Catholic colleges emphasize diversity and inclusion, accepting and encouraging applications of people from all ethnicities, backgrounds, and faiths. The campus culture of most Catholic colleges reflects this diversity.
Students do not have to be Catholic to attend a Catholic college, and many Catholic colleges, while they do offer Catholic services and mass, do not require all students to participate. Catholic colleges do often require students to take some sort of religious classes, however that does not necessarily mean that those classes focus on the Catholic faith; some Catholic colleges offer classes on other religions as well.
Because of this inclusivity, the campus culture at Catholic colleges is quite varied and diverse. It is difficult to say what the culture will be like for all Catholic colleges as it depends greatly on the individual schools and their student make-up and values.
Some general expectations for campus culture at Catholic colleges would be a respectful and diverse environment. Catholic colleges emphasize diversity and inclusion, so they also encourage an environment of mutual respect and empathy. Conversations and questions about different religions are encouraged, as is openness and acceptance.
Aside from diversity and religious affiliation, Catholic colleges operate similarly to any other college offering extracurriculars, student events, athletics, and so on. Students are free to participate in any extracurriculars, events, or clubs that they want to. Opportunities for service and community outreach are also readily available at Catholic colleges and are encouraged as service is greatly emphasized by the Catholic Church.
For more specific information on what to expect for the campus culture, students should check with the admissions department or, if possible, talk to current or recent students at the Catholic college(s) they are interested in.