St. Catherine University (SCU)

St. Catherine University truly lives up to its inspiring motto: “educating women to lead and influence.” Fueled by small, discussion-based classes, the St. Kate’s curriculum is designed to help students become “more aware of who you are as a woman in the world, as well as become more aware of social justice and feminist issues.” An ideal small college atmosphere, the teaching staff is knowledgeable, skilled, and caring. A senior shares, “Most of my professors have been fabulous instructors: passionate, articulate, and willing to go to any length to help you achieve whatever level of competency you wish in their subject.” While the school is Catholic affiliated, “religious beliefs are not forced on you” as “religion classes tend to be about exploring your own values, or else an academic study of the Bible.” In fact, the school’s predominant doctrine could be described as politically liberal, rather than religious. However, St. Kate’s doesn’t push a single philosophy, but “offers a setting for any woman to let her voice be heard.” A current student shares, “I'm most comfortable there, most free—despite the fact that many of my viewpoints do not match with the liberal theology that CSC believes in.”

“The typical St. Kate's student tends to be liberal, have feminist values, [and] wants to work towards social justice in some way.” These students form the majority, however, “through its Weekend College program, the college serves a lot of older women returning to school, for a great mix of ideas.” St. Kate’s also draws women “with a spectrum of disabilities,” as well as “women of color both from the US and abroad, varying economic status, a wide range of ages, sexual orientation and anything else that could possibly vary.” On top of that, you’ll find a range of hobbies and interests, from “women who love to knit or play video games, to women who love to play sports or go out on the town.” On this worldly campus, “most students are socially and environmentally aware, and lean to the left regarding political views.” The school’s Catholic affiliation also generates “some conservative religious representation,” but students note that, “the faculty is generally accepting and supportive of the GLBT population.”

"Located in St. Paul, Minnesota, St. Kate’s students get the best of both worlds: a quiet campus life complimented by the cosmopolitan attractions of the Twin Cities. A freshman explains, “People really enjoy St. Kate's because, being on campus, you have a nice sense of a small, tightly woven community but you can step off campus into a life of endless possibilities and fun.” For resident students, “the St. Kate’s Activities Team plans movies, dinners, outings, concerts and many other fun things for students to do during the day and evening.” However, students admit that, “campus life is pretty quiet” so “most girls find other places than here to socialize.” The Twin Cities are a great backdrop for college, with lots of cultural and recreational activities. In particular, “The arts community is amazing; there’s always something going on and at a relatively decent price.” What’s more, “With four other four-year colleges close by in St. Paul, one’s social life need not be dull.”