University of Saint Mary

University of Saint Mary

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University of Saint Mary

The University of Saint Mary is a private non-profit Catholic liberal arts university located in Leavenworth, Kansas. Its mission is to provide education to a diversity of students and prepare them for careers that contribute to the well being of the global society and lives that are centered on values. It believes in the ability of all students to learn and better the diverse world. It values excellence, community, respect, and justice. The educational mission of the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth shapes the university. The University of Saint Mary offers one associate degree program, 26 bachelor’s degree programs, and six master’s degree programs in a variety of areas including liberal studies, art, English, history, theatre, theology, psychology, mathematics, accounting, business administration, biology, elementary education, information technology, and sport management. The curriculum of all programs seeks to prepare students to participate in the challenges of a multifaceted, evolving world with confidence in their reasoning skills, effective communication abilities, and good decision-making. In 2011, the Princeton Review named the University of Saint Mary a Best Midwestern College.

The University of Saint Mary Online offers online degree and certificate programs that are designed to prepare students to become effective and ethical leaders in the organization for which they are employed. All programs are fully accredited and designed to meet the needs of busy students. The online programs include a Master of Business Administration, Master of Arts in Teaching, Certificate in Health Care Management, and RN to BSN Degree-Completion. Online courses are offered in eight-week sessions with five terms throughout the academic year. The programs feature a technologically enhanced learning environment that enables students to learn from each other and instructors with real-world experience. Online courses are presented through the eSpire web environment that enables students to register for classes, view course information, pay tuition, complete assignments, view grades, and regularly interact with instructors and fellow students via discussion forums, chat, and email. Additionally, eSpire includes an array of useful features such as Campus Groups, Announcements, Calendars, and other resources for students. Online students have easy access to supportive student services including a Personal Support Center that is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to answer questions and provide technical support. Students also have a committed student services counselor that regularly interacts with them to provide guidance and support. An online bookstore is available for students to order and sell their books.

The University of Saint Mary traces its history back to 1859 when the Sisters of Charity opened a boarding school for girls named St. Mary’s Academy. In 1923, Saint Mary College, a junior college was established and it soon became a four-year institution that granted its first bachelor’s degrees in 1932. The college became coeducational in 1988. In 2003, the college changed its name to the University of Saint Mary and it has consistently grown throughout the years.

Accreditation

The Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools accredits the University of Saint Mary.

Scholarships Offered

The University of Saint Mary awards numerous academic scholarships to students who demonstrate a high level of achievement and potential. The scholarships include the Jubilee Scholarship, Saint Mary Presidential Scholarship, Saint Mary Dean’s Scholarship, Saint Mary Honor Scholarship, Saint Mary Transfer Scholarship, Fine Arts Awards (Art, Music, and Theatre), and Athletic Awards. Students are also encouraged to apply for scholarships offered by outside organizations.

Financing Options

The University of Saint Mary participates in a variety of financial aid programs such as the Federal Pell Grant, Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG), Federal Perkins Loan, Federal Stafford Subsidized Loan, Federal Stafford Unsubsidized Loan, Federal Parent Loan for Undergraduate Students, and Kansas Comprehensive Grants and State Scholarships. The university also offers a payment plan that automatically deducts payments every month.

Credit Earning Options

The University of Saint Mary grants credit for courses completed at other accredited colleges and universities. All courses must have earned a grade of a C or above and be compatible with courses currently offered by the University of Saint Mary. Students are able to earn up to 64 semester hours from a community or junior college and up to 90 hours from a four-year institution. Students must submit official transcripts from all previously attended postsecondary institutions. The university grants credit for examinations such as the College Level Examination Program (CLEP) and Defense Activity for Nontraditional Education Support (DANTES). Students may also receive credit for life experience such as military service, work experience, non-credit courses, and training programs. The university evaluates life experience using standard assessment guides and a life experience portfolio. Credit for military experience is granted based on recommendations of the American Council on Education (ACE). Military students seeking credit are required to official documents. Additionally, some academic departments enable students to test out of certain courses.