CSM enrollment reaches new heights
OMAHA, NEB. - College of Saint Mary (CSM) has announced the arrival of one of the largest incoming classes in the institution’s 94-year history, propelling full-time enrollment to a record-high of 1,014 students. Drawn by the university’s reputation for quality academic programs and an enriching college experience, the 411 new students arriving this fall have pushed CSM’s total enrollment to 1,140 and its on-campus residential population to a record-breaking 290 students.
“It’s apparent that, now more than ever, we are advancing our mission of providing access to education for women, while calling forth their potential as leaders in this world,” said President Dr. Maryanne Stevens, RSM. “Our academic programs have a well-earned reputation for excellence, making them a destination of choice for students looking to acquire in-demand skills.”
College of Saint Mary’s ascendance in recent years has been driven by the institution’s investments in innovative programs that provide students an efficient path to graduation in fields of high-demand. Among the school’s new offerings are a 3-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing program, a bachelor’s degree in business analytics, and a hybrid program that allows students with any bachelor’s degree to pursue a master’s in teaching degree and Nebraska teaching certificate while continuing to work full-time.
To meet rising demand for a comprehensive college experience in the heart of Omaha, CSM has continued to invest in expanding infrastructure and opportunities for students to become involved on campus. The introduction of new varsity athletic programs in bowling and competitive dance, and initiatives like the current renovation of the softball complex, are creating more options for women to compete and acquire skills that will serve them far beyond graduation. At the same time, the addition of a kinesiology & exercise science program and a new human performance lab will enable students to prepare for careers that will enhance the well-being of others through the study of human movement.
“We aim to develop the whole person, shaping students to achieve in all aspects of life, and our new programs are important steps in living out our mission,” said President Stevens. “We are laser-focused on bringing exceptional educational experiences for women at a price that is accessible for all.”
Momentum established by the university has continued to grow as the College has refocused on making college more accessible for all women. Last fall, CSM reduced tuition by 33 percent to take a stand against the alarming national trend of rising tuition costs. Setting out to increase the accessibility of quality education, in perception and in reality, CSM chose to cut tuition by $10,000. As a result, the University is not only serving its community but boldly challenging other institutions to follow suit and make college more affordable.
“At a time of record enrollment, we realized we were in a position to take action to help address a national problem. College of Saint Mary decided somebody needed to step forth and lead,” said Dr. Stevens. “We did not reduce tuition with an expectation that it would increase enrollment, but it has been gratifying to see the number of students that have stepped forth to pursue their dreams in our community as a result.”
By all measures the college’s move to reduce tuition has been successful in making education accessible to motivated students of all levels of economic means. This fall’s class included students from 28 states, 138 single mothers, 309 first generation students, and 328 students who are considered to have high financial need.
In addition to growth in its undergraduate enrollment, College of Saint Mary saw enrollment gains across its graduate programs. Long recognized as a leader in Occupational Therapy, with a 100% licensure pass rate in 2016, the school saw growth in its Physician Assistant program, Doctoral candidates in Education Leadership, as well as strong interest in its newly launched Master’s in Kinesiology.
“Prospective students and their parents are seeking an affordable education that provides a real return on their investment, as well as an enriching college experience,” said Vice President for Enrollment Services Sara Hanson. “Our academic programs are in strong, high-paying industries, and our campus environment is one that fosters leadership and promotes lifelong learning.”
As part of CSM’s work to maximize the value of a student’s education, the college has developed closely integrated bachelor’s and master’s programs that enable students to obtain professional degrees in the time commonly expected for a bachelor’s program. Today, CSM offers students the opportunity to go from high school to holding a master’s degree in physician assistant studies or occupational therapy in just five years. Similarly, a qualified undergraduate enrolling in paralegal studies can complete their bachelor’s degree at CSM in three years, while earning full qualifications for admission to law school.
Now home to 35 majors, 10 varsity sports, seven master’s degree programs, and one doctoral program, College of Saint Mary offers a full slate of educational opportunities at a campus conveniently located in the heart of Omaha’s Aksarben Village.
About College of St. Mary
College of Saint Mary is a thriving Catholic university providing access and affordable education to women. CSM fosters potential and leadership through academic excellence, scholarship and lifelong learning. The University offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in many of today’s high-paying, in-demand fields, including physician assistant studies, occupational therapy, nursing, science, education, business and legal studies. To learn more about College of Saint Mary, visit CSM.edu.
