CATHOLIC COLLEGES SUSTAIN THE FAITH

In the senior year of high school, many students rush to complete college applications, hope their financial aid will be enough and wait to hear from their choices. In making their decision, a lot of weight is given to the academic programs, faculty, campus life, curricular and extra-curricular activities, and cost.

One area Catholic parents need to be concerned about is “values.” That is, how does the school prepare a Catholic student for life after college? That’s where the benefits of attending a Catholic college become most apparent.

A student's choice of a college can have a long-term effect on his or her faith spirituality. Those who attend a secular college experience a decline in religious values, attitudes and behaviors. In fact, Christianity Today magazine reports that, “at least half and possibly over two-thirds of our kids will step away from their faith while attending non-Christian colleges and universities.”

Given what is at stake, choice of a college is a serious test of family values and faith.

Of course, many Catholic students graduate from secular schools with their faith intact, but they miss out on opportunities to grow in faith that are available only at a Catholic college.

Catholic colleges combine teachings in faith and morals with a rigorous academic curricular to prepare students for successful careers. Many go on to attend prestigious graduate schools and to careers with top companies in virtually every profession. Others choose to become servant-leaders in humanitarian organizations. 

According to U.S. New & World Report magazine, six Catholic universities and three catholic colleges rank among the country’s very best. The top Catholic universities are: Notre Dame (#20), Georgetown (#23), Boston College (#34), Fordham (#70) St. Louis University (#77) and Marquette (#81). The top Catholic liberal arts colleges are: the College of the Holy Cross in Worcester, Massachusetts, Saint John's University and the College of Saint Benedict, both located in Collegeville, Minnesota.

To begin your own search for a Catholic college or university, visit www.catholiccollegesonline.org.