Catholic School CompassTrue north for Catholic families.
Santa Clara University: SCUCampus
Photo: Omar A., CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons.

Catholic college

Santa Clara University

  • LocationSanta Clara, CA
  • Type and sizePrivate nonprofit · 4-year · 9,340 students
  • SponsorSociety of Jesus (Jesuits)
  • TraditionJesuit
Official website

Santa Clara University is a Jesuit, Catholic university in Santa Clara, California, whose Mission Santa Clara de Asís serves as the campus student chapel. Mass is celebrated there every weekday and three times on Sundays, and confession is scheduled three times a week. All undergraduates who enter as first-year students take three Religion, Theology & Culture courses and one ethics course in the Core, and every student completes an Experiential Learning for Social Justice requirement with off-campus community-based learning.

Mass, confession, and adoration

Confirm with the parish

Mass 5

  • Sunday10:00 AMMission Santa Clara de Asís · During the academic year.
  • Sunday5:00 PMMission Santa Clara de Asís · Student Mass; during the academic year.
  • Sunday8:00 PMMission Santa Clara de Asís · Student Mass; during the academic year.
  • Wednesday8:00 PMMission Santa Clara de Asís · Student Candlelight Mass; during the academic year.
  • Monday7:00 PM–8:30 PMJesuit Community Chapel · Misa en Español, first Monday of the month only.

Confession 3

  • Sunday7:00 PMMission Santa Clara de Asís
  • Monday11:30 AMMission Santa Clara de Asís
  • Wednesday7:30 PMMission Santa Clara de Asís

Adoration 1

  • Wednesday7:30 PM–8:00 PMMission Santa Clara de Asís · Before the Wednesday Student Candlelight Mass; described in a 2025-26 story.

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 (3)
  1. Mission Santa Clara de Asís - Santa Clara Universityscu.edu/missionchurch · verified Oct. 7, 2026
    “SUNDAY MASSES Sundays 10 AM WEEKDAY MASSES Monday - Friday 12 Noon STUDENT MASSES Sundays | 5 & 8 PM Wednesdays | 8 PM”
    The Mission Church lists Sunday Mass at 10 AM, weekday Mass Monday through Friday at noon, and student Masses Sundays at 5 and 8 PM and Wednesdays at 8 PM.
    “SUNDAY MASSES Sundays 10 AM WEEKDAY MASSES Monday - Friday 12 Noon STUDENT MASSES Sundays | 5 & 8 PM Wednesdays | 8 PM”
    The Mission Church lists Sunday Mass at 10 AM, weekday Mass Monday through Friday at noon, and student Masses Sundays at 5 and 8 PM and Wednesdays at 8 PM.
    “SUNDAY MASSES Sundays 10 AM WEEKDAY MASSES Monday - Friday 12 Noon STUDENT MASSES Sundays | 5 & 8 PM Wednesdays | 8 PM”
    The Mission Church lists Sunday Mass at 10 AM, weekday Mass Monday through Friday at noon, and student Masses Sundays at 5 and 8 PM and Wednesdays at 8 PM.
    “SUNDAY MASSES Sundays 10 AM WEEKDAY MASSES Monday - Friday 12 Noon STUDENT MASSES Sundays | 5 & 8 PM Wednesdays | 8 PM”
    The Mission Church lists Sunday Mass at 10 AM, weekday Mass Monday through Friday at noon, and student Masses Sundays at 5 and 8 PM and Wednesdays at 8 PM.
  2. Catholic Life - Santa Clara Universityscu.edu/csf/catholic-life · verified Oct. 7, 2026
    “Sundays | 7 PM Mondays | 11:30 AM Wednesdays | 7:30 PM Mission Church”
    The Sacrament of Reconciliation is scheduled three times weekly in the Mission Church.
    “Sundays | 7 PM Mondays | 11:30 AM Wednesdays | 7:30 PM Mission Church”
    The Sacrament of Reconciliation is scheduled three times weekly in the Mission Church.
    “Sundays | 7 PM Mondays | 11:30 AM Wednesdays | 7:30 PM Mission Church”
    The Sacrament of Reconciliation is scheduled three times weekly in the Mission Church.
    “Experience the beauty of the Mass celebrated in Spanish, followed by delicious food and refreshments. First Monday of the Month | 7 - 8:30 PM Jesuit Community Chapel”
    A Spanish-language Mass followed by a meal is held on the first Monday of each month in the Jesuit Community Chapel.
  3. Stories - Santa Clara Universityscu.edu/csf/stories/student-candlelight-mass.html · verified Oct. 7, 2026
    “The steady rhythm of Eucharistic Adoration and Confessions at 7:30 PM, Mass at 8 PM, and fellowship afterward has quickly become a beloved Bronco tradition.”
    Eucharistic adoration and confessions take place at 7:30 PM before the weekly Wednesday 8 PM Student Candlelight Mass.

Catholic churches nearby

Map of Santa Clara University, its Catholic center and nearby Catholic churches1 mi2 mi3 miMission Santa Clara de Asís: 0.2 mi1Saint Clare Catholic Parish: 0.3 mi2Saint Volodymyr Ukrainian Catholic Center: 0.3 mi3Carmelite Monastery: 0.8 mi4Leontyne Chapel: 1.1 mi5Saint Martin of Tours Church: 1.7 mi6Center for Spirituality and Faith: 0.3 miSanta Clara University (campus)N1 mi
CampusCatholic centerCatholic church (numbered below)Open a street map ›
  1. Mission Santa Clara de Asís — 0.2 mi · 500 El Camino Real, Santa Clara
  2. Saint Clare Catholic Parish — 0.3 mi · 941 Lexington Street, Santa Clara
  3. Saint Volodymyr Ukrainian Catholic Center — 0.3 mi · 445 Washington Street, Santa Clara
  4. Carmelite Monastery — 0.8 mi
  5. Leontyne Chapel — 1.1 mi
  6. Saint Martin of Tours Church — 1.7 mi · 200 O’Connor Drive, San Jose

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.

ASacramental 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.

Sacramental life

89 of 100 points on what we could document.

  • Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Weekday Mass on campus during the academic yearEvery weekday (5 or more weekdays) (Mass Monday-Friday in the Mission Church. The Mission Church page lists 12 Noon; the Center for Spirituality and Faith page lists 12:05 PM.)
    Sources (2)
    1. Mission Santa Clara de Asís - Santa Clara Universityscu.edu/missionchurch · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “SUNDAY MASSES Sundays 10 AM WEEKDAY MASSES Monday - Friday 12 Noon STUDENT MASSES Sundays | 5 & 8 PM Wednesdays | 8 PM”
      The Mission Church lists Sunday Mass at 10 AM, weekday Mass Monday through Friday at noon, and student Masses Sundays at 5 and 8 PM and Wednesdays at 8 PM.
    2. Catholic Life - Santa Clara Universityscu.edu/csf/catholic-life · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Daily Mass Monday - Friday | 12:05 PM Sunday Mass 10 AM Sunday Student Masses 5 PM & 8 PM Student Candlelight Mass Wednesdays 8 PM”
      The Center for Spirituality and Faith lists daily Mass Monday through Friday at 12:05 PM, three Sunday Masses, and a Wednesday 8 PM student Mass.
  • 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 AM plus student Masses at 5 PM and 8 PM.)
    Sources (3)
    1. Mission Santa Clara de Asís - Santa Clara Universityscu.edu/missionchurch · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “SUNDAY MASSES Sundays 10 AM WEEKDAY MASSES Monday - Friday 12 Noon STUDENT MASSES Sundays | 5 & 8 PM Wednesdays | 8 PM”
      The Mission Church lists Sunday Mass at 10 AM, weekday Mass Monday through Friday at noon, and student Masses Sundays at 5 and 8 PM and Wednesdays at 8 PM.
    2. Catholic Life - Santa Clara Universityscu.edu/csf/catholic-life · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Daily Mass Monday - Friday | 12:05 PM Sunday Mass 10 AM Sunday Student Masses 5 PM & 8 PM Student Candlelight Mass Wednesdays 8 PM”
      The Center for Spirituality and Faith lists daily Mass Monday through Friday at 12:05 PM, three Sunday Masses, and a Wednesday 8 PM student Mass.
    3. Undergraduate Bulletin 2026-27 - Center for Spirituality and Faithscu.edu/appdata/pub/bulletin/undergraduate/2026-27/chapter-2-transformative-experiences-and-learning-resources/center-for-spirituality-and-faith.html · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “During the academic year, we sponsor three Sunday liturgies in the Mission Church, daily noon Mass, and annual Masses celebrating the University’s Catholic and Jesuit traditions.”
      During the academic year there are three Sunday liturgies and a daily noon Mass in the Mission Church.
  • Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Scheduled confession on campusThree or more scheduled times per week (Sundays 7 PM, Mondays 11:30 AM, Wednesdays 7:30 PM in the Mission Church.)
    Sources (1)
    1. Catholic Life - Santa Clara Universityscu.edu/csf/catholic-life · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Sundays | 7 PM Mondays | 11:30 AM Wednesdays | 7:30 PM Mission Church”
      The Sacrament of Reconciliation is scheduled three times weekly in the Mission Church.
  • Partly: the school meets some of this item and earns part of the points.
    Eucharistic adorationWeekly scheduled adoration (Eucharistic adoration and confessions at 7:30 PM before the Wednesday 8 PM Student Candlelight Mass, as described in a 2025-26 Center for Spirituality and Faith story.)
    Sources (1)
    1. Stories - Santa Clara Universityscu.edu/csf/stories/student-candlelight-mass.html · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “The steady rhythm of Eucharistic Adoration and Confessions at 7:30 PM, Mass at 8 PM, and fellowship afterward has quickly become a beloved Bronco tradition.”
      Eucharistic adoration and confessions take place at 7:30 PM before the weekly Wednesday 8 PM Student Candlelight Mass.
  • 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. Andrew Laguna, SJ (Director, Catholic Life) and Fr. Julian Climaco, SJ (Senior Program Director, Liturgy & Music) are on the campus ministry staff.)
    Sources (3)
    1. Andrew Laguna, SJ - Santa Clara Universityscu.edu/csf/about-us/staff-contact/andrew-laguna-sj · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Ordained a Jesuit priest in 2019, Fr. Andrew has served in vocation ministry, campus ministry, and pastoral leadership”
      The Director of Catholic Life, Fr. Andrew Laguna, SJ, is a Jesuit priest.
    2. About Us - Santa Clara Universityscu.edu/csf/about-us · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Andrew Laguna, SJ Director, Catholic Life Julian Climaco, SJ Senior Program Director, Liturgy & Music Rocio Garcia Program Coordinator, Center for Spirituality and Faith”
      The Center for Spirituality and Faith staff includes a Director of Catholic Life, a Senior Program Director for Liturgy & Music, and a Program Coordinator, in addition to the Center's director.
    3. Fr. Julian Climaco, SJ - Santa Clara Universityscu.edu/csf/about-us/staff-contact/fr-julian-climaco-sj · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Fr. Julian serves as the Campus Minister for Liturgy and Music, blending his passion for sacred music with Catholic worship.”
      Fr. Julian Climaco, SJ, a priest, serves as campus minister for liturgy and music.
  • Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Chapel open for prayer on campusYes
    Sources (1)
    1. Mission Santa Clara de Asís - Santa Clara Universityscu.edu/missionchurch · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “All are invited to visit Mission Santa Clara de Asís everyday between 7 AM - 7 PM”
      The Mission Church on campus is open every day from 7 AM to 7 PM.
  • Partly: the school meets some of this item and earns part of the points.
    Published weekly schedule of Mass, confession, and adoration6 to 11 times a week (9 weekly times documented: 5 Mass, 3 confession, 1 adoration.)Computed from the verified Mass, confession, and adoration times listed on this page (each day a time is offered counts once).
BTheology and core curriculum: Good (grade B): 70 to 100 points out of 100 on what official sources document. Grades need sources for at least 60% of the checklist.

Theology and core curriculum

74 of 100 points on what we could document.

  • Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Theology or religious studies courses required of all bachelor's studentsThree or more courses (Students admitted as first-year students take Religion, Theology & Culture 1, 2, and 3 in sequence. Transfer students with 44 or more transferable units take two RTC courses. SCU is on the quarter system (4-5 unit courses).)
    Sources (1)
    1. Undergraduate Bulletin 2026-27 - The Core Curriculumscu.edu/appdata/pub/bulletin/undergraduate/2026-27/chapter-2-transformative-experiences-and-learning-resources/the-core-curriculum.html · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Ethics Natural Science Religion, Theology & Culture 2 Religion, Theology & Culture 3 Science, Technology & Society”
      The Core Explorations requirements include Ethics and Religion, Theology & Culture 2 and 3 (RTC 1 is a Foundations requirement).
      “Must take all three Religion, Theology & Culture courses in sequential order.”
      Students admitted as first-year students must take three Religion, Theology & Culture courses.
  • Partly: the school meets some of this item and earns part of the points.
    Required theology includes explicitly Catholic content (Scripture, Catholic tradition, sacraments)Catholic theology is one option among several (RTC 1 is framed as an introduction to the study of religion across cultures. Catholic theology courses such as TESP 50 Catholic Theology: Foundations are among the options.)
    Sources (2)
    1. Undergraduate Bulletin 2026-27 - Religious Studiesscu.edu/appdata/pub/bulletin/undergraduate/2026-27/chapter-3-college-of-arts-and-sciences/religious-studies.html · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “The Department of Religious Studies offers a degree program leading to the bachelor of arts in religious studies.”
      A bachelor of arts in religious studies is offered.
      “An examination of the fundamental theological issues of Catholicism such as the experience of God, revelation and faith, the historical foundations of the tradition, the mystery of Jesus, grace, sin and redemption, the Church sacraments”
      TESP 50 Catholic Theology: Foundations is among the lower-division religious studies courses offered.
    2. Learning Objectives by Core Area - Office of the Provost and EVP - Santa Clara Universityscu.edu/provost/core/faculty-resources/learning-objectives-by-core-area · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “It introduces students to the basic approaches by which scholars seek to understand what religion reveals about human beings—their societies, traditions, convictions, and aspirations.”
      RTC 1 is described as an introduction to the academic study of religion rather than a course in Catholic theology.
  • Partly: the school meets some of this item and earns part of the points.
    Philosophy courses required of all bachelor's studentsOne course (The Core Ethics requirement is described as attention to moral philosophy and is met mostly by PHIL courses; a few courses from other departments also count, and business students satisfy it with MGMT 6 Business Ethics or PHIL 26.)
    Sources (3)
    1. Undergraduate Bulletin 2026-27 - The Core Curriculumscu.edu/appdata/pub/bulletin/undergraduate/2026-27/chapter-2-transformative-experiences-and-learning-resources/the-core-curriculum.html · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Ethics Natural Science Religion, Theology & Culture 2 Religion, Theology & Culture 3 Science, Technology & Society”
      The Core Explorations requirements include Ethics and Religion, Theology & Culture 2 and 3 (RTC 1 is a Foundations requirement).
    2. Learning Objectives by Core Area - Office of the Provost and EVP - Santa Clara Universityscu.edu/provost/core/faculty-resources/learning-objectives-by-core-area · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “The Jesuit character of the university promotes sustained attention to moral philosophy as applied to the problems of contemporary life.”
      The Core Ethics requirement is described as a requirement in moral philosophy.
    3. Explorations - Office of the Provost and EVP - Santa Clara Universityscu.edu/provost/core/explorations · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “BUSINESS students must satisfy this requirement with MGMT 6 or PHIL 26.”
      Business students meet the Ethics requirement with either a management course or a philosophy course.
  • 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
    Sources (1)
    1. Undergraduate Bulletin 2026-27 - The Core Curriculumscu.edu/appdata/pub/bulletin/undergraduate/2026-27/chapter-2-transformative-experiences-and-learning-resources/the-core-curriculum.html · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Santa Clara’s Core Curriculum explicitly integrates three traditions of higher education: Catholic, Jesuit, and University values.”
      The Core Curriculum is described as integrating the Catholic and Jesuit traditions.
  • Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Theology or religious studies major offeredYes (B.A. in religious studies; a Catholic studies minor is also offered.)
    Sources (1)
    1. Undergraduate Bulletin 2026-27 - Religious Studiesscu.edu/appdata/pub/bulletin/undergraduate/2026-27/chapter-3-college-of-arts-and-sciences/religious-studies.html · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “The Department of Religious Studies offers a degree program leading to the bachelor of arts in religious studies.”
      A bachelor of arts in religious studies 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.
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

84 of 100 points on what we could document.

  • Partly: the school meets some of this item and earns part of the points.
    Campus ministry staffing (chaplains, ministers, and professional staff)Two to four (4 professional staff listed for the multi-faith Center for Spirituality and Faith: the Center's director, the Director of Catholic Life (a priest), the Senior Program Director for Liturgy & Music (a priest), and a program coordinator. Administrative associates, student workers, and the communications director were not counted. The Mission Church office (director and assistant director) is listed separately.)
    Sources (1)
    1. About Us - Santa Clara Universityscu.edu/csf/about-us · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Andrew Laguna, SJ Director, Catholic Life Julian Climaco, SJ Senior Program Director, Liturgy & Music Rocio Garcia Program Coordinator, Center for Spirituality and Faith”
      The Center for Spirituality and Faith staff includes a Director of Catholic Life, a Senior Program Director for Liturgy & Music, and a Program Coordinator, in addition to the Center's director.
  • Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Retreats offered to students each yearFour or more distinct retreats (Faith Formation retreats, Career Clarity retreat, Awareness retreat, and Teach Me How to Pray retreat. An undated Ignatian Center page also describes a week-long Redwoods Retreat; it was not counted.)
    Sources (2)
    1. Undergraduate Bulletin 2026-27 - Center for Spirituality and Faithscu.edu/appdata/pub/bulletin/undergraduate/2026-27/chapter-2-transformative-experiences-and-learning-resources/center-for-spirituality-and-faith.html · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “others are open to all campus community members, such as the Faith Formation retreats, Career Clarity retreat, and Awareness retreat”
      Retreats open to all students include Faith Formation retreats, a Career Clarity retreat, and an Awareness retreat.
    2. Center for Spirituality and Faith - Santa Clara Universityscu.edu/csf · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “In response to hearing again and again from students sharing how much they long for peace, rest, and a place to pray, our team offered a The Teach Me How to Pray retreat.”
      The Center for Spirituality and Faith offered a Teach Me How to Pray retreat.
  • Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Catholic student organizations and faith-formation groupsThree or more (College Catholics, Students for Life, Ignatian Life Communities, weekly Breaking Open the Word, and OCIA.)
    Sources (2)
    1. Catholic Life - Santa Clara Universityscu.edu/csf/catholic-life · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “College Catholics is a student-led community focused on helping students grow in the Catholic faith”
      College Catholics is a student-led Catholic community that meets weekly.
    2. Undergraduate Bulletin 2026-27 - Center for Spirituality and Faithscu.edu/appdata/pub/bulletin/undergraduate/2026-27/chapter-2-transformative-experiences-and-learning-resources/center-for-spirituality-and-faith.html · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “including, for example, the Muslim Student Association, Students for Life, the Jewish Student Union, College Catholics, and the Sikh Student Association.”
      Students for Life and College Catholics are among the faith-based student organizations the Center supports.
      “CSF-organized Ignatian Life Communities are opportunities for students to explore spiritual practice and identity in small groups of their peers. Other opportunities include weekly Breaking Open the Word (reflection on the lectionary readings).”
      Ignatian Life Communities small groups and a weekly Breaking Open the Word group are offered.
  • Partly: the school meets some of this item and earns part of the points.
    Single-sex residence optionsSingle-sex floors or wings only (Residence halls are coeducational; in the Unity RLC the 2nd floor of McLaughlin is all-female and the 3rd floor of Walsh is all-male.)
    Sources (2)
    1. McLaughlin-Walsh Residence Hall ✧ Unity RLC - Santa Clara Universityscu.edu/living/discover/fysy/mclaughlin-walsh · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Unity RLC is co-ed with the exception of 2nd floor McLaughlin which is all-female and 3rd floor Walsh which is all-male.”
      One residence hall community has an all-female floor and an all-male floor.
    2. Undergraduate Bulletin 2026-27 - The Residential Experiencescu.edu/appdata/pub/bulletin/undergraduate/2026-27/chapter-2-transformative-experiences-and-learning-resources/the-residential-experience.html · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “accommodate approximately half of the undergraduate population in coeducational communities”
      Residence halls are coeducational communities.
  • 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 (Guests may visit at any time if accompanied; cohabitation is not permitted, and visits beyond 3 consecutive days or 7 days per year need Residence Life permission.)
    Sources (1)
    1. Housing and Residence Life Policies, Procedures, and Standards - Santa Clara Universityscu.edu/dso/student-handbook/housing-and-residence-life-policies--procedures-andstandards · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Given the values of Santa Clara University, cohabitation is not permitted in University residence halls or apartments.”
      Cohabitation is not permitted in university housing.
      “The host of any guest who intends to visit for more than 3 consecutive days, or for more than a total of 7 days during the academic year must obtain prior written permission from Residence Life staff.”
      Guest stays are limited without prior permission; no restriction by sex is stated.
  • 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 (Graduate-student Spirituality Facilitators from the Center for Spirituality and Faith live in the residence halls.)
    Sources (1)
    1. Undergraduate Bulletin 2026-27 - Center for Spirituality and Faithscu.edu/appdata/pub/bulletin/undergraduate/2026-27/chapter-2-transformative-experiences-and-learning-resources/center-for-spirituality-and-faith.html · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “In the residence halls, graduate student Spirituality Facilitators provide spiritual accompaniment, offer student community wellness, and support the needs of residents as individuals and in community.”
      Spirituality Facilitators from campus ministry provide spiritual accompaniment in the residence halls.
  • 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 led by a Vice President for Mission & Ministry.)
    Sources (2)
    1. Mission and Ministry - Santa Clara Universityscu.edu/mission-and-ministry · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Mission and Ministry is charged with clearly articulating and broadly communicating Santa Clara University’s Jesuit, Catholic mission and values.”
      A Division of Mission and Ministry is responsible for the university's Jesuit, Catholic mission; it comprises the Center for Spirituality and Faith, the Ignatian Center, and the Mission Church.
    2. Contact Us - Mission Santa Clara de Asís - Santa Clara Universityscu.edu/missionchurch/contact-us · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Matthew Carnes, SJ Vice President, Mission & Ministry”
      A Vice President for Mission & Ministry leads the division.
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

85 of 100 points on what we could document.

  • Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Service or volunteer centerYes (Ignatian Center for Jesuit Education (Arrupe Engagement community placements, immersions, Thriving Neighbors).)
    Sources (1)
    1. Programs - Ignatian Center - Santa Clara Universityscu.edu/ic/programs · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Arrupe Engagement expands the classroom walls by providing real world opportunities to work with non profits, underscoring our commitment to the common good, universal human dignity, justice, and solidarity with marginalized communities.”
      The Ignatian Center runs Arrupe Engagement, which places students with nonprofit community partners, alongside immersions and other programs.
  • Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Service-learning or community engagement in the curriculumRequired of all students (Experiential Learning for Social Justice is a Core requirement for all students. ELSJ courses require at least 16 hours of off-campus community-based learning.)
    Sources (2)
    1. Undergraduate Bulletin 2026-27 - The Core Curriculumscu.edu/appdata/pub/bulletin/undergraduate/2026-27/chapter-2-transformative-experiences-and-learning-resources/the-core-curriculum.html · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Ethics Natural Science Religion, Theology & Culture 2 Religion, Theology & Culture 3 Science, Technology & Society”
      The Core Explorations requirements include Ethics and Religion, Theology & Culture 2 and 3 (RTC 1 is a Foundations requirement).
    2. Integrations - Office of the Provost and EVP - Santa Clara Universityscu.edu/provost/core/integrations · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “ELSJ courses require at least 16 hours of participation over the quarter in community-based learning (CBL) experiences off campus.”
      The required Experiential Learning for Social Justice component includes off-campus community-based learning.
  • Partly: the school meets some of this item and earns part of the points.
    Catholic social teaching in the curriculum (course, minor, center, or core requirement)Offered (course, minor, or center) (TESP 148 Christian Ethics and Controversial Topics emphasizes Catholic Social Teaching; the required ELSJ component is framed around social justice without naming Catholic social teaching.)
    Sources (1)
    1. Undergraduate Bulletin 2026-27 - Religious Studiesscu.edu/appdata/pub/bulletin/undergraduate/2026-27/chapter-3-college-of-arts-and-sciences/religious-studies.html · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “This course examines several contemporary social issues using the lenses of Christian theology and ethics, with a particular emphasis on Catholic Social Teaching.”
      An upper-division religious studies course emphasizes Catholic social teaching.
  • 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 (Students for Life is listed among the faith-based student organizations supported by the Center for Spirituality and Faith.)
    Sources (1)
    1. Undergraduate Bulletin 2026-27 - Center for Spirituality and Faithscu.edu/appdata/pub/bulletin/undergraduate/2026-27/chapter-2-transformative-experiences-and-learning-resources/center-for-spirituality-and-faith.html · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “including, for example, the Muslim Student Association, Students for Life, the Jewish Student Union, College Catholics, and the Sikh Student Association.”
      Students for Life and College Catholics are among the faith-based student organizations the Center supports.
  • 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 (Local, domestic, and international immersions; annual Ignatian Family Teach-In for Justice. Thriving Neighbors.)
    Sources (2)
    1. Programs - Ignatian Center - Santa Clara Universityscu.edu/ic/programs · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Arrupe Engagement expands the classroom walls by providing real world opportunities to work with non profits, underscoring our commitment to the common good, universal human dignity, justice, and solidarity with marginalized communities.”
      The Ignatian Center runs Arrupe Engagement, which places students with nonprofit community partners, alongside immersions and other programs.
    2. Undergraduate Bulletin 2026-27 - Center for Spirituality and Faithscu.edu/appdata/pub/bulletin/undergraduate/2026-27/chapter-2-transformative-experiences-and-learning-resources/center-for-spirituality-and-faith.html · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Some key focus areas include participation in the annual Ignatian Family Teach-in for Justice and service opportunities with local community organizations”
      Campus ministry organizes participation in the Ignatian Family Teach-In for Justice and service with local community organizations.
  • 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 (The Ignatian Center sits within the Division of Mission and Ministry, and the Center for Spirituality and Faith runs service opportunities framed as living out a faith that does justice.)
    Sources (2)
    1. Mission and Ministry - Santa Clara Universityscu.edu/mission-and-ministry · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Mission and Ministry is charged with clearly articulating and broadly communicating Santa Clara University’s Jesuit, Catholic mission and values.”
      A Division of Mission and Ministry is responsible for the university's Jesuit, Catholic mission; it comprises the Center for Spirituality and Faith, the Ignatian Center, and the Mission Church.
    2. Undergraduate Bulletin 2026-27 - Center for Spirituality and Faithscu.edu/appdata/pub/bulletin/undergraduate/2026-27/chapter-2-transformative-experiences-and-learning-resources/center-for-spirituality-and-faith.html · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Some key focus areas include participation in the annual Ignatian Family Teach-in for Justice and service opportunities with local community organizations”
      Campus ministry organizes participation in the Ignatian Family Teach-In for Justice and service with local community organizations.

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

Strengths

  • Mass is celebrated in the Mission Church every weekday, three times on Sundays, and at a Wednesday evening student Mass.
    Sources (3)
    1. Mission Santa Clara de Asís - Santa Clara Universityscu.edu/missionchurch · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “SUNDAY MASSES Sundays 10 AM WEEKDAY MASSES Monday - Friday 12 Noon STUDENT MASSES Sundays | 5 & 8 PM Wednesdays | 8 PM”
      The Mission Church lists Sunday Mass at 10 AM, weekday Mass Monday through Friday at noon, and student Masses Sundays at 5 and 8 PM and Wednesdays at 8 PM.
    2. Catholic Life - Santa Clara Universityscu.edu/csf/catholic-life · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Daily Mass Monday - Friday | 12:05 PM Sunday Mass 10 AM Sunday Student Masses 5 PM & 8 PM Student Candlelight Mass Wednesdays 8 PM”
      The Center for Spirituality and Faith lists daily Mass Monday through Friday at 12:05 PM, three Sunday Masses, and a Wednesday 8 PM student Mass.
    3. Undergraduate Bulletin 2026-27 - Center for Spirituality and Faithscu.edu/appdata/pub/bulletin/undergraduate/2026-27/chapter-2-transformative-experiences-and-learning-resources/center-for-spirituality-and-faith.html · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “During the academic year, we sponsor three Sunday liturgies in the Mission Church, daily noon Mass, and annual Masses celebrating the University’s Catholic and Jesuit traditions.”
      During the academic year there are three Sunday liturgies and a daily noon Mass in the Mission Church.
  • Confession is scheduled three times a week, and two Jesuit priests serve on the campus ministry staff.
    Sources (3)
    1. Catholic Life - Santa Clara Universityscu.edu/csf/catholic-life · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Sundays | 7 PM Mondays | 11:30 AM Wednesdays | 7:30 PM Mission Church”
      The Sacrament of Reconciliation is scheduled three times weekly in the Mission Church.
    2. Andrew Laguna, SJ - Santa Clara Universityscu.edu/csf/about-us/staff-contact/andrew-laguna-sj · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Ordained a Jesuit priest in 2019, Fr. Andrew has served in vocation ministry, campus ministry, and pastoral leadership”
      The Director of Catholic Life, Fr. Andrew Laguna, SJ, is a Jesuit priest.
    3. Fr. Julian Climaco, SJ - Santa Clara Universityscu.edu/csf/about-us/staff-contact/fr-julian-climaco-sj · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Fr. Julian serves as the Campus Minister for Liturgy and Music, blending his passion for sacred music with Catholic worship.”
      Fr. Julian Climaco, SJ, a priest, serves as campus minister for liturgy and music.
  • Students admitted as first-year students take three Religion, Theology & Culture courses in sequence.
    Sources (1)
    1. Undergraduate Bulletin 2026-27 - The Core Curriculumscu.edu/appdata/pub/bulletin/undergraduate/2026-27/chapter-2-transformative-experiences-and-learning-resources/the-core-curriculum.html · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Must take all three Religion, Theology & Culture courses in sequential order.”
      Students admitted as first-year students must take three Religion, Theology & Culture courses.
  • All undergraduates complete an Experiential Learning for Social Justice requirement with off-campus community-based learning.
    Sources (2)
    1. Undergraduate Bulletin 2026-27 - The Core Curriculumscu.edu/appdata/pub/bulletin/undergraduate/2026-27/chapter-2-transformative-experiences-and-learning-resources/the-core-curriculum.html · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Ethics Natural Science Religion, Theology & Culture 2 Religion, Theology & Culture 3 Science, Technology & Society”
      The Core Explorations requirements include Ethics and Religion, Theology & Culture 2 and 3 (RTC 1 is a Foundations requirement).
    2. Integrations - Office of the Provost and EVP - Santa Clara Universityscu.edu/provost/core/integrations · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “ELSJ courses require at least 16 hours of participation over the quarter in community-based learning (CBL) experiences off campus.”
      The required Experiential Learning for Social Justice component includes off-campus community-based learning.

Concerns

  • No required course is specifically Catholic theology. RTC 1 introduces the academic study of religion, and Catholic theology is one option among many.
    Sources (2)
    1. Learning Objectives by Core Area - Office of the Provost and EVP - Santa Clara Universityscu.edu/provost/core/faculty-resources/learning-objectives-by-core-area · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “It introduces students to the basic approaches by which scholars seek to understand what religion reveals about human beings—their societies, traditions, convictions, and aspirations.”
      RTC 1 is described as an introduction to the academic study of religion rather than a course in Catholic theology.
    2. Undergraduate Bulletin 2026-27 - Religious Studiesscu.edu/appdata/pub/bulletin/undergraduate/2026-27/chapter-3-college-of-arts-and-sciences/religious-studies.html · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “An examination of the fundamental theological issues of Catholicism such as the experience of God, revelation and faith, the historical foundations of the tradition, the mystery of Jesus, grace, sin and redemption, the Church sacraments”
      TESP 50 Catholic Theology: Foundations is among the lower-division religious studies courses offered.
  • The philosophy requirement is one ethics course, which business students may meet with a management course instead.
    Sources (2)
    1. Learning Objectives by Core Area - Office of the Provost and EVP - Santa Clara Universityscu.edu/provost/core/faculty-resources/learning-objectives-by-core-area · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “The Jesuit character of the university promotes sustained attention to moral philosophy as applied to the problems of contemporary life.”
      The Core Ethics requirement is described as a requirement in moral philosophy.
    2. Explorations - Office of the Provost and EVP - Santa Clara Universityscu.edu/provost/core/explorations · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “BUSINESS students must satisfy this requirement with MGMT 6 or PHIL 26.”
      Business students meet the Ethics requirement with either a management course or a philosophy course.
  • There are no single-sex residence halls; one hall community has one all-female floor and one all-male floor.
    Sources (2)
    1. McLaughlin-Walsh Residence Hall ✧ Unity RLC - Santa Clara Universityscu.edu/living/discover/fysy/mclaughlin-walsh · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Unity RLC is co-ed with the exception of 2nd floor McLaughlin which is all-female and 3rd floor Walsh which is all-male.”
      One residence hall community has an all-female floor and an all-male floor.
    2. Undergraduate Bulletin 2026-27 - The Residential Experiencescu.edu/appdata/pub/bulletin/undergraduate/2026-27/chapter-2-transformative-experiences-and-learning-resources/the-residential-experience.html · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “accommodate approximately half of the undergraduate population in coeducational communities”
      Residence halls are coeducational communities.
  • The guest policy limits the length of visits but does not restrict overnight guests by sex.
    Sources (1)
    1. Housing and Residence Life Policies, Procedures, and Standards - Santa Clara Universityscu.edu/dso/student-handbook/housing-and-residence-life-policies--procedures-andstandards · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “The host of any guest who intends to visit for more than 3 consecutive days, or for more than a total of 7 days during the academic year must obtain prior written permission from Residence Life staff.”
      Guest stays are limited without prior permission; no restriction by sex is stated.

Know something we missed? Suggest a correction.

Campus ministry home

Center for Spirituality and Faith

  • Address: Benson Center, Room 105, 500 El Camino Real, Santa Clara, CA 95053
  • Location: On campus

View on map ↗

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

Catholic clubs and student life

15 groups and regular activities · 8 on campus, 7 off campus

Other 1

  • PilgrimagesOff campus
    Student pilgrimages run by the Ignatian Center.
    scu.edu

Retreats 2

  • Faith Formation, Career Clarity, and Awareness retreatsOff campus
    Retreats open to all students during the academic year.
    scu.edu
  • Teach Me How to Pray retreatOff campus
    Weekend retreat on forms of prayer, including the Rosary and adoration, at the St. Francis Retreat Center in San Juan Bautista.
    scu.edu, scu.edu

Service 4

  • ImmersionsOff campus
    Local, domestic, and international immersion trips run by the Ignatian Center.
    scu.edu
  • Ignatian Family Teach-In for JusticeOff campus
    Annual
    Campus ministry delegation to the annual Jesuit justice gathering.
    scu.edu
  • Local service opportunitiesOff campus
    Service with Santa Maria Urban Ministry, Sunday Friends, Sacred Heart Community Center, and the Center for Farmworker Families.
    scu.edu
  • Arrupe EngagementOff campus
    Ignatian Center community placements with nonprofit partners, including for the ELSJ requirement.
    scu.edu

Faith formation 2

  • OCIA and Confirmation preparationOn campus
    Year-long preparation for Baptism, First Eucharist, and Confirmation, in coordination with the Diocese of San Jose.
    scu.edu
  • Breaking Open the WordOn campus
    Weekly
    Reflection on the lectionary readings.
    scu.edu

Clubs and groups 3

  • College CatholicsOn campus
    Mondays 7:00 PM
    Student-led Catholic community meeting in the Multifaith Sanctuary, St. Joseph's Hall.
    scu.edu, scu.edu
  • Ignatian Life CommunitiesOn campus
    Small faith-sharing groups based on Ignatian spirituality.
    scu.edu
  • Students for LifeOn campus
    Student pro-life organization supported by the Center for Spirituality and Faith.
    scu.edu

Liturgy and prayer 3

  • Student Candlelight MassOn campus
    Wednesdays 8:00 PM
    Weekly student Mass in the Mission Church, preceded by adoration and confession and followed by fellowship.
    scu.edu, scu.edu
  • Misa en EspañolOn campus
    First Monday of the month, 7-8:30 PM
    Mass in Spanish followed by food, in the Jesuit Community Chapel.
    scu.edu
  • Liturgy ministersOn campus
    Students volunteer as liturgical ministers at Mission Church Masses.
    scu.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. Catholic Life - Santa Clara Universityscu.edu/csf/catholic-life · verified Oct. 7, 2026
    “Daily Mass Monday - Friday | 12:05 PM Sunday Mass 10 AM Sunday Student Masses 5 PM & 8 PM Student Candlelight Mass Wednesdays 8 PM”
    The Center for Spirituality and Faith lists daily Mass Monday through Friday at 12:05 PM, three Sunday Masses, and a Wednesday 8 PM student Mass.
    “College Catholics is a student-led community focused on helping students grow in the Catholic faith”
    College Catholics is a student-led Catholic community that meets weekly.
    “Daily Mass Monday - Friday | 12:05 PM Sunday Mass 10 AM Sunday Student Masses 5 PM & 8 PM Student Candlelight Mass Wednesdays 8 PM”
    The Center for Spirituality and Faith lists daily Mass Monday through Friday at 12:05 PM, three Sunday Masses, and a Wednesday 8 PM student Mass.
  2. About Us - Santa Clara Universityscu.edu/csf/about-us · verified Oct. 7, 2026
    “Andrew Laguna, SJ Director, Catholic Life Julian Climaco, SJ Senior Program Director, Liturgy & Music Rocio Garcia Program Coordinator, Center for Spirituality and Faith”
    The Center for Spirituality and Faith staff includes a Director of Catholic Life, a Senior Program Director for Liturgy & Music, and a Program Coordinator, in addition to the Center's director.
  3. Mission Santa Clara de Asís - Santa Clara Universityscu.edu/missionchurch · verified Oct. 7, 2026
    “SUNDAY MASSES Sundays 10 AM WEEKDAY MASSES Monday - Friday 12 Noon STUDENT MASSES Sundays | 5 & 8 PM Wednesdays | 8 PM”
    The Mission Church lists Sunday Mass at 10 AM, weekday Mass Monday through Friday at noon, and student Masses Sundays at 5 and 8 PM and Wednesdays at 8 PM.
    “All are invited to visit Mission Santa Clara de Asís everyday between 7 AM - 7 PM”
    The Mission Church on campus is open every day from 7 AM to 7 PM.
  4. Undergraduate Bulletin 2026-27 - Center for Spirituality and Faithscu.edu/appdata/pub/bulletin/undergraduate/2026-27/chapter-2-transformative-experiences-and-learning-resources/center-for-spirituality-and-faith.html · verified Oct. 7, 2026
    “including, for example, the Muslim Student Association, Students for Life, the Jewish Student Union, College Catholics, and the Sikh Student Association.”
    Students for Life and College Catholics are among the faith-based student organizations the Center supports.
    “CSF-organized Ignatian Life Communities are opportunities for students to explore spiritual practice and identity in small groups of their peers. Other opportunities include weekly Breaking Open the Word (reflection on the lectionary readings).”
    Ignatian Life Communities small groups and a weekly Breaking Open the Word group are offered.
  5. Contact Us - Mission Santa Clara de Asís - Santa Clara Universityscu.edu/missionchurch/contact-us · verified Oct. 7, 2026
    “Luis Calero, SJ Rector, Jesuit Community”
    A Jesuit community with a rector is on campus.
  6. Center for Spirituality and Faith - Santa Clara Universityscu.edu/csf · verified Oct. 7, 2026
    “Center for Spirituality and Faith Benson Center, Room 105 500 El Camino Real Santa Clara, CA 95053 408-554-4372”
    The Center for Spirituality and Faith is in Benson Center, Room 105, on the Santa Clara campus.

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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.
96 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.88%
  • First-year retention 20% of scoreThis measure counts for 20% of the Academic Excellence score.94%
  • Entering students' test scores 15% of scoreThis measure counts for 15% of the Academic Excellence score.SAT 1,426 · ACT 32
  • 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.$22,421

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)
6,249
Total students9,340
Average net price (per year)
After grants and scholarships, for students receiving federal aid
$50,062
Cost of attendance (per year)$82,026
Median federal debt at graduation$19,162
Graduation rate
First-time, full-time students finishing within 150% of normal time
88%
First-year retention94%
Median earnings 10 years after entry$109,183
Admission rate48%
Students receiving Pell grants11%
Admission test scores (middle 50% of admitted students who submitted scores)
Average SAT1426
SAT reading & writing670–730
SAT math680–760
ACT composite31–33
Test policyConsidered but not required

Value index: 65 / 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 San Jose

The Most Reverend Oscar Cantú, Bishop of San Jose

Formal address: “Your Excellency”

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

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

About this school’s data

Questions families ask

Is Santa Clara University a Catholic college?
Yes. Santa Clara University is a Catholic college in the Diocese of San Jose. Its sponsor is Society of Jesus (Jesuits).
What is Santa Clara University’s Compass Score?
86 out of 100 (grade B). It combines faith (75%) and academics (25%), each rated from official sources.
Where is Mass celebrated at Santa Clara University?
Mass is listed at Mission Santa Clara de Asís and Jesuit Community Chapel. Days and times are on this page; please confirm with the parish or campus ministry before you go.
Is Santa Clara University Compass Recommended?
Yes. Santa Clara University meets the Compass Recommended standard for Catholic identity and academics.

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