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Saint Joseph's University - Philadelphia: Barbelin tower
Photo: Brian O'Neill, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons.

Catholic college

Saint Joseph's University - Philadelphia

  • LocationPhiladelphia, PA
  • Type and sizePrivate nonprofit · 4-year · 7,201 students
  • TraditionJesuit
Official website
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Saint Joseph's University is a Jesuit, Catholic university in Philadelphia. When classes are in session, Mass is celebrated in the Chapel of Saint Joseph on the Hawk Hill campus every weekday and three times on Sundays, with weekly Eucharistic adoration and confession on Wednesdays and Sundays. The General Education Program requires a Signature Theology course on Faith, Justice and the Catholic Tradition, a Religious Difference theology course, and two philosophy courses.

Mass, confession, and adoration

Confirm with the parish

Mass 4

  • Monday–Friday12:20 PMChapel of Saint Joseph, Hawk Hill campus · When classes are in session.
  • Sunday11:00 AMChapel of Saint Joseph, Hawk Hill campus · Year-round.
  • Sunday5:00 PMChapel of Saint Joseph, Hawk Hill campus · When classes are in session.
  • Sunday7:00 PMChapel of Saint Joseph, Hawk Hill campus · When classes are in session.

Confession 2

  • Wednesday8:45 PM–9:15 PMChapel of Saint Joseph, Hawk Hill campus · During the semester, during Wednesday adoration.
  • Sunday8:00 PM–9:00 PMChapel of Saint Joseph, Hawk Hill campus

Adoration 1

  • Wednesday8:30 PM–9:30 PMChapel of Saint Joseph, Hawk Hill campus · During the semester. Adoration and Benediction with praise music or silent prayer.

Times come only from official parish, chaplaincy, or school pages, and can change with the season. Last verified Oct. 7, 2026.

Sources for these times (1)
  1. Faith & Spirituality | Saint Joseph's Universitysju.edu/campus-ministry/faith-spirituality · verified Oct. 7, 2026
    “Hawk Hill Campus-Chapel of Saint Joseph Sundays: 11AM year round 5:00PM & 7:00PM when classes are in session Weekdays: 12:20PM M-F when classes are in session”
    Mass is celebrated in the Chapel of Saint Joseph every weekday and three times on Sundays when classes are in session.
    “Hawk Hill Campus-Chapel of Saint Joseph Sundays: 11AM year round 5:00PM & 7:00PM when classes are in session Weekdays: 12:20PM M-F when classes are in session”
    Mass is celebrated in the Chapel of Saint Joseph every weekday and three times on Sundays when classes are in session.
    “Hawk Hill Campus-Chapel of Saint Joseph Sundays: 11AM year round 5:00PM & 7:00PM when classes are in session Weekdays: 12:20PM M-F when classes are in session”
    Mass is celebrated in the Chapel of Saint Joseph every weekday and three times on Sundays when classes are in session.
    “Hawk Hill Campus-Chapel of Saint Joseph Sundays: 11AM year round 5:00PM & 7:00PM when classes are in session Weekdays: 12:20PM M-F when classes are in session”
    Mass is celebrated in the Chapel of Saint Joseph every weekday and three times on Sundays when classes are in session.
    “Sacrament of Reconciliation/Confession Wednesdays 8:45PM-9:15PM Sundays: 8:00PM-9:00PM”
    Confession is scheduled on Wednesday and Sunday evenings.
    “Sacrament of Reconciliation/Confession Wednesdays 8:45PM-9:15PM Sundays: 8:00PM-9:00PM”
    Confession is scheduled on Wednesday and Sunday evenings.
    “During the Semester on Wednesday Evenings, our campus community gathers in front of the Blessed Sacrament for a time of Adoration. From 8:30PM-9:30PM, join us in the chapel for traditional Adoration and Benediction”
    Eucharistic adoration is held weekly on Wednesday evenings in the chapel during the semester.

Catholic churches nearby

Map of Saint Joseph's University - Philadelphia, its Catholic center and nearby Catholic churches1 mi2 mi3 miChapel of St. Joseph: 0.1 mi1Saint Barbara's Roman Catholic Church: 0.6 mi2Saint Matthias Church: 0.7 mi3Our Lady of Lourdes Church: 0.8 mi4St. Margaret of Antioch Church: 1.5 mi5Saint Callistus Roman Catholic Church: 1.6 mi6Saint Joseph's University - Philadelphia (campus)N1 mi
CampusCatholic church (numbered below)Open a street map ›
  1. Chapel of St. Joseph — 0.1 mi
  2. Saint Barbara's Roman Catholic Church — 0.6 mi
  3. Saint Matthias Church — 0.7 mi · 128 Bryn Mawr Avenue, Bala Cynwyd
  4. Our Lady of Lourdes Church — 0.8 mi · 6315 Lancaster Avenue, Philadelphia
  5. St. Margaret of Antioch Church — 1.5 mi · 208 North Narberth Avenue, Narberth
  6. Saint Callistus Roman Catholic Church — 1.6 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.

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

82 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) (12:20 PM Monday-Friday in the Chapel of Saint Joseph when classes are in session.)
    Sources (1)
    1. Faith & Spirituality | Saint Joseph's Universitysju.edu/campus-ministry/faith-spirituality · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Hawk Hill Campus-Chapel of Saint Joseph Sundays: 11AM year round 5:00PM & 7:00PM when classes are in session Weekdays: 12:20PM M-F when classes are in session”
      Mass is celebrated in the Chapel of Saint Joseph every weekday and three times on Sundays when classes are in session.
  • Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Sunday Mass on campus (including Saturday vigil)Two or more weekend Masses (Sunday 11 AM year-round, plus 5 PM and 7 PM when classes are in session, in the Chapel of Saint Joseph. University City campus students are directed to St. Francis DeSales Church, a parish off campus.)
    Sources (1)
    1. Faith & Spirituality | Saint Joseph's Universitysju.edu/campus-ministry/faith-spirituality · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Hawk Hill Campus-Chapel of Saint Joseph Sundays: 11AM year round 5:00PM & 7:00PM when classes are in session Weekdays: 12:20PM M-F when classes are in session”
      Mass is celebrated in the Chapel of Saint Joseph every weekday and three times on Sundays when classes are in session.
  • Partly: the school meets some of this item and earns part of the points.
    Scheduled confession on campusOne or two scheduled times per week (Wednesdays 8:45-9:15 PM (during Wednesday adoration) and Sundays 8-9 PM.)
    Sources (1)
    1. Faith & Spirituality | Saint Joseph's Universitysju.edu/campus-ministry/faith-spirituality · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Sacrament of Reconciliation/Confession Wednesdays 8:45PM-9:15PM Sundays: 8:00PM-9:00PM”
      Confession is scheduled on Wednesday and Sunday evenings.
      “During the Semester on Wednesday Evenings, our campus community gathers in front of the Blessed Sacrament for a time of Adoration. From 8:30PM-9:30PM, join us in the chapel for traditional Adoration and Benediction”
      Eucharistic adoration is held weekly on Wednesday evenings in the chapel during the semester.
  • Partly: the school meets some of this item and earns part of the points.
    Eucharistic adorationWeekly scheduled adoration (Wednesday evenings 8:30-9:30 PM in the chapel during the semester.)
    Sources (1)
    1. Faith & Spirituality | Saint Joseph's Universitysju.edu/campus-ministry/faith-spirituality · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “During the Semester on Wednesday Evenings, our campus community gathers in front of the Blessed Sacrament for a time of Adoration. From 8:30PM-9:30PM, join us in the chapel for traditional Adoration and Benediction”
      Eucharistic adoration is held weekly on Wednesday evenings in the chapel during the semester.
  • 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 Joyce, S.J., Vice President for Mission and Ministry, is Campus Ministry's contact for OCIA and Confirmation and for spiritual direction and records a weekly Sunday homily; prayer intentions are remembered at Mass by a member of the Jesuit community.)
    Sources (2)
    1. Contact Office of Mission | Saint Joseph's Universitysju.edu/offices/mission/about-us · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Dan Joyce Vice President for Mission and Ministry”
      Fr. Dan Joyce is Vice President for Mission and Ministry.
    2. Faith & Spirituality | Saint Joseph's Universitysju.edu/campus-ministry/faith-spirituality · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “The program runs throughout the fall and spring semesters with the reception of the sacrament taking place on the Saturday after Easter. For more information, please contact Fr. Dan Joyce, SJ at djoyce@sju.edu.”
      Fr. Dan Joyce, SJ, is the contact for Confirmation and OCIA preparation.
      “Each Week Father Daniel Joyce, S.J., our Vice President of Mission, records a Sunday Homily”
      Fr. Daniel Joyce, S.J., records a weekly Sunday homily for Campus Ministry.
  • Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Chapel open for prayer on campusYes (Chapel of Saint Joseph on Hawk Hill, where weekday and Sunday Mass is celebrated.)
    Sources (1)
    1. Faith & Spirituality | Saint Joseph's Universitysju.edu/campus-ministry/faith-spirituality · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Hawk Hill Campus-Chapel of Saint Joseph Sundays: 11AM year round 5:00PM & 7:00PM when classes are in session Weekdays: 12:20PM M-F when classes are in session”
      Mass is celebrated in the Chapel of Saint Joseph every weekday and three times on Sundays when classes are in session.
      “Catholic Mass offered in our Chapel of Saint Joseph, Hawk Hill Campus”
      Mass is offered in the Chapel of Saint Joseph on the Hawk Hill campus.
  • 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 (11 weekly times documented: 8 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

84 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 (Signature Theology (THE 153, 154 or 155, Faith, Justice and the Catholic Tradition) and a Theology - Religious Difference course. A Faith and Reason course is also required but is interdisciplinary and was not counted.)
    Sources (1)
    1. Requirements | General Education Program | Saint Joseph's Universitysju.edu/offices/academic-admin/gep/requirements · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “PHL 154 Moral Foundations THE 153, 154, or 155 Signature Theology”
      The signature core requires PHL 154 Moral Foundations and a Signature Theology course.
      “Theology 153-5 – Faith, Justice and the Catholic Tradition Courses in this area are designed to introduce students to the values that have shaped Saint Joseph’s and the ways in which these values are historically grounded in Roman Catholic doctrine and informed by its present articulation.”
      The required Signature Theology course, Faith, Justice and the Catholic Tradition, is grounded in Roman Catholic doctrine.
      “Philosophical Anthropology (one course) Religious Difference (one course)”
      The variable core requires one Philosophical Anthropology course and one Religious Difference course.
  • 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 (Signature Theology courses introduce the values 'historically grounded in Roman Catholic doctrine'.)
    Sources (1)
    1. Requirements | General Education Program | Saint Joseph's Universitysju.edu/offices/academic-admin/gep/requirements · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Theology 153-5 – Faith, Justice and the Catholic Tradition Courses in this area are designed to introduce students to the values that have shaped Saint Joseph’s and the ways in which these values are historically grounded in Roman Catholic doctrine and informed by its present articulation.”
      The required Signature Theology course, Faith, Justice and the Catholic Tradition, is grounded in Roman Catholic doctrine.
  • Partly: the school meets some of this item and earns part of the points.
    Philosophy courses required of all bachelor's studentsTwo courses (PHL 154 Moral Foundations and one Philosophical Anthropology course.)
    Sources (1)
    1. Requirements | General Education Program | Saint Joseph's Universitysju.edu/offices/academic-admin/gep/requirements · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “PHL 154 Moral Foundations THE 153, 154, or 155 Signature Theology”
      The signature core requires PHL 154 Moral Foundations and a Signature Theology course.
      “Philosophical Anthropology (one course) Religious Difference (one course)”
      The variable core requires one Philosophical Anthropology course and one Religious Difference course.
      “Theology – Religious Difference (one course) Religious Difference courses require students to gain a critical understanding of one or more religious worldviews that differ from the Roman Catholic perspective studied in their Signature Core theology course.”
      Religious Difference is presented as a theology requirement.
  • 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 GEP is described as 'a distinctive liberal arts education in the Jesuit, Catholic tradition', and its signature core is labeled the Jesuit Tradition Common Core.)
    Sources (2)
    1. General Education Program | Saint Joseph's Universitysju.edu/offices/academic-admin/gep · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “The General Education Program (GEP) at Saint Joseph’s University involves a distinctive liberal arts education in the Jesuit, Catholic tradition.”
      The core curriculum is described as an education in the Jesuit, Catholic tradition.
    2. Requirements | General Education Program | Saint Joseph's Universitysju.edu/offices/academic-admin/gep/requirements · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Theology 153-5 – Faith, Justice and the Catholic Tradition Courses in this area are designed to introduce students to the values that have shaped Saint Joseph’s and the ways in which these values are historically grounded in Roman Catholic doctrine and informed by its present articulation.”
      The required Signature Theology course, Faith, Justice and the Catholic Tradition, is grounded in Roman Catholic doctrine.
  • Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Theology or religious studies major offeredYes (Theology major.)
    Sources (1)
    1. Theology Major | Saint Joseph's Universitysju.edu/degree-programs/theology-major · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Theology majors at Saint Joseph's University acquire and hone tools for critical analysis of many different components of theology and religious traditions.”
      A theology major is offered.
  • 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.
ACampus culture and residence life: 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.

Campus culture and residence life

100 of 100 points on what we could document.

  • Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Campus ministry staffing (chaplains, ministers, and professional staff)Five or more (5 professional staff listed: Director, Assistant Director, Campus Minister for Liturgy/Music, Campus Minister for Pastoral Accompaniment, and Campus Minister for APEX. Excluded: administrative assistant and the graduate campus minister.)
    Sources (1)
    1. About Campus Ministry | Saint Joseph's Universitysju.edu/campus-ministry/about · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Diane Hankee Campus Minister, Liturgy/Music WO 203 610-660-1673 View Profile Luke Lapean Campus Minister for Pastoral Accompaniment”
      The Campus Ministry staff page lists a director, assistant director, and campus ministers for liturgy/music, pastoral accompaniment and APEX.
  • Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Retreats offered to students each yearFour or more distinct retreats (2026-2027 schedule: Spark, APEX Leaders, Search (fall and spring), Chapel Choir, Senior Retreat, Ignite; the Spiritual Exercises are also offered in five-week and 32-week formats.)
    Sources (1)
    1. Retreats | Saint Joseph's Universitysju.edu/campus-ministry/retreats · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Fall Semester 2026 Spark (first year students) September 25-26 Contact Tom Sheibley tsheible@sju.edu APEX Leaders October 3-4”
      Campus Ministry publishes a 2026-2027 retreat schedule including Spark, APEX Leaders, Search, Chapel Choir, Senior Retreat and Ignite.
  • Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Catholic student organizations and faith-formation groupsThree or more (LIFT, The Huddle (student athletes), Christian Life Communities, First Year Leadership Team, and a Rosary Group.)
    Sources (2)
    1. Faith Communities | Saint Joseph's Universitysju.edu/campus-ministry/community · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “LIFT is a community of all class years that gathers weekly to form friendships and explore life and faith together!”
      LIFT is a weekly faith community.
      “The Huddle is a vibrant and welcoming faith community for student athletes at SJU.”
      The Huddle is a faith community for student athletes.
      “Christian Life Communities are small groups of six to twelve students that meet weekly to form new friendships, share meaningful conversations, and explore and grow in faith together.”
      Christian Life Communities are weekly small faith groups.
    2. Faith & Spirituality | Saint Joseph's Universitysju.edu/campus-ministry/faith-spirituality · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Rosary Group Mondays 8:00PM Wolfington Hall Thursdays: 8:00PM Chapel”
      A Rosary Group meets twice a week.
  • 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.
  • 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 (Vice President for Mission and Ministry; the Office of Mission offers faculty and staff programs and supports teaching, research and service.)
    Sources (1)
    1. Contact Office of Mission | Saint Joseph's Universitysju.edu/offices/mission/about-us · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Dan Joyce Vice President for Mission and Ministry”
      Fr. Dan Joyce is Vice President for Mission and Ministry.
      “The Office of Mission promotes these values by providing support for the teaching, research and service which are central to the work of Saint Joseph’s University.”
      The Office of Mission supports mission integration across teaching, research and service.
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

90 of 100 points on what we could document.

  • Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Service or volunteer centerYes (SJU Weekly Service (Campus Ministry) and the Faith-Justice Institute's Service-Learning Program.)
    Sources (2)
    1. Weekly Service | Saint Joseph's Universitysju.edu/campus-ministry/weekly-service · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “SJU Weekly Service is a relationship-based service program grounded in our Catholic, Jesuit tradition and welcoming of all students.”
      Campus Ministry runs a weekly service program grounded in the Catholic, Jesuit tradition.
    2. Service-Learning Program | Faith-Justice Institutesju.edu/centers/faithjustice/service-learning-programs · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “First-Year Service-Learning classes are offered through courses that also fulfill major or University requirements.”
      The Faith-Justice Institute runs a service-learning program with first-year and upper-level courses.
  • 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 courses, including a first-year two-course sequence; not stated as required of all students.)
    Sources (1)
    1. Service-Learning Program | Faith-Justice Institutesju.edu/centers/faithjustice/service-learning-programs · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “First-Year Service-Learning classes are offered through courses that also fulfill major or University requirements.”
      The Faith-Justice Institute runs a service-learning program with first-year and upper-level courses.
  • 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 Signature Theology course is titled Faith, Justice and the Catholic Tradition; the Faith-Justice Institute also offers a Faith-Justice Studies program.)
    Sources (2)
    1. Requirements | General Education Program | Saint Joseph's Universitysju.edu/offices/academic-admin/gep/requirements · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Theology 153-5 – Faith, Justice and the Catholic Tradition Courses in this area are designed to introduce students to the values that have shaped Saint Joseph’s and the ways in which these values are historically grounded in Roman Catholic doctrine and informed by its present articulation.”
      The required Signature Theology course, Faith, Justice and the Catholic Tradition, is grounded in Roman Catholic doctrine.
    2. Faith-Justice Institute | Saint Joseph's Universitysju.edu/centers/faithjustice · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “The Faith-Justice Institute explores contemporary issues of faith and justice through academic courses, public forums and experiential field seminars.”
      The Faith-Justice Institute offers courses and programs on faith and justice.
  • Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Pro-life engagement (student pro-life group, support for pregnant and parenting students, or institutional initiatives)Two or more (Hawks for Life student organization. Title IX accommodations for pregnant and parenting students.)
    Sources (2)
    1. Service & Justice | Saint Joseph's Universitysju.edu/campus-ministry/service-justice · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Hawks for Life is a student organization that works to promote the dignity of the human person from conception until natural death.”
      Hawks for Life is a pro-life student organization.
    2. Pregnancy Accommodations & Adjustments | Saint Joseph's Universitysju.edu/offices/titleix-equity/pregnancy-accommodations-adjustments · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “The University may provide you with reasonable adjustments such as a larger desk, elevator access or allow you to make frequent trips to the restroom when necessary.”
      The Title IX Office provides accommodations for pregnant and parenting students.
  • 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 (Winter Immersion Program, APEX (Appalachia), Ignatian Family Teach-In for Justice, SJU for Refugees & Migrants, and the Faith-Justice Institute.)
    Sources (1)
    1. Service & Justice | Saint Joseph's Universitysju.edu/campus-ministry/service-justice · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “WIP is rooted in Ignatian values, human dignity, Catholic Social Teaching, liberation theology, and the building of relationships as we share our humanity.”
      The Winter Immersion Program is a two-semester immersion program framed by Catholic Social Teaching.
      “APEX is a Spring Break immersion program that is committed to serving with and for others while learning about the culture and concerns of the people of the Appalachian region.”
      APEX is a spring break immersion program in Appalachia.
      “Each year the Teach-In is followed by an Advocacy Day and SJU sends a delegation of students, staff, and faculty.”
      SJU sends a delegation to the Ignatian Family Teach-In for Justice.
      “Our work is based in Catholic Social Teaching and Jesuit values to respect and uphold the human dignity of all people.”
      SJU for Refugees & Migrants is a student group working on immigration issues, based in Catholic Social Teaching.
  • 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 (Weekly Service is run by Campus Ministry and 'grounded in our Catholic, Jesuit tradition'; the Winter Immersion Program cites Catholic Social Teaching.)
    Sources (2)
    1. Weekly Service | Saint Joseph's Universitysju.edu/campus-ministry/weekly-service · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “SJU Weekly Service is a relationship-based service program grounded in our Catholic, Jesuit tradition and welcoming of all students.”
      Campus Ministry runs a weekly service program grounded in the Catholic, Jesuit tradition.
    2. Service & Justice | Saint Joseph's Universitysju.edu/campus-ministry/service-justice · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “WIP is rooted in Ignatian values, human dignity, Catholic Social Teaching, liberation theology, and the building of relationships as we share our humanity.”
      The Winter Immersion Program is a two-semester immersion program framed by Catholic Social Teaching.

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

Strengths

  • When classes are in session, Mass is celebrated in the Chapel of Saint Joseph every weekday and three times on Sundays, with weekly adoration on Wednesdays and confession on Wednesdays and Sundays.
    Sources (1)
    1. Faith & Spirituality | Saint Joseph's Universitysju.edu/campus-ministry/faith-spirituality · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Hawk Hill Campus-Chapel of Saint Joseph Sundays: 11AM year round 5:00PM & 7:00PM when classes are in session Weekdays: 12:20PM M-F when classes are in session”
      Mass is celebrated in the Chapel of Saint Joseph every weekday and three times on Sundays when classes are in session.
      “Sacrament of Reconciliation/Confession Wednesdays 8:45PM-9:15PM Sundays: 8:00PM-9:00PM”
      Confession is scheduled on Wednesday and Sunday evenings.
      “During the Semester on Wednesday Evenings, our campus community gathers in front of the Blessed Sacrament for a time of Adoration. From 8:30PM-9:30PM, join us in the chapel for traditional Adoration and Benediction”
      Eucharistic adoration is held weekly on Wednesday evenings in the chapel during the semester.
  • The core requires a theology course on Faith, Justice and the Catholic Tradition, a Religious Difference theology course, and two philosophy courses.
    Sources (1)
    1. Requirements | General Education Program | Saint Joseph's Universitysju.edu/offices/academic-admin/gep/requirements · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “PHL 154 Moral Foundations THE 153, 154, or 155 Signature Theology”
      The signature core requires PHL 154 Moral Foundations and a Signature Theology course.
      “Theology 153-5 – Faith, Justice and the Catholic Tradition Courses in this area are designed to introduce students to the values that have shaped Saint Joseph’s and the ways in which these values are historically grounded in Roman Catholic doctrine and informed by its present articulation.”
      The required Signature Theology course, Faith, Justice and the Catholic Tradition, is grounded in Roman Catholic doctrine.
      “Philosophical Anthropology (one course) Religious Difference (one course)”
      The variable core requires one Philosophical Anthropology course and one Religious Difference course.
      “Theology – Religious Difference (one course) Religious Difference courses require students to gain a critical understanding of one or more religious worldviews that differ from the Roman Catholic perspective studied in their Signature Core theology course.”
      Religious Difference is presented as a theology requirement.
  • Campus Ministry lists five professional staff and publishes a 2026-2027 schedule of six distinct retreats, along with weekly faith communities.
    Sources (3)
    1. About Campus Ministry | Saint Joseph's Universitysju.edu/campus-ministry/about · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Diane Hankee Campus Minister, Liturgy/Music WO 203 610-660-1673 View Profile Luke Lapean Campus Minister for Pastoral Accompaniment”
      The Campus Ministry staff page lists a director, assistant director, and campus ministers for liturgy/music, pastoral accompaniment and APEX.
    2. Retreats | Saint Joseph's Universitysju.edu/campus-ministry/retreats · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Fall Semester 2026 Spark (first year students) September 25-26 Contact Tom Sheibley tsheible@sju.edu APEX Leaders October 3-4”
      Campus Ministry publishes a 2026-2027 retreat schedule including Spark, APEX Leaders, Search, Chapel Choir, Senior Retreat and Ignite.
    3. Faith Communities | Saint Joseph's Universitysju.edu/campus-ministry/community · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “LIFT is a community of all class years that gathers weekly to form friendships and explore life and faith together!”
      LIFT is a weekly faith community.
      “Christian Life Communities are small groups of six to twelve students that meet weekly to form new friendships, share meaningful conversations, and explore and grow in faith together.”
      Christian Life Communities are weekly small faith groups.
  • A pro-life student organization, Title IX accommodations for pregnant and parenting students, and several immersion and justice programs are offered.
    Sources (2)
    1. Service & Justice | Saint Joseph's Universitysju.edu/campus-ministry/service-justice · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Hawks for Life is a student organization that works to promote the dignity of the human person from conception until natural death.”
      Hawks for Life is a pro-life student organization.
      “WIP is rooted in Ignatian values, human dignity, Catholic Social Teaching, liberation theology, and the building of relationships as we share our humanity.”
      The Winter Immersion Program is a two-semester immersion program framed by Catholic Social Teaching.
      “APEX is a Spring Break immersion program that is committed to serving with and for others while learning about the culture and concerns of the people of the Appalachian region.”
      APEX is a spring break immersion program in Appalachia.
    2. Pregnancy Accommodations & Adjustments | Saint Joseph's Universitysju.edu/offices/titleix-equity/pregnancy-accommodations-adjustments · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “The University may provide you with reasonable adjustments such as a larger desk, elevator access or allow you to make frequent trips to the restroom when necessary.”
      The Title IX Office provides accommodations for pregnant and parenting students.

Concerns

  • The Jesuit Vice President for Mission and Ministry is named as the contact for sacramental preparation.
    Sources (2)
    1. About Campus Ministry | Saint Joseph's Universitysju.edu/campus-ministry/about · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Diane Hankee Campus Minister, Liturgy/Music WO 203 610-660-1673 View Profile Luke Lapean Campus Minister for Pastoral Accompaniment”
      The Campus Ministry staff page lists a director, assistant director, and campus ministers for liturgy/music, pastoral accompaniment and APEX.
    2. Faith & Spirituality | Saint Joseph's Universitysju.edu/campus-ministry/faith-spirituality · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “The program runs throughout the fall and spring semesters with the reception of the sacrament taking place on the Saturday after Easter. For more information, please contact Fr. Dan Joyce, SJ at djoyce@sju.edu.”
      Fr. Dan Joyce, SJ, is the contact for Confirmation and OCIA preparation.
  • Weekday Mass and two of the three Sunday Masses are held only when classes are in session.
    Sources (1)
    1. Faith & Spirituality | Saint Joseph's Universitysju.edu/campus-ministry/faith-spirituality · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Hawk Hill Campus-Chapel of Saint Joseph Sundays: 11AM year round 5:00PM & 7:00PM when classes are in session Weekdays: 12:20PM M-F when classes are in session”
      Mass is celebrated in the Chapel of Saint Joseph every weekday and three times on Sundays when classes are in session.

Know something we missed? Suggest a correction.

Campus ministry home

Campus Ministry, Wolfington Center for Ministry, Faith, and Service

  • Address: Wolfington Center, 5600 City Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19131
  • Location: On campus
  • Facilities: space to relax and study (Wolfington Center), chapel (Chapel of Saint Joseph, Hawk Hill campus)

Source: sju.edu, verified Oct. 7, 2026, sju.edu, verified Oct. 7, 2026, sju.edu, verified Oct. 7, 2026

Catholic clubs and student life

19 groups and regular activities · 12 on campus, 7 off campus

Retreats 3

  • Spark retreatOff campus
    September 25-26, 2026
    Overnight retreat for first-year students.
    sju.edu
  • APEX Leaders retreatOff campus
    October 3-4, 2026
    Retreat for APEX student leaders.
    sju.edu
  • Search, Ignite, Senior and Chapel Choir retreatsOff campus
    November 2026 and February-April 2027
    Weekend retreats for upper-level students (Search), first-year students (Ignite), seniors, and the Chapel Choir.
    sju.edu

Service 6

  • SJU Weekly ServiceOff campus
    Relationship-based weekly service in Philadelphia and Camden run by Campus Ministry.
    sju.edu
  • Winter Immersion ProgramOff campus
    Two semesters, with immersion during winter break
    Immersion program on solidarity with the materially poor and marginalized.
    sju.edu
  • APEX (Appalachian Experience)Off campus
    Spring break
    Service immersion in the Appalachian region.
    sju.edu
  • Ignatian Family Teach-In for JusticeOff campus
    November
    Student, staff and faculty delegation to the annual Catholic social justice gathering and Advocacy Day.
    sju.edu
  • SJU for Refugees & MigrantsOn campus
    Student group for education, drives and volunteering on immigration, based in Catholic Social Teaching.
    sju.edu
  • Post Graduate Service FairOn campus
    Each fall
    Fair with organizations that place volunteers for one or two years of service.
    sju.edu

Faith formation 4

  • Christian Life Communities (CLCs)On campus
    Weekly
    Small groups of six to twelve students who meet weekly to share and grow in faith.
    sju.edu
  • First Year Leadership TeamOn campus
    Fridays 12:15-1:30 PM (Community Period)
    First-year students develop ministry and service leadership and take the required theology course together, taught by a campus minister.
    sju.edu, sju.edu
  • OCIA and Confirmation preparationOn campus
    Fall and spring semesters
    Preparation for the sacraments of initiation, with Confirmation celebrated after Easter.
    sju.edu, sju.edu
  • Spiritual Exercises and spiritual directionOn campus
    Five-week and 32-week (SEEL) versions of the Spiritual Exercises with a spiritual director.
    sju.edu

Clubs and groups 3

  • LIFTOn campus
    Thursdays 6:30 PM, Wolfington Hall
    Weekly community of all class years exploring the Christian faith from a Catholic perspective.
    sju.edu
  • The HuddleOn campus
    Thursdays 8 PM, Wolfington Hall
    Faith community for varsity student athletes.
    sju.edu
  • Hawks for LifeOn campus
    Student organization promoting the dignity of the human person from conception until natural death.
    sju.edu

Liturgy and prayer 3

  • Rosary GroupOn campus
    Mondays 8 PM (Wolfington Hall) and Thursdays 8 PM (Chapel)
    Student rosary prayer twice a week.
    sju.edu
  • Chapel Choir and Chapel BandOn campus
    Choir rehearses Tuesdays 5-6:30 PM and Sundays before the 7 PM Mass
    Music ministry for campus liturgies.
    sju.edu
  • Liturgical ministriesOn campus
    Students serve as Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion, lectors, sacristans/altar servers, musicians and hospitality ministers; training each semester.
    sju.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 (4)
  1. About Campus Ministry | Saint Joseph's Universitysju.edu/campus-ministry/about · verified Oct. 7, 2026
    “The Wolfington Center for Ministry, Faith, and Service is the home of Campus Ministry and the Office of Mission Programs. Here you will find a welcoming atmosphere to relax, study, meet new friends, and find out more about our Campus Ministry programs.”
    Campus Ministry is based in the Wolfington Center, a space to relax and study.
    “Diane Hankee Campus Minister, Liturgy/Music WO 203 610-660-1673 View Profile Luke Lapean Campus Minister for Pastoral Accompaniment”
    The Campus Ministry staff page lists a director, assistant director, and campus ministers for liturgy/music, pastoral accompaniment and APEX.
    “The Wolfington Center for Ministry, Faith, and Service is the home of Campus Ministry and the Office of Mission Programs. Here you will find a welcoming atmosphere to relax, study, meet new friends, and find out more about our Campus Ministry programs.”
    Campus Ministry is based in the Wolfington Center, a space to relax and study.
  2. Contact Office of Mission | Saint Joseph's Universitysju.edu/offices/mission/about-us · verified Oct. 7, 2026
    “Dan Joyce Vice President for Mission and Ministry”
    Fr. Dan Joyce is Vice President for Mission and Ministry.
    “The Office of Mission promotes these values by providing support for the teaching, research and service which are central to the work of Saint Joseph’s University.”
    The Office of Mission supports mission integration across teaching, research and service.
    “Daniel Joyce S.J. SJU Office of Mission 5600 City Avenue Philadelphia, PA 19131”
    The Office of Mission, housed in the Wolfington Center with Campus Ministry, uses the 5600 City Avenue address.
  3. Faith & Spirituality | Saint Joseph's Universitysju.edu/campus-ministry/faith-spirituality · verified Oct. 7, 2026
    “Your intentions will be remembered at mass by a member of the Jesuit community.”
    Members of the Jesuit community celebrate Mass for submitted prayer intentions.
    “Catholic Mass offered in our Chapel of Saint Joseph, Hawk Hill Campus”
    Mass is offered in the Chapel of Saint Joseph on the Hawk Hill campus.
  4. Service & Justice | Saint Joseph's Universitysju.edu/campus-ministry/service-justice · verified Oct. 7, 2026
    “Hawks for Life is a student organization that works to promote the dignity of the human person from conception until natural death.”
    Hawks for Life is a pro-life student organization.

Reach out

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Academic Excellence

AAcademic Excellence: 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.
85 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.79%
  • First-year retention 20% of scoreThis measure counts for 20% of the Academic Excellence score.89%
  • Entering students' test scores 15% of scoreThis measure counts for 15% of the Academic Excellence score.SAT 1,258 · ACT 29.5
  • 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.$11,891

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)
4,828
Total students7,201
Average net price (per year)
After grants and scholarships, for students receiving federal aid
$29,689
Cost of attendance (per year)$67,954
Median federal debt at graduation$25,500
Graduation rate
First-time, full-time students finishing within 150% of normal time
79%
First-year retention89%
Median earnings 10 years after entry$86,881
Admission rate89%
Students receiving Pell grants20%
Admission test scores (middle 50% of admitted students who submitted scores)
Average SAT1258
SAT reading & writing590–680
SAT math580–670
ACT composite28–31
Test policyConsidered but not required

Value index: 59 / 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

Archdiocese of Philadelphia

The Most Reverend Nelson J. Pérez, Archbishop of Philadelphia

Formal address: “Your Excellency”

Source: catholicchurchofphila.org, catholicchurchofphila.org, catholicchurchofphila.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 215770
  • Carnegie classification: Master's university (larger 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

Questions families ask

Is Saint Joseph's University - Philadelphia a Catholic college?
Yes. Saint Joseph's University - Philadelphia is a Catholic college in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia.
What is Saint Joseph's University - Philadelphia’s Compass Score?
88 out of 100 (grade A). It combines faith (75%) and academics (25%), each rated from official sources.
Where is Mass celebrated at Saint Joseph's University - Philadelphia?
Mass is listed at Chapel of Saint Joseph and Hawk Hill campus. Days and times are on this page; please confirm with the parish or campus ministry before you go.
Is Saint Joseph's University - Philadelphia Compass Recommended?
Yes. Saint Joseph's University - Philadelphia meets the Compass Recommended standard for Catholic identity and academics.

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