Catholic School CompassTrue north for Catholic families.
Saint Leo University: Aerial view of the main Saint Leo University campus
Photo: Odiedude, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons.

Catholic college

Saint Leo University

  • LocationSaint Leo, FL
  • Type and sizePrivate nonprofit · 4-year · 10,231 students
  • TraditionBenedictine
Official website

Saint Leo University is a Catholic Benedictine university in Saint Leo, Florida, founded by Benedictine monks in 1889. Saint Leo Abbey adjoins the campus. University publications for 2025-26 list Mass in the Abbey Church twice each weekday and twice on Sundays, weekly student Eucharistic adoration, and First Friday confession. The University Explorations general-education program requires Introduction to Scripture and Faith & Reason of all undergraduates; no philosophy course is required.

Mass, confession, and adoration

Confirm with the parish

Mass 5

  • Monday–Friday12:00 PMSaint Leo Abbey Church · As published for the 2025-26 academic year.
  • Monday–Friday5:00 PMSaint Leo Abbey Church · As published for the 2025-26 academic year.
  • Sunday10:00 AMSaint Leo Abbey Church
  • Sunday7:00 PMSaint Leo Abbey Church
  • Friday9:00 AMSaint Jude Chapel · First Friday of the month only.

Confession 1

  • Friday9:30 AM–12:00 PMStudent Activities Building, Room 117 · First Friday of the month only.

Adoration 2

  • Tuesday7:00 PM–8:00 PMSaint Leo Abbey Church · Student Praise & Worship with Eucharistic Adoration, when class is in session.
  • Friday9:30 AM–12:00 PMSaint Jude Chapel · First Friday of the month only.

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. Saint Leo University Community Gathers in Prayer at 2025 Mass of Holy Spirit | Saint Leo Universitysaintleo.edu/about/stories/news-and-events/saint-leo-university-community-gathers-prayer-2025-mass-holy-spirit · verified Oct. 7, 2026
    “Mass (Eucharist) is celebrated in the Saint Leo Abbey Church at noon and 5 p.m., Monday-Friday, and 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. on Sundays.”
    Mass is celebrated in the Abbey Church at noon and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and at 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. on Sundays.
    “Mass (Eucharist) is celebrated in the Saint Leo Abbey Church at noon and 5 p.m., Monday-Friday, and 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. on Sundays.”
    Mass is celebrated in the Abbey Church at noon and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and at 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. on Sundays.
    “Mass (Eucharist) is celebrated in the Saint Leo Abbey Church at noon and 5 p.m., Monday-Friday, and 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. on Sundays.”
    Mass is celebrated in the Abbey Church at noon and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and at 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. on Sundays.
    “Mass (Eucharist) is celebrated in the Saint Leo Abbey Church at noon and 5 p.m., Monday-Friday, and 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. on Sundays.”
    Mass is celebrated in the Abbey Church at noon and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and at 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. on Sundays.
    “Student Praise & Worship with Eucharistic Adoration is 7-8 p.m., Tuesdays when class is in session, at the Saint Leo Abbey Church.”
    Eucharistic adoration with praise and worship is held weekly on Tuesday evenings during the semester.
    “First Friday Devotion begins with Mass at 9-9:30 a.m., followed by Eucharistic Adoration and Confession, 9:30 a.m.-noon, in Saint Jude Chapel in the Student Activities Building (SAB) complex.”
    On First Fridays, Mass is followed by Eucharistic adoration and confession in Saint Jude Chapel.
    “First Friday Devotion begins with Mass at 9-9:30 a.m., followed by Eucharistic Adoration and Confession, 9:30 a.m.-noon, in Saint Jude Chapel in the Student Activities Building (SAB) complex.”
    On First Fridays, Mass is followed by Eucharistic adoration and confession in Saint Jude Chapel.
    “First Friday Devotion begins with Mass at 9-9:30 a.m., followed by Eucharistic Adoration and Confession, 9:30 a.m.-noon, in Saint Jude Chapel in the Student Activities Building (SAB) complex.”
    On First Fridays, Mass is followed by Eucharistic adoration and confession in Saint Jude Chapel.

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

80 of 100 points on what we could document.

  • Yes: Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Weekday Mass on campus during the academic yearEvery weekday (5 or more weekdays) (Noon and 5 p.m. Monday-Friday in the Saint Leo Abbey Church, per a university news article from August 2025.)
    Sources (1)
    1. Saint Leo University Community Gathers in Prayer at 2025 Mass of Holy Spirit | Saint Leo Universitysaintleo.edu/about/stories/news-and-events/saint-leo-university-community-gathers-prayer-2025-mass-holy-spirit · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Mass (Eucharist) is celebrated in the Saint Leo Abbey Church at noon and 5 p.m., Monday-Friday, and 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. on Sundays.”
      Mass is celebrated in the Abbey Church at noon and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and at 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. on Sundays.
  • Yes: Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Sunday Mass on campus (including Saturday vigil)Two or more weekend Masses (Sunday 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. in the Abbey Church.)
    Sources (1)
    1. Saint Leo University Community Gathers in Prayer at 2025 Mass of Holy Spirit | Saint Leo Universitysaintleo.edu/about/stories/news-and-events/saint-leo-university-community-gathers-prayer-2025-mass-holy-spirit · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Mass (Eucharist) is celebrated in the Saint Leo Abbey Church at noon and 5 p.m., Monday-Friday, and 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. on Sundays.”
      Mass is celebrated in the Abbey Church at noon and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and at 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. on Sundays.
  • Not enough information: 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.
  • Partly: Partly: the school meets some of this item and earns part of the points.
    Eucharistic adorationWeekly scheduled adoration (Student Praise & Worship with Eucharistic Adoration, Tuesdays 7-8 p.m. when class is in session; also First Friday adoration.)
    Sources (2)
    1. Saint Leo University Community Gathers in Prayer at 2025 Mass of Holy Spirit | Saint Leo Universitysaintleo.edu/about/stories/news-and-events/saint-leo-university-community-gathers-prayer-2025-mass-holy-spirit · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Student Praise & Worship with Eucharistic Adoration is 7-8 p.m., Tuesdays when class is in session, at the Saint Leo Abbey Church.”
      Eucharistic adoration with praise and worship is held weekly on Tuesday evenings during the semester.
    2. Faith and Spirituality | Saint Leo Universitysaintleo.edu/student-experience/faith-spirituality · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Eucharistic Adoration with Praise and Worship Music: Located weekly in the Abbey Church.”
      University Ministry holds weekly Eucharistic adoration in the Abbey Church.
  • Partly: Partly: the school meets some of this item and earns part of the points.
    Priests serving studentsPart-time or visiting priest (Father John McEvoy, a retired Diocese of St. Petersburg priest, is described as assistant university chaplain in an August 2025 university article; the staff directory lists him under University Ministry as Ministry Assistant. Benedictine priests of Saint Leo Abbey celebrate Mass in the Abbey Church; no page describes them as serving campus ministry.)
    Sources (2)
    1. Saint Leo University Community Gathers in Prayer at 2025 Mass of Holy Spirit | Saint Leo Universitysaintleo.edu/about/stories/news-and-events/saint-leo-university-community-gathers-prayer-2025-mass-holy-spirit · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Celebrating the Mass was Father John McEvoy, assistant university chaplain and retired Diocese of Saint Petersburg (FL) priest.”
      Father John McEvoy, a retired diocesan priest, serves as assistant university chaplain.
    2. Faculty & Staff Directory | Saint Leo Universitysaintleo.edu/directory · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “University Ministry Mary Keselicka Campus Minister - 11 Months John Francisco McEvoy Ministry Assistant”
      The staff directory lists two people under University Ministry: a campus minister and John Francisco McEvoy.
  • Yes: Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Chapel open for prayer on campusYes (St. Jude's Chapel is kept open for quiet contemplation.)
    Sources (1)
    1. Faith and Spirituality | Saint Leo Universitysaintleo.edu/student-experience/faith-spirituality · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “keep the doors to our intimate St. Jude's Chapel open for quiet contemplation whenever you need”
      St. Jude's Chapel on campus is kept open for prayer.
  • Partly: Partly: the school meets some of this item and earns part of the points.
    Published weekly schedule of Mass, confession, and adoration12 to 19 times a week (16 weekly times documented: 13 Mass, 1 confession, 2 adoration.)Computed from the verified Mass, confession, and adoration times listed on this page (each day a time is offered counts once).
CTheology and core curriculum: 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.

Theology and core curriculum

62 of 100 points on what we could document.

  • Partly: 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 (REL 115 Introduction to Scripture and REL 125 Faith & Reason are Foundation Courses in University Explorations. The Honors Scholars track replaces general education with a 15-credit 'University Foundations' block that the Honors page does not itemize.)
    Sources (1)
    1. Core Curriculum | Saint Leo Universitysaintleo.edu/academics/core-curriculum · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “REL 115 - Introduction to Scripture (3 credits) REL 125 - Faith & Reason (3 credits)”
      The general-education Foundation Courses include REL 115 Introduction to Scripture and REL 125 Faith & Reason.
  • Not enough information: Not enough information: official sources do not document this, so it is left out of the grade rather than counted as a no.
    Required theology includes explicitly Catholic content (Scripture, Catholic tradition, sacraments)Not enough information: not found in official sources.
  • No: No: the school does not offer this, so it earns no points.
    Philosophy courses required of all bachelor's studentsNone required (The University Explorations requirements list no required philosophy course. PHI 210HA Philosophy & Ethics is one of nine options in The Human Adventure cluster. An older sentence on the Faith and Spirituality page says all students take 'three electives in religion and philosophy'; the more specific core curriculum page is used.)
    Sources (1)
    1. Core Curriculum | Saint Leo Universitysaintleo.edu/academics/core-curriculum · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “REL 115 - Introduction to Scripture (3 credits) REL 125 - Faith & Reason (3 credits)”
      The general-education Foundation Courses include REL 115 Introduction to Scripture and REL 125 Faith & Reason.
      “Complete two courses from the following choices: ECO 110HA - Economics for Life (3 credits) HTY 110HA - Immigration History (3 credits) POL 110HA - Democracy in Troubled Times (3 credits) PHI 210HA - Philosophy & Ethics (3 credits)”
      Philosophy & Ethics is one elective option within The Human Adventure cluster, not a required course.
  • Yes: 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 University Explorations description names an understanding of Catholic and Benedictine-inspired values and traditions as a curricular aim.)
    Sources (1)
    1. Core Curriculum | Saint Leo Universitysaintleo.edu/academics/core-curriculum · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “The University Explorations curriculum provides undergraduate students with an understanding of Saint Leo University’s Benedictine-inspired values and Catholic traditions while focusing on the liberal arts and sciences”
      The general-education curriculum is designed to teach Catholic and Benedictine values and traditions.
  • Yes: Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Theology or religious studies major offeredYes (Bachelor's degree in Religion; the program page lists online and education-center delivery.)
    Sources (1)
    1. Bachelor’s Degree in Religion | Saint Leo Universitysaintleo.edu/programs/religion-theology-degrees/bachelors-degree-religion · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Broadly, the major in religion prepares the student for a wide range of careers and jobs”
      A bachelor's major in religion is offered.
  • Yes: Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Publicly affirms Ex Corde Ecclesiae in mission or governance documentsYes
    Sources (1)
    1. Catholic Identity | Saint Leo Universitysaintleo.edu/about/catholic-identity · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “As a Catholic institution of higher learning, Saint Leo University supports what Ex Corde Ecclesiae terms the four essential characteristics of a Catholic University”
      The Catholic Identity Statement affirms the characteristics of a Catholic university set out in Ex Corde Ecclesiae.
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

78 of 100 points on what we could document.

  • Partly: 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 people: campus minister Mary Keselicka and John Francisco McEvoy (listed under University Ministry in the staff directory; described elsewhere as assistant university chaplain) plus music minister Lucas Nocera named on the Faith and Spirituality page.)
    Sources (2)
    1. Faculty & Staff Directory | Saint Leo Universitysaintleo.edu/directory · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “University Ministry Mary Keselicka Campus Minister - 11 Months John Francisco McEvoy Ministry Assistant”
      The staff directory lists two people under University Ministry: a campus minister and John Francisco McEvoy.
    2. Faith and Spirituality | Saint Leo Universitysaintleo.edu/student-experience/faith-spirituality · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Music Ministry: Work with our Music Minister Lucas Nocera on preparation and performance of music at Mass and other events!”
      University Ministry has a music minister, Lucas Nocera.
  • Partly: Partly: the school meets some of this item and earns part of the points.
    Retreats offered to students each yearOne to three (Annual Freshmen Ministry Retreat; no other current retreat listings could be read.)
    Sources (1)
    1. Saint Leo University Prepares to Welcome Students for 2025-2026 | Saint Leo Universitysaintleo.edu/about/stories/news-and-events/saint-leo-university-prepares-welcome-students-2025-2026 · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “University Ministry will host its annual Freshmen Ministry Retreat, August 19-20, at the Bethany Retreat Center, in nearby Lutz, FL.”
      University Ministry holds an annual retreat for freshmen and new students.
  • Yes: Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Catholic student organizations and faith-formation groupsThree or more (Men's and women's groups, Imago Dei (pro-life club), Theology on Tap, RCIA, and music ministry.)
    Sources (2)
    1. Faith and Spirituality | Saint Leo Universitysaintleo.edu/student-experience/faith-spirituality · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Imago Dei: Pro-life Club Theology on Tap: Relaxed discussions of the big questions over pizza and drinks Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA): The process of becoming Catholic!”
      University Ministry lists a pro-life club (Imago Dei), Theology on Tap, and RCIA.
      “Men’s and Women’s Group: Currently Monday at 7pm (Women’s located in TECO Hall, Men’s Located in Kirk 122), contact ministry@saintleo.edu to join.”
      University Ministry runs men's and women's groups that meet Monday evenings.
    2. Clubs and Organizations | Saint Leo Universitysaintleo.edu/student-experience/get-involved/clubs-organizations · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Gaming Club Imago Dei K-Pop and Anime Club”
      Imago Dei is listed among current student clubs.
  • Yes: Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Single-sex residence optionsSingle-sex residence halls available (Benoit Hall (first-year men) and Henderson Hall (first-year women).)
    Sources (1)
    1. On-Campus Housing | Saint Leo Universitysaintleo.edu/student-experience/on-campus/residence-life/housing · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Benoit Hall houses over 120 first-year male residents in a traditional "community style" layout.”
      Benoit Hall is a residence hall for first-year men.
      “Henderson Hall houses over 180 first-year women in a traditional "community style" layout.”
      Henderson Hall is a residence hall for first-year women.
  • Partly: Partly: the school meets some of this item and earns part of the points.
    Overnight guest policy in residence hallsVisitation hours or guest limits apply (Overnight guests limited to a total of three days per semester (extendable to seven with permission), with roommate consent and a maximum of two guests per resident.)
    Sources (1)
    1. 2025-26 Student Code of Conduct | Saint Leo Universitysaintleo.edu/sites/default/files/2025-08/25-26-Student-Code-of-Conduct.pdf · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Residents may have a guest stay in University Campus housing a total of three days in a semester.”
      Overnight guests are limited to a total of three days per semester.
  • Yes: Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Faith life in residence halls (hall chaplains, hall Masses, or faith-based living communities)Yes (Prayer and Mindfulness Living Learning Community (a residence floor with a required prayer course rooted in the Benedictine tradition, run by Residence Life). University Ministry also runs a Student Chaplain Program working with resident assistants.)
    Sources (2)
    1. Office of Residential Experience and Community Standards | Saint Leo Universitysaintleo.edu/student-experience/on-campus/residence-life · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “These practices are rooted in the Benedictine tradition and are common to many religions, making the class accessible and meaningful for students of all backgrounds.”
      The Prayer and Mindfulness Living Learning Community includes a prayer course rooted in the Benedictine tradition.
      “Prayer and Mindfulness Living Learning Community (LLC) Location: Building 2, 1st Floor”
      A Prayer and Mindfulness Living Learning Community is housed in Building 2.
    2. Bachelor’s Degree in Religion | Saint Leo Universitysaintleo.edu/programs/religion-theology-degrees/bachelors-degree-religion · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Work hand-in-hand with RAs to support and guide campus students through University Ministry's unique Student Chaplain Program.”
      University Ministry runs a Student Chaplain Program in which students work with resident assistants.
  • Not enough information: Not enough information: official sources do not document this, so it is left out of the grade rather than counted as a no.
    Office or senior officer for mission and Catholic identityNot enough information: not found in official sources.
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: Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Service or volunteer centerYes (Office of Community Engagement.)
    Sources (1)
    1. Mission, Values, and Identity | Saint Leo Universitysaintleo.edu/about/mission-values · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “The Office of Community Engagement aims to provide students opportunities to volunteer and participate in service clubs at Saint Leo University”
      An Office of Community Engagement organizes volunteer opportunities and service clubs.
  • Partly: 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) (Project A.I.M. service-learning program. Honors students do service as part of coursework. No all-student requirement found.)
    Sources (2)
    1. Community Service | Saint Leo Universitysaintleo.edu/student-experience/get-involved/community-service · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Project A.I.M is a three-leveled program and collaborative approach to service learning with students, staff, and faculty.”
      Project A.I.M. is a service-learning program involving students, staff, and faculty.
    2. Honors Program Curriculum | Saint Leo Universitysaintleo.edu/academics/honors-program/honors-curriculum · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Honors students engage in service both as part of their coursework and as part of their final project.”
      Honors Program coursework includes service.
  • Not enough information: 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: 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 (Imago Dei pro-life club; no pregnant and parenting student support page found.)
    Sources (2)
    1. Faith and Spirituality | Saint Leo Universitysaintleo.edu/student-experience/faith-spirituality · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Imago Dei: Pro-life Club Theology on Tap: Relaxed discussions of the big questions over pizza and drinks Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA): The process of becoming Catholic!”
      University Ministry lists a pro-life club (Imago Dei), Theology on Tap, and RCIA.
    2. Clubs and Organizations | Saint Leo Universitysaintleo.edu/student-experience/get-involved/clubs-organizations · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Gaming Club Imago Dei K-Pop and Anime Club”
      Imago Dei is listed among current student clubs.
  • Yes: 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 spring break and service trips, and an educational partnership with migrant farm workers.)
    Sources (1)
    1. Faith and Spirituality | Saint Leo Universitysaintleo.edu/student-experience/faith-spirituality · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Service Trips and Alternative Spring Break: Organized through the year. Reach out to ministry@saintleo.edu with ideas!”
      University Ministry organizes service trips and an alternative spring break.
      “an educational partnership with migrant workers in area farms, alternative spring breaks to Haiti, Costa Rica, Alaska and a horse farm in upstate New York”
      Service programs include an educational partnership with migrant farm workers and alternative spring break trips.
  • Yes: 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 (Service trips and alternative spring break are organized by University Ministry.)
    Sources (1)
    1. Faith and Spirituality | Saint Leo Universitysaintleo.edu/student-experience/faith-spirituality · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Service Trips and Alternative Spring Break: Organized through the year. Reach out to ministry@saintleo.edu with ideas!”
      University Ministry organizes service trips and an alternative spring break.

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

Strengths

  • University publications list Mass in the Abbey Church at noon and 5 p.m. every weekday and twice on Sundays.
    Sources (1)
    1. Saint Leo University Community Gathers in Prayer at 2025 Mass of Holy Spirit | Saint Leo Universitysaintleo.edu/about/stories/news-and-events/saint-leo-university-community-gathers-prayer-2025-mass-holy-spirit · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Mass (Eucharist) is celebrated in the Saint Leo Abbey Church at noon and 5 p.m., Monday-Friday, and 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. on Sundays.”
      Mass is celebrated in the Abbey Church at noon and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and at 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. on Sundays.
  • Weekly student Eucharistic adoration is held on Tuesday evenings, with additional adoration and confession on First Fridays.
    Sources (1)
    1. Saint Leo University Community Gathers in Prayer at 2025 Mass of Holy Spirit | Saint Leo Universitysaintleo.edu/about/stories/news-and-events/saint-leo-university-community-gathers-prayer-2025-mass-holy-spirit · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Student Praise & Worship with Eucharistic Adoration is 7-8 p.m., Tuesdays when class is in session, at the Saint Leo Abbey Church.”
      Eucharistic adoration with praise and worship is held weekly on Tuesday evenings during the semester.
      “First Friday Devotion begins with Mass at 9-9:30 a.m., followed by Eucharistic Adoration and Confession, 9:30 a.m.-noon, in Saint Jude Chapel in the Student Activities Building (SAB) complex.”
      On First Fridays, Mass is followed by Eucharistic adoration and confession in Saint Jude Chapel.
  • All undergraduates in the standard general-education program take Introduction to Scripture and Faith & Reason.
    Sources (1)
    1. Core Curriculum | Saint Leo Universitysaintleo.edu/academics/core-curriculum · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “REL 115 - Introduction to Scripture (3 credits) REL 125 - Faith & Reason (3 credits)”
      The general-education Foundation Courses include REL 115 Introduction to Scripture and REL 125 Faith & Reason.
  • First-year students may live in single-sex residence halls (Benoit Hall for men, Henderson Hall for women).
    Sources (1)
    1. On-Campus Housing | Saint Leo Universitysaintleo.edu/student-experience/on-campus/residence-life/housing · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Benoit Hall houses over 120 first-year male residents in a traditional "community style" layout.”
      Benoit Hall is a residence hall for first-year men.
      “Henderson Hall houses over 180 first-year women in a traditional "community style" layout.”
      Henderson Hall is a residence hall for first-year women.

Concerns

  • No philosophy course is required of all undergraduates. Philosophy & Ethics is one option within a social-science cluster.
    Sources (1)
    1. Core Curriculum | Saint Leo Universitysaintleo.edu/academics/core-curriculum · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Complete two courses from the following choices: ECO 110HA - Economics for Life (3 credits) HTY 110HA - Immigration History (3 credits) POL 110HA - Democracy in Troubled Times (3 credits) PHI 210HA - Philosophy & Ethics (3 credits)”
      Philosophy & Ethics is one elective option within The Human Adventure cluster, not a required course.
  • The only priest identified in University Ministry is a retired diocesan priest described as assistant university chaplain.
    Sources (2)
    1. Saint Leo University Community Gathers in Prayer at 2025 Mass of Holy Spirit | Saint Leo Universitysaintleo.edu/about/stories/news-and-events/saint-leo-university-community-gathers-prayer-2025-mass-holy-spirit · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Celebrating the Mass was Father John McEvoy, assistant university chaplain and retired Diocese of Saint Petersburg (FL) priest.”
      Father John McEvoy, a retired diocesan priest, serves as assistant university chaplain.
    2. Faculty & Staff Directory | Saint Leo Universitysaintleo.edu/directory · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “University Ministry Mary Keselicka Campus Minister - 11 Months John Francisco McEvoy Ministry Assistant”
      The staff directory lists two people under University Ministry: a campus minister and John Francisco McEvoy.
  • The only confession times found on readable pages are monthly, on First Fridays; the ministry's own confession schedule could not be retrieved.
    Sources (2)
    1. Saint Leo University Community Gathers in Prayer at 2025 Mass of Holy Spirit | Saint Leo Universitysaintleo.edu/about/stories/news-and-events/saint-leo-university-community-gathers-prayer-2025-mass-holy-spirit · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “First Friday Devotion begins with Mass at 9-9:30 a.m., followed by Eucharistic Adoration and Confession, 9:30 a.m.-noon, in Saint Jude Chapel in the Student Activities Building (SAB) complex.”
      On First Fridays, Mass is followed by Eucharistic adoration and confession in Saint Jude Chapel.
    2. Faith and Spirituality | Saint Leo Universitysaintleo.edu/student-experience/faith-spirituality · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Confession: Located in the Abbey Church. See our confession schedule during the academic year.”
      Confession is offered in the Abbey Church; the schedule is published on a separate University Ministry page.

Know something we missed? Suggest a correction.

Campus ministry home

University Ministry

  • Address: 33701 County Road 52, St. Leo, FL 33574
  • Location: On campus

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

Catholic clubs and student life

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

Retreats 1

  • Freshmen Ministry RetreatOff campus
    August, before classes begin
    Annual University Ministry retreat for new students at the Bethany Retreat Center in Lutz, FL.

Service 1

  • Service Trips and Alternative Spring BreakOff campus
    Service trips organized by University Ministry during the year.

Faith formation 3

  • Theology on TapOn campus
    Discussions of faith questions over pizza and drinks.
  • RCIAOn campus
    Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults for students becoming Catholic or learning about the faith.
  • Student Chaplain ProgramOn campus
    Students work with resident assistants to support fellow students through University Ministry.

Clubs and groups 2

  • Men's and Women's GroupsOn campus
    Mondays 7 PM
    Separate men's (Kirk 122) and women's (TECO Hall) faith groups run by University Ministry.
  • Imago DeiOn campus
    Pro-life student club.

Liturgy and prayer 4

  • Music MinistryOn campus
    Students prepare and perform music at Mass with the music minister.
  • Student Praise & Worship with Eucharistic AdorationOn campus
    Tuesdays 7-8 PM when class is in session
    Weekly adoration with praise and worship music in the Abbey Church.
  • First Friday DevotionOn campus
    First Fridays 9 AM-noon
    Mass followed by Eucharistic adoration and confession in Saint Jude Chapel.
  • Prayer and liturgy with the monks of Saint Leo AbbeyOn campus
    Students are invited to join the Benedictine monks for daily prayer and Mass in the Abbey Church.

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. Faith and Spirituality | Saint Leo Universitysaintleo.edu/student-experience/faith-spirituality · verified Oct. 7, 2026
    “Eucharistic Adoration with Praise and Worship Music: Located weekly in the Abbey Church.”
    University Ministry holds weekly Eucharistic adoration in the Abbey Church.
    “Imago Dei: Pro-life Club Theology on Tap: Relaxed discussions of the big questions over pizza and drinks Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA): The process of becoming Catholic!”
    University Ministry lists a pro-life club (Imago Dei), Theology on Tap, and RCIA.
    “Music Ministry: Work with our Music Minister Lucas Nocera on preparation and performance of music at Mass and other events!”
    University Ministry has a music minister, Lucas Nocera.
    “Service Trips and Alternative Spring Break: Organized through the year. Reach out to ministry@saintleo.edu with ideas!”
    University Ministry organizes service trips and an alternative spring break.
    “Imago Dei: Pro-life Club Theology on Tap: Relaxed discussions of the big questions over pizza and drinks Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA): The process of becoming Catholic!”
    University Ministry lists a pro-life club (Imago Dei), Theology on Tap, and RCIA.
    “Imago Dei: Pro-life Club Theology on Tap: Relaxed discussions of the big questions over pizza and drinks Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA): The process of becoming Catholic!”
    University Ministry lists a pro-life club (Imago Dei), Theology on Tap, and RCIA.
    “Saint Leo University was founded by Benedictine monks in 1889, and Saint Leo Abbey is still active today.”
    Saint Leo Abbey, the Benedictine community that founded the university, is active next to campus.
    “Come join the monks for daily prayer and Mass.”
    Students are invited to join the Benedictine monks for daily prayer and Mass.
    “33701 County Road 52, St. Leo, FL 33574”
    The university's published campus address is 33701 County Road 52, St. Leo, FL 33574.
  2. Faculty & Staff Directory | Saint Leo Universitysaintleo.edu/directory · verified Oct. 7, 2026
    “University Ministry Mary Keselicka Campus Minister - 11 Months John Francisco McEvoy Ministry Assistant”
    The staff directory lists two people under University Ministry: a campus minister and John Francisco McEvoy.
  3. Clubs and Organizations | Saint Leo Universitysaintleo.edu/student-experience/get-involved/clubs-organizations · verified Oct. 7, 2026
    “Gaming Club Imago Dei K-Pop and Anime Club”
    Imago Dei is listed among current student clubs.
  4. Saint Leo University Community Gathers in Prayer at 2025 Mass of Holy Spirit | Saint Leo Universitysaintleo.edu/about/stories/news-and-events/saint-leo-university-community-gathers-prayer-2025-mass-holy-spirit · verified Oct. 7, 2026
    “For more information visit ministry.saintleo.edu, email ministry@saintleo.edu, or stop by the University Ministry offices in the Wellness Center.”
    University Ministry has offices in the Wellness Center on campus and can be reached at ministry@saintleo.edu.

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Academic Excellence

FAcademic Excellence: 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.
37 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.45%
  • First-year retention 20% of scoreThis measure counts for 20% of the Academic Excellence score.59%
  • Entering students' test scores 15% of scoreThis measure counts for 15% of the Academic Excellence score.Not reported
  • Student-to-faculty ratio 15% of scoreThis measure counts for 15% of the Academic Excellence score.25 to 1
  • Instructional spending per student 15% of scoreThis measure counts for 15% of the Academic Excellence score.$4,336

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.

Value and outcomes
Undergraduate students
Fall enrollment (IPEDS)
7,603
Total students10,231
Average net price (per year)
After grants and scholarships, for students receiving federal aid
$21,293
Cost of attendance (per year)$45,264
Median federal debt at graduation$25,278
Graduation rate
First-time, full-time students finishing within 150% of normal time
45%
First-year retention59%
Median earnings 10 years after entry$48,364
Admission rate78%
Students receiving Pell grants32%

Value index: 37 / 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 Saint Petersburg

The Most Reverend Gregory L. Parkes, Bishop of Saint Petersburg

Formal address: “Your Excellency”

Cathedral: Cathedral of St. Jude the Apostle

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

Diocese determined from the county using NCES Catholic school records. Confirm with the diocese.

About this school’s data

  • IPEDS unit ID 137032
  • Carnegie classification: Doctoral/professional university
  • Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges d.b.a. Commission on Colleges and Universities (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 Saint Leo University a Catholic college?
Yes. Saint Leo University is a Catholic college in the Diocese of Saint Petersburg.
What is Saint Leo University’s Compass Score?
65 out of 100 (grade B). It combines faith (75%) and academics (25%), each rated from official sources.
Where is Mass celebrated at Saint Leo University?
Mass is listed at Saint Leo Abbey Church and Saint Jude Chapel. Days and times are on this page; please confirm with the parish or campus ministry before you go.

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