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John Paul the Great Catholic University

Escondido, CA

private nonprofitbachelors

Quick Facts

Impact Culture for Christ

Wikipedia
2003
Founded
Private college
Type
297
Total Students
296
Undergrad
$30K
Tuition (In-State)
$30K
Tuition (Out-State)
$29K
Avg Net Price
79%
Acceptance Rate
65%
Graduation Rate
6-year
70%
Retention Rate
Baccalaureate Colleges
Classification
President: Derry Connolly

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About John Paul the Great Catholic University

Where faith and creativity converge to impact culture for Christ.

John Paul the Great Catholic University (JPCatholic) stands out as a vibrant private institution dedicated to shaping culture through a Christ-centered lens. Founded with the powerful motto, "Impact Culture for Christ," JPCatholic offers a unique educational experience where academic pursuits are deeply integrated with a strong Catholic identity, preparing students to be leaders and innovators in their fields while living out their faith.

The university's journey began in 2003 as "New Catholic University." A significant turning point came after the passing of Pope John Paul II in April 2005, when the board of trustees, inspired by his legacy, renamed the institution to honor him and reaffirm its foundational Catholic priorities. JPCatholic officially welcomed its first students on September 21, 2006, initially in Scripps Ranch, before establishing its permanent home in Escondido in 2013, where it continues to grow its community.

With a current enrollment of 300 students, JPCatholic fosters a close-knit and faith-filled environment. The student experience is uniquely structured around daily spiritual life, offering daily Mass, Confession, and Adoration as core components of the campus routine. This deep commitment to spiritual formation, combined with a curriculum designed to "impact culture," provides an academic strength focused on integrating faith with professional endeavors, preparing students for impactful careers and a mission-driven life.

Key Highlights

  • Founded in 2003 with the mission to "Impact Culture for Christ."
  • Renamed in 2005 to honor Pope John Paul II, emphasizing its Catholic identity.
  • Officially opened its doors to students on September 21, 2006.
  • Moved to its permanent campus in Escondido, California, in 2013.
  • Serves a close-knit community of 300 students.
  • Integrates faith deeply into daily life with daily Mass, Confession, and Adoration.
  • Led by President Derry Connolly.

Timeline

2003
Founded as "New Catholic University".
2005
Board of trustees decided to change the name to "John Paul the Great Catholic University".
2006
Officially opened with first classes on September 21 at a temporary campus in Scripps Ranch.
2013
Moved to its permanent campus in Escondido.
2013
Held its first classes in Escondido at the start of the Fall academic quarter.
🏛️
23 Years
of Excellence

Leadership

via Wikipedia
Derry Connolly
President

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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