Aug 31, 2024  
2021-2022 Undergraduate Catalog 
    
2021-2022 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, post-graduation, are making their mark in their communities, industries and the world at large through professional opportunities.  

Seattle University, founded in 1891, is a Jesuit Catholic university located on 50 acres in Seattle’s Capitol Hill and First Hill neighborhoods. Nearly 7,200 students are enrolled in undergraduate and graduate programs within six 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.

With 65 undergraduate degree programs and many additional minors, specializations and certificate options, Seattle University has what you’re looking for.

About Seattle University

Seattle University is home to six 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, and the School of Law.

One of 28 Jesuit Catholic universities in the country, Seattle U cultivates intellectual and spiritual development with its high-caliber faculty, small class sizes–the average class is 18 students–academic rigor, challenging curriculum, career outcomes and an emphasis on education for justice. 

Seattle U consistently ranks among the top schools by U.S. News & World Report “Best Colleges” guide and earns high marks from The Princeton Review as among the best colleges and universities in the nation. Additionally, the university ranks as one of the most diverse independent universities in the West.

Located within walking distance of Seattle’s downtown core, Seattle U feeds off the energy of the Emerald City, creating learning experiences and adventures year-round. Students benefit from and embrace the university’s location and close proximity to major hospitals, aerospace 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. The 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, 100 percent pesticide-free campus, Seattle U 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. The university was the first Jesuit university-and one of the first universities in the U.S. to make a 100 percent commitment to divest from fossil fuels by 2023. Seattle U ranked #2 nationally among universities for its sustainability curriculum in the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education (ASHE) 2019 Sustainable Campus Index and #4 nationally as an overall top performer among master’s institutions. And the university continued its run of top rankings for sustainability by once again being named a Sierra Cool School for 2020. It earned a spot in Sierra magazine’s Top 20, placing #20 of 312 colleges and universities-the top 7 percent overall-that participated in the latest survey of sustainability practices. Seattle U is the only university in the Northwest to place in the top group.

The university’s dedication to global action on climate change drives its Climate Action Plan and advances the multitude of sustainability practices on campus, from LEED-certified buildings, urban gardens, waste diversion and emissions reduction to academic offerings and community engagement. Seattle U is committed to keeping campus as sustainable as possible by working with its Center for Environmental Justice and Sustainability to promote sustainability in academics and co-curricular activities.

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 fall 2021, the state-of-the-art Jim and Janet Sinegal Center for Science and Innovation will open, elevating the College of Science and Engineering and STEM education. These are the latest in a series of notable campus facilities projects that include, over the past 25 years, 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 new 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 an inclusive and holistic educational experience, one that promotes vision, character and leadership, driven by the Jesuit tradition and mission: Seattle University is dedicated to educating the whole person, to professional formation, and to empowering leaders for a just and humane world.

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.

Three out of four students serve the community as part of their studies.

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 Seattle U’s overall commitment to service, spearheaded by the Center for Community Engagement, 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 underrepresented youth 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 Class of 2018 “First Destination Survey,” 97 percent of graduates are employed, enrolled in a full-time graduate program or engaged in post-graduate service within six months of graduation.

Seattle U was ranked in the Top 16 percent of all universities in the nation, according to The Wall Street Journal/Times Higher Education College Rankings 2021.Additionally, Seattle U was included in the national university category for the first time after being ranked consistently in the Top 10 in the West regional category by U.S. News & World Report. With the new ranking, Seattle U is #124 among all national universities.

For 18 years running, the Princeton Review has recognized Seattle University as one of the best colleges in the nation for undergraduate education. The university also was called out as a “Best Western” college, as well as in its subcategory of “Political Awareness” of its students in its “Best Colleges 2021.”


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 and promote experiential learning. 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. Academic Advising and Support Services provide support to develop and promote high-quality campus advising services.

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

Athletics

The Athletics Department champions the values of Seattle University’s mission and regards student-athletes 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 has a 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 the support of professional formation. This 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 Seattle U with the office to start a discernment process, explore diverse fields and careers and strategize for internship, job and graduate school opportunities. 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 alternative testing, peer 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 disability from a qualified professional should be submitted in order for reasonable accommodations and academic adjustments to 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/

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/

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.

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. There are also 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 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 strong record of students who have received prestigious scholarships, fellowships and awards, such as the Rhodes, Fulbright, Goldwater, Udall and Truman scholarships. The Office of Fellowships supports undergraduate and graduate students in their search for fellowships and other academic 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.

Information: (206) 296-2261, seattleu.edu/fellowships/

Office of Multicultural Affairs (OMA)

The mission of the Office of Multicultural Affairs (OMA), founded in 1969 as the Office of Minority Affairs, 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 Seattle U 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), with a comfortable “living room” area, kitchenette, student computers and the Seattle U Food Pantry
  • OMA manages two additional lounge spaces on the third floor of the Student Center (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 a 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 accessed 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 Seattle U ID. The Food Pantry offers weekly hours each quarter.
  • Educational programming: In order to develop a deeper understanding of food justice issues and hunger, OMA offers a variety of active and passive programming in collaboration with campus and community partners.

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 military-connected students. 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 military-connected students be successful at the university.

Information: (206) 296-6334, seattleu.edu/student-outreach/

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 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) 296-2260, seattleu.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 short-term 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/

Student Academic Persistence

Student Academic Persistence provides support to students who are faced with challenges that may delay or prevent graduation. In keeping with the Jesuit ethos of care for the whole person, Student Academic Persistence assists students as they navigate challenges both inside and outside of the classroom. Services include scholarship guidance, resource referrals, assistance with holds and class registration, financial wellness education and academic success resources. Student Academic Persistence is committed to the university’s mission of promoting a just and humane world and actively seeks to help foster an educational environment dedicated to dismantling barriers and the pursuit of social justice.

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

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 community-engaged learning courses and builds sustained partnerships with many local community-based organizations. Throughout an undergraduate’s time at Seattle University, two out of three students will engage in community-engaged learning, combining hands-on learning in the community with their coursework. Beyond community-engaged learning, CCE programs offer a variety of additional engagement options, including work-study positions, volunteer opportunities, fellowships and internships connecting to some of Seattle’s most complex challenges.  

The Center for Community Engagement also oversees the Seattle University Youth Initiative (SUYI), a pathway of support for students and families from neighborhoods adjacent to campus. SUYI engages students, faculty and staff from every division, college and school. It also offers a combination of intensive academic in-school supports, co-curricular enrichment, family engagement, community-based research and other programs and partnerships.

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

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 Seattle U curriculum and help develop our students into global citizens.

University Recreation

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

On-campus programming is done at Seattle University Park, Championship Field, SU Tennis Courts 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 and employs more than 150 student employees. The Fitness Center features include:

  • More than 7,500 square-feet of fitness, strength and cardio space  and more than 140 pieces of equipment
  • A group exercise studio featuring state-of-the-art audiovisual 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 and a multipurpose space
  • Racquetball courts and two swimming pools
  • Wet and dry locker rooms with a sauna, as well as gender neutral restrooms on each floor

 

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 little or no 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 offer 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 such as 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 campus. This includes the Public Safety and Transportation 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, used and digital 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, SUCampusStore.com

Center for Student Involvement

The Center for Student Involvement helps students find opportunities for involvement through various 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: Student-led communities that match a wide range of interests. Find all registered clubs at www.seattleu.edu/connectsu.
  • Dance Marathon: An annual fundraising event benefitting the Children’s Miracle Network featuring a 12-hour event of dances, performances, Miracle Families and other inspiring speakers.   
  • Graduate Student Council: The governing body for graduate students, GSC provides advocacy, communication and funding to support student life.
  • Leadership Programs:  Includes the Leadership & Professional Formation Pathway for incoming students, the annual iLead training and conference 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 at ConnectSU (seattleu.edu/connectsu), your online portal for involvement, calendar of events, service opportunities, student clubs and more. 

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 clinicians provide short-term 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 student-centered services to support research, writing and learning. Our Research Services team of peer research consultants and subject liaison librarians are here to help you locate and use the information resources you need to support your academic work. Research assistance is available through a variety of channels at the library, both in-person and virtually. We’ll meet you where you are, be it at the library’s information desk, virtually using our 24x7 chat service or through personalized Zoom-based, or in-person, research consultations with your subject specialist librarian or one of our peer consultants. The McGoldrick Learning Commons also offer our students the opportunity to strengthen study skills and receive subject-specific peer tutoring through our Learning Assistance Programs, develop critical thinking and strengthen their writing by working with peer consultants in the Writing Center and receive problem-solving assistance from peer consultants at the Math Lab. These academic support services are conveniently located in the Learning Commons on the second floor of the building. (See Student Academic Support Services in this section of the catalog and at https://www.seattleu.edu/advising/resources/ for more information on these academic services.)

If you’re working on a digital project, the Learning Commons’ Media Production Center has the technology and support staff to offer the tools, training and space for students, clubs, faculty and staff to create their own original multimedia productions. The library and learning commons are also home to the The Byte café, four distinctive reading rooms, numerous bookable group study rooms and three computer labs (with both MAC and PC workstations). We provide ample and spacious seating in a variety of settings-private and collaborative group study rooms, personal study carrels, open study tables for group work, lounge style seating and collaborative computer workstations-and 4,000 square feet of 24-hour study areas on two floors. Our lab computers provide access to the library catalog, a wealth of online digital information and state-of-the-art specialty software to support academic work. A secure wireless network is accessible from all public areas and laptop check-out services are available.

The library provides access to a growing collection of materials in multiple formats. Online collections include more than 250 databases, 75,000 streaming media, more than 120,000 electronic journals and in excess of 500,000 electronic books. The library also houses approximately 306,000 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 37 Alliance libraries in Oregon, Washington, Idaho and Montana.

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

On-campus Dining

Our food service provider, Redhawk Dining, is committed to providing an exceptional dining environment while ensuring quality food that addresses diverse nutritional and cultural needs of students, staff, faculty and campus guests.

At Redhawk Dining, we know that eating well helps fuel studies and activities that make your college experience positive and memorable. We are committed to providing options that help you find habits and choices that work for you. We have many options to address dietary restrictions, preferences, and allergen-avoidance. If you have any questions or would like further discuss any nutritional needs one-on-one, you can always reach out to our registered dietitian at Brianna.Ballard@compass-usa.com.

When it comes to dining at Seattle University, each venue offers flexibility, value and variety. Every meal plan is built for convenience, which is why they are completely made out of Dining Dollars. Dining Dollars are just like cash and can be used at any on-campus food venue. Additionally, when students use Dining Dollars they save an additional 10 percent on everything they purchase. Each menu is built à la carte, so you can spend exactly what you want for a meal the suits your exact needs.

Our newly renovated Cherry Street Market proudly showcases nine different dining venues and is located in the heart of campus, on the second floor of the Student Center.

  • Tu Taco: Experience an authentic tacoria with tacos, burritos, burritos bowls and a salsa bar featuring scratch made signature salsas.
  • Emerald Bowl: Enjoy wok-fired dishes featuring entrees from across Asia.
  • Puget Pour (featuring Sambazon): This is not your average espresso bar. In addition to an extensive drink menu, students can order an organic acai bowl or smoothie.
  • Capitol Hill Deli: West Coast Deli flavors with fresh produce, grains and local breads. Create and build the sandwich of your dream or try one of our daily features.
  • Neighborhood Eats: An ever-changing station. Rotating local Seattle flavors. Stay tuned for upcoming Teaching Kitchens throughout the year that are free for all meal plan holders.
  • Red Hot Rudy’s Grill: Your most loved grill items available daily. Enjoy signature burgers, fries, milkshakes and more.
  • The Market: Stop in for the deluxe salad bar, sushi, made-to-order poke bowl, beverages, snacks, delectable pastries and more.
  • Revolution: Featuring a daily omelet station for breakfast and an elevated pasta bar for lunch and dinner.
  • Thrive without 9: This station is perfect for Redhawks who are avoiding the nine major food allergens. These dishes are prepared without dairy, eggs, fish, shellfish, peanuts, tree nuts, soy, sesame and wheat/gluten. *Prepared in a kitchen where allergens may be present.
  • Hawk’s Nest Bistro: A late-night favorite located on the third floor of the Student Center. Students enjoy oven fired gourmet pizzas, wings, kombucha on tap, desserts and more.

Outside of the Student Center, Redhawks still have many options to choose between:

  • The Byte: Located in Lemieux Library on the second floor. Enjoy delicious waffles, pastries, soups, local grab & go and a full espresso bar featuring local coffee roasters.
  • The Bottom Line: Located in the Pigott Atrium. Treat yourself to a delicious seasonal menu for breakfast or lunch, plus scrumptious pastries, soups, espresso bar and more are always available for your delight.
  • The Cave: Located in Campion Hall on the basement level. Serving hot lunch and dinner along with a full market for all your essentials, snacks and produce needs.
  • The Sidebar: Located in the Sullivan Law Center lobby on the second floor. Enjoy savory and sweet pies, pastries and more with your favorite local espresso beverage.

Redhawk Dining’s program is dedicated to health, wellness, and flavor. Discover exciting choices that satisfy your cravings all year long. 

Information: (206) 296-6310, Dineoncampus.com/SeattleU/

Orientation Programs

Serving all incoming undergraduate students and their families, Orientation is the next stop in a student’s Seattle U 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 and Transportation

The Department of Public Safety and Transportation promotes and maintains a safe environment for university community members and proactively stewards parking and transportation needs across campus. We are a team of full-time professional staff and part-time student staff who are charged with, and committed to, protecting the lives and property of our community and of the visiting public. We have chosen lives and careers of service, compassion and guardianship. We are committed to the Seattle University mission, vision and values and, most of all, to the just, compassionate and equitable treatment of all people. We are officers, dispatchers, supervisors and administrators, but above all, we are all members of the Seattle University community. Public Safety provides 24-hour patrol and response for the campus. We are first responders for all police, fire or medical needs and provide safety escorts, crime prevention and vehicle assistance. You can also get your parking passes and transit passes through the Public Safety office and website.

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 nurse practitioners, registered nurse 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 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 offering 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 Meal Plan 4 if they fall into any of the following categories:

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