Newly elected Pope Leo XIV is going viral for his very unexpected university degree
Pope Leo XIV, the first American pope, has surprised many with his unconventional academic background. The 69-year-old, formerly Cardinal Robert Prevost, studied mathematics at Villanova University, earning a Bachelor of Science degree before pursuing philosophy and a religious path. His unexpected major has sparked humor online, with social media users joking about his ability to “understand sin and cos” and quipping that even math majors can become pope.
Despite his technical education, Pope Leo XIV dedicated much of his life to missionary work in Peru, later becoming a bishop before his historic election. While popes typically don’t receive a salary, his new role comes with significant influence and wealth. The revelation of his math degree has also led to lighthearted remarks about the tough job market, proving that career paths can take unexpected turns—even leading to the Vatican.
