At Catholic International University, we believe deeply in the transformative power of education—especially when it is rooted in the heart of the Church and made accessible to those who need it most. That’s why we’re proud to announce our partnership with John Paul the Great College, located in mainland Belize.
John Paul the Great offers rigorous two-year university programs with a strong Theology core. The academic quality of their curriculum and faculty is impressive, and we’re pleased to accept all 60 of their credits toward a bachelor’s degree at Catholic International. From there, students can complete their remaining 60 credits online—earning a full four-year degree from Catholic International University without ever leaving Belize.
This partnership is more than academic. It’s missional.
Meeting a National Need
Recently, Belize updated its national policy to require a four-year degree for anyone who wishes to teach. Previously, a two-year degree was sufficient. While the policy aims to raise professional standards, the reality is that only three institutions in the entire country offer bachelor’s degrees. For many Belizeans, simply reaching those campuses is a challenge, given widespread transportation and infrastructure barriers.
The result? A country with bright, capable individuals who want to serve—but few clear pathways to do so.
At the same time, Belize is experiencing rapid growth in tourism and development, yet many of the skilled labor jobs are going to foreign workers, not because of unwillingness, but due to a lack of access to training and education. This educational gap contributes to high unemployment among youth, which in turn fuels social instability: gangs, drug use, and crime.
The solution is clear. Education is the key—and that education must be dignified, faithful, and accessible.
Transforming Lives Without Leaving Home
That’s exactly what this partnership offers. Students from John Paul the Great College can continue their education with us remotely, earning a four-year degree that empowers them to teach, lead, and serve their communities—all while staying rooted in their local context. For many, this is not just more convenient—it’s essential. When students leave Belize on a visa, they often don’t return, simply because opportunities back home are so limited. Our model helps change that.
We also offer generous scholarships for these students, helping ensure that cost is not a barrier to their future.
John Paul the Great College sees this partnership as a pivotal moment—an opportunity to raise up local leaders, increase professional skills, and foster long-term social change rooted in the dignity of the human person. We couldn’t agree more.
A Mission of Hope
At Catholic International University, we’re proud to bring high-quality, faithfully Catholic education to students around the world. Our fully accredited, Newman Guide-approved programs are designed for real lives and real challenges. We are not just forming minds—we’re helping rebuild communities from the inside out.
Together with our partners in Belize, we are planting seeds of hope, growth, and transformation—one student at a time.
Gaudium de Veritate—Joy from the Truth.
