Catholic School CompassTrue north for Catholic families.
Aerial view of La Roche University
Aerial imagery: U.S. Geological Survey (public domain). USGS

Catholic college

La Roche University

  • LocationPittsburgh, PA
  • Type and sizePrivate nonprofit · 4-year · 2,618 students
  • SponsorSisters of Divine Providence
Official website

La Roche University in Pittsburgh is a Catholic university founded and sponsored by the Congregation of the Sisters of Divine Providence. Providence Campus Ministry, directed by a priest chaplain, lists weekend Masses on Saturday at 4 p.m. and Sunday at 11 a.m. in Magdalen Chapel on campus. The core curriculum has no specific theology or philosophy requirement, while the required La Roche Experience sequence includes a course on justice issues with 20 hours of service-learning.

Mass, confession, and adoration

Confirm with the parish

Mass 2

  • Saturday4:00 PMMagdalen Chapel · Weekend Mass per the Spiritual Programs page (undated).
  • Sunday11:00 AMMagdalen Chapel · Weekend Mass per the Spiritual Programs page (undated).

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. Spiritual Programs | La Roche Universitylaroche.edu/Life_at_LRU/Faith_and_Service/Spiritual_Programs · verified Oct. 8, 2026
    “Weekend Masses are celebrated Saturday at 4 p.m. and Sunday at 11 a.m. in Magdalen Chapel.”
    Weekend Masses are celebrated Saturday at 4 p.m. and Sunday at 11 a.m. in Magdalen Chapel.
    “Weekend Masses are celebrated Saturday at 4 p.m. and Sunday at 11 a.m. in Magdalen Chapel.”
    Weekend Masses are celebrated Saturday at 4 p.m. and Sunday at 11 a.m. in Magdalen Chapel.

Catholic churches nearby

Map of La Roche University, its Catholic center and nearby Catholic churches1 mi2 mi3 miSaint Louise Convent: 0.8 mi1Saint Teresa of Avila Church: 2.4 mi2Sebastian Roman Catholic Church: 2.7 mi3Saint John Neumann Church: 2.9 mi4La Roche University (campus)N2 mi
CampusCatholic church (numbered below)Open a street map ›
  1. Saint Louise Convent — 0.8 mi
  2. Saint Teresa of Avila Church — 2.4 mi
  3. Sebastian Roman Catholic Church — 2.7 mi
  4. Saint John Neumann Church — 2.9 mi

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.

N/ASacramental life: Not enough information. Official sources do not cover enough of this to grade it yet.

Sacramental life

Not enough information: official sources cover less than 60% of this area.

  • Not enough information: official sources do not document this, so it is left out of the grade rather than counted as a no.
    Weekday Mass on campus during the academic yearNot enough information: not found in official sources.
  • Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Sunday Mass on campus (including Saturday vigil)Two or more weekend Masses (Saturday 4 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m. in Magdalen Chapel, which a March 2026 university article places on the University's campus. The Spiritual Programs page is undated (it also mentions virtual Mass); see gaps.)
    Sources (2)
    1. Spiritual Programs | La Roche Universitylaroche.edu/Life_at_LRU/Faith_and_Service/Spiritual_Programs · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Weekend Masses are celebrated Saturday at 4 p.m. and Sunday at 11 a.m. in Magdalen Chapel.”
      Weekend Masses are celebrated Saturday at 4 p.m. and Sunday at 11 a.m. in Magdalen Chapel.
    2. Annual Conference at La Roche University to Explore Migration, Justice and Hope in Pittsburghlaroche.edu/news/annual-conference-at-la-roche-university-to-explore-migration-justice-and-hope-in-pittsburgh · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. in Magdalen Chapel on the University’s campus.”
      Magdalen Chapel is on the University's campus.
  • Not enough information: official sources do not document this, so it is left out of the grade rather than counted as a no.
    Scheduled confession on campusNot 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.
    Eucharistic adorationNot enough information: not found in official sources.
  • 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) (Father Peter Horton is listed as Chaplain and Director of Providence Campus Ministry.)
    Sources (1)
    1. Meet Our Staff | La Roche Universitylaroche.edu/Mission_and_Identity/Providence_Campus_Ministry/Meet_Our_Staff · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Father Peter Horton Chaplain, Director of Providence Campus Ministry (412) 536-1050 peter.horton@laroche.edu Sister Janet Folkl Associate Campus Minister (412) 536-1249 janet.folkl@laroche.edu Thomas Rishel Coordinator of Liturgy and Music thomas.rishel@laroche.edu”
      A priest chaplain directs Providence Campus Ministry with an associate campus minister and a coordinator of liturgy and music.
  • Not enough information: official sources do not document this, so it is left out of the grade rather than counted as a no.
    Chapel open for prayer on campusNot enough information: not found in official sources.
  • Partly: the school meets some of this item and earns part of the points.
    Published weekly schedule of Mass, confession, and adoration1 to 5 times a week (2 weekly times documented: 2 Mass, 0 confession, 0 adoration.)Computed from the verified Mass, confession, and adoration times listed on this page (each day a time is offered counts once).
FTheology and core curriculum: Minimal (grade F): 0 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

0 of 100 points on what we could document.

  • No: the school does not offer this, so it earns no points.
    Theology or religious studies courses required of all bachelor's studentsNone required (The core (for students entering Fall 2020 and later) has no theology or religious studies requirement. Breadth of Knowledge requires study in four of five domains (one fulfilled by the major); the Values and Ethics domain uses religious, philosophical, or ethical texts, and courses in a variety of disciplines can fulfill it.)
    Sources (2)
    1. Core Curriculum | La Roche Universitylaroche.edu/about/leadership/core_curriculum · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Twelve credits are required, including study within four of the following domains. One domain will be fulfilled by the student’s major.”
      Breadth of Knowledge requires study in four of five domains, one fulfilled by the major.
      “Students will reflect on this question through encounters with religious, philosophical, or ethical texts and artifacts.”
      The Values and Ethics domain may be met with religious, philosophical, or ethical study.
    2. Psychology Major Program Guide 2025laroche.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Psychology-Major-Program-Guide-2025.pdf · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Courses in a variety of disciplines can fulfill these requirements.”
      Breadth of Knowledge domains, including Values and Ethics, can be met by courses in a variety of disciplines.
  • No: the school does not offer this, so it earns no points.
    Required theology includes explicitly Catholic content (Scripture, Catholic tradition, sacraments)The requirement can be met with no Catholic theology content (No theology course is required; the Values and Ethics domain can be met with non-theology courses.)
    Sources (2)
    1. Core Curriculum | La Roche Universitylaroche.edu/about/leadership/core_curriculum · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Students will reflect on this question through encounters with religious, philosophical, or ethical texts and artifacts.”
      The Values and Ethics domain may be met with religious, philosophical, or ethical study.
    2. Psychology Major Program Guide 2025laroche.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Psychology-Major-Program-Guide-2025.pdf · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Courses in a variety of disciplines can fulfill these requirements.”
      Breadth of Knowledge domains, including Values and Ethics, can be met by courses in a variety of disciplines.
  • No: the school does not offer this, so it earns no points.
    Philosophy courses required of all bachelor's studentsNone required (No philosophy course is required; philosophy is one option within the Values and Ethics domain.)
    Sources (2)
    1. Core Curriculum | La Roche Universitylaroche.edu/about/leadership/core_curriculum · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Twelve credits are required, including study within four of the following domains. One domain will be fulfilled by the student’s major.”
      Breadth of Knowledge requires study in four of five domains, one fulfilled by the major.
      “Students will reflect on this question through encounters with religious, philosophical, or ethical texts and artifacts.”
      The Values and Ethics domain may be met with religious, philosophical, or ethical study.
    2. Psychology Major Program Guide 2025laroche.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Psychology-Major-Program-Guide-2025.pdf · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Courses in a variety of disciplines can fulfill these requirements.”
      Breadth of Knowledge domains, including Values and Ethics, can be met by courses in a variety of disciplines.
  • No: the school does not offer this, so it earns no points.
    Core curriculum explicitly draws on the Catholic intellectual traditionNo
    Sources (1)
    1. Core Curriculum | La Roche Universitylaroche.edu/about/leadership/core_curriculum · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “La Roche University’s core classes challenge you to develop the habits of mind and spirit necessary for lifelong intellectual, spiritual and cultural growth.”
      The core's stated aims do not name the Catholic intellectual tradition.
      “Twelve credits are required, including study within four of the following domains. One domain will be fulfilled by the student’s major.”
      Breadth of Knowledge requires study in four of five domains, one fulfilled by the major.
  • No: the school does not offer this, so it earns no points.
    Theology or religious studies major offeredNo (The Official Program Guides page (headed 2024-25 but listing 2025 guides) lists majors, minors and certificates with no theology or religious studies program; the course catalog lists RELS and PHIL courses only as electives.)
    Sources (1)
    1. Official Program Guides | La Roche Universitylaroche.edu/Academics/Courses/Course_Catalog/Official_Program_Guides · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Psychology Radiologic Technology Sociology”
      The official list of program guides has no religious studies or theology major (the list moves from Radiologic Technology to Sociology).
  • 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.
N/ACampus culture and residence life: Not enough information. Official sources do not cover enough of this to grade it yet.

Campus culture and residence life

Not enough information: official sources cover less than 60% of this area.

  • 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 (3 listed: the chaplain/director, an associate campus minister, and the coordinator of liturgy and music. The Vice President for Mission and Ministry (e14) is not counted.)
    Sources (1)
    1. Meet Our Staff | La Roche Universitylaroche.edu/Mission_and_Identity/Providence_Campus_Ministry/Meet_Our_Staff · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Father Peter Horton Chaplain, Director of Providence Campus Ministry (412) 536-1050 peter.horton@laroche.edu Sister Janet Folkl Associate Campus Minister (412) 536-1249 janet.folkl@laroche.edu Thomas Rishel Coordinator of Liturgy and Music thomas.rishel@laroche.edu”
      A priest chaplain directs Providence Campus Ministry with an associate campus minister and a coordinator of liturgy and music.
  • Not enough information: official sources do not document this, so it is left out of the grade rather than counted as a no.
    Retreats offered to students each yearNot enough information: not found in official sources.
  • Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Catholic student organizations and faith-formation groupsThree or more (Coffee and Catholicism (discussion group with the chaplain, meeting several times a semester in fall 2026), Journey (RCIA), and liturgical/music ministry. Life Christian Fellowship is non-denominational and the Orthodox Christian Fellowship is not Catholic; neither is counted. The 2026-27 active clubs list includes no Catholic student club.)
    Sources (3)
    1. Providence Campus Ministry | La Roche Universitylaroche.edu/mission_and_identity/providence_campus_ministry · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Coffee and Catholicism Come together with Father Peter Horton and others to ask questions about the Catholic faith. We will share lively discussion and good conversation over coffee and dessert.”
      Coffee and Catholicism is a discussion group on the Catholic faith with the chaplain.
      “For those thinking about confirmation and those interested in joining the Catholic faith, this is a program designed especially for you.”
      Journey (RCIA) prepares students for confirmation or entry into the Catholic Church.
    2. Coffee & Catholicism - La Rochelaroche.edu/events/coffee-catholicism-2 · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Grab a coffee and join us for an informal discussion about the Catholic faith. Questions are encouraged.”
      Coffee & Catholicism met in the Horton Lounge on October 8, 2026.
    3. Spiritual Programs | La Roche Universitylaroche.edu/Life_at_LRU/Faith_and_Service/Spiritual_Programs · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “We invite students to serve as greeters, lectors, Eucharistic ministers and singers or musicians in our music ministry.”
      Students serve as liturgical ministers and in the music ministry.
  • Not enough information: official sources do not document this, so it is left out of the grade rather than counted as a no.
    Single-sex residence optionsNot enough information: not found in official sources.
  • Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Overnight guest policy in residence hallsOvernight guests of the opposite sex not permitted (Housing FAQ: only guests of the same sex may stay overnight, with roommate agreement and registration, for no more than two consecutive nights and not more than once a month.)
    Sources (1)
    1. Frequently Asked Questions | La Roche Universitylaroche.edu/Life_at_LRU/Living_on_Campus/Frequently_Asked_Questions · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Guests of the same sex may be invited to stay overnight, provided the following guidelines are followed.”
      Only same-sex guests may stay overnight in the residence halls.
  • 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 (Division of Mission and Ministry, established to reinforce the University's Catholic identity, led by a Vice President for Mission and Ministry (Sister Elena Almendarez, CDP).)
    Sources (1)
    1. Leadership | La Roche Universitylaroche.edu/About/Leadership · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “To reinforce the University’s Catholic identity, she established the Division of Mission and Ministry”
      A Division of Mission and Ministry was established to reinforce the University's Catholic identity.
      “Sister Elena Almendarez, CDP Vice President for Mission and Ministry”
      The President's Cabinet includes a Vice President for Mission and Ministry.
AService and Catholic social teaching: Strong (grade A): 85 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

100 of 100 points on what we could document.

  • Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Service or volunteer centerYes (Providence Campus Ministry, a staffed office, runs volunteer initiatives each semester, spring break service trips and a Day of Service.)
    Sources (2)
    1. Providence Campus Ministry | La Roche Universitylaroche.edu/mission_and_identity/providence_campus_ministry · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Each semester Providence Campus Ministry offers valuable opportunities for students to serve others, develop leadership skills and understand the needs of marginalized people in our society.”
      Providence Campus Ministry runs service opportunities each semester.
    2. Service Opportunities | La Roche Universitylaroche.edu/Life_at_LRU/Faith_and_Service/Service_Opportunities · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Get involved in meaningful service projects through Providence Campus Ministry throughout the academic year.”
      Providence Campus Ministry organizes service projects throughout the year.
  • Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Service-learning or community engagement in the curriculumRequired of all students (The La Roche Experience is required of traditional students. LRUX 2500 Investigating Social Problems includes 20 hours of service-learning.)
    Sources (2)
    1. Core Curriculum | La Roche Universitylaroche.edu/about/leadership/core_curriculum · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “The second course is a three-credit course that focuses on justice issues viewed through the lens of the University mission, while engaging with the community to plan and execute a service-learning project. Associate degree students, degree-completion students and adult learners are exempt from this requirement.”
      The required La Roche Experience includes a justice-focused service-learning course for traditional students.
    2. INVESTIGATING SOCIAL PROBLEMS - La Rochelaroche.edu/courses/lrux-2500 · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “This class INCLUDES 20 HOURS OF SERVICE-LEARNING TO BE COMPLETED IN ADDITION TO CLASS TIME.”
      LRUX 2500 includes 20 hours of service-learning.
  • Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Catholic social teaching in the curriculum (course, minor, center, or core requirement)Part of the required core (The required La Roche Experience covers the university's Catholic heritage and justice issues 'within the context of theological reflection', and the Catholic Identity page states that all students are exposed to the principles of peace and justice embedded in Catholic social teaching. The Ketteler Center for Peace, Justice, and Inclusion is rooted in Catholic Social Teaching. LRUX course descriptions do not themselves name Catholic social teaching.)
    Sources (3)
    1. Catholic Identity | La Roche Universitylaroche.edu/Mission_and_Identity/Catholic_Identity · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “All students are exposed to the principles of peace and justice embedded in Catholic social teaching, and to service outreach to those in need.”
      All students are exposed to Catholic social teaching's principles of peace and justice.
      “LRX introduces students to the history of the University, our Catholic heritage and our founders, the Sisters of Divine Providence. All of this is taught within the context of theological reflection.”
      The required La Roche Experience covers the university's Catholic heritage within theological reflection.
    2. Core Curriculum | La Roche Universitylaroche.edu/about/leadership/core_curriculum · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “The second course is a three-credit course that focuses on justice issues viewed through the lens of the University mission, while engaging with the community to plan and execute a service-learning project. Associate degree students, degree-completion students and adult learners are exempt from this requirement.”
      The required La Roche Experience includes a justice-focused service-learning course for traditional students.
    3. Ketteler Center for Peace, Justice, and Inclusion | La Roche Universitylaroche.edu/mission_and_identity/ketteler_center_for_peace_justice_and_inclusion · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Rooted in the Christian gospels and Catholic Social Teaching, the Center aims to promote solidarity, empower communities, and create pathways for social change”
      The Ketteler Center for Peace, Justice, and Inclusion is rooted in Catholic Social Teaching.
  • Not enough information: official sources do not document this, so it is left out of the grade rather than counted as a no.
    Pro-life engagement (student pro-life group, support for pregnant and parenting students, or institutional initiatives)Not enough information: not found in official sources.
  • 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 (Spring break service trips, the Providence Food Pantry, the Pacem in Terris Institute for students from war-torn and developing nations, and Laudato Si'-guided sustainability initiatives through the Ketteler Center.)
    Sources (3)
    1. Ketteler Center for Peace, Justice, and Inclusion | La Roche Universitylaroche.edu/mission_and_identity/ketteler_center_for_peace_justice_and_inclusion · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Spring Break Service Trips: Each year students travel to various regions to engage in service projects, putting their education into action and expanding their understanding of global issues.”
      Students take annual spring break service trips.
      “Sustainability and ethical initiatives: Guided by Pope Francis’ Laudato Si, La Roche prioritizes environmental stewardship”
      Sustainability initiatives are guided by Laudato Si'.
    2. Food Pantry | La Roche Universitylaroche.edu/mission_and_identity/ketteler_center_for_peace_justice_and_inclusion/food-pantry · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “The Providence Food Pantry at La Roche University is dedicated to supporting the wellbeing of our campus community by helping address food insecurity.”
      The Providence Food Pantry addresses food insecurity on campus.
    3. Catholic Identity | La Roche Universitylaroche.edu/Mission_and_Identity/Catholic_Identity · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Established in 1993 the Pacem in Terris Institute brings students from war-torn and developing nations to study at La Roche University.”
      The Pacem in Terris Institute brings students from war-torn and developing nations to study at La Roche.
  • 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 (Providence Campus Ministry bases its volunteer offerings on Catholic Social Teaching; the Ketteler Center's service work is rooted in Catholic Social Teaching.)
    Sources (2)
    1. Providence Campus Ministry | La Roche Universitylaroche.edu/mission_and_identity/providence_campus_ministry · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Each semester Providence Campus Ministry offers valuable opportunities for students to serve others, develop leadership skills and understand the needs of marginalized people in our society.”
      Providence Campus Ministry runs service opportunities each semester.
    2. Ketteler Center for Peace, Justice, and Inclusion | La Roche Universitylaroche.edu/mission_and_identity/ketteler_center_for_peace_justice_and_inclusion · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Rooted in the Christian gospels and Catholic Social Teaching, the Center aims to promote solidarity, empower communities, and create pathways for social change”
      The Ketteler Center for Peace, Justice, and Inclusion is rooted in Catholic Social Teaching.

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

Strengths

  • A priest chaplain directs Providence Campus Ministry, with an associate campus minister and a coordinator of liturgy and music.
    Sources (1)
    1. Meet Our Staff | La Roche Universitylaroche.edu/Mission_and_Identity/Providence_Campus_Ministry/Meet_Our_Staff · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Father Peter Horton Chaplain, Director of Providence Campus Ministry (412) 536-1050 peter.horton@laroche.edu Sister Janet Folkl Associate Campus Minister (412) 536-1249 janet.folkl@laroche.edu Thomas Rishel Coordinator of Liturgy and Music thomas.rishel@laroche.edu”
      A priest chaplain directs Providence Campus Ministry with an associate campus minister and a coordinator of liturgy and music.
  • A Vice President for Mission and Ministry leads a division created to reinforce the university's Catholic identity, and the Ketteler Center for Peace, Justice, and Inclusion is rooted in Catholic Social Teaching.
    Sources (2)
    1. Leadership | La Roche Universitylaroche.edu/About/Leadership · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “To reinforce the University’s Catholic identity, she established the Division of Mission and Ministry”
      A Division of Mission and Ministry was established to reinforce the University's Catholic identity.
      “Sister Elena Almendarez, CDP Vice President for Mission and Ministry”
      The President's Cabinet includes a Vice President for Mission and Ministry.
    2. Ketteler Center for Peace, Justice, and Inclusion | La Roche Universitylaroche.edu/mission_and_identity/ketteler_center_for_peace_justice_and_inclusion · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Rooted in the Christian gospels and Catholic Social Teaching, the Center aims to promote solidarity, empower communities, and create pathways for social change”
      The Ketteler Center for Peace, Justice, and Inclusion is rooted in Catholic Social Teaching.
  • Traditional undergraduates complete the La Roche Experience, which covers the university's Catholic heritage and includes a justice-focused course with 20 hours of service-learning.
    Sources (3)
    1. Core Curriculum | La Roche Universitylaroche.edu/about/leadership/core_curriculum · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “The second course is a three-credit course that focuses on justice issues viewed through the lens of the University mission, while engaging with the community to plan and execute a service-learning project. Associate degree students, degree-completion students and adult learners are exempt from this requirement.”
      The required La Roche Experience includes a justice-focused service-learning course for traditional students.
    2. INVESTIGATING SOCIAL PROBLEMS - La Rochelaroche.edu/courses/lrux-2500 · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “This class INCLUDES 20 HOURS OF SERVICE-LEARNING TO BE COMPLETED IN ADDITION TO CLASS TIME.”
      LRUX 2500 includes 20 hours of service-learning.
    3. Catholic Identity | La Roche Universitylaroche.edu/Mission_and_Identity/Catholic_Identity · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “LRX introduces students to the history of the University, our Catholic heritage and our founders, the Sisters of Divine Providence. All of this is taught within the context of theological reflection.”
      The required La Roche Experience covers the university's Catholic heritage within theological reflection.
  • Only guests of the same sex may stay overnight in the residence halls.
    Sources (1)
    1. Frequently Asked Questions | La Roche Universitylaroche.edu/Life_at_LRU/Living_on_Campus/Frequently_Asked_Questions · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Guests of the same sex may be invited to stay overnight, provided the following guidelines are followed.”
      Only same-sex guests may stay overnight in the residence halls.

Concerns

  • The core curriculum does not require a theology or philosophy course; the Values and Ethics domain can be met with courses from a variety of disciplines.
    Sources (2)
    1. Core Curriculum | La Roche Universitylaroche.edu/about/leadership/core_curriculum · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Twelve credits are required, including study within four of the following domains. One domain will be fulfilled by the student’s major.”
      Breadth of Knowledge requires study in four of five domains, one fulfilled by the major.
      “Students will reflect on this question through encounters with religious, philosophical, or ethical texts and artifacts.”
      The Values and Ethics domain may be met with religious, philosophical, or ethical study.
    2. Psychology Major Program Guide 2025laroche.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Psychology-Major-Program-Guide-2025.pdf · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Courses in a variety of disciplines can fulfill these requirements.”
      Breadth of Knowledge domains, including Values and Ethics, can be met by courses in a variety of disciplines.
  • Only weekend Masses are published.
    Sources (1)
    1. Spiritual Programs | La Roche Universitylaroche.edu/Life_at_LRU/Faith_and_Service/Spiritual_Programs · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Weekend Masses are celebrated Saturday at 4 p.m. and Sunday at 11 a.m. in Magdalen Chapel.”
      Weekend Masses are celebrated Saturday at 4 p.m. and Sunday at 11 a.m. in Magdalen Chapel.
  • No theology or religious studies major appears among the official program guides.
    Sources (1)
    1. Official Program Guides | La Roche Universitylaroche.edu/Academics/Courses/Course_Catalog/Official_Program_Guides · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Psychology Radiologic Technology Sociology”
      The official list of program guides has no religious studies or theology major (the list moves from Radiologic Technology to Sociology).
  • The 2026-27 list of active clubs and organizations includes no Catholic or pro-life student club.
    Sources (1)
    1. Activities and Organizations | La Roche Universitylaroche.edu/Life_at_LRU/Activities_and_Organizations · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “La Roche University - Active Clubs and Organizations (2026-2027)”
      The 2026-27 list of active clubs includes no pro-life or Catholic student club.

Know something we missed? Suggest a correction.

Campus ministry home

Providence Campus Ministry

  • Address: 9000 Babcock Boulevard, Pittsburgh, PA 15237
  • Location: On campus
  • Facilities: chapel

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

Catholic clubs and student life

11 groups and regular activities · 8 on campus, 3 off campus

Service 4

  • Campus Ministry volunteer initiativesOff campus
    Service with at-risk children, the elderly and the homeless, neighborhood cleanups, health fairs and food drives, based on Catholic Social Teaching.
    laroche.edu, laroche.edu, laroche.edu
  • Spring Break Service TripsOff campus
    March
    Week-long group service trips to various regions.
    laroche.edu
  • Day of ServiceOff campus
    Annual
    A day of service at Pittsburgh-area nonprofits for the university community.
    laroche.edu
  • Conversation PartnersOn campus
    Volunteers help international students practice English.
    laroche.edu

Faith formation 4

  • Coffee and CatholicismOn campus
    Thursdays 7-8:30 PM on scheduled dates (Oct. 8, Oct. 22, Nov. 19, 2026)
    Informal discussion of the Catholic faith with Father Peter Horton over coffee and dessert in the Horton Lounge.
    laroche.edu, laroche.edu
  • Journey (RCIA)On campus
    Preparation for confirmation and for joining the Catholic Church through learning, prayer and dialogue.
    laroche.edu
  • The Saint John's Bible reflectionOn campus
    Reflection and sharing on biblical texts and illuminations from the university's Saint John's Bible Heritage Edition.
    laroche.edu
  • Common Ground ConversationsOn campus
    Small-group discussions modeled on the Catholic Common Ground Initiative, hosted by the Ketteler Center.
    laroche.edu

Clubs and groups 1

  • Life Christian FellowshipOn campus
    Tuesdays 8 PM, Ryan Room
    Non-denominational Christian fellowship with student-led worship music and discussion.
    laroche.edu

Liturgy and prayer 2

  • Liturgical and music ministryOn campus
    Students serve as greeters, lectors, Eucharistic ministers, singers and musicians at Mass.
    laroche.edu
  • Monthly prayer vigilsOn campus
    Monthly
    Music and reflection on issues of racial justice.
    laroche.edu

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 (6)
  1. Meet Our Staff | La Roche Universitylaroche.edu/Mission_and_Identity/Providence_Campus_Ministry/Meet_Our_Staff · verified Oct. 8, 2026
    “Father Peter Horton Chaplain, Director of Providence Campus Ministry (412) 536-1050 peter.horton@laroche.edu Sister Janet Folkl Associate Campus Minister (412) 536-1249 janet.folkl@laroche.edu Thomas Rishel Coordinator of Liturgy and Music thomas.rishel@laroche.edu”
    A priest chaplain directs Providence Campus Ministry with an associate campus minister and a coordinator of liturgy and music.
    “Father Peter Horton Chaplain, Director of Providence Campus Ministry (412) 536-1050 peter.horton@laroche.edu Sister Janet Folkl Associate Campus Minister (412) 536-1249 janet.folkl@laroche.edu Thomas Rishel Coordinator of Liturgy and Music thomas.rishel@laroche.edu”
    A priest chaplain directs Providence Campus Ministry with an associate campus minister and a coordinator of liturgy and music.
  2. Providence Campus Ministry | La Roche Universitylaroche.edu/mission_and_identity/providence_campus_ministry · verified Oct. 8, 2026
    “Coffee and Catholicism Come together with Father Peter Horton and others to ask questions about the Catholic faith. We will share lively discussion and good conversation over coffee and dessert.”
    Coffee and Catholicism is a discussion group on the Catholic faith with the chaplain.
  3. Ketteler Center for Peace, Justice, and Inclusion | La Roche Universitylaroche.edu/mission_and_identity/ketteler_center_for_peace_justice_and_inclusion · verified Oct. 8, 2026
    “Rooted in the Christian gospels and Catholic Social Teaching, the Center aims to promote solidarity, empower communities, and create pathways for social change”
    The Ketteler Center for Peace, Justice, and Inclusion is rooted in Catholic Social Teaching.
  4. Map, Directions and Parking | La Roche Universitylaroche.edu/About/Map,_Directions_and_Parking · verified Oct. 8, 2026
    “La Roche University 9000 Babcock Boulevard Pittsburgh, PA 15237”
    The university's address is 9000 Babcock Boulevard, Pittsburgh, PA 15237.
  5. Spiritual Programs | La Roche Universitylaroche.edu/Life_at_LRU/Faith_and_Service/Spiritual_Programs · verified Oct. 8, 2026
    “Weekend Masses are celebrated Saturday at 4 p.m. and Sunday at 11 a.m. in Magdalen Chapel.”
    Weekend Masses are celebrated Saturday at 4 p.m. and Sunday at 11 a.m. in Magdalen Chapel.
  6. Annual Conference at La Roche University to Explore Migration, Justice and Hope in Pittsburghlaroche.edu/news/annual-conference-at-la-roche-university-to-explore-migration-justice-and-hope-in-pittsburgh · verified Oct. 8, 2026
    “from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. in Magdalen Chapel on the University’s campus.”
    Magdalen Chapel is on the University's campus.

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Contact details for Father Peter Horton (Chaplain, Director of Providence Campus Ministry) and the campus ministry are available to signed-in users.

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Academic Excellence

CAcademic Excellence: Mixed (grade C): 55 to 100 points out of 100 on what official sources document. Grades need sources for at least 60% of the checklist.
59 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.57%
  • First-year retention 20% of scoreThis measure counts for 20% of the Academic Excellence score.69%
  • Entering students' test scores 15% of scoreThis measure counts for 15% of the Academic Excellence score.SAT 1,055 · ACT 18.5
  • Student-to-faculty ratio 15% of scoreThis measure counts for 15% of the Academic Excellence score.11 to 1
  • Instructional spending per student 15% of scoreThis measure counts for 15% of the Academic Excellence score.$6,881

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)
2,300
Total students2,618
Average net price (per year)
After grants and scholarships, for students receiving federal aid
$20,794
Cost of attendance (per year)$47,111
Median federal debt at graduation$25,000
Graduation rate
First-time, full-time students finishing within 150% of normal time
57%
First-year retention69%
Median earnings 10 years after entry$52,341
Admission rate76%
Students receiving Pell grants10%
Admission test scores (middle 50% of admitted students who submitted scores)
Average SAT1055
SAT reading & writing480–600
SAT math460–600
ACT composite15–22
Test policyConsidered but not required

Value index: 48 / 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 Pittsburgh

The Most Reverend Mark Eckman, Bishop of Pittsburgh

Formal address: “Your Excellency”

Source: usccb.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

  • IPEDS unit ID 213358
  • Carnegie classification: Master's university (small programs)
  • Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (U.S. Department of Education DAPIP)
  • Religious affiliation (IPEDS): Roman Catholic
  • Report an error or a newer source
  • Respond as this school

Questions families ask

Is La Roche University a Catholic college?
Yes. La Roche University is a Catholic college in the Diocese of Pittsburgh. Its sponsor is Sisters of Divine Providence.
Where is Mass celebrated at La Roche University?
Mass is listed at Magdalen Chapel. Days and times are on this page; please confirm with the parish or campus ministry before you go.

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