Catholic School CompassTrue north for Catholic families.
Seattle University: Birches on Seattle University campus 01
Photo: Joe Mabel, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons.

Catholic college

Seattle University

  • LocationSeattle, WA
  • Type and sizePrivate nonprofit · 4-year · 7,182 students
  • SponsorSociety of Jesus (Jesuits)
  • TraditionJesuit
Official website

Seattle University is a Jesuit Catholic university on Seattle's First Hill. University Ministry schedules Mass in the Chapel of St. Ignatius at 12:30 PM every weekday and at 11 AM and 5 PM on Sundays, with confession on Sundays at 4:15 PM during the academic year. The University Core requires Theological Explorations, Religion in a Global Context, and Philosophy of the Human Person, and residence-hall overnight guests must be of the same gender as the host.

Mass, confession, and adoration

Confirm with the parish

Mass 3

  • Monday–Friday12:30 PMChapel of St. Ignatius · During the academic year.
  • Sunday11:00 AMChapel of St. Ignatius
  • Sunday5:00 PMChapel of St. Ignatius · Not held during summer and academic breaks.

Confession 1

  • Sunday4:15 PMChapel of St. Ignatius · During the academic year; also after any Mass if the presider is available.

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. Liturgy | Chapel of St. Ignatius | Seattle Universityseattleu.edu/life-at-seattle-u/faith-spirituality-meaning/chapel-of-st-ignatius/liturgy · verified Oct. 7, 2026
    “The Chapel of St. Ignatius at Seattle University currently offers Sunday Mass at 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. We also have weekday masses Monday - Friday at 12:30 p.m.”
    Mass is celebrated in the Chapel of St. Ignatius every weekday at 12:30 PM and on Sundays at 11 AM and 5 PM.
    “The Chapel of St. Ignatius at Seattle University currently offers Sunday Mass at 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. We also have weekday masses Monday - Friday at 12:30 p.m.”
    Mass is celebrated in the Chapel of St. Ignatius every weekday at 12:30 PM and on Sundays at 11 AM and 5 PM.
    “The Chapel of St. Ignatius at Seattle University currently offers Sunday Mass at 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. We also have weekday masses Monday - Friday at 12:30 p.m.”
    Mass is celebrated in the Chapel of St. Ignatius every weekday at 12:30 PM and on Sundays at 11 AM and 5 PM.
    “The Sacrament of Reconciliation (previously known as "Confession") is available on Sundays during the academic year at 4:15 p.m., or after any Mass in the Chapel of St. Ignatius, providing that the presider is available after the liturgy.”
    Confession is scheduled on Sundays at 4:15 PM during the academic year, and after Mass when the presider is available.

Catholic churches nearby

Map of Seattle University, its Catholic center and nearby Catholic churches0.5 mi1 mi2 miChapel of Saint Ignatius: 0.2 mi1Saint James Cathedral: 0.3 mi2Immaculate Conception Church: 0.5 mi3Saint Mary Church: 1.0 mi4Christ Our Hope Catholic Church: 1.0 mi5Saint Joseph Catholic Church: 1.3 mi6University Ministry and the Chapel of St. Ignatius: 0.1 miSeattle University (campus)N0.5 mi
CampusCatholic centerCatholic church (numbered below)Open a street map ›
  1. Chapel of Saint Ignatius — 0.2 mi · 1000 11th Avenue, Seattle
  2. Saint James Cathedral — 0.3 mi · 804 9th Avenue, Seattle
  3. Immaculate Conception Church — 0.5 mi · 820 18th Avenue, Seattle
  4. Saint Mary Church — 1.0 mi
  5. Christ Our Hope Catholic Church — 1.0 mi · 1900 2nd Avenue, Seattle
  6. Saint Joseph Catholic Church — 1.3 mi · 748 18th Avenue East, Seattle

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

85 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) (Monday-Friday 12:30 PM in the Chapel of St. Ignatius.)
    Sources (1)
    1. Liturgy | Chapel of St. Ignatius | Seattle Universityseattleu.edu/life-at-seattle-u/faith-spirituality-meaning/chapel-of-st-ignatius/liturgy · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “The Chapel of St. Ignatius at Seattle University currently offers Sunday Mass at 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. We also have weekday masses Monday - Friday at 12:30 p.m.”
      Mass is celebrated in the Chapel of St. Ignatius every weekday at 12:30 PM and on Sundays at 11 AM and 5 PM.
  • Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Sunday Mass on campus (including Saturday vigil)Two or more weekend Masses (Sunday 11 AM and 5 PM; no 5 PM Mass during summer and academic breaks.)
    Sources (1)
    1. Liturgy | Chapel of St. Ignatius | Seattle Universityseattleu.edu/life-at-seattle-u/faith-spirituality-meaning/chapel-of-st-ignatius/liturgy · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “The Chapel of St. Ignatius at Seattle University currently offers Sunday Mass at 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. We also have weekday masses Monday - Friday at 12:30 p.m.”
      Mass is celebrated in the Chapel of St. Ignatius every weekday at 12:30 PM and on Sundays at 11 AM and 5 PM.
      “*No 5 p.m. Mass or evening Reconciliation during summer and during academic breaks”
      The Sunday 5 PM Mass and the Sunday reconciliation time are not held during summer and academic breaks.
  • Partly: the school meets some of this item and earns part of the points.
    Scheduled confession on campusOne or two scheduled times per week (Sundays 4:15 PM during the academic year; otherwise after Mass if the presider is available.)
    Sources (1)
    1. Liturgy | Chapel of St. Ignatius | Seattle Universityseattleu.edu/life-at-seattle-u/faith-spirituality-meaning/chapel-of-st-ignatius/liturgy · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “The Sacrament of Reconciliation (previously known as "Confession") is available on Sundays during the academic year at 4:15 p.m., or after any Mass in the Chapel of St. Ignatius, providing that the presider is available after the liturgy.”
      Confession is scheduled on Sundays at 4:15 PM during the academic year, and after Mass when the presider is available.
  • Not enough information: official sources do not document this, so it is left out of the grade rather than counted as a no.
    Eucharistic adorationNot enough information: not found in official sources.
  • Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Priests serving studentsAt least one full-time priest chaplain (or a resident community of priests serving campus ministry) (Fr. Vincent Duong, SJ, is listed as Campus Minister on the University Ministry page; the Mission Integration page lists Fr. Natch Ohno, SJ (University Chaplain) and Fr. Paul Janowiak, SJ (Chaplain for the Chapel).)
    Sources (2)
    1. University Ministry | Seattle Universityseattleu.edu/life-at-seattle-u/faith-spirituality-meaning/university-ministry · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Angelo Neri Alfonso Program Manager for Liturgy Fr. Vincent Duong, SJ Campus Minister Mackenzie Gass Program Manager for Retreats Megan Kush Associate Director of Pastoral Care Luke Lavin Assistant Vice President, University Ministry”
      The University Ministry team includes a Jesuit priest serving as campus minister, a liturgy program manager, a retreats program manager, an associate director of pastoral care, and an assistant vice president.
    2. Mission Integration | Seattle Universityseattleu.edu/mission-integration · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Fr. Natch Ohno, SJ University Chaplain ohnon@seattleu.edu”
      A Jesuit priest serves as University Chaplain.
      “Fr. Paul Janowiak, SJ Chaplain for the Chapel of St. Ignatius”
      A second Jesuit priest is chaplain for the Chapel of St. Ignatius.
  • Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Chapel open for prayer on campusYes (Chapel of St. Ignatius open weekdays; the Mission Integration page also lists other prayer spaces.)
    Sources (2)
    1. Liturgy | Chapel of St. Ignatius | Seattle Universityseattleu.edu/life-at-seattle-u/faith-spirituality-meaning/chapel-of-st-ignatius/liturgy · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “The Chapel is open for visiting from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday - Friday”
      The Chapel of St. Ignatius is open on weekdays for visitors.
    2. Chapel of St. Ignatius | Seattle Universityseattleu.edu/life-at-seattle-u/faith-spirituality-meaning/chapel-of-st-ignatius · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “The Chapel of St. Ignatius is Seattle University's main chapel and primarily hosts our Roman Catholic liturgies.”
      The Chapel of St. Ignatius is the university's main chapel for Catholic liturgies.
  • 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 (8 weekly times documented: 7 Mass, 1 confession, 0 adoration.)Computed from the verified Mass, confession, and adoration times listed on this page (each day a time is offered counts once).
BTheology and core curriculum: Good (grade B): 70 to 100 points out of 100 on what official sources document. Grades need sources for at least 60% of the checklist.

Theology and core curriculum

74 of 100 points on what we could document.

  • Partly: the school meets some of this item and earns part of the points.
    Theology or religious studies courses required of all bachelor's studentsTwo courses (UCOR 2100 Theological Explorations and UCOR 3100 Religion in a Global Context (policy for students admitted 2026-27; the new core for 2027-28 entrants keeps both). University Honors and Matteo Ricci Institute students follow their own curricula. Students of Cornish College of the Arts at Seattle University (South Lake Union campus) have a separate catalog section and were not researched.)
    Sources (1)
    1. University Core Curriculum Policy 2012-1 (students admitted 2026-2027)seattleu.edu/media/seattle-university/ucor/frequently-asked-questions/files/University-Core-Curriculum-(2012-01)-Academic-Year-2026-27-.pdf · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Module II: Engaging Jesuit Traditions (15 credits) • UCOR 2100 Theological Explorations • UCOR 2500 Philosophy of the Human Person • UCOR 2900 Ethical Reasoning (fulfilled by UCOR 2900, 2910, or 2920)”
      For students admitted in 2026-27, the University Core requires Theological Explorations, Philosophy of the Human Person, and Ethical Reasoning.
      “Module III: Engaging the World (15 credits) • UCOR 3100 Religion in a Global Context”
      The University Core also requires Religion in a Global Context.
      “All Seattle University students complete the University Core requirements except those enrolled in University Honors or the Matteo Ricci Institute (MRI), which each have their own general education curriculum requirements.”
      The University Core applies to all students except those in University Honors or the Matteo Ricci Institute, which have their own curricula.
  • 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 (Generic title; the UCOR 2100 description gives particular attention to the Catholic and Jesuit traditions, and the department states it emphasizes in-depth study of the Catholic tradition.)
    Sources (2)
    1. Core Course Descriptions | University Core | Seattle Universityseattleu.edu/academics/university-core/core-curriculum/core-course-descriptions · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “You will explore key theological ideas that have shaped Christian understandings of God, humanity, and society, with particular attention to the Catholic and Jesuit traditions.”
      UCOR 2100 Theological Explorations gives particular attention to the Catholic and Jesuit traditions.
    2. Theology & Religious Studies, BA | Seattle Universityseattleu.edu/academics/all-programs/theology--religious-studies-ba · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “In keeping with the Jesuit, Catholic commitment of Seattle University, our theology and religious studies department emphasizes an in-depth study of the Catholic tradition in dialogue with other religious and secular perspectives.”
      The Theology and Religious Studies department states that it emphasizes in-depth study of the Catholic tradition.
  • Partly: the school meets some of this item and earns part of the points.
    Philosophy courses required of all bachelor's studentsOne course (UCOR 2500 Philosophy of the Human Person (UCOR 1500 Philosophies of Humanity in the new core). It is not counted.)
    Sources (2)
    1. University Core Curriculum Policy 2012-1 (students admitted 2026-2027)seattleu.edu/media/seattle-university/ucor/frequently-asked-questions/files/University-Core-Curriculum-(2012-01)-Academic-Year-2026-27-.pdf · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Module II: Engaging Jesuit Traditions (15 credits) • UCOR 2100 Theological Explorations • UCOR 2500 Philosophy of the Human Person • UCOR 2900 Ethical Reasoning (fulfilled by UCOR 2900, 2910, or 2920)”
      For students admitted in 2026-27, the University Core requires Theological Explorations, Philosophy of the Human Person, and Ethical Reasoning.
    2. Core Course Descriptions | University Core | Seattle Universityseattleu.edu/academics/university-core/core-curriculum/core-course-descriptions · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “UCOR 1500: Philosophies of Humanity”
      In the new University Core (students entering 2027-28 and later), the philosophy course is UCOR 1500 Philosophies of Humanity.
  • 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 core description says students will learn about the Jesuit and Catholic context of the educational mission. Module II is titled 'Engaging Jesuit Traditions'. Borderline.)
    Sources (1)
    1. Core Curriculum | University Core | Seattle Universityseattleu.edu/academics/university-core/core-curriculum · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “learn about the Jesuit and Catholic context of our educational mission”
      The University Core description lists learning about the Jesuit and Catholic context of the university's educational mission among the core's aims.
  • Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Theology or religious studies major offeredYes (Theology and Religious Studies BA.)
    Sources (1)
    1. Theology & Religious Studies, BA | Seattle Universityseattleu.edu/academics/all-programs/theology--religious-studies-ba · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Explore the Bachelor of Arts in Theology and Religious Studies at Seattle University.”
      A Bachelor of Arts in Theology and 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.
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 (University Ministry team page lists 6 ministry staff (excluding a Muslim chaplain and a communications specialist): AVP, associate director for liturgy, associate director of pastoral care, liturgy and retreat program managers, and a Jesuit campus minister; the Mission Integration page adds two Jesuit chaplains and six resident ministers.)
    Sources (2)
    1. University Ministry | Seattle Universityseattleu.edu/life-at-seattle-u/faith-spirituality-meaning/university-ministry · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Angelo Neri Alfonso Program Manager for Liturgy Fr. Vincent Duong, SJ Campus Minister Mackenzie Gass Program Manager for Retreats Megan Kush Associate Director of Pastoral Care Luke Lavin Assistant Vice President, University Ministry”
      The University Ministry team includes a Jesuit priest serving as campus minister, a liturgy program manager, a retreats program manager, an associate director of pastoral care, and an assistant vice president.
      “Brian Robert Taberski, EdD Associate Director for University Liturgy, Worship, and Faith Formation”
      University Ministry has an associate director for liturgy, worship and faith formation.
    2. Mission Integration | Seattle Universityseattleu.edu/mission-integration · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Fr. Natch Ohno, SJ University Chaplain ohnon@seattleu.edu”
      A Jesuit priest serves as University Chaplain.
      “Fr. Paul Janowiak, SJ Chaplain for the Chapel of St. Ignatius”
      A second Jesuit priest is chaplain for the Chapel of St. Ignatius.
  • Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Retreats offered to students each yearFour or more distinct retreats (Retreat in Daily Life, Ignatian Silent Retreats, Search Retreat, Embodying the Sacred; plus the Roots and Routes early-arrival immersion.)
    Sources (1)
    1. Retreats | University Ministry | Seattle Universityseattleu.edu/life-at-seattle-u/faith-spirituality-meaning/university-ministry/retreats · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “University Ministry offers a series of Core Retreats that serve as foundational experiences for you during your time at Seattle University. These retreats are offered regularly each year.”
      University Ministry offers a series of Core Retreats each year.
      “Held at the serene Palisades Retreat Center overlooking Puget Sound, participants engage in Ignatian spirituality through daily spiritual direction, communal prayer, and guided discernment practices”
      Ignatian Silent Retreats are held at the Palisades Retreat Center.
      “The Search Retreat gives you the opportunity to reflect on yourself and your sense of the sacred in the context of community.”
      University Ministry offers the Search Retreat.
      “Take a day to focus on resetting, reflecting, and being present.”
      University Ministry offers one-day Retreats in Daily Life.
      “Embodying the Sacred is a retreat open to undergraduate students who identify as non-binary, Two-Spirit, transgender, genderqueer, or cisgender women.”
      University Ministry offers the Embodying the Sacred retreat, typically in winter quarter.
  • Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Catholic student organizations and faith-formation groupsThree or more (REKINDLED weekly Catholic student group; weekly OCIA group. Confirmation preparation classes.)
    Sources (2)
    1. Religious and Spiritual Community | University Ministry | Seattle Universityseattleu.edu/life-at-seattle-u/faith-spirituality-meaning/university-ministry/religious-and-spiritual-community · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “connect with peers at REKINDLED, our weekly Catholic student group”
      REKINDLED is a weekly Catholic student group.
    2. Catholic Community and Sacramental Life | University Ministry | Seattle Universityseattleu.edu/life-at-seattle-u/faith-spirituality-meaning/university-ministry/catholic-community-and-sacramental-life · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Our OCIA program is open to Seattle University students, and begins in the Fall Quarter, with weekly meetings typically held on Thursday afternoons (during the lunch hour)”
      University Ministry runs a weekly OCIA group for students preparing to become Catholic.
      “Our Confirmation program is open to Seattle University students. Confirmation Classes begin each Fall quarter and conclude after the Confirmation Mass in the Spring.”
      University Ministry runs a year-long Confirmation preparation program for students.
  • Not enough information: official sources do not document this, so it is left out of the grade rather than counted as a no.
    Single-sex residence optionsNot enough information: not found in official sources.
  • Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Overnight guest policy in residence hallsOvernight guests of the opposite sex not permitted (Overnight guests must be of the same gender as the host; visitation hours 7:30 AM-1 AM Sunday-Thursday and to 2 AM Friday-Saturday.)
    Sources (1)
    1. Frequently Asked Questions | Housing & Dining | Seattle Universityseattleu.edu/life-at-seattle-u/housing-dining/frequently-asked-questions · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Only guests of the same gender as their resident host are permitted to stay overnight in the residence halls, provided that the guest is not in an amorous relationship with the resident host.”
      Overnight guests in the residence halls must be of the same gender as the host.
  • 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 (Resident Ministers (University Ministry) and Jesuits in Residence in the residence halls.)
    Sources (2)
    1. Frequently Asked Questions | Housing & Dining | Seattle Universityseattleu.edu/life-at-seattle-u/housing-dining/frequently-asked-questions · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Jesuits in Residence are members of the Jesuit community at Seattle University.”
      Members of the Jesuit community serve as Jesuits in Residence in the residence halls.
    2. Pastoral Care | University Ministry | Seattle Universityseattleu.edu/life-at-seattle-u/faith-spirituality-meaning/university-ministry/pastoral-care · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Resident Ministers are staff and faculty who live as members of our undergraduate residence halls and are an extension of the University Ministry team.”
      University Ministry places Resident Ministers in the undergraduate residence halls.
  • Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Office or senior officer for mission and Catholic identityYes (Vice President for Mission Integration.)
    Sources (1)
    1. Mission Integration | Seattle Universityseattleu.edu/mission-integration · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “The Vice President for Mission Integration is part of Seattle University's Senior Leadership Team and works to ensure the Jesuit Catholic mission is embedded across all areas of university life.”
      A Vice President for Mission Integration on the senior leadership team is responsible for the Jesuit Catholic mission.
BService and Catholic social teaching: Good (grade B): 70 to 100 points out of 100 on what official sources document. Grades need sources for at least 60% of the checklist.

Service and Catholic social teaching

75 of 100 points on what we could document.

  • Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Service or volunteer centerYes (Sundborg Center for Community Engagement.)
    Sources (2)
    1. Community Outreach | Get Involved | Seattle Universityseattleu.edu/life-at-seattle-u/get-involved/community-outreach · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “The Sundborg Center for Community Engagement (CCE) works with instructors to identify community organizations that offer CEL placements to Seattle U students.”
      The Sundborg Center for Community Engagement arranges community-engaged learning placements for courses.
    2. The Student Experience at CCE | Center for Community Engagement | Seattle Universityseattleu.edu/community-engagement/the-student-experience-at-cce · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “You can find one-time and ongoing volunteer opportunities to assist in the community, on campus or at local community organizations through our online platform, Redhawk Impact.”
      The Center for Community Engagement offers one-time and ongoing volunteer opportunities.
  • 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) (Community-engaged learning (CEL) courses; not a stated requirement for all students.)
    Sources (1)
    1. Community Outreach | Get Involved | Seattle Universityseattleu.edu/life-at-seattle-u/get-involved/community-outreach · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “The Sundborg Center for Community Engagement (CCE) works with instructors to identify community organizations that offer CEL placements to Seattle U students.”
      The Sundborg Center for Community Engagement arranges community-engaged learning placements for courses.
  • 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) (Catholic Studies minor includes Catholic social thought. Institute for Catholic Thought and Culture holds Catholic Immigration Summits on Catholic social teaching.)
    Sources (2)
    1. Catholic Studies, Minor | Seattle Universityseattleu.edu/academics/all-programs/catholic-studies-minor · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “assessing the strengths and weaknesses of Catholic traditions, including traditions of Catholic social thought.”
      The Catholic Studies minor includes study of Catholic social thought.
    2. Immigration Summits | Institute for Catholic Thought and Culture | Seattle Universityseattleu.edu/institute-for-catholic-thought-and-culture/events/immigration-summits · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “participants will engage with Catholic social teaching on migration, immigration enforcement realities, and strategies for strengthening the Church’s response to immigrants and refugees.”
      The Institute for Catholic Thought and Culture holds an annual Catholic Immigration Summit on Catholic social teaching on migration.
  • 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 who are Parents resource page (Parents & Families); no pro-life student group found.)
    Sources (1)
    1. Students who are Parents | Parents & Families | Seattle Universityseattleu.edu/parents-families/students-who-are-parents · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Students who are parents at Seattle University have a community on campus dedicated to supporting your successful path towards graduation.”
      The university publishes a resource page supporting students who are parents, including pregnancy and health resources and lactation rooms.
  • 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 (University Ministry immersions to Mexico and Appalachia; annual Catholic Immigration Summit.)
    Sources (2)
    1. Give to University Ministry | Seattle Universityseattleu.edu/life-at-seattle-u/faith-spirituality-meaning/university-ministry/give-to-university-ministry · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “It is essential to the Jesuit Catholic tradition that our students explore the intersection of faith and justice and work to grow and integrate these into their lives to become people for others. University Ministry creates opportunities for learning about justice issues, engaging in community service, and growing as global citizens through immersion experiences.”
      University Ministry runs service and justice immersion programs framed by the Jesuit Catholic tradition.
      “Just $250 will cover one student’s deposit for our immersions to Mexico or Appalachia!”
      University Ministry immersions go to Mexico and Appalachia.
    2. Immigration Summits | Institute for Catholic Thought and Culture | Seattle Universityseattleu.edu/institute-for-catholic-thought-and-culture/events/immigration-summits · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “participants will engage with Catholic social teaching on migration, immigration enforcement realities, and strategies for strengthening the Church’s response to immigrants and refugees.”
      The Institute for Catholic Thought and Culture holds an annual Catholic Immigration Summit on Catholic social teaching on migration.
  • 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 (University Ministry service and justice immersions framed by the Jesuit Catholic tradition; the Center for Community Engagement describes itself as inspired by the Jesuit Catholic ethos.)
    Sources (2)
    1. Give to University Ministry | Seattle Universityseattleu.edu/life-at-seattle-u/faith-spirituality-meaning/university-ministry/give-to-university-ministry · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “It is essential to the Jesuit Catholic tradition that our students explore the intersection of faith and justice and work to grow and integrate these into their lives to become people for others. University Ministry creates opportunities for learning about justice issues, engaging in community service, and growing as global citizens through immersion experiences.”
      University Ministry runs service and justice immersion programs framed by the Jesuit Catholic tradition.
    2. Mission Driven | Center for Community Engagement | Seattle Universityseattleu.edu/community-engagement/mission-driven · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Inspired by Seattle University’s Jesuit Catholic ethos and in partnership with many local organizations, the Sundborg Center for Community Engagement (CCE) strives to live and lead as an anti-racist organization.”
      The Center for Community Engagement describes its work as inspired by the university's Jesuit Catholic ethos.

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 Chapel of St. Ignatius every weekday and twice on Sundays during the academic year.
    Sources (1)
    1. Liturgy | Chapel of St. Ignatius | Seattle Universityseattleu.edu/life-at-seattle-u/faith-spirituality-meaning/chapel-of-st-ignatius/liturgy · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “The Chapel of St. Ignatius at Seattle University currently offers Sunday Mass at 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. We also have weekday masses Monday - Friday at 12:30 p.m.”
      Mass is celebrated in the Chapel of St. Ignatius every weekday at 12:30 PM and on Sundays at 11 AM and 5 PM.
  • The University Core requires two theology/religion courses, including Theological Explorations with particular attention to the Catholic and Jesuit traditions.
    Sources (2)
    1. University Core Curriculum Policy 2012-1 (students admitted 2026-2027)seattleu.edu/media/seattle-university/ucor/frequently-asked-questions/files/University-Core-Curriculum-(2012-01)-Academic-Year-2026-27-.pdf · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Module II: Engaging Jesuit Traditions (15 credits) • UCOR 2100 Theological Explorations • UCOR 2500 Philosophy of the Human Person • UCOR 2900 Ethical Reasoning (fulfilled by UCOR 2900, 2910, or 2920)”
      For students admitted in 2026-27, the University Core requires Theological Explorations, Philosophy of the Human Person, and Ethical Reasoning.
      “Module III: Engaging the World (15 credits) • UCOR 3100 Religion in a Global Context”
      The University Core also requires Religion in a Global Context.
    2. Core Course Descriptions | University Core | Seattle Universityseattleu.edu/academics/university-core/core-curriculum/core-course-descriptions · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “You will explore key theological ideas that have shaped Christian understandings of God, humanity, and society, with particular attention to the Catholic and Jesuit traditions.”
      UCOR 2100 Theological Explorations gives particular attention to the Catholic and Jesuit traditions.
  • Jesuit chaplains serve University Ministry, and Resident Ministers and Jesuits in Residence live in the residence halls.
    Sources (3)
    1. Mission Integration | Seattle Universityseattleu.edu/mission-integration · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Fr. Natch Ohno, SJ University Chaplain ohnon@seattleu.edu”
      A Jesuit priest serves as University Chaplain.
      “Fr. Paul Janowiak, SJ Chaplain for the Chapel of St. Ignatius”
      A second Jesuit priest is chaplain for the Chapel of St. Ignatius.
    2. Frequently Asked Questions | Housing & Dining | Seattle Universityseattleu.edu/life-at-seattle-u/housing-dining/frequently-asked-questions · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Jesuits in Residence are members of the Jesuit community at Seattle University.”
      Members of the Jesuit community serve as Jesuits in Residence in the residence halls.
    3. Pastoral Care | University Ministry | Seattle Universityseattleu.edu/life-at-seattle-u/faith-spirituality-meaning/university-ministry/pastoral-care · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Resident Ministers are staff and faculty who live as members of our undergraduate residence halls and are an extension of the University Ministry team.”
      University Ministry places Resident Ministers in the undergraduate residence halls.
  • A Vice President for Mission Integration sits on the senior leadership team.
    Sources (1)
    1. Mission Integration | Seattle Universityseattleu.edu/mission-integration · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “The Vice President for Mission Integration is part of Seattle University's Senior Leadership Team and works to ensure the Jesuit Catholic mission is embedded across all areas of university life.”
      A Vice President for Mission Integration on the senior leadership team is responsible for the Jesuit Catholic mission.

Concerns

  • Confession has one scheduled weekly time (Sunday 4:15 PM during the academic year).
    Sources (1)
    1. Liturgy | Chapel of St. Ignatius | Seattle Universityseattleu.edu/life-at-seattle-u/faith-spirituality-meaning/chapel-of-st-ignatius/liturgy · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “The Sacrament of Reconciliation (previously known as "Confession") is available on Sundays during the academic year at 4:15 p.m., or after any Mass in the Chapel of St. Ignatius, providing that the presider is available after the liturgy.”
      Confession is scheduled on Sundays at 4:15 PM during the academic year, and after Mass when the presider is available.
  • The University Core names one philosophy course (Philosophy of the Human Person); many Catholic colleges require two or more.
    Sources (1)
    1. University Core Curriculum Policy 2012-1 (students admitted 2026-2027)seattleu.edu/media/seattle-university/ucor/frequently-asked-questions/files/University-Core-Curriculum-(2012-01)-Academic-Year-2026-27-.pdf · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Module II: Engaging Jesuit Traditions (15 credits) • UCOR 2100 Theological Explorations • UCOR 2500 Philosophy of the Human Person • UCOR 2900 Ethical Reasoning (fulfilled by UCOR 2900, 2910, or 2920)”
      For students admitted in 2026-27, the University Core requires Theological Explorations, Philosophy of the Human Person, and Ethical Reasoning.

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Campus ministry home

University Ministry and the Chapel of St. Ignatius

  • Address: 901 12th Avenue, Seattle, WA 98122
  • Location: On campus
  • Facilities: chapel, office (Student Center 120)

View on map ↗

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

Catholic clubs and student life

16 groups and regular activities · 11 on campus, 5 off campus

Liturgy and prayer 5

  • Mass of the Holy SpiritOff campus
    Fall
    University Mass opening the academic year at Immaculate Conception Church.
    seattleu.edu
  • Welcome MassOn campus
    September
    Mass for new and returning students followed by a pizza social.
    seattleu.edu
  • Simbang GabiOn campus
    December
    Filipino Advent Mass in the Chapel of St. Ignatius.
    seattleu.edu
  • Lenten Reconciliation Prayer ServiceOn campus
    Lent
    Communal prayer service with individual confession.
    seattleu.edu
  • Liturgical ministriesOn campus
    Students serve as lectors, greeters, communion ministers, altar servers and in the choir.
    seattleu.edu

Retreats 3

  • Ignatian Silent RetreatOff campus
    Silent retreat with daily spiritual direction at the Palisades Retreat Center.
    seattleu.edu
  • Search RetreatOff campus
    Retreat rooted in the Jesuit Christian tradition, open to students of all backgrounds.
    seattleu.edu
  • Retreat in Daily LifeOn campus
    Typically Saturday mornings
    One-day reflection retreats on varied themes.
    seattleu.edu

Service 2

  • Immersions to Mexico and AppalachiaOff campus
    University Ministry service and justice immersion trips.
    seattleu.edu, seattleu.edu
  • St. James community kitchenOff campus
    Service at a community kitchen as part of University Ministry programming.
    seattleu.edu

Faith formation 2

  • OCIA (Order of Christian Initiation of Adults)On campus
    Thursdays at lunch, fall through Easter
    Year-long preparation for Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist at the Easter Vigil in the Chapel.
    seattleu.edu
  • Confirmation preparationOn campus
    Fall through spring
    Classes for baptized Catholic students, ending with a Confirmation Mass celebrated with a bishop.
    seattleu.edu

Clubs and groups 1

  • REKINDLEDOn campus
    Weekly
    Weekly Catholic student group.
    seattleu.edu

Other 2

  • Black Catholic History MonthOn campus
    November
    Observance with Immaculate Conception parish and the Black Catholic Advisory Circle.
    seattleu.edu
  • Catholic Immigration SummitOn campus
    Annually
    Day-long summit of the Institute for Catholic Thought and Culture with Mass and sessions on Catholic social teaching on migration.
    seattleu.edu

Social life 1

  • Sunday after-Mass socialOn campus
    Sundays after the 5 PM Mass
    Social or other programming after the Sunday evening Mass.
    seattleu.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. University Ministry | Seattle Universityseattleu.edu/life-at-seattle-u/faith-spirituality-meaning/university-ministry · verified Oct. 7, 2026
    “Angelo Neri Alfonso Program Manager for Liturgy Fr. Vincent Duong, SJ Campus Minister Mackenzie Gass Program Manager for Retreats Megan Kush Associate Director of Pastoral Care Luke Lavin Assistant Vice President, University Ministry”
    The University Ministry team includes a Jesuit priest serving as campus minister, a liturgy program manager, a retreats program manager, an associate director of pastoral care, and an assistant vice president.
  2. Liturgy | Chapel of St. Ignatius | Seattle Universityseattleu.edu/life-at-seattle-u/faith-spirituality-meaning/chapel-of-st-ignatius/liturgy · verified Oct. 7, 2026
    “The Chapel of St. Ignatius at Seattle University currently offers Sunday Mass at 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. We also have weekday masses Monday - Friday at 12:30 p.m.”
    Mass is celebrated in the Chapel of St. Ignatius every weekday at 12:30 PM and on Sundays at 11 AM and 5 PM.
  3. Frequently Asked Questions | Housing & Dining | Seattle Universityseattleu.edu/life-at-seattle-u/housing-dining/frequently-asked-questions · verified Oct. 7, 2026
    “Jesuits in Residence are members of the Jesuit community at Seattle University.”
    Members of the Jesuit community serve as Jesuits in Residence in the residence halls.
  4. Religious and Spiritual Community | University Ministry | Seattle Universityseattleu.edu/life-at-seattle-u/faith-spirituality-meaning/university-ministry/religious-and-spiritual-community · verified Oct. 7, 2026
    “connect with peers at REKINDLED, our weekly Catholic student group”
    REKINDLED is a weekly Catholic student group.
  5. Chapel of St. Ignatius | Seattle Universityseattleu.edu/life-at-seattle-u/faith-spirituality-meaning/chapel-of-st-ignatius · verified Oct. 7, 2026
    “The Chapel of St. Ignatius is Seattle University's main chapel and primarily hosts our Roman Catholic liturgies.”
    The Chapel of St. Ignatius is the university's main chapel for Catholic liturgies.
    “901 12th Avenue Seattle, WA 98122”
    The university's published address is 901 12th Avenue, Seattle, WA 98122.
  6. Pastoral Care | University Ministry | Seattle Universityseattleu.edu/life-at-seattle-u/faith-spirituality-meaning/university-ministry/pastoral-care · verified Oct. 7, 2026
    “Students are welcome to walk into the University Ministry office (STCN 120) Mon-Fri, 9:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m.”
    The University Ministry office is in the Student Center (STCN 120).

Reach out

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Academic Excellence

BAcademic Excellence: Good (grade B): 70 to 100 points out of 100 on what official sources document. Grades need sources for at least 60% of the checklist.
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.76%
  • First-year retention 20% of scoreThis measure counts for 20% of the Academic Excellence score.84%
  • Entering students' test scores 15% of scoreThis measure counts for 15% of the Academic Excellence score.SAT 1,307 · ACT 26.5
  • Student-to-faculty ratio 15% of scoreThis measure counts for 15% of the Academic Excellence score.10 to 1
  • Instructional spending per student 15% of scoreThis measure counts for 15% of the Academic Excellence score.$18,739

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)
4,137
Total students7,182
Average net price (per year)
After grants and scholarships, for students receiving federal aid
$34,662
Cost of attendance (per year)$72,124
Median federal debt at graduation$19,883
Graduation rate
First-time, full-time students finishing within 150% of normal time
76%
First-year retention84%
Median earnings 10 years after entry$75,272
Admission rate77%
Students receiving Pell grants24%
Admission test scores (middle 50% of admitted students who submitted scores)
Average SAT1307
SAT reading & writing620–710
SAT math580–720
ACT composite23–30
Test policyConsidered but not required

Value index: 62 / 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 Seattle

The Most Reverend Paul D. Etienne, Archbishop of Seattle

Formal address: “Your Excellency”

Source: archseattle.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 236595
  • Carnegie classification: Doctoral/professional university
  • Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (U.S. Department of Education DAPIP)
  • Religious affiliation (IPEDS): Roman Catholic
  • Report an error or a newer source

Questions families ask

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

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