Nov 21, 2024  
2017-2018 Undergraduate Catalog 
    
2017-2018 Undergraduate Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

General Information



Organization

Seattle University is Seattle’s university, where mind, body and spirit are not multiple choice. At Seattle U, we nurture the whole person and are committed to an education for a just and humane world. Our scholar-educators develop the intellectual side of our students, our Jesuit ethos the spiritual side and programs and activities the personal side-all of which lead to the holistic professional and personal formation of our students.

Here, scholarly pursuits go hand-in-hand with the Jesuit mission of social justice and service learning. Our undergraduate and graduate students excel in the classroom and are making their mark in their communities and beyond.

Seattle University, founded in 1891, is a Jesuit Catholic university-that just celebrated its 125th anniversary-located on 50 acres in Seattle’s Capitol Hill and First Hill neighborhoods. More than 7,400 students are enrolled in undergraduate and graduate programs within nine schools and colleges. The university’s position as a premier independent university and location are closely woven with the history of Seattle and the Puget Sound region.

The university provides distinctive learning, service and career opportunities for students. There are more than 60 undergraduate and more than 31 graduate degree programs that offer a variety of specializations, plus more than 30 certificate programs.

About Seattle University

Seattle University is home to nine schools and colleges: Albers School of Business and Economics, College of Arts and Sciences, College of Education, College of Nursing, the College of Science and Engineering, Matteo Ricci College, School of Law, School of Theology and Ministry and School of New and Continuing Studies.

One of 28 Jesuit Catholic universities in the country, Seattle U cultivates intellectual and spiritual development with its high-caliber faculty, small class sizes, academic rigor, challenging curriculum and emphasis on education for justice.

Seattle U consistently ranks in the Top 10 among schools in the West by U.S. News & World Report and earns high marks from Princeton Review’s among the best colleges and universities in the nation. Additionally, the university is among the most diverse independent universities in the West.

Located within steps of Seattle’s downtown core, Seattle University feeds off the energy of the Emerald City, creating learning experiences and adventures year-round. Students take advantage of the location and the university’s close proximity to major hospitals and biotech companies, internationally known music and theater venues, eclectic museums, acclaimed restaurants and more.

Students don’t need to venture off campus to enjoy the serenity of an urban citadel with the university’s lush green spaces and distinctive Japanese gardens. Seattle University is certified as a Wildlife Habitat by the National Wildlife Federation, which followed the university’s designation in 1989 as a Backyard Wildlife Sanctuary by the Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife.

Seattle University is also widely known for its efforts and initiatives that support sustainability. As a green campus, SU is a nationally recognized leader in recycling and conservation efforts. In 2010, the university became a bottled water-free campus, which at the time was the first university in the state to do so. Water conservation and renewable energy are also important to the university.

At Seattle U, facilities are more than simply bricks and mortar-they play an important role in how we educate our students and the programs we provide. In the past 25 years, the campus has undergone major facilities improvements. Additions in recent years include the Clinical Performance Nursing Laboratory and the Jeanne Marie and Rhoady Lee, Jr. Center for the Arts, a premier performing arts center to showcase the university’s dramatic and visual arts and music. In fall 2010, the university opened the doors to the Lemieux Library and McGoldrick Learning Commons, a reimagined and sophisticated library and learning commons designed with the space and technology suited to today’s student.

As the Lemieux Library and McGoldrick Learning Commons is the intellectual heart of the campus, the spiritual center is the Chapel of St. Ignatius, the vision of architect Steven Holl. In addition to being a campus and civic landmark, the chapel is a popular place of worship for the campus community and its friends and neighbors. And in fall 2011, SU opened a modern fitness center, the William F. Eisiminger Fitness Center, adjacent to the Redhawk Center. Redhawk Center, which was renovated in 2015, is home court for SU’s Women’s Basketball. Future facilities include a new residence hall, slated to open in 2018, and in 2021 the Francis Wood, S.J. and Nick Arvanitidis, PhD Innovation Lab at the College of Science and Engineering.

How We Educate

At Seattle University, excellent teaching-supported by high-quality scholarship and personalized attention to student learning-ensures an intellectually challenging education, which is at the heart of our mission in undergraduate, graduate and professional programs.

The university culture supports a holistic educational experience, one that promotes vision, character and leadership. Course work, programs and activities reflect the Jesuit ethos of service, faith and promotion of justice to address issues of poverty, injustice, discrimination, violence and the environment in committed and effective ways.

A Dedication to Service

Service in the community and service learning courses are important components of a Seattle University education.

Four out of five students serve the community as part of their studies-that’s nearly 3x the national average.

In 2012, the White House honored Seattle University with the Presidential Award for Community Service, the highest recognition by the federal government to a college or university for its civic engagement, service learning and volunteerism. The university was one of only five universities in the U.S. to receive this honor.

The following year, the university set a precedent by earning national recognition for the second consecutive year, making the President’s Higher Education Community Service Honor Roll with distinction. The accolade recognizes SU’s overall commitment to service as well as its significant work to implement the Seattle University Youth Initiative (SUYI). SUYI unites the university and wider community in a long-term commitment to build a better future for young people starting with pre-kindergarten and continuing through college.

In 2014, Seattle University once again was honored by the President’s Higher Education Community Service Honor Roll in the following areas: interfaith community service, one of four finalists for the top award in this category; general community service, honor roll with distinction; education, honor roll; and economic opportunity, honor roll.

Seattle University is among the best colleges and universities in the nation for producing successful graduates, investing in the student experience and fostering student success, according to The Wall Street Journal/Times Higher Education College 2016 Ranking. The ranking highlights the top 200 institutions-among 1,000-it reviews nationwide. Seattle U is the top ranked private university in the Northwest. It is #2 in the Northwest overall and #117 in the nation.

 


Academic Services and Programs for Students

Meeting the needs of a diverse student body means providing a variety of programs, activities and resources to enhance the educational experience. It also means helping students achieve success from the moment they step on campus to the day they walk across the stage at commencement. Here are some of the programs and resources available to our students:

 

Academic Advising and Support Services

Each student at Seattle University is provided access to academic advising. Academic advisors guide students in their academic choices and planning, recommend co-curricular activities that enhance the educational experience and refer students to campus resources. Advisors recognize the vital role they play in the overall college experience. Faculty, professionals and peers serve as academic advisors in the various colleges and schools.

Advising Support and Coordination Services provides support to develop and promote high-quality campus advising services. This includes ongoing skill-building opportunities for advisors and dissemination of the latest advising information. The department also identifies students who are experiencing academic difficulties and extends resources and support. 

Information: (206) 296-2260, seattleu.edu/SAS/

Athletics

The Athletics Department champions the values of Seattle University’s mission statement and regards athletics as a key component of the Jesuit philosophy of educating the whole person – mind, body, and spirit. Through participation in intercollegiate athletics, student-athletes learn critical life lessons and values. Athletic coaches, staff and administrators strive to provide athletes with an experience in their sport that is challenging and rewarding while maintaining an environment where the pursuit of higher education is the top priority. Our students earn Academic All-Conference and All-American honors for their exemplary work in sports and in academics.

Seattle University competes at the NCAA Division I level and is a member of the Western Athletic Conference, with intercollegiate sports including men’s and women’s basketball, golf, soccer, swimming, tennis and track and field, as well as baseball and women’s rowing, softball and volleyball.

Information: (206) 296-6441, goseattleu.com

Career Services

Career Services provides career education to all students empowering them to make intentional career choices and navigate a successful transition to meaningful post-graduate life. A full range of career education, advising, and planning tools are available for students to explore diverse fields and careers, prepare grad school applications, develop skills in résumé and cover letter writing, LinkedIn, interviewing, and job and internship search strategies. Students are supported to engage with employers and alumni through on-campus interviews, employer information sessions and panels, professional development nights, informational interviews, job shadows, career fairs and LinkedIn.

Information: (206) 296-6080, seattleu.edu/careerservices/

Collegia Program

Seattle University’s collegia (“gathering place”) provide a home-away-from-home environment for adult learners, student veterans, graduate students, commuters, and transfer students. The university offers two collegia where students can gather to study, socialize and relax while on campus.

Information: (206) 296-6060, seattleu.edu/deanofstudents/collegia-program/

Disabilities Services

Disabilities Services provides academic counseling, support, advocacy and referrals for students with disabilities. The office arranges academic adjustments such as testing adaptations, note takers, books in alternative format, facilities access, adaptive/auxiliary aids and interpreters. Additionally, Disabilities Services coordinates other forms of reasonable accommodation to allow students with disabilities to participate in university programs, services and activities. Written documentation of a student’s disability from a qualified professional must be submitted before reasonable accommodations and academic adjustments can be provided. Copies of the Seattle University Section 504/ADA Policy and Appeal Procedure are available in Loyola Hall, room 100 or online.

Information: (206) 296-5740, seattleu.edu/disabilities-services/

English Language Learning Center

English Language and Culture Bridge

The English Language and Culture Bridge Program is designed to prepare non-native English speakers for a productive academic career. The primary goals of the program are to assist non-native speakers to raise their proficiencies in English and to provide them with an understanding of American academic culture. The courses offered in the program are highly advanced, with a specific focus on university-level reading, writing, listening and speaking. The program is offered in fall, winter, and spring quarters, with selected courses offered in summer quarters.

Information: (206) 296-6064, (206) 296-6056, seattleu.edu/ellc/bridge/

English Language Tutoring Program

Seattle University’s English Language Tutoring Program, housed in the English Language Learning Center in 1103 E. Madison Building, provides English language assistance to all Seattle University students for whom English is a second language; students sign up for appointments with tutors.

Information: (206) 296-6064, (206) 296-6056, https://www.seattleu.edu/ellc/bridge/ellc-tutoring/

Intensive English Program

Seattle University’s Intensive English Program accepts students (Fall, Winter and Spring Quarters) who have not passed Seattle University’s English proficiency requirement. The advanced-level program includes courses in advanced Listening, Speaking, Reading, Writing and Grammar and requires submission of English proficiency scores in the advanced range for entry to the program.  

Information: (206) 296-6064, (206) 296-6056

International Student Center

The International Student Center (ISC) is a focal point for student activities and programs of a global, cultural, educational and social nature and it is a gathering place for Seattle University’s international and domestic student populations and student organizations. The ISC is committed to supporting the academic and Jesuit mission of Seattle University and the strategic priority of Global Engagement by working closely with campus partners. The International Student Center (ISC) assists 865 international students from 60 different countries in achieving success in their educational endeavors. And through the contribution of their varied and unique cultural and global perspectives, ISC serves to broaden the university community’s cultural and global awareness and assist in the process of “empowering leaders for a just and humane world.”

The ISC plans large-scale events such as International Education Week and the International Dinner, while providing assistance to our international students in all matters pertaining to immigration, visa status, document certification, employment authorization and more. The office also serves as a resource for all matters pertaining to visa support for SU’s international faculty members and scholars. ISC also offers cultural adjustment to international students and the center encourages all students to get actively involved in the co-curricular life and the various international clubs at SU to ensure they are globally engaged as students. The ISC manages international health insurance for all international students and faculty members. The center is also the primary liaison with the US Department of State and the US Department of Homeland Security on all immigration related matters.

The ISC lounge and kitchen offers all SU students a place to relax, meet new people from all over the world, surf the internet on the two lounge computers or watch sports on a large satellite flat-screen TV. The lounge and kitchen also acts as a place for students clubs and organizations to plan and implement private cultural events and activities.

Information: (206) 296-6260, seattleu.edu/isc/

Leadership Development

Seattle University’s mission is to prepare all students to be agents for change in the world. Leadership Development offers programs, services and resources to help each student discover and develop their own potential. The office sponsors workshops and conferences, training on skills, opportunities to put leadership into action and personal coaching.

Information: (206) 296-LEAD (5323), seattleu.edu/leadership/

Learning Assistance Programs

Our dedicated staff in Learning Assistance Programs supports students in their ongoing growth and development as learners. We provide academic support and learning strategy enhancement for students through a variety of services to meet individual needs.  We offer weekly individual, small-group and drop-in tutoring as well as weekly facilitated study groups in selected math, business, science, nursing, and languages courses. We also offer a series of learning strategy workshops each quarter, assessment tools and one-on-one consultation sessions with a learning specialist to devise strategies to enhance learning around skills such as time management, reading comprehension, test preparation and note taking.

Information: (206) 398-4450, LEML 2nd Floor, seattleu.edu/learning-assistance/

Office of Fellowships

Seattle University has a proven track record when it comes to prestigious scholarships, fellowships and awards.

Over the years many of our students have received fellowships and grants, including Rhodes, Fulbright, Gates Cambridge, Goldwater, Udall and Truman scholarships. (The Harry S. Truman Scholarship Foundation designated Seattle U as an Honor Institution, a distinction given to universities that have several Truman Scholars and that promote the values of public service.)

The Office of Fellowships supports undergraduate and graduate students in their search for fellowships, grants and other academic opportunities. The office provides a clearinghouse of information about various funding opportunities and assists students in locating fellowships that fit their interests, experience and goals.

A range of fellowship opportunities is supported through the Office of Fellowships, from smaller, local competitions to prominent national contests.

While the Office of Fellowships offers guidance in choosing a fellowship, its primary mission is to support students through the application process. This includes writing assistance, advising and interview preparation.

Information: (206) 296-2517, seattleu.edu/fellowships/. Appointments: (206) 296-5740(206) 296-5740.

Office of Multicultural Affairs

The Office of Multicultural Affairs works with all members of the university community in a social justice framework to promote the leadership formation, wellness, and success of students of color, and LGBTQ students. This work takes place through advocacy, referrals and mentorship; creation of opportunities for cultural exploration, solidarity, education and celebration; support for student leadership, transition and persistence; support for student organizations; and trainings for groups and departments.

Information: (206) 296-6070, seattleu.edu/oma/

Premajor Studies Program

The Premajor Studies Program provides comprehensive advising and support in exploring academic and vocational options for students who are still exploring major options. Through an intentional and developmental curriculum, the program encourages students to investigate their skills, interests and personality, research all of the opportunities available to them, discern what path is best for them, and declare a major they’re passionate about pursuing. The program primarily works with undeclared incoming students and consults with current students considering changing majors.

Information: (206) 296-2260https://www.seattleu.edu/premajor/

Redhawk Resource Hub and Veterans Resource Center

Located in Student Center 110, the resource hub offers a comfortable space to study, eat, nap, engage, and find out more about University resources. The space is open to all students and is located behind the Redhawk Resource Hub Desk on the first floor of the Student Center. The space is also home to the Veterans Resource Center, which offers specific resources and engagement opportunities for our student veterans. 

Information: 206-296-6334,  seattleu.edu/deanofstudents/redhawk-resource-hub/

Student Events and Activities Council

The Student Events and Activities Council (SEAC) is responsible for planning and implementing campus-wide social activities such as concerts, dances, comedy shows, lectures and public forums.

Information: (206) 296-6047, https://www.seattleu.edu/seac/

Student Governance

Seattle University recognizes the importance of student involvement in the campus community. Student government provides not only leadership opportunities, but also a means to contribute to a vital and engaged campus life. The Student Government of Seattle University (SGSU), Seattle University’s undergraduate student government, organizes and leads services and programs geared toward students. The association also offers support for student clubs and events and advocates on campus issues.

Information: (206) 296-6050, seattleu.edu/sgsu/

Writing Center

The Writing Center is the union of academic excellence and outreach. The center exists to support the university’s Core Curriculum and to serve the writing needs of the greater campus community. The Writing Center is staffed with writing consultants from multiple disciplines who are trained to assist on a range of writing assignments.

Information: (206) 296-6239, seattleu.edu/writingcenter/


Educating the Whole Person

A well-rounded education is about more than scholastic success-it is values- and mission-driven; it enriches and inspires. Confident, skilled student leaders are developed through our top-notch educators and service and social justice offerings. In addition to academic achievements and personal growth, Seattle University provides many opportunities for exploration of faith, fitness and wellness.

 

Campus Ministry

Campus Ministry brings together and supports the many faith communities at Seattle University. In addition to outreach and education, Campus Ministry promotes social justice, pastoral care and service, and personal and spiritual growth through various programs and regional and international learning experiences.

The heart of the university’s faith community is the Chapel of St. Ignatius, which offers daily and Sunday liturgies and special events, such as concerts and Taize prayer. The Campion Ecumenical Chapel provides a large worship space for denominational and ecumenical Christian worship, and the Campion Multifaith Prayer Room offers a sacred place for daily personal prayer and group prayer for persons of all faiths. The Immaculate Conception Chapel, located on the second floor of the Administration Building, offers a place of refuge and prayer.

Campus Ministry offers many resources and service-learning opportunities through the Maguire Center and Hunthausen Resource Center, both located on the first floor of the Student Center.

Information: (206) 296-6075, seattleu.edu/campus-ministry/

Center for Service and Community Engagement

In keeping with the Jesuit tradition and principles of service and justice, students have opportunities to serve and learn through the Center for Community Engagement. The office promotes student leadership in the community, supports service-learning courses and builds sustained partnerships with many local community-based organizations. Throughout an undergraduates’ time at Seattle University, four out of five students will take at least one service-learning course, combining hands-on learning in the community with their coursework. Beyond service-learning, CCE programs range from a day of service, alternative breaks, tutoring, mentoring and social justice advocacy and leadership.

The Center for Community Engagement also oversees the Seattle University Youth Initiative (SUYI), a pipeline model of support for students and families in low-performing schools in the neighborhood. SUYI engages students, faculty, and staff from every division, college and school. It also offers a combination of intensive academic in-school support, co-curricular enrichment, family engagement, community-based research, and other programs.  

Information: (206) 296-2569, http://seattleu.edu/cce/ and seattleu.edu/suyi

Education Abroad

Study abroad facilitates intellectual and intercultural experiences that contribute to leadership and service in the Jesuit tradition. Seattle University students have the opportunity to study in countries across the globe in a variety of programs.

Approximately half of the students who participate in education abroad at Seattle University do so on short-term faculty-led courses or service immersions while others spend a quarter or longer abroad. Students can also participate in programs offered through other institutions, opening up a world of opportunities to meet students’ academic, financial and personal needs.

Additional international opportunities are available through the International Development Internship Program for undergraduates. This program places participants in internships at non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in Africa, Asia, Eastern Europe or Latin America. To prepare for this international service and deepen their understanding afterward, students attend on-campus seminars before and after their time abroad.

Information: (206) 296-2226, seattleu.edu/abroad/

Student Development

Student Development is committed to creating a vital and engaged campus community that challenges and supports undergraduate, graduate and professional students.

Working in partnership with other areas of the campus, Student Development provides programs, services and activities to assist students in developing the competencies, skills set and values needed to lead and serve in a diverse and changing world.

Information: (206) 296-6066, seattleu.edu/studentdevelopment/

Teaching for the 21st Century Student

Seattle University draws on its distinguished faculty and personalized attention to learning-with a 13:1 student-to-faculty ratio-to ensure today’s tech-savvy and socially conscious students receive the best education and learning experience possible.

Most full-time faculty have earned doctoral degrees and are active scholars and researchers, contributing to the advancement of their fields. Service and social justice underpin the SU curriculum and help develop our students into global citizens.

International options abound through Education Abroad. Students from all majors are encouraged to expand their understanding of other countries and cultures by studying, working or doing community service abroad. Faculty members also lead field studies abroad.

University Recreation

Through sport, fitness, instructional and outdoor programs, University Recreation inspires, educates and empowers the Seattle University community to live happier, healthier and more successful lives. Whether it is promoting wellness, providing worthwhile recreational activities or building community, University Recreation is an integral component of a Seattle University student’s education and experience.

The Redhawk Complex is an approximately 175,000 square-foot recreation facility that provides the Seattle University community with a space for exercise and recreation. It is also home to the William Eisminger Fitness which opened in the fall of 2011. The Fitness Center features include:

  • More than 7,500 square-feet of fitness and cardio space featuring Sirius satellite radio, cardio-theater and more than 140 pieces of equipment
  • A group exercise studio featuring state-of-the-art audiovisual equipment
  • A mind/body studio designed for yoga classes
  • A Martial Arts & Training (MAT) Room utilized for karate, aikido and much more
  • Two full-sized gymnasiums
  • A multi-purpose space with an Astroturf surface
  • Three racquetball courts
  • A squash court
  • Two swimming pools
  • Private single locker rooms
  • Locker rooms with shower facilities

Students also have the benefit of using Championship Field, which features a single-lane jogging track and four tennis courts.

The Intramural Sports program offers a wide range of activities for students and faculty/staff throughout the academic year, including flag football, volleyball, table tennis, basketball and Muggle Quidditch, to name a few. To register to play visit imleagues.com. Intramural Sports at Seattle University provides an active environment that allows participants to enjoy healthy competition, relieve stress, have fun, meet people and make new friends.

The Sport Club program provides students with the opportunity to meet other individuals with common interests, to learn new skills and to engage in interscholastic competition if they choose to do so. Current offerings include crew, rugby, soccer, table tennis, tennis, equestrian, baseball, ultimate, water polo, cycling, lacrosse, marksmanship, and volleyball.  Visit http://www.seattleu.edu/recreation/sports/ for more information.

The Outdoor program affords students the opportunity to experience the Pacific Northwest through outdoor recreation. Each quarter, student leaders organize bike, climb, snow, trail, water, and service-based activities. Think hiking, kayaking, tree planting, backpacking, ski/snowboarding, and so much more! Outdoor Adventure Recreation (OAR) outings are offered for all experience levels and varied interests. OAR also supplies participants with outdoor recreation equipment - available to rent at nominal costs, subsidized climbing gym access, low-cost lift tickets, and whitewater rafting student discounts.

The Fitness Program offers Group Fitness classes and Personal Training options that allow students and faculty/staff to have fun and reach their health and fitness goals all while engaging with others with similar interests. 

Information: (206) 296-6441, seattleu.edu/recreation/

Wellness and Health Promotion

Wellness and Health Promotion along with the student based Health and Wellness Crew (HAWC) empower healthy decision making through education, prevention, and peer support. We think about wellness holistically with physical, emotional, spiritual, intellectual, and social components central to how we approach our work. Areas of focus include:

  • Physical Wellness (Nutrition, Cold/Flu, Sleep)
  • Mental Health (Stress, Anxiety, Depression, Suicide, Eating Disorders)
  • Alcohol and Other Drugs (Alcohol, Tobacco, Marijuana, etc.)
  • Healthy Relationships (Sexual and Reproductive Health, Sexual Misconduct Prevention) 

Information: (206) 296-2593, seattleu.edu/wellness/


Campus Life and Services

Seattle University residence halls are more than a place for students to rest their heads–they are an intersection for living and learning. In addition to providing an engaging environment in residence halls, the university offers many vital services within the confines of the campus. This includes the Public Safety office where students can get parking permits and bus passes, as well as safety escorts, and the Student Health Center, which provides primary care services and more. The Lemieux Library and McGoldrick Learning Commons offers a vast collection of resources and research materials. The SU Campus Store is the go-to place for course textbooks and supplies, plus snacks and other sundries. University Food Services give students options when it comes to what they eat, with a variety of healthy choices at convenient locations on campus.

Campus Store

The Seattle University Campus Store, located in the University Services Building, is a one-stop source for purchasing or renting new and used textbooks at up to 80 percent off.  Book buy-back is open year around. The Campus Store also offers a wide selection of Redhawk apparel and gift items, electronics, food and beverages, general books and school supplies.

Information: (206) 296-5820, http://seattleu.edu/campus-store

Counseling and Psychological Services

Counseling and Psychological Services assists students in meeting the challenges of college life by encouraging healthy personal choices and balanced perspectives. Students can seek counseling and psychological services for a variety of reasons, such as depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, gender and sexuality concerns, drug and alcohol abuse or other life crises and transitions. Licensed psychologists and graduate interns provide psychotherapy without charge to current students. All clinical services are confidential and no information is released without the student’s consent, unless required or allowed by law. Referral services are provided for those requiring specialized or ongoing care. The staff also provides consultation and crisis intervention to the greater campus community.

Information: (206) 296-6090, seattleu.edu/CAPS/

Lemieux Library and McGoldrick Learning Commons

The Lemieux Library and McGoldrick Learning Commons features innovative technology and a range of academic services to support research, writing, and learning. An experienced and friendly information and research staff helps students locate and use information resources to support their academic work. Assistance is provided through a drop-in research service at the library, by telephone, email, 24x7 chat services and by individual appointments with subject specialist librarians through the popular Research Consultation service. Students can strengthen study skills and receive subject-specific tutoring through the Learning Assistance Programs, develop critical thinking and strengthen writing strengths by working with consultants in the Writing Center and receive problem-solving assistance from the Math Lab. These academic support services are conveniently located on the second floor of the building. (Consult this Handbook for individual entries for each of these academic services.)

The library and learning commons also houses a Media Production Center, The Byte café, four distinctive reading rooms, numerous bookable group study rooms and two computer labs. It provides seating in a variety of settings–private and collaborative group study rooms, open carrels, study tables, lounge seating and collaborative computer workstations–and offers 4,000 square feet of 24-hour study areas on two floors. Desktop computers provide access to the library catalog, a wealth of online digital information and the Microsoft Office Suite. A secure wireless network is accessible from all public areas and a laptop and digital camera check-out service is provided.

The library houses a growing collection of materials in multiple formats including approximately 350,000 printed book and periodical volumes, more than 1,500 current print periodical subscriptions and access to more than 80,000 electronic journals, more than 200 online databases and 55,000 electronic books. Diverse collections of rare books and university archival materials, multi-media and microforms round out the on-site collections, which are accessible through the library’s online catalog. The university’s membership in the Orbis Cascade Alliance provides students with online borrowing privileges and on-site access to more than 28 million items in the collections of the other 37 Alliance libraries in Oregon and Washington. Membership in the Northwest Association of Private Colleges and Universities also extends onsite access to the collections of 30 private academic institutions in the region.

From the novice to the experienced library user, from first-year to graduate students, from the humanities to the sciences to the professional schools, every student can benefit from the rich resources available at the Lemieux Library and McGoldrick Learning Commons.

Information: (206) 296-6222, seattleu.edu/library/

On-campus Dining

Whether you are living on or off campus, you’ll find an outstanding array of healthy and good-tasting food available to you: pizzas and sandwiches at the Hawk’s Nest Bistro, made-to-order pasta, hand rolled sushi, an eclectic variety of hot entrees and an abundant salad bar at the Cherry Street Market, sundries and convenience items at the Cave, and espresso, sandwiches, salads and beverages at the Bottom Line, Sidebar and Byte. We know food is important to you and we care that you receive the very best.

Our food service provider, Bon Appétit Management Company (www.bamco.com), is committed to promoting sustainable food systems throughout the country. Across the Seattle University campus, Bon Appétit serves only cage-free eggs, natural, range-fed beef, sustainably harvested fish, hormone-free milk and antibiotic-free chicken. Organic produce is bought whenever possible and approximately 30% of all produce served comes from local sources. Items are cooked from scratch using fresh ingredients. Bon Appétit regularly donates extra food to local food banks and partners with student clubs to host various international and cultural events across campus.

Vegan and vegetarian items are always available and special diets and dietary restrictions are easily accommodated.

Information: (206) 296-6310, su.cafebonappetit.com/

Orientation Programs

Serving all incoming undergraduate students and their families, Orientation Programs is the next stop in a student’s SU journey after confirming their attendance at SU. Orientation programming is offered for both first-year and transfer students, and is held prior to the start of fall, winter, and spring quarters. Students learn more about campus resources, connect with fellow new students and continuing students, explore their new campus, and start to feel more settled in their new campus community. During the fall and winter quarters, Orientation Programs also offers Welcome Week programming, where a wide array of programming helps students continue in their transition to the University.

Information: 206-296-2525, seattleu.edu/orientation/

Public Safety

Public Safety believes that by reporting incidents of crime and addressing safety concerns, individuals can contribute to the development of a healthy and safe community. Public Safety provides 24-hour security for the campus. Security staff is available to assist students in a variety of ways, including first aid, safety escorts, crime prevention and vehicle assistance. You can also get your parking passes and metro metro transit passes through the Public Safety office. See ordering details for parking and transit passes on the Public Safety webpage.

Information: (206) 296-5911 (emergency); (206) 296-5990, seattleu.edu/safety/

Student Health Center

The Student Health Center provides health care to all currently enrolled students at a convenient on-campus location. With its staff of board certified family nurse practitioners and medical assistants, the SHC helps provides comprehensive medical services and assists students in more effectively managing their health care needs.  Consultation and treatment for various health care needs are provided as well as information on access to medical services and pharmacies in the area. The SHC also provides most immunizations.  All services are confidential and no information is released without student permission, unless required by law.  Care is provided on an appointment basis with same day or next day availability for urgent health concerns.  Please stop by or call for an appointment. Visit our website at www.seattleu.edu/student-health for more detailed information on clinic services, hours, staff, and fees.

Information: (206) 296-6300, seattleu.edu/student-health/

Residence Halls and Apartments

As a residential campus, committed to the education of the whole person, the on-campus living experience is considered an integral part of a student’s education. Research over the past 50 years shows that students who belong to a campus residential community have a more productive and more satisfying college experience than those who live off campus. Students who live on-campus are more likely to:

  • Take full advantage of campus resources
  • Be more involved in campus activities and educational programs
  • Take more credits per quarter
  • Achieve greater academic success
  • Persist to graduate at a higher rate
  • Be more satisfied with their overall university experience

Seattle University requires students to live on campus and purchase the Meal Plan 4 if they fall into any of the following categories:

  • Freshmen or sophomore and under the age of 21.
  • First- or second-year SU student and under the age of 21.
  • Within two years of high school graduation date as of first day of fall quarter classes, and under the age of 21.

If students fall into any of the above categories (as of the first day of class for the academic year), they are required to live on campus for the full academic year. If student status (class year, age etc.) changes during the academic year, they will not be released from this housing requirement until the following academic year. Summer quarter is not included in the residential requirement.

Cultural diversity and respect for differences are valued in each of our residence hall communities. Each community has its own personality and traditions. Bellarmine, Campion, and Xavier are our traditional residence halls that provide opportunities to develop friendships, engage with the Seattle University community and offer a host of educational and community development programs. Chardin is a suite-style residence hall. The Yobi apodments provide single rooms with bathrooms and a community kitchen on each floor. The Archbishop Murphy Apartments house sophomores, juniors and seniors. In addition, a partnership with The Douglas apartment building provides housing for juniors, seniors and nontraditional aged freshmen/sophomores and graduate students. All residence halls and apartments are staffed with a resident director, resident assistants, and desk assistants. Additionally, Jesuits-in-residence and/or residential ministers live in nearly every community.

Information: (206) 296-6305, seattleu.edu/housing/