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Jesuit Values

Students often ask what Jesuit means. The Jesuits are an order of priests within the Catholic religion who were founded by St. Ignatius Loyola over 450 years ago. They have deep roots in education.

In the USA, The Jesuit network of 27 Universities, 55 high schools and dozens of Cristo Rey and Nativity schools educate people of all classes, races and creeds.

Jesuit Education at Scranton

We here at the University of Scranton are animated by the spiritual vision and tradition of excellence, which is one of the defining characteristics of a Jesuit education.

Transformational education is the goal of our graduate programs. They are designed to develop expertise and knowledge, but in a context that also emphasizes personal responsibility; responsibility for reflection about how one's expertise and knowledge is best applied for the betterment of one's family, community and nation.

Peter Hans Kolvenbach, S.J., the former Superior General of the Society of Jesus once stated, “The real measure of our Jesuit universities lies in who our students become.”  It is our hope that through your engagement with the faculty and staff of The University of Scranton, you will become a committed scholar, dedicated to excellence as well as a person whose compassion is stirred to service for the greater good.

-- Rev. Patrick D. Rogers, S.J., Former Executive Director, The Jesuit Center

Reflections on Graduate Education

You have many options of where to pursue your graduate education. The foundational knowledge in your discipline is likely to be “covered” in any accredited program in your discipline. However, there is value added to engage in graduate education at The University of Scranton, a Jesuit and Catholic University, because of our emphasis on Jesuit values:

  • The concept of the Magis, or a restless pursuit of excellence grounded in gratitude;
  • Cura Personalis, individual attention to students and respect for the uniqueness of each member of the university community;
  • Seeking God in all things;
  • Service of faith and the promotion of justice; and
  • Contemplation in action.

The University of Scranton is welcoming and honors students of all cultures and faith traditions. Our underlying ambition is to develop professionals who will enhance the human condition, expand the human imagination and make the world more just.

            --  Victoria H. Castellanos, Ph.D. Dean, Panuska College of Professional Studies

Twelve Characteristics of Learning in the Jesuit Tradition

  • Pursuit of Excellence
  • Respect for the World: Its History and Mystery
  • Learning from Experience
  • Contemplative Vision Informed by Hope
  • Development of Personal Potential
  • Critical Thinking and Effective Communication
  • Appreciation of Things Both Great and Small
  • Commitment to Service
  • Special Concern for the Poor and Oppressed
  • Linking Faith with Justice
  • International and Global Perspective
  • Discerning Mindset
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