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Research at Catholic University

student at the NASA Goddard office

We're the oldest Catholic research university in the nation. Research is in our DNA.

Probe Further. Illuminate the World.

At The Catholic University of America, research means something broader and deeper than seeking new knowledge. We seek knowledge and understanding — the “how” and the “why” — and always in service to human flourishing.

A nursing student uses a headset during a demo for an immersive simulation of a lumbar puncture procedure.

Innovation & Scholarship Across the Disciplines 

From extra-galactic to nanoscale, we explore it. From the wisdom of ancient texts to the mysteries of the human brain, we study it. Here at Catholic University, we believe that great discovery and innovation can happen across all of the academic disciplines, leading to advances in all areas of our society. Together, this multidisciplinary approach to research is forming a better world for all of us.

Explore Our Academics and Schools

The University's Schools offer academic paths across the disciplines where you can find multiple opportunities for research, discovery, and innovation as you pursue your degree. We offer more than 150 graduate and doctoral degrees for those interested in pursuing the highest level of research at our University.

Explore the Schools and Programs

 

panel speaking at an event run by the Institute for Human Ecology

Research Centers, Institutes & Facilities

Perhaps the most tangible evidence of the University’s abiding interest in research is the presence of our many research facilities, centers, and institutes on campus.
Explore the List

Research Highlights & Innovation

Space weather research at NASA. Biomechanical engineering to advance medical rehabilitation. Nursing care in the metaverse. There are always new ways that the University is exploring what's possible and pushing the horizon of future breakthroughs.

Dr. Rao, a biology professor on campus, doing a biology experiment in a lab

By the Numbers

The opportunity for research impact here at Catholic University keeps growing.

$64M

NASA Cooperative Agreement to Advance Heliophysics Science

57%

Growth in Federal Research Expenditures in Past 4 years

Doubled

Non-STEM Research Expenditures (External Funding) Over Past 4 Years

That One Big Question

What’s that one burning question that motivates our students to seek answers? 

  • Luis Garcia Abundis is sitting in an empty Catholic University classroom. He is wearing a grey sweatshirt.

    Luis Garcia Abundis

    Abundis' psychology research aimed at exploring healthcare disparities impacting Latinos.

  • Olivia DiMattio headshot outdoors

    Oliva DiMattio

    DiMattio's University Research Day presentation examined how sustainable building practices in architecture can help combat the effects of climate change.

  • Katie Coyle outdoor headshot

    Katie Coyle

    Coyle aims to create an affinity for the arts through her research on Samuel Bak, a holocaust survivor's, artwork and wants others to see art in its historical context.

students listening attentively to a research day poster presentation

University Research Day

University Research Day (URD) is the University's premier annual research event for students. Our community gathers for a full day each year to celebrate the University’s long research tradition and explore the extraordinary array of current research being conducted by our students, faculty, and staff across the disciplines.
More about Research Day
student presents her research day oral presentation

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