Return to flip book view
e Collegium in Kansas City Message
Welcome!e Collegium educates and forms students, through the traditions of the Church, to restore all things in Christ.In the fall of 2025, The Collegium entered a new chapter in our history: a relocation to Kansas City, Missouri. This dynamic city, located in the heart of the country, is home to a vibrant and growing traditional Catholic community, supported by several traditional religious orders. Our move to Kansas City allows us to strengthen and fulll our mission. We remain a community of faith-lled scholars, committed to transforming our own lives and, through that transformation, to changing the world. Higher education is evolving—out of necessity. In response, The Collegium offers a model unlike any other institution—one ensuring that college education remains • faithful to the unchanging Magisterium of the Church,• affordable for families seeking this formation,• a place where the future leaders of the Church and society are formed. I warmly invite you to join us in this great mission.Edward Schaefer founder and presidentContentsWelcome . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2Why Choose The Collegium . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3A Newman Guide College . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4Academic Life . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Faculty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Classes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8Spiritual Life . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9Campus Life . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10Preparing for Life Beyond The Collegium . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13Admission to The Collegium . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
What Makes e Collegium Unlike Any Other College?At The Collegium, every aspect of our college experience is intentionally designed to form students intellectually, spiritually, and practically. Nine key elements set us apart:Total Integration – At The Collegium, academics, spiritual formation, work, and community life are not separate tracks but woven into a seamless experience. Every part of student life reinforces and enriches the others, fostering a truly holistic education.Deep Spiritual Formation – Faith isn’t just an aspect of life at The Collegium—it is its foundation. Students participate in daily Mass, the Divine Ofce, the Angelus, grace before and after meals, prayer before and after class, the daily Rosary, spiritual direction, regular confession, and adoration.Ora et Labora – Every student at The Collegium participates in meaningful work. Rooted in the Benedictine model of Prayer and Labor, our program instills a sense of purpose in every task, whether grand or humble. Students learn to approach work as a form of giving, while also developing entrepreneurial skills that foster leadership, resilience, and innovation.Unwavering Commitment to Affordability – What’s more affordable than free? At The Collegium, we charge no tuition or instruction-related fees. Students are only responsible for books, the cost of housing (which we provide), and other miscellaneous expenses not directly tied to instruction.A Close-Knit, Family-Like Community – With our intentionally small size, The Collegium offers an environment where students truly know one another. The result? Deep friendships, strong mentorship, and a genuine sense of belonging.3A Unique Curriculum Rooted in Tradition – Our curriculum is inspired by the Ratio Studiorum, a rigorous educational model developed in the 16th century to shape leaders for the Church and society. This time-tested approach forms sharp minds, deep thinkers, and faithful leaders.A Love for Tradition – We don’t just respect or accommodate tradition; we embrace it. The sacred traditions of the Church—handed down from Christ, the Apostles, and faithful generations—are not relics of the past. They are the pathway to heaven, and at The Collegium, they remain at the heart of everything we do.
Click here or scan to see our listing in e Newman Guide. “God has a purpose for every one of [e Collegium students,] and there is not pride but humility in the Christian who embraces knowledge, contemplates God, and shares in this work of the Holy Spirit.”Patrick Reilly, President of the Cardinal Newman Society4A Prime Location in Kansas City – Home to a vibrant and welcoming traditional Catholic community, Kansas City offers students a rich cultural scene, faith-lled experiences, and diverse opportunities for both recreation and service.Recognized in the Newman Guide – The Collegium is honored to be among the select institutions recognized by the Cardinal Newman Society for faithful Catholic education—a testament to our unwavering commitment to truth, tradition, and excellence.
Academic LifeCurriculumOur curriculum is inspired by the Ratio Studiorum, a rigorous educational model developed in the 16th century to cultivate leaders for the Church and society. This time-tested approach sharpens minds, deepens critical thinking, and forms faithful leaders. We offer a unied curriculum, as shown below. Class Materials and Teaching MethodsWhile we emphasize primary sources in our courses, we are not strictly a “Great Books” program. We believe that supplementing these classic texts with more recent scholarship enhances understanding and allows students to engage more deeply with the great books when they encounter them. Our teaching approach is dynamic and adaptable. We incorporate Socratic discussions, lectures, presentations, projects, and other methods tailored to both the subject matter and individual learning styles. 5
Faculty Our faculty members are exceptionally qualied and deeply dedicated teachers. Each is a practicing, traditional Catholic who has signed both the Oath Against Modernism and the Oath of Fidelity. Phillip Berns, Academic Dean, Faculty• MA in Philosophy, Tulane University• MTS, Notre Dame Seminary• PhD candidate in Philosophy, University of St. Thomas, Houston• Expertise in Aristotle, St. Thomas Aquinas, and the Philosophy of Economics• Experience teaching Theology and Philosophy, and singing in and directing scholasJoseph Clark, Faculty• PhD in Information Systems, University of Southern California• MBA, Tulane University• Software developer, web developer, database expert, and data scientist with broad and deep experienceSarah Boyle, Faculty• PhD in Physics, University of New Hampshire• MS in Psychology, Divine Mercy University• NASA research scientist• Expertise in Small Business Innovation ResearchJanet Cruz, Faculty• MFA in Painting and Drawing, New Mexico State University• 28 years of teaching Art and Art History6Gregory DiPippo, Faculty• BA in Classical Languages and Literature, McGill University• Augustinian Patristic Institute in Rome• Editor of the New Liturgical Movement website.
Online CoursesWe are primarily an in-person institution because we believe this approach best fosters the holistic Collegium experience—integrating academic, spiritual, community, and work life.At the same time, we understand that some students may need to study from home for various reasons. To accommodate this, we offer the option to complete freshman-year courses online over one or two years, after which students can transition to the in-person program as sophomores. Our online courses are taught synchronously, allowing students to stream into our regularly scheduled in-person classes in real time.Ginna Pennance-Acevedo, Dean of Women, Faculty• MA in Philosophy, University of Dallas• PhD candidate in Philosophy, University of St. Thomas, Houston• Expertise in Aristotle, St. Thomas Aquinas, and the Natural Law• Experience teaching Philosophy and the TriviumJoseph Tardi, Faculty• MA in Early Christian Studies, University of Notre Dame• 20 years of teaching Latin, History, and PhilosophyWilliam Stover, Faculty• MA in Classical Philology, University of Virginia• MA in Classics, University of Notre Dame• Expertise in Ancient Historiography, Cultural Perception in the Ancient World, Greek and Latin Philology, Paleography and CodicologyOnline courses flyerhttps://qr.codes/pPDrRVClick here or scan for more information.7
ClassesClasses, ofces, practice rooms, library, and dining are housed on the rst oor of the Metropolitan Condomimium building, between the two residence buildings and across the street from Old St. Patrick's Oratory.Noah (Maryland)I love how in tune the faculty is to the needs and wants of the students. Classes are always interesting, and the students are all enjoyable.8
Spiritual LifeAt The Collegium, nurturing the faith is not an addition—it is the foundation. There is no Ofce of Campus Ministry because the spiritual life is not compartmentalized; it permeates every aspect of our community. We have daily Mass, the Rosary, portions of the Divine Ofce, the Angelus, grace before and after meals, and prayer before and after class.Our spiritual life is anchored by the presence of the Institute of Christ the King at Old St. Patrick Oratory, just across the street from housing. Regularly scheduled confessions, adoration, and various devotions are held at the Oratory, and spiritual direction is offered by the priests of the Institute.The Oratory hosts a thriving and ever-expanding traditional Catholic community, enhancing The Collegium’s spiritual life through regular devotions, feast-day celebrations, processions, and various parish events.VocationsFor students discerning a vocation to the priesthood or religious life, we provide both a structured prayer life and a strong foundation in philosophy and theology to support their preparation.Aly (California)I love that I can grow in my faith through my education.9
10Campus LifeKansas City, MO We are proud to be in the center of Kansas City—the Heart of America! But KC is more than just centrally located; it is the City of Fountains, boasting more fountains than any city in the world except Rome, and it is renowned as the BBQ Capital of the World! These are just glimpses of KC’s vibrancy. There’s always something to see, do, and experience in this dynamic city. Housing Our students live in two buildings: The Dial Apartments for women and The Manhattan Condominiums for men. Both are conveniently located directly across the street from Old St. Patrick Oratory and the Old Public Library, where classes are held.
Meals Meals are a central part of daily life, bringing us together as a community to share conversation and foster camaraderie. Musical Culture While musical ability isn’t required to attend The Collegium, our rich musical culture is something everyone can enjoy. Each day we sing Vespers or Lauds in the traditional Benedictine manner. Our books are infused with the notation from 10th-century manuscripts. We sing the Angelus at noon and before dinner, and grace before and after meals. We pray at the beginning and conclusion of our classes, and our Schola is an extraordinary group that sings for Masses and special occasions, enriching the spiritual and artistic life of our community.Hear the Schola on YouTube with these links ............... or these scans. • https://youtu.be/GwTIx2ao2wU;• https://youtu.be/GVFqvOjeb_M.Online courses flyerhttps://qr.codes/1SQ8WGSchola IIhttps://qr.codes/S6Ker2Marcie (Pennsylvania)I really appreciate the opportunities for singing Lauds and Vespers.11
Activities At a small college like The Collegium, student-led activities thrive with faculty support. Whatever your interests, we’ll help you bring them to life! We also enjoy regular community events, including• Movie nights and game nights,• Day trips—or as we call them, COG Days (Class on the Go)—to special places and events,• Faculty debates, • Book and Important Events discussions,• Culinary showcases, where students and faculty share their cooking talents. More than anything, being part of The Collegium means forming deep, lasting friendships—relationships that will endure well beyond your college years. Mary (Maryland)I love the sense of community that we have here. Everyone got really close extremely quickly, and everyone supports everyone else. It feels like one big family.12
Preparing for Life Beyond e CollegiumWork, Faith, and the Calling to GiveThe way Americans work has changed dramatically, and with it, the view of work as part of living a Catholic life has faded. Before the Industrial Revolution, families often ran businesses together—farms, trades, shops. Children were raised within the family business, learning not just job skills but a mindset of responsibility and contribution.For example, a child in a family-run restaurant might later open a store, using the work ethic, problem-solving, and customer service skills he learned. More importantly, he saw himself not just as a consumer, but as a producer—a creator of value.Today, work is often hidden from children. Parents are away all day, and siblings grow up disconnected from the labor that sustains them. They learn to consume, not to contribute.Yet work is more than a paycheck to support consumption—it’s a spiritual exercise. When we approach work as a form of giving, it becomes an offering that nourishes our souls, our families, and our communities. It becomes an extension of a Catholic spiritual life, a life of giving that is modeled on the ultimate gift of Christ.Ora et Labora At The Collegium, every student participates in our Ora et Labora (Prayer and Work) program, which fosters this understanding of work in two key ways:1. Recognizing work—whether prestigious or humble—as a means of living out the Catholic call to give.2. Engaging entrepreneurial opportunities that cultivate leadership, resilience, and innovation.Ora et Labora is not just an add-on to academics and spiritual formation—it is woven into the very fabric of Collegium life. It teaches students to approach work with purpose, faith, and generosity, preparing them to be givers long after their time at The Collegium—givers to God, to their families, and to society.Click here or scan to see our current Ora et Labora projects.13Ora et Labora 2025https://qr.codes/M1AumG
Professions A liberal arts degree prepares students for a wide range of careers. In fact, aside from a few specialized elds requiring specic technical skills, a liberal arts education provides excellent preparation for most professions by fostering critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills. Graduate School A liberal arts degree also serves as a strong foundation for graduate studies across various disciplines. Medical SchoolThe Collegium offers a strong intellectual foundation for students pursuing medical careers. However, some science and math courses required for the MCAT are not part of our curriculum. To address this, we have partnered with the University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC), allowing students to take these necessary courses. UMKC is just a trolley ride away, and our class schedules are designed to accommodate students taking additional coursework there. Teacher Preparation The demand for independent classical schools is growing, with new institutions opening each year. Many of these schools seek teachers well-versed in the classical curriculum, and Collegium graduates are uniquely prepared for this role. While we do not offer teacher certication, we have partnered with the Institute for Catholic Liberal Education (ICLE) to allow our students to begin ICLE’s certication process during their senior year. Click here or scan to explore more.Click here or scan to learn more about our medical school pathway.Click here or scan to nd out more about teacher prepartion opportunities.14Click here or scan to explore more.MCAT Prephttps://qr.codes/XTY1t8MCAT Prephttps://qr.codes/XTY1t8Parvus Liber 2025https://qr.codes/GtrKqnParvus Liber 2025https://qr.codes/GtrKqn
Admission to e CollegiumOur Students Collegium students come from across the country, bringing with them diverse talents and passions. Some are musicians; others are writers; some have athletic interests; and many are bilingual. What unites them all is intellectual curiosity, a love of reading, a positive attitude, and a spirit of adventure—embracing the opportunity to be part of a dynamic and growing institution.e States Our Students Call Home• Maryland, Virginia, Pennsylvania, New York, Indiana, Missouri, Tennessee, Texas, California, and Oregon.Student Backgrounds• High School Backgrounds: • 90% of our students were homeschoolers; • 10% attended private Catholic high schools.• Academic Excellence: • The average high school GPA was 3.8; • The median high school GPA was 3.75.• Faith & Religious Practice:• 100% of our students are practicing Catholics.• 90% regularly attend the Traditional Latin Mass (TLM).• The remaining 10% attend another form of the Mass when the TLM is unavailable to them.Admissions Requirements, Deadlines, and the ProcessApplication details for The Collegium are here. Summer WeekJoin this week-long experience for high school juniors and seniors, living on campus, attending sample classes, praying in the Oratory, and exploring Kansas City. Details are posted in December on the home page of The Collegium website.15Click here or scan.Admissionshttps://qr.codes/skLIzR
e Collegium Faithful Aordable Traditionalwww.the-collegium.orgWebsitehttps://qr.link/pFzmHJ412-913-2985