Pázmány Péter Catholic University (PPKE) is a private ecclesiastical Catholic university in Hungary, operated under the auspices of the Catholic Church and recognized by the Hungarian state. It traces its historical roots to the Jesuit Academy of Nagyszombat, founded in 1635 by Cardinal Péter Pázmány, which later evolved into a significant center of Catholic higher education. The modern institution emerged in the late 20th century as a split-off from Eötvös Loránd University (ELTE), one of Hungary's oldest and most prestigious universities, amid efforts to re-establish independent Catholic higher education following the communist era. PPKE has since expanded, with campuses in Budapest and Piliscsaba, offering programs in theology, law, humanities, information technology, and social sciences, emphasizing an integration of faith and academic rigor. The university is structured around several faculties, including the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Faculty of Law and Political Sciences, Faculty of Information Technology and Bionics, and the Theological Faculty in Piliscsaba. It serves approximately 10,000 students and is known for its conservative Catholic orientation, fostering research and education aligned with Church teachings while maintaining academic standards comparable to secular institutions. PPKE plays a role in Hungary's intellectual landscape, particularly in promoting Christian values in public discourse, and has been involved in various ecumenical and cultural initiatives. As a key player in Hungary's higher education sector, PPKE benefits from state funding and Church support, contributing to networks of Catholic influence in education and policy.