Community-Engaged Learning

Course-Based Community Engagement

In community-engaged learning (CEL) courses, students and faculty partner with community organizations to engage in mutually beneficial, collaborative work, which enhances students’ classroom learning while supporting community-identified needs. This type of learning is also called service-learning.

St. Kate's students and faculty engage each year with more than 70 organizations throughout the Twin Cities metro area. All first-year students have an introductory CEL experience as part of The Reflective Woman course. Read more here.

January and Spring 2025 Community-Engaged Learning Courses

CEL Course Designation

The Center for Community Work and Learning manages the Community-Engaged Learning (CEL) course designation and offers support to faculty, which includes:

  • Course planning and consultation
  • Relationship-building with community partners
  • Logistical coordination
  • Class presentations and facilitation of critical reflection activities
  • Program evaluation

To apply for the course designation and to request CWL support for your course, please fill out the CEL Faculty Interest Form or contact cel@stkate.edu. Proposals are due March 15 for Summer and Fall courses and October 15 for Spring courses.

Faculty Resources

Faculty Guide to Community-Engaged Learning at St. Kate's 

Faculty Checklist for Community-Engaged Learning

St. Kate's Library Community Engagement Resource Guide 


Community-Engaged Learning Videos