Academic Excellence

In less than 60 years, the University of San Diego has grown from a local college with 50 students and a handful of professors to a nationally ranked university. This achievement is the direct result of a single, unwavering expectation: academic excellence.

The breadth of programs and depth of facilities means that students can easily find a course of study that ignites their intellectual fire. In the classroom, coursework across disciplines encourages students to develop their critical thinking skills.

Small class size means the instructors know their students and can stimulate curious minds with anything from participation in a research project to an after-class discussion on topic. Instructors welcome the free exchange of complex ideas in an environment of tolerance and civility. In this environment, students begin a lifelong habit of appreciating and cultivating their individual gifts.

To complement this instruction, the university's Honors program provides a challenging curriculum for USD's uniquely motivated students. The university also holds memberships in several honor societies, including Phi Beta Kappa.

While intellectual growth is key, USD adds depth to the education experience by inspiring students to grow spiritually, morally and socially. An active faith community invites widespread student participation. In the classroom, study is accompanied by an examination of ethics and values.

University of San Diego students inquire freely and challenge ideas, exercise moral, spiritual and social judgment, serve others, and contemplate social justice in their lives and in their chosen fields. These students are truly educated. These students achieve excellence.