at 3 PM.
    “Weekly Confession Times: Tuesdays at 10am & Wednesdays at 3pm in the Sacristy behind Connelly Chapel”
    Confession is scheduled twice a week, Tuesdays at 10 AM and Wednesdays at 3 PM.
    “Monthly Eucharistic Adoration: First Wednesday of each month 6:00pm in Connelly Chapel”
    Eucharistic adoration is held on the first Wednesday of each month at 6 PM.

Catholic churches nearby

Map of DeSales University, its Catholic center and nearby Catholic churches1 mi2 mi3 miAssumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Church: 2.4 mi1Campus Ministry (Connelly Chapel): 0.1 miDeSales University (campus)N1 mi
CampusCatholic centerCatholic church (numbered below)Open a street map ›
  1. Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Church — 2.4 mi · 4101 Old Bethlehem Pike, Bethlehem

Within 3 miles, as mapped by OpenStreetMap contributors. The map may be incomplete. Confirm with the parish or diocese.

Faith scorecard

Each line is one thing we looked for. A check means yes, a half means partly, a dash means no. “Not enough information” means official sources did not say.

BSacramental life: Good (grade B): 70 to 100 points out of 100 on what official sources document. Grades need sources for at least 60% of the checklist.

Sacramental life

77 of 100 points on what we could document.

  • Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Weekday Mass on campus during the academic yearEvery weekday (5 or more weekdays) (Mass in Connelly Chapel Monday, Wednesday, Friday at noon and Tuesday, Thursday at 5:00 PM.)
    Sources (1)
    1. Campus Ministry & Spiritual Life | DeSales Universitydesales.edu/student-life/campus-ministry · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Daily Mass at Connelly Chapel: Monday, Wednesday, Friday at noon Tuesday, Thursday at 5:00pm Sunday Mass in Connelly Chapel: 10:30am and 5:00pm”
      Mass is celebrated in Connelly Chapel every weekday (noon or 5 PM) and Sundays at 10:30 AM and 5:00 PM.
  • Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Sunday Mass on campus (including Saturday vigil)Two or more weekend Masses (Sunday Mass at 10:30 AM and 5:00 PM in Connelly Chapel.)
    Sources (1)
    1. Campus Ministry & Spiritual Life | DeSales Universitydesales.edu/student-life/campus-ministry · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Daily Mass at Connelly Chapel: Monday, Wednesday, Friday at noon Tuesday, Thursday at 5:00pm Sunday Mass in Connelly Chapel: 10:30am and 5:00pm”
      Mass is celebrated in Connelly Chapel every weekday (noon or 5 PM) and Sundays at 10:30 AM and 5:00 PM.
  • Partly: the school meets some of this item and earns part of the points.
    Scheduled confession on campusOne or two scheduled times per week (Two scheduled times: Tuesdays 10:00 AM and Wednesdays 3:00 PM (the page also lists 'Sacrament of Reconciliation: Wednesdays at 3pm', the same Wednesday time).)
    Sources (1)
    1. Campus Ministry & Spiritual Life | DeSales Universitydesales.edu/student-life/campus-ministry · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Weekly Confession Times: Tuesdays at 10am & Wednesdays at 3pm in the Sacristy behind Connelly Chapel”
      Confession is scheduled twice a week, Tuesdays at 10 AM and Wednesdays at 3 PM.
  • Partly: the school meets some of this item and earns part of the points.
    Eucharistic adorationOccasional (monthly or seasonal) (Monthly: first Wednesday of each month at 6:00 PM.)
    Sources (1)
    1. Campus Ministry & Spiritual Life | DeSales Universitydesales.edu/student-life/campus-ministry · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Monthly Eucharistic Adoration: First Wednesday of each month 6:00pm in Connelly Chapel”
      Eucharistic adoration is held on the first Wednesday of each month at 6 PM.
  • Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Priests serving studentsAt least one full-time priest chaplain (or a resident community of priests serving campus ministry) (Fr. Daniel Lannen, OSFS, is listed as University Chaplain in Campus Ministry. Oblate priests also serve as president and Vice President for Mission.)
    Sources (2)
    1. Daniel Lannen | DeSales Universitydesales.edu/profiles/daniel-lannen · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Position: University Chaplain Department: Campus Ministry Phone: 610-282-1100, x1393 Office: 117 Dorothy Day”
      Daniel Lannen is the University Chaplain in Campus Ministry, with an office in 117 Dorothy Day.
    2. DeSales Celebrates Its 57th Commencement | DeSales Universitydesales.edu/news/2026/05/57th-commencement-ceremony-2026 · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “referenced previously in the Invocation Prayer by Fr. Daniel Lannen, University chaplain.”
      The University Chaplain, Fr. Daniel Lannen, is a priest (May 2026).
  • Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Chapel open for prayer on campusYes (Daily Mass is celebrated in Connelly Chapel.)
    Sources (1)
    1. Campus Ministry & Spiritual Life | DeSales Universitydesales.edu/student-life/campus-ministry · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Daily Mass at Connelly Chapel: Monday, Wednesday, Friday at noon Tuesday, Thursday at 5:00pm Sunday Mass in Connelly Chapel: 10:30am and 5:00pm”
      Mass is celebrated in Connelly Chapel every weekday (noon or 5 PM) and Sundays at 10:30 AM and 5:00 PM.
  • Partly: the school meets some of this item and earns part of the points.
    Published weekly schedule of Mass, confession, and adoration6 to 11 times a week (10 weekly times documented: 7 Mass, 2 confession, 1 adoration.)Computed from the verified Mass, confession, and adoration times listed on this page (each day a time is offered counts once).
BTheology and core curriculum: Good (grade B): 70 to 100 points out of 100 on what official sources document. Grades need sources for at least 60% of the checklist.

Theology and core curriculum

74 of 100 points on what we could document.

  • Partly: the school meets some of this item and earns part of the points.
    Theology or religious studies courses required of all bachelor's studentsTwo courses (Connections Curriculum (general education for all students): Introduction to Theology (single required course) and the Catholicism in Dialogue integration requirement (several course options).)
    Sources (1)
    1. Connections Curriculum at DeSales Universitydesales.edu/academics/connections-curriculum-at-desales-university · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “DeSales University's Connections Curriculum, the general education program completed by all students alongside the courses in their major.”
      The Connections Curriculum is the general education program required of all students.
      “Each requirement is satisfied by a single course. First-Year Experience Composition & Rhetoric I Composition & Rhetoric II Philosophical Thinking Introduction to Theology”
      Philosophical Thinking and Introduction to Theology are single-course requirements for all students.
      “Each requirement can be satisfied through multiple course options. Lens 1: Stories & Symbols Lens 2: Ethics & The Common Good Lens 3: Policies & Systems Catholicism in Dialogue”
      The integration requirements include Catholicism in Dialogue.
  • Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Required theology includes explicitly Catholic content (Scripture, Catholic tradition, sacraments)At least one required course is explicitly Catholic theology (Every student completes a requirement named Catholicism in Dialogue. Introduction to Theology is taught by a department whose program 'explores Catholic theology'.)
    Sources (2)
    1. Connections Curriculum at DeSales Universitydesales.edu/academics/connections-curriculum-at-desales-university · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Each requirement can be satisfied through multiple course options. Lens 1: Stories & Symbols Lens 2: Ethics & The Common Good Lens 3: Policies & Systems Catholicism in Dialogue”
      The integration requirements include Catholicism in Dialogue.
    2. Bachelor of Arts in Theology | DeSales Universitydesales.edu/programs/undergrad/theology · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “DeSales University's Theology program explores Catholic theology, blending faith and reason while building key executive skills.”
      The university offers a B.A. in Theology; its theology program teaches Catholic theology.
  • Partly: the school meets some of this item and earns part of the points.
    Philosophy courses required of all bachelor's studentsOne course (Philosophical Thinking is a single required course.)
    Sources (1)
    1. Connections Curriculum at DeSales Universitydesales.edu/academics/connections-curriculum-at-desales-university · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Each requirement is satisfied by a single course. First-Year Experience Composition & Rhetoric I Composition & Rhetoric II Philosophical Thinking Introduction to Theology”
      Philosophical Thinking and Introduction to Theology are single-course requirements for all students.
  • Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Core curriculum explicitly draws on the Catholic intellectual traditionYes, stated in the catalog or core description (The Connections Curriculum's 'Fundamental Questions' outcome is informed by Christian humanism in the Salesian tradition and includes Theological Literacy and Catholicism in Dialogue.)
    Sources (1)
    1. Connections Curriculum at DeSales Universitydesales.edu/academics/connections-curriculum-at-desales-university · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Fundamental Questions: Articulate a reasoned perspective on the nature of reality, what it means to be human, and what constitutes a good life, informed by Christian humanism in the Salesian tradition.”
      A core learning outcome is framed by Christian humanism in the Salesian tradition.
      “Each requirement can be satisfied through multiple course options. Lens 1: Stories & Symbols Lens 2: Ethics & The Common Good Lens 3: Policies & Systems Catholicism in Dialogue”
      The integration requirements include Catholicism in Dialogue.
  • Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Theology or religious studies major offeredYes (B.A. in Theology (also a Catholic Studies minor).)
    Sources (1)
    1. Bachelor of Arts in Theology | DeSales Universitydesales.edu/programs/undergrad/theology · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “DeSales University's Theology program explores Catholic theology, blending faith and reason while building key executive skills.”
      The university offers a B.A. in Theology; its theology program teaches Catholic theology.
  • Not enough information: official sources do not document this, so it is left out of the grade rather than counted as a no.
    Publicly affirms Ex Corde Ecclesiae in mission or governance documentsNot enough information: not found in official sources.
BCampus culture and residence life: Good (grade B): 70 to 100 points out of 100 on what official sources document. Grades need sources for at least 60% of the checklist.

Campus culture and residence life

75 of 100 points on what we could document.

  • Partly: the school meets some of this item and earns part of the points.
    Campus ministry staffing (chaplains, ministers, and professional staff)Two to four (2 people: the University Chaplain (Campus Ministry) and the Executive Director of the Center for Faith and Justice, which houses Campus Ministry.)
    Sources (2)
    1. Daniel Lannen | DeSales Universitydesales.edu/profiles/daniel-lannen · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Position: University Chaplain Department: Campus Ministry Phone: 610-282-1100, x1393 Office: 117 Dorothy Day”
      Daniel Lannen is the University Chaplain in Campus Ministry, with an office in 117 Dorothy Day.
    2. Jamie Gerhart | DeSales Universitydesales.edu/profiles/jamie-gerhart · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Position: Executive Director for Community Service and Advocacy and the Center for Faith and Justice / Multicultural Life”
      Jamie Gerhart directs community service and the Center for Faith and Justice, which includes Campus Ministry.
  • Partly: the school meets some of this item and earns part of the points.
    Retreats offered to students each yearOne to three (Campus Ministry lists retreats among its offerings.)
    Sources (1)
    1. Campus Ministry & Spiritual Life | DeSales Universitydesales.edu/student-life/campus-ministry · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Retreats, the liturgical choir, Mass (held every weekday and Sunday evenings), faith sharing groups, RCIA, pastoral counseling and more are all offered through the campus ministry, a proud member of the Catholic Campus Ministry Association (CCMA).”
      Campus Ministry offers retreats, a liturgical choir, faith sharing groups, RCIA, and pastoral counseling.
  • Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Catholic student organizations and faith-formation groupsThree or more (Pro-Life Club, LIFT (Ladies in Faith Together), Men's Group, faith sharing groups, DeSales University Catholic Activists, and the Praise and Worship Music Group for the Sunday 5 PM Mass. DeSales Christian Fellowship (DiscipleMakers) is non-denominational and not counted.)
    Sources (2)
    1. Campus Ministry & Spiritual Life | DeSales Universitydesales.edu/student-life/campus-ministry · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Pro-Life Club: Mondays at 6pm LIFT – Ladies in Faith Together: Wednesdays at 6pm Men’s Group: Wednesdays at 7pm”
      Campus Ministry lists a Pro-Life Club, a women's faith group (LIFT), and a men's group with weekly meeting times.
      “Retreats, the liturgical choir, Mass (held every weekday and Sunday evenings), faith sharing groups, RCIA, pastoral counseling and more are all offered through the campus ministry, a proud member of the Catholic Campus Ministry Association (CCMA).”
      Campus Ministry offers retreats, a liturgical choir, faith sharing groups, RCIA, and pastoral counseling.
    2. List of Groups | Bark (DeSales University)desales.campusgroups.com/club_signup?view=all& · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Our goal is to dispel the stereotype that people of faith do not put their words into action.”
      DeSales University Catholic Activists is a registered student organization focused on service.
      “We are looking for singers and instrumentalists to lead the music worship at the 5:00 p.m. liturgies at Connelly Chapel on Sundays.”
      The Praise and Worship Music Group leads music at the Sunday 5 PM Mass.
  • Partly: the school meets some of this item and earns part of the points.
    Single-sex residence optionsSingle-sex floors or wings only (Halls are co-ed or divided by gender-specific wings (Aviat, Annecy, DeChantal, Donahue); the second floor of Chappuis Hall is female underclassman housing.)
    Sources (1)
    1. Housing at DeSales | DeSales Universitydesales.edu/student-life/housing · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “The second floor provides female underclassmen housing of two-room suites that share a bathroom.”
      The second floor of Chappuis Hall houses female underclassmen.
      “DeChantal is a co-ed upperclassmen residence hall with gender-specific wings and features two-room suites that share a bathroom.”
      Upperclass halls are co-ed with gender-specific wings.
  • Not enough information: official sources do not document this, so it is left out of the grade rather than counted as a no.
    Overnight guest policy in residence hallsNot enough information: not found in official sources.
  • Not enough information: official sources do not document this, so it is left out of the grade rather than counted as a no.
    Faith life in residence halls (hall chaplains, hall Masses, or faith-based living communities)Not enough information: not found in official sources.
  • Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Office or senior officer for mission and Catholic identityYes (Rev. Kevin Nadolski, OSFS, Vice President for Mission (President's Cabinet); an Office of Mission page describes the Catholic, Salesian mission.)
    Sources (2)
    1. President's Cabinet | DeSales Universitydesales.edu/about/leadership/cabinet · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Rev. Kevin Nadolski Chief of Staff; Vice President for Mission; Assistant Professor 610-282-1100, x1580”
      A priest serves as Vice President for Mission on the President's Cabinet.
    2. Office of Mission | DeSales Universitydesales.edu/about/offices/salesian-mission · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “DeSales is a Catholic, Salesian university that inspires transformative learning through the liberal arts and professional studies by energizing students to be who they are and be that well.”
      The Office of Mission presents the university's Catholic, Salesian mission.
BService and Catholic social teaching: Good (grade B): 70 to 100 points out of 100 on what official sources document. Grades need sources for at least 60% of the checklist.

Service and Catholic social teaching

79 of 100 points on what we could document.

  • Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Service or volunteer centerYes (Center for Service and Social Justice (CSSJ).)
    Sources (1)
    1. Center for Service & Social Justice | DeSales Universitydesales.edu/student-life/cssj · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Through the Center for Service and Social Justice (CSSJ), students serve the local, national, and international communities via service projects. It’s here that the mission of DeSales and the philosophy of Christian humanism come alive.”
      The Center for Service and Social Justice organizes student service framed by the university's mission and Christian humanism.
  • Partly: the school meets some of this item and earns part of the points.
    Service-learning or community engagement in the curriculumAvailable (courses or programs) (Service learning programs abroad (Kolkata, Nicaragua, South Africa) through the Office of Global Engagement.)
    Sources (1)
    1. Office of Global Engagement | DeSales Universitydesales.edu/about/offices/global-engagement · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Service learning programs in Kolkata, India; Nicaragua; and South Africa”
      Service learning programs abroad are available.
  • Not enough information: official sources do not document this, so it is left out of the grade rather than counted as a no.
    Catholic social teaching in the curriculum (course, minor, center, or core requirement)Not enough information: not found in official sources.
  • Partly: the school meets some of this item and earns part of the points.
    Pro-life engagement (student pro-life group, support for pregnant and parenting students, or institutional initiatives)One (Pro-Life Club (Mondays at 6 PM).)
    Sources (1)
    1. Campus Ministry & Spiritual Life | DeSales Universitydesales.edu/student-life/campus-ministry · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Pro-Life Club: Mondays at 6pm LIFT – Ladies in Faith Together: Wednesdays at 6pm Men’s Group: Wednesdays at 7pm”
      Campus Ministry lists a Pro-Life Club, a women's faith group (LIFT), and a men's group with weekly meeting times.
  • Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Justice and solidarity programs (immersion trips, poverty, migration, or care-for-creation initiatives)Two or more (Alternative service trips each break (including food security work in Central and South America and service with the Sisters of Charity in Kolkata), Rise Against Hunger, and the EARTH Club's care-for-creation work.)
    Sources (2)
    1. Center for Service & Social Justice | DeSales Universitydesales.edu/student-life/cssj · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Through the Center for Service and Social Justice (CSSJ), students serve the local, national, and international communities via service projects. It’s here that the mission of DeSales and the philosophy of Christian humanism come alive.”
      The Center for Service and Social Justice organizes student service framed by the university's mission and Christian humanism.
      “Alternative Service Experiences: National/Global trips during each break”
      CSSJ runs national and global service trips during each break.
    2. List of Groups | Bark (DeSales University)desales.campusgroups.com/club_signup?view=all& · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “We hope to employ the catholic belief of protecting God’s gifts and creating a clean habitat on campus.”
      The EARTH Club pursues care-for-creation projects framed by Catholic belief.
  • Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Service explicitly rooted in the Catholic mission (run with campus ministry or the mission office, or framed by Catholic social teaching)Yes (CSSJ service is described as where the mission of DeSales and the philosophy of Christian humanism come alive. CSSJ and Campus Ministry share the Center for Faith and Justice.)
    Sources (1)
    1. Center for Service & Social Justice | DeSales Universitydesales.edu/student-life/cssj · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Through the Center for Service and Social Justice (CSSJ), students serve the local, national, and international communities via service projects. It’s here that the mission of DeSales and the philosophy of Christian humanism come alive.”
      The Center for Service and Social Justice organizes student service framed by the university's mission and Christian humanism.

Grades come from the documented indicators under the published rubric. “Not enough information” does not mean the school lacks it.

Strengths

  • Mass is celebrated in Connelly Chapel every weekday and twice on Sundays.
    Sources (1)
    1. Campus Ministry & Spiritual Life | DeSales Universitydesales.edu/student-life/campus-ministry · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Daily Mass at Connelly Chapel: Monday, Wednesday, Friday at noon Tuesday, Thursday at 5:00pm Sunday Mass in Connelly Chapel: 10:30am and 5:00pm”
      Mass is celebrated in Connelly Chapel every weekday (noon or 5 PM) and Sundays at 10:30 AM and 5:00 PM.
  • Confession is scheduled twice a week, and an Oblate priest serves as University Chaplain.
    Sources (3)
    1. Campus Ministry & Spiritual Life | DeSales Universitydesales.edu/student-life/campus-ministry · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Weekly Confession Times: Tuesdays at 10am & Wednesdays at 3pm in the Sacristy behind Connelly Chapel”
      Confession is scheduled twice a week, Tuesdays at 10 AM and Wednesdays at 3 PM.
    2. Daniel Lannen | DeSales Universitydesales.edu/profiles/daniel-lannen · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Position: University Chaplain Department: Campus Ministry Phone: 610-282-1100, x1393 Office: 117 Dorothy Day”
      Daniel Lannen is the University Chaplain in Campus Ministry, with an office in 117 Dorothy Day.
    3. DeSales Celebrates Its 57th Commencement | DeSales Universitydesales.edu/news/2026/05/57th-commencement-ceremony-2026 · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “referenced previously in the Invocation Prayer by Fr. Daniel Lannen, University chaplain.”
      The University Chaplain, Fr. Daniel Lannen, is a priest (May 2026).
  • All students take Introduction to Theology, Philosophical Thinking, and a Catholicism in Dialogue requirement in the Connections Curriculum.
    Sources (1)
    1. Connections Curriculum at DeSales Universitydesales.edu/academics/connections-curriculum-at-desales-university · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “DeSales University's Connections Curriculum, the general education program completed by all students alongside the courses in their major.”
      The Connections Curriculum is the general education program required of all students.
      “Each requirement is satisfied by a single course. First-Year Experience Composition & Rhetoric I Composition & Rhetoric II Philosophical Thinking Introduction to Theology”
      Philosophical Thinking and Introduction to Theology are single-course requirements for all students.
      “Each requirement can be satisfied through multiple course options. Lens 1: Stories & Symbols Lens 2: Ethics & The Common Good Lens 3: Policies & Systems Catholicism in Dialogue”
      The integration requirements include Catholicism in Dialogue.
  • A Vice President for Mission serves on the President's Cabinet, and the Center for Service and Social Justice runs service trips during each break.
    Sources (2)
    1. President's Cabinet | DeSales Universitydesales.edu/about/leadership/cabinet · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Rev. Kevin Nadolski Chief of Staff; Vice President for Mission; Assistant Professor 610-282-1100, x1580”
      A priest serves as Vice President for Mission on the President's Cabinet.
    2. Center for Service & Social Justice | DeSales Universitydesales.edu/student-life/cssj · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Through the Center for Service and Social Justice (CSSJ), students serve the local, national, and international communities via service projects. It’s here that the mission of DeSales and the philosophy of Christian humanism come alive.”
      The Center for Service and Social Justice organizes student service framed by the university's mission and Christian humanism.
      “Alternative Service Experiences: National/Global trips during each break”
      CSSJ runs national and global service trips during each break.

Concerns

  • Eucharistic adoration is scheduled once a month.
    Sources (1)
    1. Campus Ministry & Spiritual Life | DeSales Universitydesales.edu/student-life/campus-ministry · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Monthly Eucharistic Adoration: First Wednesday of each month 6:00pm in Connelly Chapel”
      Eucharistic adoration is held on the first Wednesday of each month at 6 PM.
  • The general education program requires one philosophy course; many Catholic colleges require two or more.
    Sources (1)
    1. Connections Curriculum at DeSales Universitydesales.edu/academics/connections-curriculum-at-desales-university · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Each requirement is satisfied by a single course. First-Year Experience Composition & Rhetoric I Composition & Rhetoric II Philosophical Thinking Introduction to Theology”
      Philosophical Thinking and Introduction to Theology are single-course requirements for all students.
  • Halls are co-ed or divided into gender-specific wings or floors.
    Sources (1)
    1. Housing at DeSales | DeSales Universitydesales.edu/student-life/housing · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “The second floor provides female underclassmen housing of two-room suites that share a bathroom.”
      The second floor of Chappuis Hall houses female underclassmen.
      “DeChantal is a co-ed upperclassmen residence hall with gender-specific wings and features two-room suites that share a bathroom.”
      Upperclass halls are co-ed with gender-specific wings.
  • The directory lists one Campus Ministry staff member, the University Chaplain, alongside the Center for Faith and Justice director.
    Sources (2)
    1. Daniel Lannen | DeSales Universitydesales.edu/profiles/daniel-lannen · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Position: University Chaplain Department: Campus Ministry Phone: 610-282-1100, x1393 Office: 117 Dorothy Day”
      Daniel Lannen is the University Chaplain in Campus Ministry, with an office in 117 Dorothy Day.
    2. Jamie Gerhart | DeSales Universitydesales.edu/profiles/jamie-gerhart · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Position: Executive Director for Community Service and Advocacy and the Center for Faith and Justice / Multicultural Life”
      Jamie Gerhart directs community service and the Center for Faith and Justice, which includes Campus Ministry.

Know something we missed? Suggest a correction.

Campus ministry home

Campus Ministry (Connelly Chapel)

  • Address: Connelly Chapel, 2755 Station Ave, Center Valley, PA 18034
  • Location: On campus
  • Facilities: chapel (Connelly Chapel), chaplain's office (117 Dorothy Day)

View on map ↗

Source: desales.edu, verified Oct. 8, 2026, desales.edu, verified Oct. 8, 2026, desales.edu, verified Oct. 8, 2026

Catholic clubs and student life

11 groups and regular activities · 9 on campus, 2 off campus

Retreats 1

Service 4

  • Alternative Service ExperiencesOff campus
    Each break
    National and global service trips run by the Center for Service and Social Justice.
    desales.edu, desales.edu
  • DeSales University Catholic ActivistsOn campus
    Student organization putting faith into action through service; open to students of any background.
    desales.campusgroups.com
  • Rise Against HungerOn campus
    Student organization raising funds and donations for hunger relief and food packaging events.
    desales.campusgroups.com
  • EARTH ClubOn campus
    Environmental projects on campus framed by the Catholic belief in protecting God's gifts.
    desales.campusgroups.com

Faith formation 3

  • LIFT – Ladies in Faith TogetherOn campus
    Wednesdays 6 PM
    Women's faith group run through Campus Ministry.
    desales.edu
  • Men's GroupOn campus
    Wednesdays 7 PM
    Men's faith group run through Campus Ministry.
    desales.edu
  • Faith sharing groups, RCIA, and liturgical choirOn campus
    Campus Ministry faith sharing groups, RCIA, the liturgical choir, and pastoral counseling.
    desales.edu

Clubs and groups 1

  • Pro-Life ClubOn campus
    Mondays 6 PM
    Pro-life student group listed on the Campus Ministry schedule.
    desales.edu

Liturgy and prayer 2

  • Stations of the CrossOn campus
    Fridays of Lent, 3 PM
    Stations of the Cross in Connelly Chapel.
    desales.edu
  • Praise and Worship Music GroupOn campus
    Sundays, 4 PM rehearsal before the 5 PM Mass
    Student singers and instrumentalists lead music at the Sunday 5 PM Mass.
    desales.campusgroups.com

Everything listed is published by the school, its campus ministry, or the parish. Ask the campus minister what’s happening this semester.

Campus ministry

Sources (5)
  1. Campus Ministry & Spiritual Life | DeSales Universitydesales.edu/student-life/campus-ministry · verified Oct. 8, 2026
    “Daily Mass at Connelly Chapel: Monday, Wednesday, Friday at noon Tuesday, Thursday at 5:00pm Sunday Mass in Connelly Chapel: 10:30am and 5:00pm”
    Mass is celebrated in Connelly Chapel every weekday (noon or 5 PM) and Sundays at 10:30 AM and 5:00 PM.
    “Daily Mass at Connelly Chapel: Monday, Wednesday, Friday at noon Tuesday, Thursday at 5:00pm Sunday Mass in Connelly Chapel: 10:30am and 5:00pm”
    Mass is celebrated in Connelly Chapel every weekday (noon or 5 PM) and Sundays at 10:30 AM and 5:00 PM.
  2. Daniel Lannen | DeSales Universitydesales.edu/profiles/daniel-lannen · verified Oct. 8, 2026
    “Position: University Chaplain Department: Campus Ministry Phone: 610-282-1100, x1393 Office: 117 Dorothy Day”
    Daniel Lannen is the University Chaplain in Campus Ministry, with an office in 117 Dorothy Day.
    “Position: University Chaplain Department: Campus Ministry Phone: 610-282-1100, x1393 Office: 117 Dorothy Day”
    Daniel Lannen is the University Chaplain in Campus Ministry, with an office in 117 Dorothy Day.
  3. History of DeSales | DeSales Universitydesales.edu/about/history · verified Oct. 8, 2026
    “At the request of the Bishop, the Oblates of St. Francis de Sales agreed to assume the responsibility for establishing a liberal arts college to serve this need.”
    The Oblates of St. Francis de Sales established the college at the request of the Bishop of Allentown.
  4. President's Cabinet | DeSales Universitydesales.edu/about/leadership/cabinet · verified Oct. 8, 2026
    “Rev. Kevin Nadolski Chief of Staff; Vice President for Mission; Assistant Professor 610-282-1100, x1580”
    A priest serves as Vice President for Mission on the President's Cabinet.
  5. Location, Parking & Vehicle Registration | DeSales Universitydesales.edu/about/location · verified Oct. 8, 2026
    “2755 Station Ave, Center Valley, PA 18034”
    The main campus is at 2755 Station Ave, Center Valley, PA.

Reach out

Contact details for Fr. Daniel Lannen, OSFS (University Chaplain) and the campus ministry are available to signed-in users.

Sign in Create a free account

We keep campus ministers’ emails behind sign-in to protect them from spam.

My rating and notes

Sign in or create a free account to rate this school privately, keep notes, and save it to your list.

Academic Excellence

BAcademic Excellence: Good (grade B): 70 to 100 points out of 100 on what official sources document. Grades need sources for at least 60% of the checklist.
78 of 100
From federal data, on fixed published scales.

Each measure counts for the share shown.

  • Graduation rate 35% of scoreThis measure counts for 35% of the Academic Excellence score.72%
  • First-year retention 20% of scoreThis measure counts for 20% of the Academic Excellence score.83%
  • Entering students' test scores 15% of scoreThis measure counts for 15% of the Academic Excellence score.SAT 1,186 · ACT 27.5
  • Student-to-faculty ratio 15% of scoreThis measure counts for 15% of the Academic Excellence score.12 to 1
  • Instructional spending per student 15% of scoreThis measure counts for 15% of the Academic Excellence score.$11,727

Bars show points on each measure’s scale. How Academic Excellence is computed.

Source: College Scorecard (College Scorecard, most recent cohorts (data release 06/10/2026))

Cost and value

Federal data, shown separately. Cost, debt, and earnings are never part of any grade.

Undergraduate students
Fall enrollment (IPEDS)
2,149
Total students2,919
Average net price (per year)
After grants and scholarships, for students receiving federal aid
$31,643
Cost of attendance (per year)$62,745
Median federal debt at graduation$25,788
Graduation rate
First-time, full-time students finishing within 150% of normal time
72%
First-year retention83%
Median earnings 10 years after entry$61,295
Admission rate77%
Students receiving Pell grants24%
Admission test scores (middle 50% of admitted students who submitted scores)
Average SAT1186
SAT reading & writing550–640
SAT math540–620
ACT composite27–28
Test policyConsidered but not required

Value index: 51 / 100 (how it’s computed)

Sources: College Scorecard · IPEDS College Navigator · Net price calculator
College Scorecard, most recent cohorts (data release 06/10/2026); IPEDS 2024-25 directory and institutional characteristics; fall 2023 enrollment.

Local Church

Diocese of Allentown

The Most Reverend Alfred A. Schlert, Bishop of Allentown

Formal address: “Your Excellency”

Source: allentowndiocese.org, verified Oct. 7, 2026.

Diocese determined from the county, using the diocese’s county list (Wikipedia). Confirm with the diocese.

About this school’s data

Questions families ask

Is DeSales University a Catholic college?
Yes. DeSales University is a Catholic college in the Diocese of Allentown. Its sponsor is Oblates of St. Francis de Sales.
What is DeSales University’s Compass Score?
77 out of 100 (grade B). It combines faith (75%) and academics (25%), each rated from official sources.
Where is Mass celebrated at DeSales University?
Mass is listed at Connelly Chapel. Days and times are on this page; please confirm with the parish or campus ministry before you go.

Reviews

Personal experiences from signed-in readers. Reviews are moderated automatically and never change a school’s grades.

No reviews yet.

Sign in to write a review.

More in Pennsylvania · Pennsylvania rankings