About Catholic Distance University

Joy from the Truth

A competitive catholic online college experience

About us

A challenging, faithfully Catholic education is at your fingertips… and it’s affordable!

CDU offers a comprehensive schedule of fully online undergraduate and graduate degrees, certificates, and continuing education programs.

Our curriculum is centered around four pillars.

  • Theology
  • Education
  • Artificial Intelligence
  • Integral Economic Development

Since our founding in 1983, CDU has been dedicated to serving the needs of the Catholic Church and the world through innovative online programs designed to empower learners worldwide. Our learned faculty prepare students to emerge with a profound unity of life with God and create successful careers in service to the Church and the world.

MISSION

The mission of Catholic Distance University is to communicate the mind and heart of the Church in a digital world. Using online education, the university forms learners worldwide through programs in Catholic theology, faith development, the liberal arts, science, and technology for the growth of faith, leadership, and service to the Church and the world.

CDU AT A GLANCE

56%

CERTIFICATES EARNED IN THE LAST 10 YEARS

9%

INTERNATIONAL STUDENT POPULATION

24

COUNTRIES REPRESENTED

STATES REPRESENTED

150

COURSES OFFERED PER YEAR

BROWSE OUR PROGRAMS

CDU offers a diverse range of undergraduate, graduate, and lifelong learning programs, including degrees in theology, liberal arts, and educational ministry. Our lifelong learning offerings cater to various individuals, including laypersons, catechists, clergy, and educators. We also offer independent study courses, online seminars, and non-credit continuing education certificates.

WHAT CAN YOU DO WITH YOUR CDU EDUCATION?

Graduates of CDU are well-formed to serve the Church and world. They have successful careers in:

  • Church ministry
  • Education
  • Law
  • Health care
  • Counseling
  • Diocesan leadership
  • Priesthood and religious life
  • Educational leadership
  • Non-profit work

And many more disciplines.