A National Research University in the Heart of the Nation's Capital in the Catholic Intellectual Tradition.

The Catholic University of America is unique among universities in the United States — even among Catholic universities. And it’s not just because we're located in Washington, D.C. —  a city of global significance and a place of extraordinary educational opportunity.

Our university was founded by the Catholic bishops of the United States, with a charter from then Pope Leo XIII, to be the national university of the Catholic Church in America. For more than 130 years, we have lived out our mission to discover and impart the truth through excellence in teaching and research. Catholic University scientists, engineers, nurses, philosophers, theologians, historians, architects, social workers, musicians, artists, and scholars in all fields embrace both reason and faith as they apply the inexhaustible resources of the Catholic intellectual tradition to help solve the problems of contemporary life and enrich the culture around us.

Read more about how Catholic University's Strategic Plan outlines specific goals and objectives we have committed to in order to build upon our tradition of excellence and chart our course for the future. 

  • Mullen Library

    Rankings and Recognitions

    Innovative programs and a beautiful, green campus are just the beginning of Catholic University's national leadership, as reflected in an array of rankings, recognitions, and other honors.

    Learn more