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

Catholic college

St. Bonaventure University

  • LocationSaint Bonaventure, NY
  • Type and sizePrivate nonprofit · 4-year · 2,603 students
  • SponsorFranciscan Friars, Province of Our Lady of Guadalupe
  • TraditionFranciscan
Official website

St. Bonaventure University in western New York is a Catholic university in the Franciscan tradition. University Ministries, directed by a Franciscan friar who is university chaplain, publishes daily Mass Monday through Friday, two Sunday Masses, and two weekly confession times, and St. Joseph's Oratory was renovated in 2016 as an adoration chapel (no current page lists its hours). The general education core requires The Way of Francis & Clare plus a theology/Franciscan studies distribution course, and Introduction to Ethics plus a philosophy distribution course.

Mass, confession, and adoration

Confirm with the parish

Mass 4

  • Monday–Friday12:30 PMGreat Room, McGinley-Carney Center for Franciscan Ministry · During the academic year.
  • Sunday11:00 AMUniversity Chapel, Doyle Hall · During the academic year.
  • Sunday7:00 PMUniversity Chapel, Doyle Hall · During the academic year.
  • Sunday11:00 AMHoly Peace Chapel, Mt. Irenaeus (Franciscan community about 30 miles from campus) · Off campus. Mass at the friars' community that partners with University Ministries, followed by brunch.

Confession 2

  • Friday1:00 PM–1:30 PMInterfaith Prayer Tower, University Ministries (McGinley-Carney Center) · Following daily Mass.
  • Sunday6:00 PM–6:45 PMEucharistic Chapel, Doyle Hall

Times come only from official parish, chaplaincy, or school pages, and can change with the season. Last verified Oct. 8, 2026.

Sources for these times (2)
  1. University Ministries | St. Bonaventure Universitysbu.edu/life-at-sbu/university-ministries · verified Oct. 8, 2026
    “During the academic year, the Franciscan friars offer daily Mass at 12:30 p.m. Monday through Friday in the Great Room of the McGinley-Carney Center for Franciscan Ministries. Sunday Masses are offered in the University Chapel at 11 a.m. and 7 p.m.”
    Daily Mass is offered Monday-Friday at 12:30 p.m., and Sunday Masses at 11 a.m. and 7 p.m.
    “Sundays 11 a.m. & 7 p.m. University Chapel, Doyle Hall Monday through Friday 12:30 p.m. Great Room, McGinley-Carney Center”
    The Mass schedule lists Sunday Masses in the University Chapel and weekday Masses in the McGinley-Carney Center.
    “Sundays 11 a.m. & 7 p.m. University Chapel, Doyle Hall Monday through Friday 12:30 p.m. Great Room, McGinley-Carney Center”
    The Mass schedule lists Sunday Masses in the University Chapel and weekday Masses in the McGinley-Carney Center.
    “Confession Schedule Fridays, 1-1:30 p.m. (Following daily Mass) Interfaith Prayer Tower, University Ministries Sundays, 6-6:45 p.m. Eucharistic Chapel, Doyle Hall”
    Confessions are scheduled Fridays 1-1:30 p.m. and Sundays 6-6:45 p.m.
    “Confession Schedule Fridays, 1-1:30 p.m. (Following daily Mass) Interfaith Prayer Tower, University Ministries Sundays, 6-6:45 p.m. Eucharistic Chapel, Doyle Hall”
    Confessions are scheduled Fridays 1-1:30 p.m. and Sundays 6-6:45 p.m.
  2. Plan Your Visit | Mt. Irenaeusmountainonline.org/visit-us/plan-your-visit · verified Oct. 8, 2026
    “We welcome everyone to join us Sundays at 11 a.m. for Mass.”
    Mt. Irenaeus celebrates Sunday Mass at 11 a.m., followed by brunch.

Catholic churches nearby

Map of St. Bonaventure University, its Catholic center and nearby Catholic churches1 mi2 mi3 miMcGinley-Carney Center for Franciscan Ministry: 0.1 mi1Saint Bonaventure Catholic Church: 0.7 mi2Saint Joseph's Roman Catholic Church: 2.3 mi3Saint John Catholic Church: 2.5 mi4Basilica of Saint Mary of the Angels: 2.6 mi5Polish Catholic Church of the Transfiguration: 2.6 mi6McGinley-Carney Center for Franciscan Ministry: 0.1 miSt. Bonaventure University (campus)N1 mi
CampusCatholic centerCatholic church (numbered below)Open a street map ›
  1. McGinley-Carney Center for Franciscan Ministry — 0.1 mi
  2. Saint Bonaventure Catholic Church — 0.7 mi · 95 East Main Street, Allegany
  3. Saint Joseph's Roman Catholic Church — 2.3 mi
  4. Saint John Catholic Church — 2.5 mi · 931 North Union Street, Olean
  5. Basilica of Saint Mary of the Angels — 2.6 mi · 113 West Henley Street, Olean
  6. Polish Catholic Church of the Transfiguration — 2.6 mi

Within 3 miles, as mapped by OpenStreetMap contributors. The map may be incomplete. Confirm with the parish or diocese.

Faith scorecard

Each line is one thing we looked for. A check means yes, a half means partly, a dash means no. “Not enough information” means official sources did not say.

BSacramental life: Good (grade B): 70 to 100 points out of 100 on what official sources document. Grades need sources for at least 60% of the checklist.

Sacramental life

84 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 at 12:30 p.m. Monday through Friday in the Great Room of the McGinley-Carney Center during the academic year, offered by the Franciscan friars.)
    Sources (1)
    1. University Ministries | St. Bonaventure Universitysbu.edu/life-at-sbu/university-ministries · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “During the academic year, the Franciscan friars offer daily Mass at 12:30 p.m. Monday through Friday in the Great Room of the McGinley-Carney Center for Franciscan Ministries. Sunday Masses are offered in the University Chapel at 11 a.m. and 7 p.m.”
      Daily Mass is offered Monday-Friday at 12:30 p.m., and Sunday Masses at 11 a.m. and 7 p.m.
      “Sundays 11 a.m. & 7 p.m. University Chapel, Doyle Hall Monday through Friday 12:30 p.m. Great Room, McGinley-Carney Center”
      The Mass schedule lists Sunday Masses in the University Chapel and weekday Masses in the McGinley-Carney Center.
  • 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 a.m. and 7 p.m. in the University Chapel, Doyle Hall.)
    Sources (1)
    1. University Ministries | St. Bonaventure Universitysbu.edu/life-at-sbu/university-ministries · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “During the academic year, the Franciscan friars offer daily Mass at 12:30 p.m. Monday through Friday in the Great Room of the McGinley-Carney Center for Franciscan Ministries. Sunday Masses are offered in the University Chapel at 11 a.m. and 7 p.m.”
      Daily Mass is offered Monday-Friday at 12:30 p.m., and Sunday Masses at 11 a.m. and 7 p.m.
      “Sundays 11 a.m. & 7 p.m. University Chapel, Doyle Hall Monday through Friday 12:30 p.m. Great Room, McGinley-Carney Center”
      The Mass schedule lists Sunday Masses in the University Chapel and weekday Masses in the McGinley-Carney Center.
  • Partly: the school meets some of this item and earns part of the points.
    Scheduled confession on campusOne or two scheduled times per week (Fridays 1-1:30 p.m. in the Interfaith Prayer Tower (after daily Mass) and Sundays 6-6:45 p.m. in the Eucharistic Chapel, Doyle Hall (two scheduled times a week).)
    Sources (1)
    1. University Ministries | St. Bonaventure Universitysbu.edu/life-at-sbu/university-ministries · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Confession Schedule Fridays, 1-1:30 p.m. (Following daily Mass) Interfaith Prayer Tower, University Ministries Sundays, 6-6:45 p.m. Eucharistic Chapel, Doyle Hall”
      Confessions are scheduled Fridays 1-1:30 p.m. and Sundays 6-6:45 p.m.
  • 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. Steven Kuehn, O.F.M., is Director of University Ministries and University Chaplain; the Franciscan friars offer the weekday Masses.)
    Sources (1)
    1. University Ministries | St. Bonaventure Universitysbu.edu/life-at-sbu/university-ministries · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Fr. Steven Kuehn, O.F.M. Director of University Ministries and University Chaplain Call to (716) 375-7841”
      A Franciscan priest is Director of University Ministries and University Chaplain.
      “During the academic year, the Franciscan friars offer daily Mass at 12:30 p.m. Monday through Friday in the Great Room of the McGinley-Carney Center for Franciscan Ministries. Sunday Masses are offered in the University Chapel at 11 a.m. and 7 p.m.”
      Daily Mass is offered Monday-Friday at 12:30 p.m., and Sunday Masses at 11 a.m. and 7 p.m.
  • Not enough information: official sources do not document this, so it is left out of the grade rather than counted as a no.
    Chapel open for prayer on campusNot enough information: not found in official sources.
  • Partly: the school meets some of this item and earns part of the points.
    Published weekly schedule of Mass, confession, and adoration6 to 11 times a week (10 weekly times documented: 8 Mass, 2 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

84 of 100 points on what we could document.

  • Partly: the school meets some of this item and earns part of the points.
    Theology or religious studies courses required of all bachelor's studentsTwo courses (2026-27 catalog: THFS-101 The Way of Francis & Clare (required) plus one Theology/Franciscan Studies distribution course.)
    Sources (1)
    1. Degree Requirements | St. Bonaventure University Catalog 2026-2027catalog.sbu.edu/undergraduate/degree-requirements · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Required specific courses | | BONA-101 | INTRO TO ST. BONAVENTURE | 3 | THFS-101 | THE WAY OF FRANCIS & CLARE | 3 | PHIL-104 | INTRODUCTION TO ETHICS | 3 |”
      All students take THFS-101 The Way of Francis & Clare and PHIL-104 Introduction to Ethics.
      “Franciscan Studies/Theology Distribution | 3 | Historical Studies Distribution | 3 | Literature and the Visual & Performing Arts Distribution | 3 | Natural Science with Lab Distribution | 4 | Philosophy Distribution | 3 |”
      General education also requires one theology/Franciscan studies and one philosophy distribution course.
  • Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Required theology includes explicitly Catholic content (Scripture, Catholic tradition, sacraments)At least one required course is explicitly Catholic theology (THFS-101, required of all students, studies the lives and spirituality of Francis and Clare and their systematic theological expression in St. Bonaventure. THFS-235 Catholic Theology describes itself as building on THFS-101 to examine classic topics in Catholic theology in further depth, and the department states that a grounding in the theological teaching of the Church is essential.)
    Sources (1)
    1. Department of Theology and Franciscan Studies | St. Bonaventure Universitycatalog.sbu.edu/undergraduate/arts-sciences/theology · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “students will examine their lives, values and spirituality, and then study how these achieved systematic theological expression in the thought of St. Bonaventure.”
      THFS-101 studies Francis and Clare and the theology of St. Bonaventure.
      “Building upon THFS 101, this course examines classic topics in Catholic theology in further historical and conceptual depth.”
      THFS-235 Catholic Theology builds on the Catholic theology introduced in THFS-101.
      “Thus, we recognize that a solid grounding in the theological teaching of the Church is essential.”
      The theology department grounds its courses in the theological teaching of the Church.
  • Partly: the school meets some of this item and earns part of the points.
    Philosophy courses required of all bachelor's studentsTwo courses (PHIL-104 Introduction to Ethics (required) plus one Philosophy distribution course.)
    Sources (1)
    1. Degree Requirements | St. Bonaventure University Catalog 2026-2027catalog.sbu.edu/undergraduate/degree-requirements · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Required specific courses | | BONA-101 | INTRO TO ST. BONAVENTURE | 3 | THFS-101 | THE WAY OF FRANCIS & CLARE | 3 | PHIL-104 | INTRODUCTION TO ETHICS | 3 |”
      All students take THFS-101 The Way of Francis & Clare and PHIL-104 Introduction to Ethics.
      “Franciscan Studies/Theology Distribution | 3 | Historical Studies Distribution | 3 | Literature and the Visual & Performing Arts Distribution | 3 | Natural Science with Lab Distribution | 4 | Philosophy Distribution | 3 |”
      General education also requires one theology/Franciscan studies and one philosophy distribution 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 (The catalog's general education description says the curriculum values the liberal arts tradition within the context of the Catholic and Franciscan intellectual heritage, and one of its six learning goals is a basic understanding of the Catholic tradition.)
    Sources (1)
    1. Degree Requirements | St. Bonaventure University Catalog 2026-2027catalog.sbu.edu/undergraduate/degree-requirements · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “the general education curriculum values that tradition within the context of the Catholic and Franciscan intellectual heritage”
      The general education curriculum is set within the Catholic and Franciscan intellectual heritage.
      “A basic understanding of the Catholic tradition and an appreciation of the intellectual and moral virtues expressed in the Franciscan movement”
      One of the general education learning goals is a basic understanding of the Catholic tradition.
  • Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Theology or religious studies major offeredYes (Theology, BA (Department of Theology and Franciscan Studies); a theology minor is also offered.)
    Sources (1)
    1. Theology, BA | St. Bonaventure Universitycatalog.sbu.edu/undergraduate/arts-sciences/theology/theology-ba · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Theology requirements are divided into four categories: Foundational (12 credits), Franciscan Studies (6 credits), Electives (12 credits), and the Senior Seminar (3 credits).”
      A Bachelor of Arts in Theology 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

78 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 (3 listed on the University Ministries page: the director/university chaplain, the director of the Franciscan Center for Social Concern, and the coordinator of liturgy and music ministry. The administrative assistant is not counted.)
    Sources (1)
    1. University Ministries | St. Bonaventure Universitysbu.edu/life-at-sbu/university-ministries · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Fr. Steven Kuehn, O.F.M. Director of University Ministries and University Chaplain Call to (716) 375-7841”
      A Franciscan priest is Director of University Ministries and University Chaplain.
      “Director, Franciscan Center for Social Concern Call to (716) 375-2081”
      Mike Waseda directs the Franciscan Center for Social Concern.
      “Dawn Both Coordinator of Liturgy & Music Ministry Call to (716) 375-2339”
      University Ministries has a coordinator of liturgy and music ministry.
  • Partly: the school meets some of this item and earns part of the points.
    Retreats offered to students each yearOne to three (Retreats at Mt. Irenaeus, the friars' community that partners with University Ministries: the SBU Men's Overnight (Oct. 23-24, 2026), the Fall Intercollegiate Retreat (Nov. 13-15, 2026), and weekend retreats and overnights organized by Mountain Community Leaders.)
    Sources (3)
    1. Clubs & Organizations | St. Bonaventure Universitysbu.edu/life-at-sbu/clubs-organizations · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Mountain Community Leaders organizes overnights at the Mountain, weekend retreats, opportunities for community service and the chance to relax, hike the Mountain's trails, work in the garden and share a home-cooked meal with the friars.”
      Mountain Community Leaders organizes overnights and weekend retreats at Mt. Irenaeus.
    2. Events | Mt. Irenaeusmountainonline.org/events · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “SBU Men’s Overnight at the Mountain October 23 @ 4:00 pm - October 24 @ 11:00 am”
      Mt. Irenaeus hosts an overnight for SBU men in October 2026.
      “2026 Fall Intercollegiate Retreat November 13 @ 5:30 pm - November 15 @ 2:00 pm”
      Mt. Irenaeus hosts a fall intercollegiate retreat for college students.
    3. St. Bonaventure, Mt. Irenaeus renew their 40-year partnershipsbu.edu/life-at-sbu/university-ministries/news-publications-research/2026/06/24/st.-bonaventure-mt.-irenaeus-renew-their-40-year-partnership · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Mt. Irenaeus will continue to host regular retreats for students”
      Mt. Irenaeus hosts regular retreats for SBU students under a renewed partnership (November 2024).
  • Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Catholic student organizations and faith-formation groupsThree or more (Faith in Fiction, Ladies in Faith Together (LIFT), SBU Life & Faith, Men's Faith & Fellowship, the Search Retreat Team, RCIA, The Guiding Flame vocation group, and Mountain Community Leaders.)
    Sources (2)
    1. Faith Formation, Worship & Ministry | St. Bonaventure Universitysbu.edu/life-at-sbu/university-ministries/faith-formation-worship-ministry · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Faith in Fiction Meets weekly to explore and discuss the intersection of faith and popular culture/media.”
      Faith in Fiction meets weekly.
      “Ladies in Faith Together (LIFT) Meets weekly to discuss matters of life, faith and spirituality.”
      Ladies in Faith Together meets weekly.
      “SBU Life & Faith Meets weekly to build faith community and converse about life and faith.”
      SBU Life & Faith meets weekly.
      “This student-led ministry meets twice a month and focuses on faith sharing, prayer, community and Scripture study.”
      Men's Faith & Fellowship meets twice a month for faith sharing and Scripture study.
      “This student-led faith-sharing team meets weekly to discuss faith topics, support one another in faith, and to help with local confirmation retreats.”
      The Search Retreat Team meets weekly and helps with local confirmation retreats.
      “This is a faith journey in becoming full members of the Catholic Church. Monthly meetings culminate at Easter time with the celebration of baptism, confirmation and Eucharist.”
      RCIA meets monthly and culminates in the Easter sacraments.
    2. Clubs & Organizations | St. Bonaventure Universitysbu.edu/life-at-sbu/clubs-organizations · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “St. Bonaventure's vocation group allows students to explore the possibility of joining a religious vocation in a relaxed, informal environment.”
      The Guiding Flame is a monthly faith and vocation discernment group.
  • Partly: the school meets some of this item and earns part of the points.
    Single-sex residence optionsSingle-sex floors or wings only (The 2026-27 Student Code of Conduct refers to floors partitioned into separate wings for male and female students.)
    Sources (1)
    1. 2026-2027 Student Code of Conductsbu.edu/docs/default-source/life-at-sbu-quick-center/student-conduct/code-of-conduct/2026-2027-student-code-of-conduct-08-28-26.pdf?Status=Master&sfvrsn=225ecd64_3 · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Students who live on a floor that is partitioned into separate wings for male and female students are not permitted on any wing other than their own during the times listed above.”
      Some floors are partitioned into separate wings for male and female students.
  • Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Overnight guest policy in residence hallsOvernight guests of the opposite sex not permitted (2026-27 Student Code of Conduct: overnight guests must be of the same sex as the host and are limited to 48 hours in a seven-day period; visits to other floors are not permitted 1-8 a.m. on weeknights and 2-8 a.m. on weekends.)
    Sources (1)
    1. 2026-2027 Student Code of Conductsbu.edu/docs/default-source/life-at-sbu-quick-center/student-conduct/code-of-conduct/2026-2027-student-code-of-conduct-08-28-26.pdf?Status=Master&sfvrsn=225ecd64_3 · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Guests must be of the same sex as the host.”
      Overnight guests must be of the same sex as the host.
      “Guests/Visitors of resident students are limited to a 48-hour stay within a seven (7) day period.”
      Guest stays are limited to 48 hours in a seven-day period.
  • Not enough information: official sources do not document this, so it is left out of the grade rather than counted as a no.
    Faith life in residence halls (hall chaplains, hall Masses, or faith-based living communities)Not enough information: not found in official sources.
  • Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Office or senior officer for mission and Catholic identityYes (Office for Mission Integration, led by a Vice President for Mission Integration.)
    Sources (1)
    1. Mission & Values | St. Bonaventure Universitysbu.edu/about/values-mission · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “The Office for Mission Integration serves the St. Bonaventure community by promoting the inclusion of its mission and values as a Catholic university in the Franciscan tradition in every aspect of its life.”
      An Office for Mission Integration promotes the university's Catholic and Franciscan mission.
      “Fr. Stephen Mimnaugh, O.F.M. Vice President for Mission Integration Call to (716) 375-2142”
      The university has a Vice President for Mission Integration.
BService and Catholic social teaching: Good (grade B): 70 to 100 points out of 100 on what official sources document. Grades need sources for at least 60% of the checklist.

Service and Catholic social teaching

79 of 100 points on what we could document.

  • Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Service or volunteer centerYes (The Franciscan Center for Social Concern, a staffed office within University Ministries, is the university's headquarters for service learning.)
    Sources (1)
    1. Franciscan Center for Social Concern | St. Bonaventure Universitysbu.edu/life-at-sbu/university-ministries/franciscan-center-for-social-concern · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “The FCSC is your headquarters for service learning at SBU.”
      The Franciscan Center for Social Concern is the university's service-learning center.
  • 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) (SBU-104 General Education Service Learning is an elective.)
    Sources (2)
    1. Saint Bonaventure Courses (SBU) | St. Bonaventure Universitycatalog.sbu.edu/undergraduate/courses/sbu · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “The General Service course is an elective course that will allow students to apply the skills and proficiencies they develop through the General Education curriculum to serving the needs of a defined community.”
      SBU-104 General Education Service Learning is an elective service-learning course.
    2. Franciscan Center for Social Concern | St. Bonaventure Universitysbu.edu/life-at-sbu/university-ministries/franciscan-center-for-social-concern · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “The FCSC is your headquarters for service learning at SBU.”
      The Franciscan Center for Social Concern is the university's service-learning center.
  • 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) (THFS-345 Catholic Social Thought (required for the theology major, not part of the general education core).)
    Sources (1)
    1. Department of Theology and Franciscan Studies | St. Bonaventure Universitycatalog.sbu.edu/undergraduate/arts-sciences/theology · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “The course will introduce students to what has been called the greatest secret of the Catholic Church- its social teaching.”
      THFS-345 Catholic Social Thought 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.
    Pro-life engagement (student pro-life group, support for pregnant and parenting students, or institutional initiatives)Not enough information: not found in official sources.
  • Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Justice and solidarity programs (immersion trips, poverty, migration, or care-for-creation initiatives)Two or more (Break the Bubble service trips (St. Francis Inn soup kitchen in Philadelphia. Saint's Place refugee assistance), the student-run Warming House soup kitchen, the SBU Food Pantry, and BonaResponds disaster relief.)
    Sources (2)
    1. Franciscan Center for Social Concern | St. Bonaventure Universitysbu.edu/life-at-sbu/university-ministries/franciscan-center-for-social-concern · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Break the Bubble is an opportunity for students to leave campus during mid-semester and holiday breaks, as well as between semesters, to participate in service trips to assist disadvantaged and under-represented populations.”
      Break the Bubble runs service trips during breaks.
      “Saint's Place, in the Rochester suburb of Pittsford, provides goods, clothes and education to refugees”
      Students serve refugees through Saint's Place in Pittsford.
      “The Warming House is one of the oldest student-run soup kitchens in the nation.”
      Students run the Warming House soup kitchen in Olean.
      “The SBU Food Pantry began in October 2019 after it became obvious to the campus community that food insecurity is an issue on college campuses across America.”
      The FCSC runs an on-campus food pantry.
    2. Clubs & Organizations | St. Bonaventure Universitysbu.edu/life-at-sbu/clubs-organizations · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “BonaResponds is a volunteer organization that pitches in wherever help is needed, whether it's to render aid after a destructive natural disaster in another state or to help with a home project for a needy neighbor down the street.”
      BonaResponds is a student disaster-relief and service organization.
  • 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 Franciscan Center for Social Concern is part of University Ministries and frames service as reflection in the light of faith in the Catholic-Franciscan tradition.)
    Sources (1)
    1. Franciscan Center for Social Concern | St. Bonaventure Universitysbu.edu/life-at-sbu/university-ministries/franciscan-center-for-social-concern · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “The journey begins with serving others, but also includes reflecting on that experience in the light of faith, integrating it with our studies, and becoming agents for positive change in the Catholic-Franciscan tradition.”
      FCSC service is framed by faith and the Catholic-Franciscan tradition.
      “The FCSC is your headquarters for service learning at SBU.”
      The Franciscan Center for Social Concern is the university's service-learning center.

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

Strengths

  • Mass is celebrated on campus every weekday during the academic year and twice on Sundays, with two scheduled confession times each week.
    Sources (1)
    1. University Ministries | St. Bonaventure Universitysbu.edu/life-at-sbu/university-ministries · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “During the academic year, the Franciscan friars offer daily Mass at 12:30 p.m. Monday through Friday in the Great Room of the McGinley-Carney Center for Franciscan Ministries. Sunday Masses are offered in the University Chapel at 11 a.m. and 7 p.m.”
      Daily Mass is offered Monday-Friday at 12:30 p.m., and Sunday Masses at 11 a.m. and 7 p.m.
      “Sundays 11 a.m. & 7 p.m. University Chapel, Doyle Hall Monday through Friday 12:30 p.m. Great Room, McGinley-Carney Center”
      The Mass schedule lists Sunday Masses in the University Chapel and weekday Masses in the McGinley-Carney Center.
      “Confession Schedule Fridays, 1-1:30 p.m. (Following daily Mass) Interfaith Prayer Tower, University Ministries Sundays, 6-6:45 p.m. Eucharistic Chapel, Doyle Hall”
      Confessions are scheduled Fridays 1-1:30 p.m. and Sundays 6-6:45 p.m.
  • All students take The Way of Francis & Clare and a theology/Franciscan studies distribution course, plus Introduction to Ethics and a philosophy distribution course.
    Sources (1)
    1. Degree Requirements | St. Bonaventure University Catalog 2026-2027catalog.sbu.edu/undergraduate/degree-requirements · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Required specific courses | | BONA-101 | INTRO TO ST. BONAVENTURE | 3 | THFS-101 | THE WAY OF FRANCIS & CLARE | 3 | PHIL-104 | INTRODUCTION TO ETHICS | 3 |”
      All students take THFS-101 The Way of Francis & Clare and PHIL-104 Introduction to Ethics.
      “Franciscan Studies/Theology Distribution | 3 | Historical Studies Distribution | 3 | Literature and the Visual & Performing Arts Distribution | 3 | Natural Science with Lab Distribution | 4 | Philosophy Distribution | 3 |”
      General education also requires one theology/Franciscan studies and one philosophy distribution course.
  • A Franciscan friar serves as university chaplain and director of University Ministries, and an Office for Mission Integration is led by a vice president.
    Sources (2)
    1. University Ministries | St. Bonaventure Universitysbu.edu/life-at-sbu/university-ministries · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Fr. Steven Kuehn, O.F.M. Director of University Ministries and University Chaplain Call to (716) 375-7841”
      A Franciscan priest is Director of University Ministries and University Chaplain.
    2. Mission & Values | St. Bonaventure Universitysbu.edu/about/values-mission · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “The Office for Mission Integration serves the St. Bonaventure community by promoting the inclusion of its mission and values as a Catholic university in the Franciscan tradition in every aspect of its life.”
      An Office for Mission Integration promotes the university's Catholic and Franciscan mission.
      “Fr. Stephen Mimnaugh, O.F.M. Vice President for Mission Integration Call to (716) 375-2142”
      The university has a Vice President for Mission Integration.
  • Overnight guests in the residence halls must be of the same sex as the host.
    Sources (1)
    1. 2026-2027 Student Code of Conductsbu.edu/docs/default-source/life-at-sbu-quick-center/student-conduct/code-of-conduct/2026-2027-student-code-of-conduct-08-28-26.pdf?Status=Master&sfvrsn=225ecd64_3 · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Guests must be of the same sex as the host.”
      Overnight guests must be of the same sex as the host.

Concerns

  • No current University Ministries page lists Eucharistic adoration hours; the 24-hour adoration chapel is described in a Fall 2024 style guide and an archives page.
    Sources (2)
    1. St. Bonaventure University Writing Style Guide (Fall 2024)sbu.edu/docs/default-source/about-section/university-style-guide-fall-2024.pdf?sfvrsn=656a7f42_2 · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “This iconic round, brick shrine in the heart of campus was constructed in 1927 and renovated in 2016 into a Eucharistic Adoration Chapel that is open to students 24/7.”
      St. Joseph's Oratory is a Eucharistic adoration chapel open to students 24/7.
    2. Oratory | SBU Archivesarchives.sbu.edu/buildings/statue_mobile/oratory.html · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “In 2016, the oratory was renovated again and made into a 24 hour adoration chapel. The Eucharist is in a glass tabernacle located in the center of the oratory.”
      St. Joseph's Oratory became a 24-hour adoration chapel with the Eucharist in a glass tabernacle.
  • Catholic social teaching is offered as a theology elective (THFS-345) but is not part of the general education core.
    Sources (2)
    1. Department of Theology and Franciscan Studies | St. Bonaventure Universitycatalog.sbu.edu/undergraduate/arts-sciences/theology · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “The course will introduce students to what has been called the greatest secret of the Catholic Church- its social teaching.”
      THFS-345 Catholic Social Thought is offered.
    2. Degree Requirements | St. Bonaventure University Catalog 2026-2027catalog.sbu.edu/undergraduate/degree-requirements · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Required specific courses | | BONA-101 | INTRO TO ST. BONAVENTURE | 3 | THFS-101 | THE WAY OF FRANCIS & CLARE | 3 | PHIL-104 | INTRODUCTION TO ETHICS | 3 |”
      All students take THFS-101 The Way of Francis & Clare and PHIL-104 Introduction to Ethics.
  • Single-sex housing is limited to floors partitioned into male and female wings.
    Sources (1)
    1. 2026-2027 Student Code of Conductsbu.edu/docs/default-source/life-at-sbu-quick-center/student-conduct/code-of-conduct/2026-2027-student-code-of-conduct-08-28-26.pdf?Status=Master&sfvrsn=225ecd64_3 · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “Students who live on a floor that is partitioned into separate wings for male and female students are not permitted on any wing other than their own during the times listed above.”
      Some floors are partitioned into separate wings for male and female students.
  • Service-learning is an elective (SBU-104) rather than a requirement for all students.
    Sources (1)
    1. Saint Bonaventure Courses (SBU) | St. Bonaventure Universitycatalog.sbu.edu/undergraduate/courses/sbu · verified Oct. 8, 2026
      “The General Service course is an elective course that will allow students to apply the skills and proficiencies they develop through the General Education curriculum to serving the needs of a defined community.”
      SBU-104 General Education Service Learning is an elective service-learning course.

Know something we missed? Suggest a correction.

Campus ministry home

McGinley-Carney Center for Franciscan Ministry

  • Address: 3261 West State Road, St. Bonaventure, NY 14778
  • Location: On campus
  • Facilities: offices, interdenominational prayer tower, great room for student gatherings, kitchen

View on map ↗

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

Catholic clubs and student life

19 groups and regular activities · 10 on campus, 9 off campus

Clubs and groups 5

  • Mountain Community LeadersOff campus
    Student group that holds weekly Scripture and reflection meetings on campus and organizes overnights, weekend retreats and service at Mt. Irenaeus.
    sbu.edu, sbu.edu
  • Faith in FictionOn campus
    Weekly
    Discussion of the intersection of faith and popular culture and media.
    sbu.edu
  • Ladies in Faith Together (LIFT)On campus
    Weekly
    Women's group discussing life, faith and spirituality.
    sbu.edu
  • SBU Life & FaithOn campus
    Weekly
    Faith community and conversation about life and faith.
    sbu.edu
  • Men's Faith & FellowshipOn campus
    Twice a month
    Student-led faith sharing, prayer and Scripture study.
    sbu.edu

Liturgy and prayer 3

  • Mass at the Mountain and brunchOff campus
    Sundays 11 AM
    Sunday Mass with the friars at Mt. Irenaeus followed by a potluck brunch.
    mountainonline.org
  • Liturgical ministriesOn campus
    Eucharistic ministers, lectors, music ministry, hospitality and altar servers.
    sbu.edu
  • Francis Week and TransitusOn campus
    Late September-Oct. 4
    Annual week marking the Feast of St. Francis, with the Transitus service in the University Chapel.
    sbu.edu

Retreats 2

  • SBU Men's Overnight at the MountainOff campus
    Oct. 23-24, 2026
    Overnight at Mt. Irenaeus for SBU men with a home-cooked meal and conversation.
    mountainonline.org
  • Fall Intercollegiate RetreatOff campus
    Nov. 13-15, 2026
    Weekend retreat at Mt. Irenaeus for college students.
    mountainonline.org

Service 6

  • Warming HouseOff campus
    Student-run soup kitchen in downtown Olean overseen by the Franciscan Center for Social Concern.
    sbu.edu
  • Break the Bubble service tripsOff campus
    Break-time service trips, including St. Francis Inn in Philadelphia and Saint's Place refugee assistance in Pittsford.
    sbu.edu, sbu.edu
  • Bona BuddiesOff campus
    One-to-one mentoring of local children ages 5 to 15.
    sbu.edu
  • Silver Wolves & Friends with SistersOff campus
    Companionship visits with elderly residents and with the Franciscan Sisters of Allegany.
    sbu.edu
  • BonaRespondsOff campus
    Volunteer disaster-relief and home-repair organization.
    sbu.edu
  • SBU Food PantryOn campus
    Food pantry in the McGinley-Carney Center run by the Franciscan Center for Social Concern.
    sbu.edu

Faith formation 3

  • Search Retreat TeamOn campus
    Weekly
    Student faith-sharing team that also helps with local confirmation retreats.
    sbu.edu
  • RCIAOn campus
    Monthly
    Preparation for baptism, confirmation and Eucharist at Easter.
    sbu.edu
  • The Guiding FlameOn campus
    Monthly
    Faith and vocation discernment group with discussions and guest speakers.
    sbu.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 (3)
  1. University Ministries | St. Bonaventure Universitysbu.edu/life-at-sbu/university-ministries · verified Oct. 8, 2026
    “During the academic year, the Franciscan friars offer daily Mass at 12:30 p.m. Monday through Friday in the Great Room of the McGinley-Carney Center for Franciscan Ministries. Sunday Masses are offered in the University Chapel at 11 a.m. and 7 p.m.”
    Daily Mass is offered Monday-Friday at 12:30 p.m., and Sunday Masses at 11 a.m. and 7 p.m.
    “Fr. Steven Kuehn, O.F.M. Director of University Ministries and University Chaplain Call to (716) 375-7841”
    A Franciscan priest is Director of University Ministries and University Chaplain.
    “located in the center of campus. Opened in 2017, the center houses offices, an interdenominational prayer tower, a great room for student gatherings, and kitchen facilities.”
    University Ministries is in the McGinley-Carney Center at the center of campus, with a prayer tower, great room and kitchen.
    “3261 West State Road, St. Bonaventure, NY 14778”
    The university's address is 3261 West State Road, St. Bonaventure, NY 14778.
  2. St. Bonaventure, Mt. Irenaeus renew their 40-year partnershipsbu.edu/life-at-sbu/university-ministries/news-publications-research/2026/06/24/st.-bonaventure-mt.-irenaeus-renew-their-40-year-partnership · verified Oct. 8, 2026
    “Mt. Irenaeus will continue to host regular retreats for students”
    Mt. Irenaeus hosts regular retreats for SBU students under a renewed partnership (November 2024).
  3. Clubs & Organizations | St. Bonaventure Universitysbu.edu/life-at-sbu/clubs-organizations · verified Oct. 8, 2026
    “Mountain Community Leaders coordinates and leads activities between Bonaventure students and the friars at Mt. Irenaeus, a Franciscan community located about 30 miles from campus.”
    Mt. Irenaeus is a Franciscan community about 30 miles from campus.

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.
74 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.67%
  • First-year retention 20% of scoreThis measure counts for 20% of the Academic Excellence score.86%
  • Entering students' test scores 15% of scoreThis measure counts for 15% of the Academic Excellence score.SAT 1,197 · ACT 27
  • Student-to-faculty ratio 15% of scoreThis measure counts for 15% of the Academic Excellence score.13 to 1
  • Instructional spending per student 15% of scoreThis measure counts for 15% of the Academic Excellence score.$8,900

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)
1,914
Total students2,603
Average net price (per year)
After grants and scholarships, for students receiving federal aid
$27,074
Cost of attendance (per year)$57,271
Median federal debt at graduation$26,000
Graduation rate
First-time, full-time students finishing within 150% of normal time
67%
First-year retention86%
Median earnings 10 years after entry$57,214
Admission rate82%
Students receiving Pell grants27%
Admission test scores (middle 50% of admitted students who submitted scores)
Average SAT1197
SAT reading & writing535–650
SAT math530–640
ACT composite24–30
Test policyConsidered but not required

Value index: 49 / 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 Buffalo

The Most Reverend Michael W. Fisher, Bishop of Buffalo

Formal address: “Your Excellency”

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

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

About this school’s data

  • IPEDS unit ID 195164
  • Carnegie classification: Master's university (medium programs)
  • Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (U.S. Department of Education DAPIP)
  • Religious affiliation (IPEDS): Roman Catholic
  • Report an error or a newer source
  • Respond as this school

Questions families ask

Is St. Bonaventure University a Catholic college?
Yes. St. Bonaventure University is a Catholic college in the Diocese of Buffalo. Its sponsor is Franciscan Friars, Province of Our Lady of Guadalupe.
What is St. Bonaventure University’s Compass Score?
79 out of 100 (grade B). It combines faith (75%) and academics (25%), each rated from official sources.
Where is Mass celebrated at St. Bonaventure University?
Mass is listed at Great Room, McGinley-Carney Center for Franciscan Ministry, University Chapel, Doyle Hall, Holy Peace Chapel, and Mt. Irenaeus (Franciscan community about 30 miles from campus). Days and times are on this page; please confirm with the parish or campus ministry before you go.

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