Jesuit Education

Saint Ignatius Statue Head

Learning, Leadership and Service in the Jesuit Tradition

The distinctiveness of a Rockhurst University education stems from our Jesuit heritage, which calls for students to find their unique gifts and talents and become leaders in service to others. It is based on a 450-year-old Jesuit tradition we share with 27 other colleges and universities in the United States and 133 higher learning institutions around the world. This Jesuit tradition ensures that Rockhurst graduates are prepared to lead, shape and change the world around us.

A Rockhurst education is best summarized by these three themes:

Learning
Rockhurst's outstanding faculty are its greatest asset. From published authors to award-winning scientists to business leaders, the faculty share one goal – developing each student's intellectual potential and moral character. Beginning your freshman year, committed, caring professors will challenge you to learn how to think, not what to think. An average class size of 24 allows students access to faculty who become caring mentors and encourages rich classroom discussions.

Leadership
We seek to develop skills that will help our graduates take leadership in building a better world. Results are impressive: Rockhurst graduates serve as executive leaders for major companies and organizations in Kansas City and throughout the country. Throughout the campus, leadership is a theme in classroom discussions, student organizations, service opportunities and international service trips. The educational experience integrates these essential leadership skills.

  • Awareness – Knowledge, Self-knowledge, Openness
  • Analysis – Critical Thinking, Integrity, Discernment
  • Appreciation – Communication Skills, Imagination, Compassion
  • Action – Collaboration, Courage, Responsibility


Service
Students are encouraged to act on their commitments and values through service to others. Each year, Rockhurst’s Center for Service Learning matches student volunteers with more than 100 local organizations in need. Rockhurst students give more than 30,000 hours annually in service to others. The university sponsors numerous service trips within the United States, as well as in Guatemala, Belize, Ecuador and other developing countries. Upon graduation, Rockhurst students receive two transcripts: an academic and a service transcript.

To learn more, read about the Jesuit tradition and the president's comments on the mission.