John Paul the Great Catholic University

Escondido, CA

John Paul the Great Catholic University

Escondido, CA

Explore John Paul the Great Catholic University's Featured Profiles:

Undergrad Visual Arts Catholic

We’re the Catholic University for Creative Arts and Business Innovation

Located in Southern California, JPCatholic combines hands-on instruction in digital media and creative arts with an enriching Catholic liberal arts education. Experience small class sizes, mentorship from industry professionals, and a community of Catholics who are passionate about creativity.

Project-based curriculum
At JPCatholic, you don't just learn theory—you put it into practice. Whether it's publishing a video game on Steam or casting SAG talent for our annual feature film, you'll learn what it takes to bring your vision to life. You'll graduate from JPCatholic with the ability to create at a high level with professionally polished projects on your résumé. 

Small campus environment
With a student body under 300, JPCatholic offers a warm, tight-knit campus community. Foster lifelong friendships, form creative partnerships, and surround yourself with a supportive environment that encourages your growth in both virtue and artistic excellence. 

Our small classroom sizes offer the chance for one-on-one mentorship from industry professionals who’ve worked at companies like Disney, Sony PlayStation, and Warner Bros.

Graduate in three years
Our unique academic model prepares students for the real-world pace of professional life in the industry, with a focus on hands-on projects, internships, and portfolio preparation. 

Authentically Catholic environment
Our campus is a place where students can grow both professionally and spiritually. We’re a unique community of artists and innovators, centered around our faith in Jesus Christ and the beauty of the Catholic faith. Immerse yourself in an abundance of opportunities for spiritual growth, including daily Mass, confession, adoration, rosary, retreats, and service projects. 

Located in sunny California
We’re centered in north county San Diego, just a 35-minute drive from downtown in America's Finest City. Southern California is famous for its fantastic weather, beautiful beaches and mountains, and bustling metropolitan areas. Our campus is just 15 miles from the beach, a short trip by car or train. And with our senior year Los Angeles Quarter, students have even more opportunities for internships and networking.

ACCOLADES

US News Badge

#19 in Regional Colleges West | U.S. News & World Report

US News Badge

#9 in Best Value Schools | U.S. News & World Report

US News Badge

#14 in Top Performers on Social Mobility | U.S. News & World Report

Newman Badge

Recommended in the Newman Guide to Choosing a Catholic College

JPCatholic Programs

• Acting
• Animation
• Cinematography
• Creative Entrepreneurship
• Creative Writing
• Digital Music
• Game Development
• Graphic Design
• Illustration
• Film Production
• Film Directing
• Film Post-Production
• Film Producing
• Leadership & Management
• Marketing
• Screenwriting
• Theology & Philosophy

An Inside Look

What students are saying about us...

  • “I am a post-production major, and I have learned so much with the time I've been at JPCatholic. It even has gotten me an internship with my dream job! Everyone cares about each other, and everyone is very welcoming and inclusive. I’m happy to call this place my home!”

    • Andrew Inoue ‘22
  • "The quality of education at JPCatholic is something to marvel at. This is a place where working industry professionals teach you how to excel on a professional and personal level. I wouldn't trade it for the world.”

    • Chas Baines ‘15
  • "Going to JPCatholic was one of the best decisions I’ve made in my entire life—not only for the educational piece, but also because of the people I encountered going there.”

    • Danielle Badillo ‘10
  • “Now that I’m close to graduating at JPCatholic, I feel ready to take on Game Art professionally, and I’m forever grateful to the school and to my professors.”

    • John Paul Diodati ‘21