Hi folks, I just stumbled upon the University of Dallas when exploring college choices. I haven't been able to find a lot of information online. Can anyone give me a brief overview? Like academic rigor, campus life, any specific programs it's known for?
Absolutely! The University of Dallas (UD) is a private, Catholic liberal arts university located in Irving, Texas. It tends to be well-regarded for its dedication to a liberal arts education and its strong core curriculum. All students, regardless of major, take a common set of courses including English, history, philosophy, theology, economics, politics, science, mathematics, language, and fine arts. This emphasis on a broad education is one of the defining features of UD's academic approach.
In terms of academic rigor, UD is known for its challenging curriculum. Classes are small and discussion-based, which allows students to engage closely with the material and their professors. Many UD students also study abroad at the University's Rome campus at some point during their four years, which is a highlight of the undergraduate experience for many.
When it comes to specific programs, it's probably best-known for its Great Books Program, which is called the Core Curriculum. The foundation of the Core is the Great Books; each student engages primary texts written by influential authors of western tradition. Other highly regarded programs include Business, English, History, and Theology. Their Business program, in particular, is AACSB-accredited, a distinction fewer than 5% of global business programs have.
The campus life at UD is vibrant, with many opportunities for engagement, including clubs and organizations catering to a wide range of interests. The university is home to over 50 different student organizations—athletic, service, performance, cultural, recreational, and special interest. The campus is smaller in size, which contributes to a close-knit community feeling.
It's worth mentioning also that UD is pretty strongly Catholic; Mass is offered daily on campus, and there are plenty of opportunities for students to grow in their faith. However, students of all faith backgrounds (or none) are welcome and can attend UD.
Overall, if you're a student who enjoys a rigorous academic discussion, appreciates a liberal arts approach to learning, and values a tight-knit community, the University of Dallas could be a great fit for you.
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