Attending a historically significant college preparatory school like University of Detroit Jesuit High School has prepared me for my future academic career. Being surrounded by a community where mentors and leaders are always willing to lend a hand is what makes this school special. Moreover, there truly is an outlet for all students. This institution has enhanced my understanding of God, ministry, and service; and I will carry these perspectives throughout my life.
-Joseph Davis V ‘26
FORMING MEN FOR OTHERS SINCE 1877
Grounded in the Jesuit tradition, the University of Detroit Jesuit High School and Academy stands as a distinguished all-boys Catholic institution established in 1877 in the city of Detroit. Catering to 700 young men spanning from our Academy level (seventh and eighth grades) to high school, our institution prides itself on its rich heritage and commitment to educational excellence.
ACADEMICS
Excellence in every classroom. Support in every step.
Our values-based education prepares boys for success in college and beyond beginning in the 7th grade. Within a supportive and mission-driven community, students are challenged to grow intellectually, spiritually, and socially throughout the Academy and High School.
Inside the Classroom
The idea of meeting students where they are is a keystone of Ignatian philosophy and an essential element to academic support here.
- Dan Spilker, Student Academic Support
Discover the heart and soul of U of D Jesuit through our new online video series, where we introduce the talented, dedicated, and inspiring teachers who make our school exceptional. Each episode will spotlight a different educator, offering a glimpse into their passion for teaching, their unique approach to education, and the impact they have on our students' lives. Get to know the individuals who are shaping the minds and spirits of the next generation at U of D Jesuit.
THE ACADEMY
FORMING YOUNG MEN. SHAPING HEARTS. GUIDING PURPOSE.
Our Philosophy
At the Academy level of University of Detroit Jesuit High School and Academy, we believe that the middle school years—particularly 7th and 8th grade—are among the most formative and transformational in a young man’s life. Our program is rooted in the Jesuit tradition of cura personalis, the care for the whole person, and is built to meet students where they are—academically, emotionally, socially, and spiritually— while challenging them to grow into their full potential.
We recognize that boys at this stage are developing rapidly—not just in body and intellect, but in identity, emotional awareness, and interpersonal relationships. We design an environment that blends structure with encouragement, challenge with compassion, and high expectations with personal guidance.
Our faculty and staff are dedicated to supporting the development of:
• Motivation and resilience, helping students build confidence and a growth mindset
• Organizational and executive functioning skills, preparing them for academic independence and responsibility
• Social and emotional intelligence, cultivating empathy, collaboration, and communication
• Spiritual awareness, encouraging reflection and connection to values grounded in faith and service
The Academy serves not only as a bridge to the high school experience, but as a launchpad for the kind of student—and man—each boy is becoming. Through intentional programming, mentorship, and a vibrant community rooted in brotherhood, we foster an environment where boys are challenged to strive for excellence ( Magis ), supported every step of the way, and called to begin becoming Men for Others.
Course Offerings
7th Grade
ENGLISH English Language Arts
SCIENCE
Botany, Anatomy, Zoology, and Microbiology (continues in 8th grade)
MATHEMATICS
7th grade Math
Pre-Algebra
Algebra I
Honors Algebra II/Trigonometry
SOCIAL STUDIES
World Geography
THEOLOGY
Jesus & the New Testament
ELECTIVES
Concert Band, Cub Choir, Intro to Art, Intro to Music, Physical Education, String Orchestra, Study Skills & Computer Skills, Symphonic Band
8th Grade
ENGLISH English Language Arts
SCIENCE
Earth Science, Meteorology, Geology, Astronomy, Chemistry, and Physics.
MATHEMATICS
Pre-Algebra
Algebra I
Honors Algebra II/Trigonometry
SOCIAL STUDIES Civics
THEOLOGY
The Church & Discipleship
ELECTIVES
Concert Band, Cub Choir, High School Level Chinese I, Latin I, or Spanish I, Intro to Art, Intro to Music, Physical Education, String Orchestra, Study Skills & Computer Skills, Symphonic Band
HIGH SCHOOL
University of Detroit Jesuit High School (Grades 9–12) Students experience a rigorous and supportive academic environment rooted in Jesuit, Catholic tradition and committed to forming young men of faith, intellect, and service. Since 1877, U of D Jesuit has been preparing students from across metropolitan Detroit for college and beyond through a well-rounded, mission-driven curriculum.
Our academic program is designed to challenge students to excel intellectually while also developing as compassionate leaders who are reflective and committed to justice. Through a close partnership between the inspiring faculty and families, students are not only encouraged to pursue academic excellence, but also to grow into “Men for Others” who positively impact their communities.
Advanced & Honors Offerings
AP Courses (12 in-person + 4 online)
AP American Government, AP English Literature, AP Biology, AP Calculus AB/BC, AP Chemistry, AP Physics, AP Modern European History, AP US History, AP Computer Science, AP Spanish Language, AP Studio Art 2D, plus online AP in Macroeconomics, Microeconomics, Psychology, and World History
Honors Courses
Honors Advanced Latin, Advanced Spanish, Biology, Biochemistry, Chemistry, Chinese, Physics, English II & III, Geometry, Pre-Calculus, Shakespeare, Music Theory, Algebra II/Trigonometry
University‑Instructed & Online Courses
Dual-enrollment at U of D Mercy includes Introduction to Engineering, CATIA I & II; online AP in social sciences and economics.
At U of D Jesuit, the high school experience is more than just preparation for college— it is preparation for life.
Counseling & Academic Support Services
Our robust support system embodies cura personalis —care for the whole person—ensuring every student is equipped to thrive both at U of D Jesuit and beyond.
COLLEGE COUNSELING
Our experienced College Counselors partner with college admissions offices nationwide to guide students and families through every step of the college process—from testing and applications to admission and financial aid. Support is provided through evening programs, classroom sessions, one-on-one meetings, and parent events.
Professional Affiliations
U of D Jesuit is a proud member of NACAC, MACAC, and the Jesuit High School College Counseling Association. Our team brings deep experience from both secondary and post-secondary institutions.
NCAA Eligibility
Planning to play college sports? Our counselors assist seniors with NCAA Eligibility Center registration for Division I and II athletics.
SCHOOL COUNSELING
Our School Counselors walk alongside students throughout their 7th–12th grade journey, providing support for academic success, emotional wellness, and personal growth. The counseling program includes one-on-one meetings, group support, and classroom guidance tailored to each stage of development. Counselors partner with students, parents, and teachers to ensure every young man is seen, heard, and supported.
Key Resources and Programs:
Mental Health Support: Access to trusted local providers for therapy, evaluation, and crisis response.
beNice. Program: A school-wide mental health initiative that promotes kindness, awareness, and suicide prevention.
Academic Skill ‑ Building: Help with time management, study habits, organization, and test anxiety.
Peer Support Opportunities: Programs that encourage student mentorship and leadership.
Parent Education: Events and resources to help families support their sons’ development.
I love my job. I’ve been a school counselor for 25 years in different schools and the best part about being a school counselor here is that it’s really the foundation of Jesuit education. It’s noticing what you’re feeling and being able to talk about it, and also recognizing that that’s how God communicates to us.
- Carole Hosey, School Counselor
Referral Services: Counselors can connect students and families to community-based services when needed.
Grief Support Group: for students who have lost someone close—a parent, sibling, grandparent, relative, or friend—and would like a supportive space to remember and honor them.
The Arrupe Learning Center
Named for Fr. Pedro Arrupe, S.J., former Superior General of the Jesuits, this is U of D Jesuit’s hub for academic support. With tutoring, peer mentoring, and coaching, we help every student reach their full potential.
FAITH IN ACTION: ROOTED IN SERVICE
U of D Jesuit provides its students with guidance through ministry to find purpose and meaning to become Men for Others.
Our boys have meaningful opportunities to serve through pastoral ministries and service immersion trips, both nationally and abroad. Additionally, they build deeper connections through retreats and days of reflection, helping them gain a spiritual understanding of their purpose-filled lives. Now more than ever, serving our community is essential. In the spirit of Ignatian spirituality, we seek to form young men who are not only successful but also grounded in empathy, integrity, and a commitment to creating a more just and compassionate world.
Service Hour Requirements
All students must complete and log the required service hours. Many students feel their impact during their community service and go above the required hours to serve their communities.
7th Grade: 10 hours
8th Grade: 10 hours
9th Grade: 15 hours
10th Grade: 20 hours
11th Grade: 25 hours
12th Grade: ~85 hours (completed through the Senior Service course)
Hours can be completed outside of school projects, but service for family members or participation in Adopt-A-Family, Class Service Days, or Pledge Detroit does not count toward the requirement.
FAITH & MINISTRY
Faith comes alive through service. All students participate in grade-level service, culminating in our signature Senior Service Project, where seniors dedicate several weeks to hands-on community engagement.
We serve local Detroit partners—food banks, shelters, schools—all fostering growth and justice.
Campus Ministry offers daily mass and prayer, retreats, and spiritual formation grounded in Ignatian values.
At U of D Jesuit, we view athletic participation as an extension of the academic experience. As we strive for academic excellence, we also strive for athletic excellence. We provide our student ‑ athletes with a quality athletic experience that will prepare them to compete and succeed at the high school level, the collegiate level and in life.
that build character ATHLETICS
At U of D Jesuit High School and Academy, athletics are an integral part of learning and student life. More than 70 percent of students participate on a team sport. Cub student-athletes are encouraged to practice and execute self-discipline, teamwork, and sportsmanship. They learn to strike a strong balance between athletic development and academic responsibilities.
We offer 14 sports across fall, winter, and spring seasons, with 35+ teams competing at the varsity, junior varsity, freshman, and Academy levels.
Our faculty and coaches help student-athletes reach their potential through dedication, teamwork, discipline, and respect.
U of D Jesuit athletes commit to play at colleges and universities. Many of our alumni go on to play at the highest level of their sport (MLB, NBA, NFL). Our athletes compete in the Detroit Catholic High School League and Michigan High School Athletic Association, while the Academy is part of the Catholic Youth Organization.
- Pat Donnelly, Athletic Director
THE ARTS
Dream. Experiment. Collaborate. Create. Repeat.
U of D Jesuit fine arts curriculum and after-school programs, inspire its students to discover the fundamentals of humanity through exploration of the arts and digital communications through story telling. The study of art, music, theatre and digital arts develops valuable academic and life skills. The students are guided by faculty members active in the area of arts to support the students in problem solving and critical thinking.
Communications & Digital Media
Students learn the power of storytelling through courses in digital media, film, and broadcast production. From scriptwriting and video editing to running the school’s Cub Broadcast Network, students build real-world communication skills using industry-standard tools and technology.
Performing Arts
U of D Jesuit offers opportunities in band, choir, and theatre. Whether performing in school concerts, stage productions, or competitions, students grow in confidence, collaboration, and creative expression under the guidance of talented faculty.
Visual Arts
Courses in drawing, painting, ceramics, and mixed media encourage students to explore creativity and personal expression. Students develop technical skills and an appreciation for artistic styles and cultural perspectives through hands-on work and gallery experiences.
GLOBAL EDUCATION
At U of D Jesuit, students grow by exploring different cultures and connecting with our global Jesuit network. Through language practice, new friendships, and eye-opening travel, they gain a deeper understanding of the world and their future possibilities.
Our dedicated faculty lead cultural and service immersion trips to Europe, Latin America, the Caribbean, and Asia— transformative experiences that begin in the classroom. As part of the Global Jesuit Network of Schools, our students engage with a tradition of academic excellence and global awareness.
Experiences Include:
Cultural
College/University Visits & Tours
Club Conferences/Initiatives Competitions/Tournaments And more...
Once I came back, I felt I needed to be more humble. The people we were with do not need materialistic things to enjoy their everyday lives. They’re very rich in faith, family, friends, and happiness.
-Dominico Dwyer ‘25
A JESUIT EDUCATION
A Jesuit education at U of D Jesuit High School and Academy is rooted in the teachings of St. Ignatius of Loyola, founder of the Society of Jesus. Guided by Ignatian spirituality, it emphasizes intellectual excellence, reflection, service, and care for the whole person— mind, body, and spirit. Jesuit schools around the world are known for forming students into compassionate leaders and Men for Others who strive to make a difference in their communities and beyond.
MIDWEST PROVINCE
The Midwest Jesuits are known for innovation and care for those on the margins. They continually seek new ways to serve and respond to the needs of the times.
JESUIT SCHOOLS NETWORK
The Jesuit Schools Network provides programming and support to 91 secondary and pre-secondary member schools in the U.S. and Canada.
JESUIT SCHOOLS WORLDWIDE
Today, Jesuits educate more than 2 million students in over 2,300 schools across more than 100 countries.
GRAD AT GRAD
The Jesuits introduced the term “Graduate at Graduation” in 1980 to define five key traits of a Jesuit high school graduate. This framework reflects their commitment to educating the whole person— mind, body, and spirit—and now guides student formation and assessment in Jesuit schools worldwide.
OPEN TO GROWTH
We invest in the holistic development of ourselves and others. While keeping with our Catholic tradition, we grow through engaging different and opposing ideas and viewpoints.
RELIGIOUS
We are a Catholic, Jesuit community seeking to find God in all things. We welcome and support other faiths.
LOVING
We care for the whole person. We treat one another and the world with compassion and empathy.
INTELLECTUALLY COMPETENT
We are rooted in a nearly 500-year history of unsurpassed educational excellence. We foster curiosity and critical thinking to drive life-long learning.
COMMITTED TO DOING JUSTICE
Inspired by the Gospel, we walk with others; serve the greater good; and lead within local, national, and global communities.
JESUIT EDUCATION
O ur Mission
We are a Catholic school in the Jesuit tradition dedicated to academic excellence, forming students to become Men for Others with Jesus as the model, and guiding them in the creation of a hope-filled future, all for the Greater Glory of God.
Our Vision
To be the leading school in southeast Michigan for young men and families seeking a community committed to academic excellence and the formation of the whole person.