Dec 12, 2024  
2019-2020 Undergraduate Catalog 
    
2019-2020 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.

Here, scholarly pursuits go hand-in-hand with the Jesuit mission of social justice and service learning. Our undergraduate 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 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 eight 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. With 65 undergraduate degree programs and many additional minors, specializations and certificate options, we have what you’re looking for-and top scholars with whom to study.

About Seattle University

Seattle University is home to eight 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, 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 “Best Colleges” guide and earns high marks from The Princeton Review among the best colleges and universities in the nation. Additionally, the university is among the most diverse independent universities in the West.

Located within walking distance 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 space 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. In fall 2018, the university’s newest residence hall, Vi Hilbert Hall, opened, abutting the Campus Store. And in 2021, a state-of-the-art Center for Science and Innovation will open, elevating the College of Science and Engineering and STEM education. These are just the latest in a series of notable campus facilities projects that include, over the past 25 years or so, the Clinical Performance Nursing Laboratory and the Jeanne Marie and Rhoady Lee, Jr. Center for the Arts.

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 tech-savvy student. A year later, the university unveiled 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 women’s basketball.

As the Lemieux Library and McGoldrick Learning Commons is regarded as 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.

How We Educate

At Seattle University, excellent teaching–supported by high-quality scholarship and personalized attention to student learning–ensures an intellectually challenging education.

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 classes are important components of a Seattle University education.

Four out of five students serve the community as part of their studies–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 the university’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.

Seattle U was ranked the #1 private university in the Northwest by The Wall Street Journal/Times Higher Education College Rankings 2018. At #2 in the Northwest overall, Seattle U is the top-ranked private university in the Northwest and #127 in the nation.

Additionally, the university ranked #8 among the West’s best regional universities, according to the 2019 U.S. News & World Report “Best Colleges” rankings. Seattle U has held a spot in the Top 10 in this category for 18 consecutive years. The university is one of the top institutions for undergraduate education in the nation, according to The Princeton Review, and #5 for the “Best City for Recent College Graduates”, according to MarketWatch 2018. 

 


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 advisers guide students in their academic choices and planning, recommend co-curricular activities that enhance the educational experience and refer students to campus resources. Advisers recognize the vital role they play in the overall college experience. Faculty, professionals and peers serve as academic advisers in the various colleges and schools.

Advising Support and Coordination Services provides support to develop and promote high-quality campus advising services. 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 and regards athletics as a key component of the Jesuit philosophy of educating the whole person–body, mind 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. Student-athletes 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.

In 2018, Seattle University women’s basketball earned its first-ever NCAA Tournament appearance. The Redhawks won the WAC Championship for the first time in program history. It was also a stellar season for men’s soccer, which won the WAC Championship for the third time in five years and defeated cross-town rivals the University of Washington in the first round of the NCAA Tournament. And under the leadership of Coach Jim Hayford, men’s basketball had a winning season with renewed energy and spirit.

Information: (206) 296-6400, goseattleu.com

Career Engagement Office (CEO)

Seattle University’s Career Engagement Office (CEO) focuses on career education and support of professional formation empowers all students to make intentional career choices and gain the skills to reflect, gather appropriate resources, and grow a community of support to successfully navigate career transitions over the course of their lifetimes. Students are encouraged to engage early in their time at SU with the CEO to start a discernment process; explore diverse fields and career opportunities; and strategize for internship, job, and graduate school searches. The CEO offers support in engaging with employers and alumni through on and off campus events, collaborating with many campus partners in a robust delivery of student experiences. Individual appointments are encouraged and can be made online.

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

The Collegia Program

Seattle University’s Collegia Program provides a home-away-from-home environment for adult learners, graduate students, commuters and transfer students. The university offers three collegia where students can gather to study, socialize and relax while on campus.

Information: (206) 296-5323, seattleu.edu/student-outreach/resource-spaces/collegia-program/

Disability Services

Disability 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, Disability 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/disability-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. For non-native speakers of English only; requires admission to Seattle University and prior approval.

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

English Language Tutoring Program

Seattle University’s English Language Tutoring Program provides English language assistance to all Seattle University students for whom English is a second language. Students must sign up for appointments with tutors.

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

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. It’s also a gathering place for Seattle University’s international and domestic student populations and 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 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. 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 U.S. Department of State and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security on all immigration-related matters.

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

Learning Assistance Programs

The dedicated staff in Learning Assistance Programs support students in their ongoing growth and development as learners by providing academic support and learning strategy enhancement through a variety of services to meet individual needs. Programs include weekly individual, small group and drop-in tutoring as well as weekly facilitated study groups in selected math, business, science, nursing and languages courses. Also provided are 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 and Student Research

Seattle University has a strong record of students who have received prestigious scholarships, fellowships and awards, such as the Rhodes, Fulbright, Gates Cambridge, Goldwater, Udall, and Truman scholarships. The Harry S. Truman Scholarship Foundation designated Seattle University as an Honor Institution, a distinction given to universities that have several Truman Scholars and that promote the values of public service. Seattle University has been ranked as a “Top Producer” of Fulbright awards for each of the past five years.

The Office of Fellowships supports undergraduate and graduate students in their search for fellowships, grants and other academic opportunities. The office provides 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. The Office of Fellowships offers guidance in choosing a fellowship and supports students through the application process, including writing assistance, advising and interview preparation.

The office also coordinates the Seattle University Undergraduate Research Programs that supports students who are engaged in research as part of their Seattle University education and can provide funding for students presenting their research at conferences. And it hosts the SU Undergraduate Research Association conference each spring.

Information: (206) 296-2517, HUNT 129, seattleu.edu/fellowships/

Office of Multicultural Affairs (OMA)

The mission of the Office of Multicultural Affairs (OMA) is to promote an inclusive learning environment for all students to enhance their understanding of identity and power, to build intercultural awareness and skills, and to support the success of students from historically underrepresented backgrounds. 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; and support for student organizations
  • Trainings for groups and departments

OMA Values of Education, Connection, and Advocacy

  • Education: OMA elicits learning on multiple identities, backgrounds and experience of self and others through a range of programs, discussions, resources, and campus events.
  • Connection: OMA works with all students, specifically those of historically underrepresented backgrounds, by building relationships that shape sense of belonging within our SU community.
  • Advocacy: OMA ignites student ability to serve as change makers, investing in their engagement as conscious global citizens.

OMA Office and Lounge Spaces

  • OMA is located in the Pavilion building (PAVL 180), which consist of a comfortable “living room” area, kitchenette, student computers, and the Seattle U Food Pantry
  • The OMA manages two additional lounge spaces on the third floor of the Student Center Building (STCN). Each lounge has computer stations, conference tables, and seating areas for students to relax, study, facilitate meetings and connect with others. These spaces are available to Seattle U students, faculty, and staff during Student Center operating hours. OMA Lounge 322 (STCN 322) has a community kitchenette, resource and zine library, multiple computers, art displays, and television. OMA Lounge 390 (STCN 390) features the Queer and Trans Resource Library and a fireplace.

Food Security Initiatives operate within the Office of Multicultural Affairs and actively support the mission of Seattle University:

  • Dining Cards: Any student with a Seattle University ID Card may come to the Office of Multicultural Affairs, fill out a brief registration form, and will be given a dining card preloaded with $10, $25, $50, $100 or $200. These cards can be access by an individual every two weeks. 
  • Seattle U Food Pantry: The Seattle U Food Pantry provides free, supplementary food to all those with a current SU ID. The SU Food Pantry is open three times a week.
  • Educational Programming: In order to develop a deeper understanding of food justice issues and hunger, we will be offering a variety of active and passive programming in collaboration with campus and community partners

50th Anniversary

  • The Office of Multicultural Affairs (OMA) was founded in September 1969
  • OMA originally stood for the “Office of  Minority Affairs”
  • SU will celebrate OMA’s 50th Anniversary with a variety of events throughout the 2019-2020 school year

Information: (206) 296-6070, seattleu.edu/oma/, PAVL 180

The Outreach Center

Located in Student Center 110, The Outreach Center is the resource and community space for first-generation college students and student veterans. In addition to being a comfortable space to study and meet other students, The Outreach Center offers resources and opportunities to help first-generation college students and student veterans be successful at the university.

Information: (206) 296-6334, seattleu.edu/student-outreach/first-generation-college-students/outreach-center/

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 the best path forward and declare a major. The program primarily works with undeclared incoming students and consults with current students considering changing majors.

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

Redhawk Resource Hub Desk

The Redhawk Resource Hub Desk is your campus concierge located on the 1st floor of the Student Center. The Redhawk Resource Hub Desk offers daily ORCA passes, locker rentals, and tickets to university-sponsored events. Visit the Redhawk Resource Hub Desk with any questions you might have or to utilize services.

Information: 206-296-6464,  seattleu.edu/student-outreach/resource-spaces/redhawk-resource-hub-desk/

Writing Center

Operating from the belief that effective writing often emerges from dialogic conversation, the Writing Center offers hour-long sessions designed to help students negotiate all phases of the writing process. The center is staffed with students from multiple disciplines who receive intensive training to support writers. Peer.consultants work collaboratively with clients to transform what can be an isolating and confusing writing experience to an enjoyable, empowering, collaborative, and supportive conversation that best serve student writers in their process. The Writing center offers both in-person and online consultations.

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.

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 undergraduate’s 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 offer a variety of options including 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 and partnerships.

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

Education Abroad

Education Abroad cultivates intellectual and intercultural experiences that contribute to learning and leadership 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.

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 an 11:1 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 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.

University Recreation

University Recreation inspires, educates and empowers the Seattle University community to lead happier, healthier, more successful lives.

On-campus programming is done at Seattle Unversity Park, Championship Field and the Redhawk Complex . SU Park consists of a turf field for year-round use and a quarter mile track. 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 Center, which opened in the fall 2011. The Fitness Center features include:

  • More than 7,500 square-feet of fitness and cardio space with Sirius/XM radio and more than 140 pieces of equipment;
  • A group exercise studio featuring state-of-the-art audiovisual equipment;
  • Equipment checkout including towels, locks, fitness and sports equipment;
  • A mind/body studio designed for yoga classes;
  • A functional strength space with sandbells, kettlebells, TRX, battle ropes, pull-up bar and more;
  • Two full-sized gymnasiums;
  • A multipurpose space with an Astroturf surface; and
  • Racquetball courts and two swimming pools.

Aquatics
University Recreation, or UREC, offers two pools that support lap swim, the Seattle University swim team and our Adult Swim Class program aimed at helping both students and non-students learn to swim or enhance their swimming skills.

Fitness
The fitness program provides fitness classes, at no additional cost, operated on a quarterly basis and includes offerings such as cycling, cardio dance, yoga, mat pilates, cardio kickboxing and more. Personal training is also available.

Intramural Sports
Intramural sports offers team and individual sports such as flag football, soccer, softball and basketball.

Sport Clubs
Sport clubs provide students the ability to join with others who have shared competitive interests in a common activity.

Outdoor
The outdoor program provides experiential learning opportunities for students through outdoor activities like kayaking, hiking, climbing and more. The program also offers outdoor equipment rentals, discounted climbing gym access and seasonal lift tickets for current students.

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. Wellness is approached holistically with physical, emotional, spiritual, intellectual and social components central to these efforts. 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, community-oriented 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 throughout campus.

Campus Store

The Seattle University Campus Store is a one-stop source for purchasing or renting new and used textbooks. Book buy-back is available 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) 325-6002, seattleu.edu/campus-store

Center for Student Involvement

The Center for Student Involvement helps to enrich the student experience by offering opportunities for involvement through varied programs, activities and leadership opportunities in line with the university’s mission and values. Programs supported by the Center for Student Involvement include:

  • Student Clubs: Provide a wide range of communities to join. Find all registered clubs at www.seattleu.edu/connectsu
  • Dance Marathon: An annual fundraising event-benefitting Seattle Children’s Uncompensated Care Fund-that featuring an all-night Dance-a-Thon for a great cause.
  • Leadership Programs: Includes coordination of the annual iLead training, the Leadership Application and the campus celebration Red Night Out.
  • Redzone: SU’s school spirit organization that supports athletic and campus events.
  • Student Events and Activities Council (SEAC): Provides large-scale campus events as well as Seattle-based experiences. 
  • Student Government of Seattle University (SGSU): The governing body for undergraduate students, SGSU provides advocacy, communication and funding to support student life. 

Find all of these organizations and at ConnectSU (seattleu.edu/connectsu), your online portal for involvement, volunteering and the Redhawk Experience. 

Information: (206) 296-6465, seattleu.edu/involvement/

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 individual appointments with subject specialist librarians through the Research Consultation service. Students can strengthen study skills and receive subject-specific tutoring through the Learning Assistance Programs, develop critical thinking and strengthen their 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. (See Student Academic Support Services in this section of the catalog and at seattleu.edu/advising/academic-success-resources/support-services/ for more information on 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 three 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 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 check-out service is provided.

The library provides access to a growing collection of materials in multiple formats. Online collections include more than 200 databases, 60,000 streaming media, more than 94,000 electronic journals and more than 312,000 electronic books. The library also houses approximately 305,000 print books, periodical volumes and media. Rare books, university archival material and microforms round out the on-site collections. The university’s membership in the Orbis Cascade Alliance provides students with online borrowing privileges and access to more than 28 million items in the collections of the other 39 Alliance libraries in Oregon, Washington, Idaho and Montana.

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

On-campus Dining

Our food Service provider, Chartwells Higher Education, has a multi-layered commitment to Seattle University’s dining program. This includes speed of service features, elevations in our sustainability initiatives, enhancements in overall food quality, fresh ingredients and an increase in variety for specialty diets.

The starting point is the quality of the food on the plate. Fresh ingredients, authentic flavor palates and conscious menuing to reduce red meat and increase whole grains and produce ensures that we always lead with flavor. The goal: not only cook up great dishes, but to cook up memories as well.

With Chartwells, whether students are eating at Cherry Street Market or The Bottom Line, they can count on the following commitments:

  • Globally inspired plant-based cooking, which means an abundant choice of locally sourced fresh fruits and vegetables;
  • A variety of whole grains infused into the menu offerings throughout campus;
  • Plant-forward menuing that moves meat to the side and helps up play our part in reducing greenhouse gas emissions;
  • Homestyle comfort food utilizing the freshest local ingredients; and
  • Always flavor-first as we consciously use food to facilitate the connection between students and the whole SU community.

Information: (206) 296-6310

Orientation Programs

Serving all incoming undergraduate students and their families, Orientation 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 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 community. During the fall and winter quarters, orientation programs also offers Welcome Week, 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 transit passes through the Public Safety office.

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. Stop by or call for an appointment. Visit www.seattleu.edu/student/health for more detailed information on clinic services, hours, staff and fees.

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

Housing and Residence Life and on Campus Living

Housing and Residence Life assists students to provide safe and convenient housing on campus along with a built in community and easy connections to campus services. We value creating spaces built around inclusivity and celebrating individual differences within our residential communities. Each community is unique, but all provide opportunities to develop friendship, engage with the Seattle University community and offer a host of educational and community building events. Bellarmine, Campion and Xavier are our traditional residence halls. Chardin is a suite-style residence hall. The Yobi provides single rooms with bathrooms and a community kitchen on each floor. Murphy Apartments provide a variety of different apartment-style living options for our sophomores, juniors and seniors looking for more independent living. In addition, a partnership with The Douglas and Vi Hilbert apartments provide additional options for juniors, seniors, nontraditional aged freshmen/sophomores, law and graduate students. All residence halls and apartments are staffed with an area coordinator, resident assistants and desk assistants. Jesuits in residence and residential ministers live in many of the communities to provide additional support. In addition to providing community-building opportunities, our staff provide 24/7 on-call resources to ensure crisis management support to residents.

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

University Housing Requirement

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.