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Catholic college

University of San Francisco

  • LocationSan Francisco, CA
  • Type and sizePrivate nonprofit · 4-year · 9,212 students
  • SponsorSociety of Jesus (Jesuits)
  • TraditionJesuit
Official website

The University of San Francisco is a Jesuit, Catholic university in San Francisco. Mass is celebrated every weekday morning and at a Sunday evening student Mass in St. Ignatius Church, which is attached to the campus, and a Jesuit priest serves as University Chaplain. The core curriculum requires one theology and religious studies course, one philosophy course, and one ethics course, and every undergraduate takes a community-engaged learning course.

Mass, confession, and adoration

Confirm with the parish

Mass 2

  • Monday–Friday8:00 AMSt. Ignatius Church · Daily Mass with the Jesuits.
  • Sunday7:00 PM–8:00 PMSt. Ignatius Church · Student Mass; when classes are in session.

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. University Ministry - Liturgy and Multi-faith - Liturgy | myUSFmyusf.usfca.edu/university-ministry/liturgy-and-multi-faith/liturgy · verified Oct. 7, 2026
    “DAILY MASS WITH THE JESUITS Mondays - Fridays | 8:00 A.m. | St. Ignatius Church”
    Mass is celebrated Monday through Friday at 8:00 AM in St. Ignatius Church.
    “Student liturgies are held on Sundays at 7 p.m. in St. Ignatius Church when classes are in session.”
    A student Mass is celebrated Sundays at 7 PM in St. Ignatius Church during the semester.

Catholic churches nearby

Map of University of San Francisco, its Catholic center and nearby Catholic churches0.5 mi1 mi2 miSaint Ignatius Roman Catholic Church: 0.1 mi1Saint Agnes Roman Catholic Church: 0.4 mi2Star of the Sea Roman Catholic Church: 0.9 mi3Saint Dominic's Roman Catholic Church: 1.1 mi4Most Holy Redeemer Roman Catholic Church: 1.3 mi5Cathedral of Saint Mary of the Assumption: 1.5 mi6University Ministry: 0.1 miUniversity of San Francisco (campus)N0.5 mi
CampusCatholic centerCatholic church (numbered below)Open a street map ›
  1. Saint Ignatius Roman Catholic Church — 0.1 mi · 2150 Fulton Street, San Francisco
  2. Saint Agnes Roman Catholic Church — 0.4 mi · 1520 Page Street
  3. Star of the Sea Roman Catholic Church — 0.9 mi · 4410 Geary Boulevard
  4. Saint Dominic's Roman Catholic Church — 1.1 mi · 2390 Bush Street
  5. Most Holy Redeemer Roman Catholic Church — 1.3 mi · 110 Diamond Street
  6. Cathedral of Saint Mary of the Assumption — 1.5 mi · 1111 Gough Street, San Francisco

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

83 of 100 points on what we could document.

  • Yes: Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Weekday Mass on campus during the academic yearEvery weekday (5 or more weekdays) (Daily Mass with the Jesuits, Monday-Friday 8:00 AM, in St. Ignatius Church, which is attached to the campus.)
    Sources (2)
    1. University Ministry - Liturgy and Multi-faith - Liturgy | myUSFmyusf.usfca.edu/university-ministry/liturgy-and-multi-faith/liturgy · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “DAILY MASS WITH THE JESUITS Mondays - Fridays | 8:00 A.m. | St. Ignatius Church”
      Mass is celebrated Monday through Friday at 8:00 AM in St. Ignatius Church.
    2. 9 Facts About St. Ignatius Church That Might Surprise You | University of San Franciscousfca.edu/news/nine-suprising-facts-saint-ignatius-church · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “The historic landmark is attached to the university campus, but owned and operated by the Jesuit Catholic Parish.”
      St. Ignatius Church is attached to the USF campus and is operated by the Jesuit parish.
  • Partly: Partly: the school meets some of this item and earns part of the points.
    Sunday Mass on campus (including Saturday vigil)One weekend Mass (University Ministry publishes one weekend Mass (Sunday 7 PM student Mass). The liturgy page also points students to St. Ignatius Parish Masses in the same church.)
    Sources (2)
    1. University Ministry - Liturgy and Multi-faith - Liturgy | myUSFmyusf.usfca.edu/university-ministry/liturgy-and-multi-faith/liturgy · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Student liturgies are held on Sundays at 7 p.m. in St. Ignatius Church when classes are in session.”
      A student Mass is celebrated Sundays at 7 PM in St. Ignatius Church during the semester.
    2. 9 Facts About St. Ignatius Church That Might Surprise You | University of San Franciscousfca.edu/news/nine-suprising-facts-saint-ignatius-church · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “The historic landmark is attached to the university campus, but owned and operated by the Jesuit Catholic Parish.”
      St. Ignatius Church is attached to the USF campus and is operated by the Jesuit parish.
  • Not enough information: Not enough information: official sources do not document this, so it is left out of the grade rather than counted as a no.
    Scheduled confession on campusNot enough information: not found in official sources.
  • Not enough information: Not enough information: official sources do not document this, so it is left out of the grade rather than counted as a no.
    Eucharistic adorationNot enough information: not found in official sources.
  • Yes: 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) (Rev. Dónal Godfrey, S.J., is University Chaplain; 20 Jesuits live in Loyola House on campus and minister to the USF community.)
    Sources (2)
    1. Staff - University Ministry | myUSFmyusf.usfca.edu/university-ministry/staff · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Rev. Dónal Godfrey, S.J. University Chaplain and Associate Director for Faculty and Staff Spirituality”
      A Jesuit priest, Rev. Dónal Godfrey, S.J., is the University Chaplain.
    2. Our Jesuit Roots | University of San Franciscousfca.edu/who-we-are/reinventing-education/jesuit-roots · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “There are 25 Jesuit priests at USF. Many Jesuits are graduate students or faculty or staff members, and 20 of them live in Loyola House on campus and minister to the USF community.”
      Twenty Jesuit priests live on campus in Loyola House and minister to the USF community.
  • Yes: Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Chapel open for prayer on campusYes (Daily Mass in St. Ignatius Church (attached to campus); a multi-faith meditation room is open to students by ID card.)
    Sources (3)
    1. University Ministry - Liturgy and Multi-faith - Liturgy | myUSFmyusf.usfca.edu/university-ministry/liturgy-and-multi-faith/liturgy · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “DAILY MASS WITH THE JESUITS Mondays - Fridays | 8:00 A.m. | St. Ignatius Church”
      Mass is celebrated Monday through Friday at 8:00 AM in St. Ignatius Church.
    2. 9 Facts About St. Ignatius Church That Might Surprise You | University of San Franciscousfca.edu/news/nine-suprising-facts-saint-ignatius-church · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “The historic landmark is attached to the university campus, but owned and operated by the Jesuit Catholic Parish.”
      St. Ignatius Church is attached to the USF campus and is operated by the Jesuit parish.
    3. University Ministry - Liturgy and Multi-faith - Multi-faith Meditation Room | myUSFmyusf.usfca.edu/university-ministry/liturgy-and-multi-faith/multi-faith-meditation-room · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “The Multi-faith Meditation Room is located in Toler 123, adjacent to the University Ministry office. USF students, faculty, and staff can access the room with their USF ID card.”
      A multi-faith meditation room for prayer is open to students next to the University Ministry office.
  • Partly: 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 (6 weekly times documented: 6 Mass, 0 confession, 0 adoration.)Computed from the verified Mass, confession, and adoration times listed on this page (each day a time is offered counts once).
DTheology and core curriculum: Limited (grade D): 40 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

48 of 100 points on what we could document.

  • Partly: Partly: the school meets some of this item and earns part of the points.
    Theology or religious studies courses required of all bachelor's studentsOne course (Core Area D2 Theology and Religious Studies (4 units). The D3 Ethics requirement may be met in either the Theology and Religious Studies or Philosophy department and was not counted toward either. A redesigned core is scheduled for fall 2027.)
    Sources (2)
    1. Transfer Core Curriculum Courses - Transfer Students | University of San Franciscousfca.edu/admission/undergraduate/transfer-core-curriculum · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “D2: Theology and Religious Studies e.g. World or Comparative Religions etc.”
      Core Area D includes a theology and religious studies requirement (D2), for which world or comparative religions courses are given as examples.
      “the core requirements will be waived with the exception of Areas A1, D1, D2, D3, and community engaged learning (CEL).”
      D1 philosophy, D2 theology and religious studies, D3 ethics, and community-engaged learning are required even of students who already hold a bachelor's degree.
    2. Our Jesuit Roots | University of San Franciscousfca.edu/who-we-are/reinventing-education/jesuit-roots · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Yes. But you are not required to study Catholicism. In our theology and religious studies requirement — an essential part of our core curriculum — you learn about various religions”
      The core includes a theology and religious studies requirement that does not require the study of Catholicism.
  • Partly: 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 (Students choose among courses on many religions, including Catholicism; the university states students are not required to study Catholicism.)
    Sources (2)
    1. Our Jesuit Roots | University of San Franciscousfca.edu/who-we-are/reinventing-education/jesuit-roots · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Yes. But you are not required to study Catholicism. In our theology and religious studies requirement — an essential part of our core curriculum — you learn about various religions”
      The core includes a theology and religious studies requirement that does not require the study of Catholicism.
    2. Students Take Theology Classes, Expand Their Minds | University of San Franciscousfca.edu/news/theology-core-requirement · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “The Department of Theology and Religious Studies offers courses on many religions, including Judaism, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, and Catholicism, said Professor Jorge Aquino. Students get to choose.”
      Students choose among courses on many religions, including Catholicism, to meet the theology requirement.
  • Partly: Partly: the school meets some of this item and earns part of the points.
    Philosophy courses required of all bachelor's studentsOne course (Core Area D1 Philosophy (4 units). D3 Ethics may be taken in philosophy or theology and was not counted.)
    Sources (1)
    1. Transfer Core Curriculum Courses - Transfer Students | University of San Franciscousfca.edu/admission/undergraduate/transfer-core-curriculum · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Area D: Philosophy, Theology and Religious Studies, and Ethics | D1: Philosophy e.g. Introduction to Philosophy, History of Philosophy etc.”
      Core Area D includes a philosophy requirement (D1).
      “the core requirements will be waived with the exception of Areas A1, D1, D2, D3, and community engaged learning (CEL).”
      D1 philosophy, D2 theology and religious studies, D3 ethics, and community-engaged learning are required even of students who already hold a bachelor's degree.
  • Not enough information: Not enough information: official sources do not document this, so it is left out of the grade rather than counted as a no.
    Core curriculum explicitly draws on the Catholic intellectual traditionNot enough information: not found in official sources.
  • Yes: Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Theology or religious studies major offeredYes
    Sources (1)
    1. Theology & Religious Studies, BA | University of San Franciscousfca.edu/arts-sciences/programs/undergraduate/theology-religious-studies · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Theology & Religious Studies, BA Examine religious traditions, values, and symbols.”
      A B.A. in Theology & Religious Studies is offered.
  • Not enough information: Not enough information: official sources do not document this, so it is left out of the grade rather than counted as a no.
    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

88 of 100 points on what we could document.

  • Yes: Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Campus ministry staffing (chaplains, ministers, and professional staff)Five or more (5 counted on the multi-faith University Ministry staff page: the Director, the University Chaplain (a Jesuit priest), the assistant directors for retreats/Ignatian formation and for immersions/Catholic life, and the campus minister for liturgy and music. The Rabbi in Residence, the Muslim chaplain, the associate director for religious diversity, and the program assistant were not counted.)
    Sources (1)
    1. Staff - University Ministry | myUSFmyusf.usfca.edu/university-ministry/staff · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Rev. Dónal Godfrey, S.J. University Chaplain and Associate Director for Faculty and Staff Spirituality”
      A Jesuit priest, Rev. Dónal Godfrey, S.J., is the University Chaplain.
      “Angélica N. Quiñónez, EdD Director”
      Dr. Angélica N. Quiñónez directs University Ministry.
      “Richard Z. Alvia, EdD Assistant Director for Retreats and Ignatian Student Formation”
      University Ministry has an assistant director for retreats and Ignatian student formation.
      “Laura Diaz-Flaviani Campus Minister for Liturgy and Music”
      University Ministry has a campus minister for liturgy and music.
      “Sarah Manzano Assistant Director for Immersions and Catholic Life”
      University Ministry has an assistant director for immersions and Catholic life.
  • Yes: Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Retreats offered to students each yearFour or more distinct retreats (Kairos, Ignatian Silent Retreat, First Year Retreat, and SII Spring Retreat, plus hiking, writing, and forest-bathing retreats.)
    Sources (1)
    1. Retreats - University Ministry | myUSFmyusf.usfca.edu/university-ministry/student-spirituality/retreats · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “This student-facilitated weekend retreat allows for intentional reflection on relationships with God, self, and others.”
      University Ministry offers the Kairos weekend retreat.
      “This weekend-long retreat, led by Fr. Donal Godfrey, S.J., University Chaplain, offers the opportunity of silence to explore your thoughts and emotions, as well as give an introduction to the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius of Loyola.”
      University Ministry offers an Ignatian Silent Retreat led by the University Chaplain.
      “Connect meaningfully with other first year students and reflect on where you are as you begin life at USF. This retreat explores Ignatian spirituality.”
      University Ministry offers a First Year Retreat.
      “This retreat is designed for St. Ignatius Institute (SII) living and learning community members only where one explores Ignatian values, learns about the life of St. Ignatius, and builds SII community.”
      University Ministry offers an SII Spring Retreat.
  • Partly: Partly: the school meets some of this item and earns part of the points.
    Catholic student organizations and faith-formation groupsOne or two (Catholic Prayer Group and the St. Ignatius Institute living-learning community (weekly Mass, retreats).)
    Sources (3)
    1. University Ministry - Multi-Faith - Campus Faith Partners | myUSFmyusf.usfca.edu/university-ministry/campus-faith-partners · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “USF Faith & Culture Communities Catholic Prayer Group”
      A Catholic Prayer Group is listed among USF faith and culture communities.
    2. St. Ignatius Institute | University of San Franciscousfca.edu/st-ignatius · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “The St. Ignatius Institute (SII) is a living-learning community at the University of San Francisco with a focus on the past, present, and future of the Jesuit Catholic tradition in the wider world.”
      The St. Ignatius Institute is a living-learning community focused on the Jesuit Catholic tradition.
    3. Exploring Spirituality - St. Ignatius Institute | University of San Franciscousfca.edu/st-ignatius/exploring-spirituality · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Weekly liturgies, retreats, and evenings of reflection are offered to the students. There is a retreat in the fall for the first-year class and a spring retreat open to all students. Mass is held for the SII students on a weekly basis.”
      The St. Ignatius Institute offers weekly Mass, retreats, and evenings of reflection for its students.
  • Yes: Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Single-sex residence optionsSingle-sex residence halls available (Fromm Hall is for female-identified students only; each floor of Gillson and Hayes-Healy is single-sex.)
    Sources (3)
    1. Student Housing - Residence Halls - Fromm | myUSFmyusf.usfca.edu/housing/residential-buildings/fromm · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Female Identified Students Only”
      Fromm Hall houses female students only.
    2. Student Housing - Residence Halls - Gillson | myUSFmyusf.usfca.edu/housing/residential-buildings/gillson · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “8 floors, each floor is single-sex”
      Each floor of Gillson Hall is single-sex.
    3. Student Housing - Residence Halls - Hayes-Healy | myUSFmyusf.usfca.edu/housing/residential-buildings/hayes-healy · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “9 floors, each floor is single-sex”
      Each floor of Hayes-Healy Hall is single-sex.
  • Partly: Partly: the school meets some of this item and earns part of the points.
    Overnight guest policy in residence hallsVisitation hours or guest limits apply (Overnight guests permitted with roommate consent, up to three consecutive and four total days/nights per month without permission.)
    Sources (1)
    1. Student Conduct - Fogcutter - Student Residential Policies | myUSFmyusf.usfca.edu/fogcutter/student-residential-policies · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Overnight guests are defined as guests who are checked into a residential community between 3 AM and 8 AM.”
      Overnight guests are permitted under the residential guest policy.
      “Residents may not permit a guest to remain in or use the facilities of a residential building (including a residence room, lounge or common area) for more than three (3) consecutive days and/or nights during any given month, and for more than four (4) days and/or nights total per month, without the written permission of the Residence Director.”
      Guest stays are limited to three consecutive and four total days or nights per month; no restriction by sex is stated.
  • Yes: Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Faith life in residence halls (hall chaplains, hall Masses, or faith-based living communities)Yes (University Ministry resident ministers live in the residence halls; the St. Ignatius Institute living-learning community has weekly Mass.)
    Sources (2)
    1. University Ministry - Resident Ministry | myUSFmyusf.usfca.edu/university-ministry/resident-ministry · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Resident Ministers (RMs) are University Ministry staff members who live in the residence halls and provide a pastoral presence for the student community.”
      University Ministry places resident ministers in the residence halls.
    2. Exploring Spirituality - St. Ignatius Institute | University of San Franciscousfca.edu/st-ignatius/exploring-spirituality · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Weekly liturgies, retreats, and evenings of reflection are offered to the students. There is a retreat in the fall for the first-year class and a spring retreat open to all students. Mass is held for the SII students on a weekly basis.”
      The St. Ignatius Institute offers weekly Mass, retreats, and evenings of reflection for its students.
  • Yes: Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Office or senior officer for mission and Catholic identityYes (Vice President for Mission and Ignatian Imagination, effective August 1, 2026.)
    Sources (1)
    1. USF Names First Vice President for Mission and Ignatian Imagination | University of San Franciscousfca.edu/news/Kevin-Burke-VP · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Kevin F. Burke, S.J., will join the University of San Francisco as the university’s first vice president for mission and Ignatian imagination, effective Aug. 1.”
      USF created a vice president for mission position, filled as of August 1, 2026.
      “In his new role at USF, Fr. Burke will lead a division that brings together University Ministry, the Joan and Ralph Lane Center for Catholic Social Thought and the Ignatian Tradition, and the Office of Antiracism, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.”
      The vice president for mission leads a division including University Ministry and the Lane Center for Catholic Social Thought.
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: Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Service or volunteer centerYes (University Ministry Social Justice Program (service and volunteer opportunities) and the Leo T. McCarthy Center for Public Service and the Common Good.)
    Sources (2)
    1. University Ministry - Social Justice Programs | myUSFmyusf.usfca.edu/university-ministry/social-justice-programs · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “University Ministry's Social Justice Program invites students to step outside of their familiar university lives, walk with people at the margins of society, and in doing so, open their minds and hearts to personal transformation done through community-based learning in the Jesuit tradition.”
      University Ministry runs a Social Justice Program offering service and volunteer opportunities.
    2. McCarthy Center - Community-Engaged Learning | myUSFmyusf.usfca.edu/mccarthy/community-engagement · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “The McCarthy Center supports community-engaged learning by providing faculty development, cultivating and maintaining community partnerships, and facilitating orientations, reflections, and social justice lessons for students.”
      The McCarthy Center supports community-engaged learning and community partnerships.
  • Yes: Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Service-learning or community engagement in the curriculumRequired of all students
    Sources (2)
    1. Community Engaged Learning (CEL) | myUSFmyusf.usfca.edu/provost/svpaa/CEL · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “All undergraduate students at USF complete at least one community-engaged learning (CEL) course as a graduation requirement.”
      Every undergraduate must complete a community-engaged learning course.
    2. Transfer Core Curriculum Courses - Transfer Students | University of San Franciscousfca.edu/admission/undergraduate/transfer-core-curriculum · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “the core requirements will be waived with the exception of Areas A1, D1, D2, D3, and community engaged learning (CEL).”
      D1 philosophy, D2 theology and religious studies, D3 ethics, and community-engaged learning are required even of students who already hold a bachelor's degree.
  • Partly: 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) (Lane Center for Catholic Social Thought and the Ignatian Tradition.)
    Sources (1)
    1. The Joan & Ralph Lane Center for Catholic Social Thought & the Ignatian Tradition | University of San Franciscousfca.edu/lane-center · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “we support research, teaching and action to promote and engage Catholic social thought especially in response to contemporary issues.”
      The Lane Center for Catholic Social Thought and the Ignatian Tradition supports teaching and action on Catholic social thought.
  • Partly: Partly: the school meets some of this item and earns part of the points.
    Pro-life engagement (student pro-life group, support for pregnant and parenting students, or institutional initiatives)One (Pregnant and parenting student resources, including pastoral support from University Ministry.)
    Sources (1)
    1. Pregnant and Parenting Student Resources and Referrals | myUSFmyusf.usfca.edu/hps/sexual-health/pregnancy-resources · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “As a Catholic Jesuit University, USF celebrates human life as a gift and thus we are dedicated to offering any student who is faced with the issues of pregnancy a supportive environment that is caring, compassionate, respectful, and non-judgmental.”
      USF publishes pregnant and parenting student resources, including pastoral support through University Ministry.
  • Yes: Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Justice and solidarity programs (immersion trips, poverty, migration, or care-for-creation initiatives)Two or more (Arrupe Immersions (including a Laudato Si' immersion in Ecuador) and the University Ministry Social Justice Program.)
    Sources (3)
    1. University Ministry - Arrupe Immersions | myUSFmyusf.usfca.edu/university-ministry/arrupe-immersions · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Some of our immersions are Laudato Si Immersion (Yasuni National Park, Ecuador); Leap of Faith Immersion (surprised location); I-LEAD immersion (leadership program with the Global Jesuit Network).”
      University Ministry runs Arrupe Immersions, including a Laudato Si' immersion in Ecuador.
    2. University Ministry | myUSFmyusf.usfca.edu/university-ministry · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Immersions are short-term programs that connects you with communities around the world. Travel to places like Ecuador, Peru, and Mexico.”
      University Ministry immersions travel to places such as Ecuador, Peru, and Mexico.
    3. University Ministry - Social Justice Programs | myUSFmyusf.usfca.edu/university-ministry/social-justice-programs · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “University Ministry's Social Justice Program invites students to step outside of their familiar university lives, walk with people at the margins of society, and in doing so, open their minds and hearts to personal transformation done through community-based learning in the Jesuit tradition.”
      University Ministry runs a Social Justice Program offering service and volunteer opportunities.
  • Yes: Yes: the school meets this item and earns its full points.
    Service explicitly rooted in the Catholic mission (run with campus ministry or the mission office, or framed by Catholic social teaching)Yes
    Sources (1)
    1. University Ministry - Social Justice Programs | myUSFmyusf.usfca.edu/university-ministry/social-justice-programs · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “University Ministry's Social Justice Program invites students to step outside of their familiar university lives, walk with people at the margins of society, and in doing so, open their minds and hearts to personal transformation done through community-based learning in the Jesuit tradition.”
      University Ministry runs a Social Justice Program offering service and volunteer opportunities.
      “In the Jesuit Catholic tradition, we challenge our students to be contemplatives in action who”
      University Ministry frames its service program in the Jesuit Catholic tradition.

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

Strengths

  • Mass is celebrated every weekday at 8:00 AM in St. Ignatius Church, which is attached to the campus.
    Sources (2)
    1. University Ministry - Liturgy and Multi-faith - Liturgy | myUSFmyusf.usfca.edu/university-ministry/liturgy-and-multi-faith/liturgy · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “DAILY MASS WITH THE JESUITS Mondays - Fridays | 8:00 A.m. | St. Ignatius Church”
      Mass is celebrated Monday through Friday at 8:00 AM in St. Ignatius Church.
    2. 9 Facts About St. Ignatius Church That Might Surprise You | University of San Franciscousfca.edu/news/nine-suprising-facts-saint-ignatius-church · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “The historic landmark is attached to the university campus, but owned and operated by the Jesuit Catholic Parish.”
      St. Ignatius Church is attached to the USF campus and is operated by the Jesuit parish.
  • A Jesuit priest is University Chaplain, and 20 Jesuits live on campus and minister to the university community.
    Sources (2)
    1. Staff - University Ministry | myUSFmyusf.usfca.edu/university-ministry/staff · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Rev. Dónal Godfrey, S.J. University Chaplain and Associate Director for Faculty and Staff Spirituality”
      A Jesuit priest, Rev. Dónal Godfrey, S.J., is the University Chaplain.
    2. Our Jesuit Roots | University of San Franciscousfca.edu/who-we-are/reinventing-education/jesuit-roots · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “There are 25 Jesuit priests at USF. Many Jesuits are graduate students or faculty or staff members, and 20 of them live in Loyola House on campus and minister to the USF community.”
      Twenty Jesuit priests live on campus in Loyola House and minister to the USF community.
  • Every undergraduate completes a community-engaged learning course.
    Sources (1)
    1. Community Engaged Learning (CEL) | myUSFmyusf.usfca.edu/provost/svpaa/CEL · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “All undergraduate students at USF complete at least one community-engaged learning (CEL) course as a graduation requirement.”
      Every undergraduate must complete a community-engaged learning course.
  • One residence hall is for women only, and two halls have single-sex floors.
    Sources (3)
    1. Student Housing - Residence Halls - Fromm | myUSFmyusf.usfca.edu/housing/residential-buildings/fromm · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Female Identified Students Only”
      Fromm Hall houses female students only.
    2. Student Housing - Residence Halls - Gillson | myUSFmyusf.usfca.edu/housing/residential-buildings/gillson · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “8 floors, each floor is single-sex”
      Each floor of Gillson Hall is single-sex.
    3. Student Housing - Residence Halls - Hayes-Healy | myUSFmyusf.usfca.edu/housing/residential-buildings/hayes-healy · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “9 floors, each floor is single-sex”
      Each floor of Hayes-Healy Hall is single-sex.

Concerns

  • The core requires one theology and religious studies course, and the university states that students are not required to study Catholicism.
    Sources (2)
    1. Our Jesuit Roots | University of San Franciscousfca.edu/who-we-are/reinventing-education/jesuit-roots · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Yes. But you are not required to study Catholicism. In our theology and religious studies requirement — an essential part of our core curriculum — you learn about various religions”
      The core includes a theology and religious studies requirement that does not require the study of Catholicism.
    2. Students Take Theology Classes, Expand Their Minds | University of San Franciscousfca.edu/news/theology-core-requirement · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “The Department of Theology and Religious Studies offers courses on many religions, including Judaism, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, and Catholicism, said Professor Jorge Aquino. Students get to choose.”
      Students choose among courses on many religions, including Catholicism, to meet the theology requirement.
  • The core requires one philosophy course.
    Sources (1)
    1. Transfer Core Curriculum Courses - Transfer Students | University of San Franciscousfca.edu/admission/undergraduate/transfer-core-curriculum · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Area D: Philosophy, Theology and Religious Studies, and Ethics | D1: Philosophy e.g. Introduction to Philosophy, History of Philosophy etc.”
      Core Area D includes a philosophy requirement (D1).
  • Overnight guests are permitted within monthly limits, with no restriction by sex stated.
    Sources (1)
    1. Student Conduct - Fogcutter - Student Residential Policies | myUSFmyusf.usfca.edu/fogcutter/student-residential-policies · verified Oct. 7, 2026
      “Overnight guests are defined as guests who are checked into a residential community between 3 AM and 8 AM.”
      Overnight guests are permitted under the residential guest policy.
      “Residents may not permit a guest to remain in or use the facilities of a residential building (including a residence room, lounge or common area) for more than three (3) consecutive days and/or nights during any given month, and for more than four (4) days and/or nights total per month, without the written permission of the Residence Director.”
      Guest stays are limited to three consecutive and four total days or nights per month; no restriction by sex is stated.

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Campus ministry home

University Ministry

  • Address: Toler Hall, Lower Level 122, 2130 Fulton Street, San Francisco, CA 94117
  • Location: On campus
  • Facilities: multi-faith meditation room

View on map ↗

Source: usfca.edu, verified Oct. 7, 2026, myusf.usfca.edu, verified Oct. 7, 2026

Catholic clubs and student life

14 groups and regular activities · 7 on campus, 7 off campus

Retreats 5

  • Kairos RetreatOff campus
    Each fall
    Student-facilitated weekend retreat on relationships with God, self, and others.
  • Ignatian Silent RetreatOff campus
    Weekend silent retreat introducing the Spiritual Exercises, led by the University Chaplain.
  • First Year RetreatOff campus
    Retreat for first-year students exploring Ignatian spirituality.
  • SII Spring RetreatOff campus
    Retreat for St. Ignatius Institute members on Ignatian values and the life of St. Ignatius.
  • Forest-bathing and hiking retreatsOff campus
    Nature retreats in Golden Gate Park and the Presidio.

Service 2

  • Arrupe ImmersionsOff campus
    Short-term immersions with communities in places such as Ecuador, Peru, and Mexico, including a Laudato Si' immersion.
  • Social Justice ProgramOff campus
    University Ministry service and volunteer opportunities with communities at the margins.

Faith formation 3

  • St. Ignatius InstituteOn campus
    Weekly Mass for SII students
    Four-year living-learning community focused on the Jesuit Catholic tradition, with weekly liturgies, retreats, and evenings of reflection.
  • Spiritual directionOn campus
    Regular meetings with a spiritual director, open to the university community.
  • RCIA at St. Ignatius ParishOn campus
    Sunday mornings
    Year-long preparation for baptism, first communion, and confirmation offered by St. Ignatius Parish.

Clubs and groups 1

  • Catholic Prayer GroupOn campus
    Catholic prayer group listed among USF faith and culture communities.

Liturgy and prayer 2

  • Liturgical ministriesOn campus
    Students serve in liturgical ministries at USF Masses.
  • USF Liturgical ChoirOn campus
    Choir that sings at USF student liturgies, directed by the campus minister for liturgy and music.

Social life 1

  • Sunday Student Mass and liturgy socialOn campus
    Sundays 7 PM, when classes are in session
    Student Mass in St. Ignatius Church followed by a liturgy social.

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 (9)
  1. University Ministry | University of San Franciscousfca.edu/life-at-usf/campus-experience/university-ministry · verified Oct. 7, 2026
    “University Ministry Main Campus um@usfca.edu (415) 422-4463 Toler Hall, Lower Level 122 2130 Fulton Street San Francisco, CA 94117”
    University Ministry is in Toler Hall, Lower Level 122, 2130 Fulton Street, on the main campus.
    “University Ministry Main Campus um@usfca.edu (415) 422-4463 Toler Hall, Lower Level 122 2130 Fulton Street San Francisco, CA 94117”
    University Ministry is in Toler Hall, Lower Level 122, 2130 Fulton Street, on the main campus.
  2. Staff - University Ministry | myUSFmyusf.usfca.edu/university-ministry/staff · verified Oct. 7, 2026
    “Rev. Dónal Godfrey, S.J. University Chaplain and Associate Director for Faculty and Staff Spirituality”
    A Jesuit priest, Rev. Dónal Godfrey, S.J., is the University Chaplain.
  3. University Ministry - Liturgy and Multi-faith - Liturgy | myUSFmyusf.usfca.edu/university-ministry/liturgy-and-multi-faith/liturgy · verified Oct. 7, 2026
    “DAILY MASS WITH THE JESUITS Mondays - Fridays | 8:00 A.m. | St. Ignatius Church”
    Mass is celebrated Monday through Friday at 8:00 AM in St. Ignatius Church.
  4. 9 Facts About St. Ignatius Church That Might Surprise You | University of San Franciscousfca.edu/news/nine-suprising-facts-saint-ignatius-church · verified Oct. 7, 2026
    “The historic landmark is attached to the university campus, but owned and operated by the Jesuit Catholic Parish.”
    St. Ignatius Church is attached to the USF campus and is operated by the Jesuit parish.
  5. Our Jesuit Roots | University of San Franciscousfca.edu/who-we-are/reinventing-education/jesuit-roots · verified Oct. 7, 2026
    “There are 25 Jesuit priests at USF. Many Jesuits are graduate students or faculty or staff members, and 20 of them live in Loyola House on campus and minister to the USF community.”
    Twenty Jesuit priests live on campus in Loyola House and minister to the USF community.
  6. University Ministry - Multi-Faith - Campus Faith Partners | myUSFmyusf.usfca.edu/university-ministry/campus-faith-partners · verified Oct. 7, 2026
    “USF Faith & Culture Communities Catholic Prayer Group”
    A Catholic Prayer Group is listed among USF faith and culture communities.
  7. St. Ignatius Institute | University of San Franciscousfca.edu/st-ignatius · verified Oct. 7, 2026
    “The St. Ignatius Institute (SII) is a living-learning community at the University of San Francisco with a focus on the past, present, and future of the Jesuit Catholic tradition in the wider world.”
    The St. Ignatius Institute is a living-learning community focused on the Jesuit Catholic tradition.
  8. Exploring Spirituality - St. Ignatius Institute | University of San Franciscousfca.edu/st-ignatius/exploring-spirituality · verified Oct. 7, 2026
    “Weekly liturgies, retreats, and evenings of reflection are offered to the students. There is a retreat in the fall for the first-year class and a spring retreat open to all students. Mass is held for the SII students on a weekly basis.”
    The St. Ignatius Institute offers weekly Mass, retreats, and evenings of reflection for its students.
  9. University Ministry - Liturgy and Multi-faith - Multi-faith Meditation Room | myUSFmyusf.usfca.edu/university-ministry/liturgy-and-multi-faith/multi-faith-meditation-room · verified Oct. 7, 2026
    “The Multi-faith Meditation Room is located in Toler 123, adjacent to the University Ministry office. USF students, faculty, and staff can access the room with their USF ID card.”
    A multi-faith meditation room for prayer is open to students next to the University Ministry office.

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.
82 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.70%
  • 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 1,295 · ACT 27.5
  • Student-to-faculty ratio 15% of scoreThis measure counts for 15% of the Academic Excellence score.11 to 1
  • Instructional spending per student 15% of scoreThis measure counts for 15% of the Academic Excellence score.$20,560

Bars show points on each measure’s scale. How Academic Excellence is computed.

Source: College Scorecard (College Scorecard, most recent cohorts (data release 06/10/2026))

Cost and value

Federal data, shown separately. Cost, debt, and earnings are never part of any grade.

Value and outcomes
Undergraduate students
Fall enrollment (IPEDS)
5,729
Total students9,212
Average net price (per year)
After grants and scholarships, for students receiving federal aid
$41,431
Cost of attendance (per year)$80,141
Median federal debt at graduation$23,000
Graduation rate
First-time, full-time students finishing within 150% of normal time
70%
First-year retention84%
Median earnings 10 years after entry$89,812
Admission rate62%
Students receiving Pell grants28%
Admission test scores (middle 50% of admitted students who submitted scores)
Average SAT1295
SAT reading & writing610–700
SAT math580–690
ACT composite25–30
Test policyConsidered but not required

Value index: 56 / 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 San Francisco

The Most Reverend Salvatore J. Cordileone, Archbishop of San Francisco

Formal address: “Your Excellency”

Cathedral: Cathedral of St. Mary of the Assumption

Source: sfarch.org, sfarch.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 University of San Francisco a Catholic college?
Yes. University of San Francisco is a Catholic college in the Archdiocese of San Francisco. Its sponsor is Society of Jesus (Jesuits).
What is University of San Francisco’s Compass Score?
77 out of 100 (grade B). It combines faith (75%) and academics (25%), each rated from official sources.
Where is Mass celebrated at University of San Francisco?
Mass is listed at St. Ignatius Church. Days and times are on this page; please confirm with the parish or campus ministry before you go.

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