YOU WERE MADE FOR MORE.
for Life.

for Life.
“We believe that if a university merely equips you to function in the workplace and earn a living, you should ask for your money back. At the University of Mary, our aspirations for you are much higher: we believe you were made to live a life of meaning, purpose, and joy — to thrive, not just survive. Our work is to help you reach your fullest potential, as a professional and as a person. So we won’t just equip for your career. We’ll equip you for your life, because we believe you were made for more.”
— Monsignor James P.
Shea, president of the University of Mary
› GROW IN WISDOM AND KNOWLEDGE
Success in life and work requires a well-rounded education. At Mary, we’ll teach you to integrate the skills of your chosen field with the best thought of the Great Wisdom Tradition.
› LEARN HOW TO ADAPT
We’ll not only equip you with the professional knowledge and skills necessary today, we’ll teach you how to prepare for the future and adapt to the changing demands of the workforce.
› CONSIDER WHAT IT ALL MEANS
Drawing upon the complementary foundations of Reason and Faith, Mary offers you a unique experience to explore some of life’s biggest questions — in the context of your studies, your future, and your everyday life.
› LEARN HOW TO DISAGREE WITHOUT BEING DISAGREEABLE
The tradition of inquiry and healthy debate has marked the life of genuine universities since the Middle Ages. Here at Mary, you’ll practice ways to engage in meaningful dialogue that seeks both the Truth and the good of the other.
› PREPARE FOR YOUR WHOLE LIFE
The net result? Your education at Mary will position you for a successful and vibrant life and career.
10:1
Mary’s student-to-faculty ratio ensures personalized instruction and attention
“Run while you have the light of life...”
— From the Rule of Saint Benedict
At the University of Mary, education is infused with the ‘light of life’ — an education that truly enlightens you by teaching the knowledge and skills you need to thrive in your career, as well as the timeless values that will benefit you and those you serve for a lifetime.
Because of our strong commitment to our Christian, Catholic, and Benedictine identity — with vibrant academics and career preparation — the University of Mary is one of a very select number of colleges recommended by the Cardinal Newman Society.
Steeped in the values of respect for persons, hospitality, and service to others, Mary offers you a unique setting for exploring some of life’s most important questions. And unlike many other places, differences are not ignored but discussed — with passion and civility — in pursuit of the Truth.
The result is a supportive and diverse campus that welcomes students of all faiths and backgrounds; one where worship and prayer are as integral as study and friendship. So whether it’s our Catholic Studies program, vocation-based residence halls, campus in Rome, our active University Ministry program, or our unique partnership with FOCUS, Mary prepares you to be a leader in the service of Truth.
Cappella, the scholarshipped University of Mary chapel choir, is part of the Saint John Paul II Center for University Ministry. This choral ensemble has a particular ministry and mission, providing music for all university Masses on Sundays, Wednesday mornings, and other special events. Participation in Cappella is by audition only.
As a Lutheran, I want to emphasize that hospitality emanates from the university toward all Christians. Attending Mary has opened my eyes to a different way of expressing our appreciation for what God has done for us. It brings me joy to be invested in a place where I can practice my faith and enjoy fellowship with people who truly value theirs.”
— Jase Kleser, ’27, sacred music major and business administration minor
The University of Mary has changed my life by awakening in me the Catholic imaginative vision.
I’ve learned that the life of faith is a great adventure to be pursued in relationship with God and in community with each other. The Benedictine identity has instilled in me every Christian’s call to radical hospitality.”
— Maria Rodriguez Brannon, ’25, history and Catholic studies major
Community, Hospitality, Moderation, Prayer, Respect For Persons, Service
Daily Masses, Confession, 24/7 Adoration, and Sung Vespers
Bible Study, Common Worship, Faith-Based Organizations
LEARN FROM THE BEST Our faculty consists of highly respected scholars and experts in their fields, and with a student-faculty ratio of 10:1, they are able to truly dedicate time and attention to your academic growth and professional preparation.
A strong reputation for academic excellence means the University of Mary offers students an education that prepares them for a life of impressive achievement and genuine servant leadership — literally around the globe.
A nationally recognized leader in delivering top-quality higher education, Mary is honored and accredited by a variety of associations nationwide, including the Higher Learning Commission, Commission of Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET), Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, International Assembly for Collegiate Business Education, National Association of Schools of Music, and more.
Our Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program produces some of the most skilled and knowledgeable nurses in the country. Each year since 2016, our BSN graduates’ overall pass rate on the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) has far surpassed both state and national averages. In addition to comprehensive NCLEX-RN preparation, our cutting-edge curriculum provides unrivaled professional formation. Together, the various components of our program, from on-site simulation experiences to focused coursework in health care ethics, will shape you into a capable, compassionate nurse with broad expertise and firm moral courage.
As part of their education, all freshmen take part in the President’s Seminar with Monsignor James Shea on topics such as The Purpose of University Studies, Adulthood, Friendship, Technology, Freedom, and Greatness of Soul.
The University of Mary was the first in North Dakota to be recognized as a “College of Distinction” and remains one of only three in the state!
A College of Distinction is …
› Strongly focused on teaching undergraduates
› Home to a wide variety of innovative learning experiences
› An active campus with many opportunities for personal development
› Highly valued by graduate schools and employers for its outstanding preparation
Learn more! CollegesOfDistinction.com
All of the professors in the Gary Tharaldson School of Business have experience in the real world. They bring their scholarly expertise and their practical knowledge of business principles into (and outside of!) the classroom — meaning you’ll learn about business concepts and be able to apply them to challenges and situations that arise in the workplace.
Our Gary Tharaldson School of Business is committed to forming new generations of business leaders who uphold the dignity of the human person and contribute
to both wellbeing and human flourishing. Our mission-driven business education forms each student in moral courage, virtue, and servant leadership. Through classroom learning and experiences outside of the classroom, students develop a rich appreciation for their own lives and for their communities.
Students from the Gary Tharaldson School of Business make a positive impact on the world around them. Our students learn the skills needed to succeed in business from faculty members who are industry experts. Courses are taught based on Christian, Catholic, and Benedictine values, providing students with a strong sense of ethics and responsibility. Through hands-on experiences, students practice virtuous leadership as they complete internships, participate in the University of Mary Investment Club, start a business, or take part in many other opportunities.
University of Mary DECA members joined students from across the globe in Orlando, FL, to compete at the 2023 Collegiate DECA International Career Development Conference, earning 2nd Place in Entrepreneurship. Opportunities to travel across the state and even around the country abound in the Gary Tharaldson School of Business, our students’ skills keeping pace with the best in the world as they put them into action as a force for good.
› Participate in DECA for career development opportunities, networking, community service, and business competition.
› Receive real-world experience and build your resumé through speakers, tours, and internships at top companies such as Bobcat, NISC, MDU Resources, Basin Electric, Starion, Bismarck Larks, CHI St. Alexius Health, Sanford Health, KLJ, Bismarck Larks, Arizona Diamondbacks, Minnesota Wild, St. Louis Cardinals, and more.
› Our investment club manages a live, $800,000+ portfolio in a state-of-the-art center dedicated to hands-on financial education.
Graduates of the Gary Tharaldson School of Business have endless options available to them after commencement. Students can earn their MBA, start a business, work for a large corporation or a non-profit organization, or tackle many other opportunities.
Our business faculty prepare students to demonstrate their commitment to personal and professional growth as collaborative and servant leaders with moral courage in their careers and communities. Through our curriculum and opportunities outside of the classroom, we support the formation of virtuous business leaders who are engaged in service for life. Our students practice humility and magnanimity by bringing out the greatness in others through service projects and leadership development. In all we do, we see business as a noble vocation that can be used as a force for good.
The University of Mary does such a wonderful job helping students become successful in the fullest sense. Each program not only educates the mind but also forms the spirit. Your Mary education will challenge you to do the best you can at all you do and give back in any way you’re able.”
– Annika Bobb, ’22, ’23, bachelor's in business administration and music, Master of Business Administration (MBA)
Thanks to the vision and generosity of A. Kirk Lanterman, the legendary former CEO of Holland America and founder of Kirlan Venture Capital, students develop and practice financial analysis by managing a live portfolio. Members also travel to New York City to participate in the Quinnipiac G.A.M.E. Forum and visit the New York Stock Exchange.
A branch of Bravera is located inside the Lumen Vitae University Center. Students hold leadership roles at the branch, making it a unique learning opportunity.
In the Liffrig Family School of Education and Behavioral Sciences, working together helps our students develop the necessary skills for successful and fulling careers in education, social work, psychology, criminal justice, and counseling. The positive team culture impacts everyone from the longest-serving faculty to incoming students.
In the Liffrig Family School of Education and Behavioral Sciences, we are committed to helping students discover their God-given gifts and emphasize the
practice of servant leadership so they can make a difference in this world. When students choose to pursue a teaching or behavioral sciences profession with us, their education will help them understand who they are and how to embrace their purpose in life.
Each program is informed by Benedictine values, which emphasize servant leadership and the education of the whole person for life. Our low student-faculty ratio means students benefit from individual attention and support. Our faculty is among the finest and most respected in the education and behavioral sciences communities. We offer majors in psychology, elementary education, secondary education, criminal justice, social work, early childhood education, child development, special education, physical education, coaching and sports studies, addiction counseling, and human support services.
At the University of Mary, we offer more than a classroom. Liffrig’s Emerging Leaders Academy (ELA) provides students with the opportunity to learn more about themselves and their profession, help them develop the team building, communication, and leadership skills needed to make a difference in the world. ELA students also have the opportunity to take a senior trip to places like Poland, Peru, and Cambodia (left). Visit umary.edu/ELA for more info.
› Graduates of our criminal justice program have had a 100% placement rate in law school for nearly two decades.
› Our social work program goes beyond national standards and offers junior and senior internships.
› In keeping with their status as Registered Teacher Apprenticeship programs, our majors in education integrate traditional academic coursework with immersive on-the-job training. We partner with local school districts to craft high-quality field experiences aimed at equipping future PK-12 educators for successful, fulfilling careers in the classroom.
› In North Dakota, the Attorney General’s Human Trafficking Commission worked with the University of Mary criminal justice program to create and administer a comprehensive Demand Reduction Program (an intermediate sentencing, diversion, and education option for offenders). It is the only such official partnership between a university and a state government to address human trafficking.
› With our game-changing Year-Round Campus option, students can complete their undergraduate degree in just 2.6 years. This results in an estimated lifetime financial benefit of nearly $330,000. For students who make the most of our Year-Round Campus and choose to stay and complete a master's degree, they can finish both degrees in four years, instead of the six years or more that most people spend.
› Global learning experiences allow students to study abroad or take part in learning trips offered through the university.
› The University of Mary has close relationships with BismarckMandan public and private schools (and schools throughout the country), as well as internships with non-profit, public, and faithbased social work agencies.
› Our social work program is accredited by the Council of Social Work and our psychology curriculum is aligned with the American Psychological Association
› Students have incredible opportunities to travel across the world as part of faculty-led learning trips to places such as China.
The Liffrig Family School of Education and Behavioral Sciences provided one-on-one faculty guidance, countless hours of meaningful classroom experience, a variety of courses that stimulated personal and professional growth, and a comprehensive understanding of how to be an outstanding educator. I truly believe I am prepared for a lifetime of leadership in and out of the classroom.”
– Halli Ackerman, ’20, elementary education and special education major
Education majors, from early childhood education to secondary education, "learn by doing" both inside and outside of the classroom. Each student creates and presents a professional portfolio during the semester prior to student teaching. Select student portfolios are available online.
Community professionals, such as Lonnie Grabowska — a Navy veteran, Catholic deacon, and Director of the North Dakota Bureau of Criminal Investigation — bring real-world experience to our criminal justice students. At the University of Mary, we prepare you for careers in law enforcement, the judicial system, corrections, and more — we also prepare you to be a force for good in the world.
Nearly 90 percent of faculty members of the School of Arts and Sciences have achieved the highest degree in their field. Small class sizes allow faculty members to focus on students and their development.
Our pre-med program focuses on the sanctity of life, with highly-trained faculty members guiding students’ learning, which prepares them for the MCAT exam and medical school. The program emphasizes sound medical ethics, preparing students for their future career with a strong sense of principle.
The School of Arts and Sciences seeks to elevate the senses and sharpen the mind by exploring all aspects of the world through inquiry, discussion, and imagination, aiming for a deeper understanding of the world, culture, the human person, and God.
From mathematics and the natural sciences, to the social sciences and the humanities, to music and the performing arts, the School of Arts and Sciences encourages growth and prepares students for their career. The School of Arts and Sciences serves the unity of — and vital dialogue between — Faith and Reason.
Each student at Mary takes courses in the School of Arts and Sciences through the liberal arts core curriculum. The heart of the curriculum — courses like “Search for Truth” and “Search for Happiness” — invites you into a community of friends committed to living an integrated life, where we make sense of our work and vocations in light of the deepest purposes of human life. In a spirit of charity, wisdom, humility, and moderation, we emphasize the unity of all knowledge — what you learn in theology only enhances what you learn in biology, and what you study in philosophy only contributes to your understanding of politics. Our approach is interdisciplinary, collegial, and dedicated to the discovery of Truth. And the opportunities for student learning extend beyond our liberal arts core and into the Rome campus, Mary College at ASU, Catholic Studies, and more!
This community of scholars attempts together — in an interdisciplinary way — to incarnate the Catholic intellectual, moral, spiritual, and cultural tradition in the whole of their lives, initiating students into that Great Tradition. Students and faculty gather weekly for Convivium ("life together"), where they enjoy dinner and conversations about the big questions of life and the purpose of university education in the vision of Saint John Henry Newman. In another weekly event, The Afternoon Parlour, faculty sit in the hot seat while students challenge them with questions about the most pressing topics of our time.
Held early in the spring term for more than 50 years, our annual Jazz Festival brings in nationally-recognized professional musicians to work with students, displaying the excellence of our music programs. Christmas at Mary is a traditional standing-room-only event that brings large crowds to hear students perform in our unique, Marcel Breuer-designed chapel of Our Lady of the Annunciation.
With a wide variety of programs in the School of Arts and Sciences, students can choose the degree that best fits their future career path.
Each program incorporates as much interactive learning as possible, along with opportunities to collaborate with other students in different programs. Just a couple of years ago, the history and theater programs worked together to create North Dakota Voices of the Great War. History students researched the World War I Scrapbooks Collections at the North Dakota State Archives, searching through approximately 1,400 letters sent from soldiers to their families during the war. In collaboration with the theater department, a production was created by adding music, poetry, and improvising dramatic scenes based on the real letters.
With strong programs in fields like biology, literature, history, music, and philosophy, the School of Arts and Sciences prepares students to excel in their studies and future careers, while also taking part in unique opportunities for study.
I’m struck by how it’s been more than just an academic pursuit — it’s been a dynamic conversation. Whether I’m engaged at the lab bench, immersed in lectures, or delving into research papers, I’ve consistently felt enveloped by a community where ideas flow freely and relationships flourish. It’s not just about learning the intricacies of biochemistry; it’s about being part of a learning environment where each interaction propels us forward in our academic and personal development.”
– Dominic Regli, ’24, biochemistry alumnus and current medical student
SURVE, (Summer Undergraduate Research Vocation Experience) provides students with unique opportunities to conduct advanced research with faculty mentors and explore the nature of the sciences through the complementary lenses of faith and reason. Participants receive essential formation that prepares them for further studies as well as their careers.
The Gregorian Scholars Honors Program is a community of students and teachers that unites the intellectual life, the classical tradition, and our local cultural history to provide an invigorating atmosphere of thought and reflection. Students attend dinners, guest lectures, film showings, musical events, and theater productions.
The newly named Hamm School of Engineering has earned a reputation for rigorous course work, innovation, and multidisciplinary experiential learning during all four years of study in civil, electrical, mechanical, construction, environmental, and computer engineering, in addition to programs in construction management and computer science.
At the center of the Hamm School of Engineering is the Senior Design Lab, where students, faculty, and industry leaders collaborate, build, and showcase junior and senior projects.
Our Hamm School of Engineering is named after Harold Hamm, who pioneered the exploration and production of oil in the Bakken play of western North Dakota through hard work, passion, and expertise. These
traits inspire us to engineer breakthrough innovations that will lead us to a better tomorrow. Students of our engineering program develop professional skills and cultural awareness — learning the advanced knowledge they need to succeed in their fields, gaining skills in communication and collaboration, and practicing ethical leadership rooted in our Benedictine values.
throughout our programs and are highly sought-after for internships during their studies and employment after graduation. Created to meet the growing need for highperforming engineers who are also culturally prepared for the workplace, our Hamm School of Engineering collaborates with top-level engineering companies. Students learn in our state-of-the-art facility that opened in 2020 and features a machine shop, student design center, design fundamentals lab, and multiple lab spaces dedicated to each major.
Our focus on undergraduate education means that our labs, facilities, and classrooms are designed to support student learning, training, and project development. By graduation, each one of our engineering majors has worked in the lab and applied classroom learning to experimentation and project development.
Our Bachelor of Science programs in mechanical, civil, and electrical engineering are accredited by the Commission of ABET, www.abet.org.
We developed our curriculum with feedback from the region’s most notable firms — ensuring that our students learn through a curriculum that is state-of-the-art and also well suited to the needs of the region. And as a result, our school produces engineering graduates who are both skilled engineers and community-minded servant leaders.
› We offer majors in civil, electrical, mechanical, construction, environmental, and computer engineering along with computer science and construction management.
› Our class sizes allow faculty to know students by name, create handson learning experiences, and help students apply for scholarships and jobs. Our faculty's main focus is teaching students and mentoring them through student-led research.
› Our students are in demand for careers in their chosen profession, with our programs having very high job and internship placement rates.
› Students are well-versed in arts and humanities, in addition to their coursework in the Hamm School of Engineering. Our students collaborate with classmates from other schools on a number of projects, like when engineering and physical therapy students adapt Go Baby Go power cars so children with disabilities can enjoy the experience of movement.
The University of Mary has taught me not only the practical skills and knowledge for my future career, but also how to live a life of virtue in the service of others. My time here has been deeply transformational. I am so grateful for my experience and am confident in the ways it will propel me into the future.”
— Mara Dalton, ’23, civil engineering alumna and currently employed at Moore Engineering
› Learn by real-life examples:
Lab work, design projects, and actual data are all part of students’ studies. Students regularly create and present high-level projects to industry representatives.
› Make valuable connections:
Through internships, guest lecturers, and special opportunities to network with professionals in the field, students expand their knowledge and connections for future career opportunities.
› Prepare for a successful career:
In addition to the exceptional knowledge students gain for their chosen major, all students at the University of Mary experience the university’s Benedictine values. Students in the Hamm School of Engineering are well-prepared for all aspects of their careers — from communication to ethics, and of course, the advanced knowledge needed for their future profession.
› Be an expert:
Study the specific aspects of your major so you become an expert in your area. For example, students in our construction management program learn to utilize project management skills to efficiently direct and manage time-sensitive ventures, while staying on budget. These skills are essential in your career!
It’s no secret that many of our health care programs are internationally recognized. Our students experience internship and practicum opportunities that allow them to bring classroom and lab learning into the real world, participate in international service trips, and facilitate our pro bono clinics on campus. These collaborative projects across campus and in our community prepare students to practice confidently and competently when they graduate.
Our school is inspired by and under the patronage of Saint Gianna Beretta Molla — a physician, wife, and mother whose mission and career was marked by heroic self-sacrifice. Her commitment to the dignity and sanctity of
human life runs deep within the school and within the hearts of our faculty and students. Each program in our school calls students to be compassionate, competent, morally courageous, and ethicallygrounded health care providers who will carry on ministries of healing well into the future — transforming health care one patient at a time.
Practical experience in clinical settings not only on campus but in our community and nationally helps students make a positive impact from the beginning stages of their studies. Preparation for bringing healing to communities in need begins in the classroom, with our experienced faculty and cutting-edge technology.
The
school of health
sciences strives to prepare
competent, caring, and ethical health
professionals who will be servant leaders for their clients and patients. Classes are taught with a keen sensitivity to solid bioethical principles and natural law, guided by faculty who bring professional experience and real-world perspectives to the curriculum. Students have multiple hands-on learning experiences and graduate as successful leaders, effective collaborators, and sophisticated users of research. University of Mary health care programs have achieved international recognition for excellence.
Students at our Saint Gianna School of Health Sciences live out our mission of service through our pro bono clinics. Our clinics provide care to individuals of all ages with a broad range of diagnoses and conditions. Students learn through hands-on opportunities and care for patients in need under the supervision of experienced and licensed faculty supervisors.
Our internationally recognized health care programs offer the highest caliber of career preparation. Check out the graph below to see how our nursing graduates compare to those of other colleges and universities throughout North Dakota and across the nation.
It's been incredible to study at Mary — I'm living a truly integrated life. My amazing world-class nursing faculty taught me much more than technical skills; I learned how to see the whole person and care for the needs of the human soul. Being a Mary Nurse means giving my life away in love, and I couldn't be more grateful!”
– Catherine Hermanson,
’25, nursing major
› Students gain practical experience in clinical settings in the region and beyond through internships and practicums.
› Throughout coursework, our students are being prepared for licensing examinations and are ready to begin their careers immediately after graduation.
› In addition to the professional training necessary for their careers, students at Mary are immersed in the Benedictine values, as they grow to become professional health care providers who demonstrate these values to their patients every day.
› Servant leadership and biomedical ethics are emphasized in all of our programs. Students provide client services at our free clinics, participate in interprofessional experiences with health care professionals, and collaborate with students from other programs.
Our Early Assurance pathways allow incoming freshmen to secure priority admission to highly-competitive master's and doctoral programs. If granted Early Assurance, you’ll be able to transition into your chosen program immediately after you graduate with your bachelor’s.
Each year, University of Mary students travel internationally to serve the medical and educational needs of people in rural areas of places like Peru and Guatemala, growing in expertise, cultural understanding, and servant leadership.
Our groundbreaking Tuition-Free Nursing Academy provides an elite option for aspiring nurses committed to reaching their full potential — in the classroom, in the workplace, and in life. Students selected for this oneof-a-kind nursing track will graduate in less than three years, experience an all-expense-paid service-learning trip to Europe, and gain access to exclusive employment opportunities.
At the University of Mary, you can graduate in less time, with less cost and less debt.
By offering a full summer semester, our innovative Year-Round Campus gives you the opportunity to study throughout the year so you graduate sooner and get a head start on your life and career. And you'll even save money! You’ll pay less in tuition and receive financial aid all year long. More than that, graduating sooner and entering the workforce earlier will set you up for a colossal lifetime financial benefit — nearly $300,000 if you earn your bachelor’s in 2.6 years and over $630,000 if you earn your bachelor’s and master’s in four.
The Year-Round Campus option also allows you to take full advantage of all the opportunities offered at the University of Mary. Want to get your MBA? Want to add a major in Catholic Studies to your Engineering degree? Want to get ahead in your classes so that you can excel as an athlete and a scholar? Want to study at our campus in Rome or Arizona and still have room for that competitive internship? YRC lets you do it all – and still graduate on time.
LIFETIME FINANCIAL BENEFIT NEARLY $330,000 BACHELOR’S DEGREE OVER $630,000 MASTER’S DEGREE
Based on analysis provided by The Pelican Group, Ashburn, VA, the increased incremental savings and earnings, and reduced student loan balances, would boost graduates’ lifetime financial benefit by $327,963.
YOU’LL PAY LESS … summer tuition prices remain the same as the previous academic year.
WORK CAMPUS … summer jobs are available.
YOU’LL SEE THE WORLD … options to study abroad are available in the summer.
YOU’LL GET AHEAD … in your career and finances.
YOU’LL HAVE FUN … there’s no better place than North Dakota in the summer!
YRC students can also receive a $1,200 scholarship through the Theodore Roosevelt Fellows program. Specially designed for students seeking even more opportunities for personal and professional growth, TR Fellows get special access to weekly enrichment seminars, world-class visiting scholars, weekend outings to the Badlands and regional heritage sites, and a study-trip to a major North American city.
If you’re looking to enter a field that requires a graduate degree — whether it’s Physical Therapy, Business, Athletic Training, or Counseling — YRC can help you earn additional credentials in less time. You could spend your time on campus earning a master’s in fields like business or education in just four years, or doctoral degrees like physical or occupational therapy in only six!
Students who participate in Year-Round Campus (YRC) experience one-on-one learning opportunities, smaller class sizes, and special activities. In addition, Year-Round Campus allows information to stay fresh in students’ minds during continuous semesters and gives students the ability to hold longer internships in Bismarck-Mandan, since students remain in the area throughout the summer.
One of the biggest benefits about Year-Round Campus and the University of Mary is the affordability. You get a great private education at a lower cost than most state schools in the area. With YRC, you spend less money and graduate faster. You also learn from amazing guest professors! There's so much to do in Bismarck in the summer, and you'll have the opportunity to meet some of your best friends through YRC.”
– Mckinsey Rosendahl, ’22, biomechanics major
of all Mary graduates receive job offers or continue their education with graduate school when they have completed their degree 95%
— Sister Thomas Welder, President Emerita the success of our graduates. We measure our success by
TRIO is a program funded through the U.S. Department of Education and is designed to identify and provide services to students from underserved backgrounds — helping eligible students remain in college and graduate. Students who meet the eligibility requirements will have a dedicated success advisor and can qualify for grants to support their education.
Your success at Mary has many landmarks, but one is obvious: graduation.
From your first day on campus to commencement day, you’ll work with an advisor who will assist you in accomplishing that goal.
In addition, you’ll have the services of a team of professionals dedicated to your achievement. Mary’s Student Success Center is wholly devoted to assisting you in all aspects of your academic and personal life.
Services Include
› Academic Advising
› Counseling
› Student Support – TRIO
› Tutoring
› Student Accessibility
› Writing Center
› Career and Testing Preparation
An education from Mary will prepare you for a life full of meaning and purpose. With the support of our career services office, you’ll be able to match your education with your calling to a career path that is of service to others and uniquely yours. You’ll be able to access the tools, knowledge, resources, and guidance you need to realize your professional and personal goals.
We focus — a lot — on making a University of Mary education affordable and attainable for our students. With a financial aid office dedicated to helping students navigate their options for paying for college, and academic advisors and professional support staff to make sure students receive the support they need to finish their degrees, we live out our reputation for academic excellence, affordability, and providing a values-based education. At the University of Mary, you’ll find a welcoming community — of students, faculty, and staff — working together and supporting each other while sharing a belief in giving back. No matter your background, if you’re committed to coming to Mary, we’re committed to making it possible.
The combination of our institution’s scholarships and grants make our private, faith-based education as accessible as our public neighbors and much more affordable than other private universities across the nation. Our students, on average, walk away with less debt and are able to recoup their investment. Our financial aid office is readily available to assist students with making a Mary education possible for all.”
– Karrie Huber, Director of Student Financial Services
At Mary, you will be supported by experienced faculty. And they have one thing in common: they are committed to your success. Our faculty lead study abroad trips around the world and mentor students beyond the classroom through the Gregorian Scholars Honors Program, Emerging Leaders Academy, Year-Round Campus, SURVE, and more!
Our students benefit from a wide range of resources available to each student, no matter their background or major. Academic advising services assists students in developing an educational plan to support individual goals and interests. In addition, our tutoring and writing services help students navigate questions related to coursework and help with specific assignments.
One hallmark of a Mary education is an engaged campus community.
In every aspect of your life at Mary, we believe you were made for encounter — for encountering deep and lasting friendships, life changing experiences, and meaningful service opportunities. In addition to benefitting from a wide range of activities, you’ll have countless chances to share your talents and interests on a vibrant and energetic campus.
Our students are active volunteers on campus and in the Bismarck-Mandan area through groups such as SPURS.
AND ADVOCACY Campus leadership and advocacy, including Student Government, Marauders on Politics, Emerging Leaders Academy, and Hunger for Hope encourages our students to engage in issues important to them.
FUN! Whether it’s a swing dance sponsored by the Social Dance Club, a video game or robotics competition, pick-up basketball or ultimate frisbee organized by Student Recreation and Wellness, or an event hosted by the Marauders Activities Committee, there is something for everyone to enjoy!
DAY OF SERVICE Classes are canceled for our annual Day of Service, held during Homecoming week, to allow our entire student body to give back to our communities in Bismarck-Mandan and through our satellite campuses around the region and the world.
Over 600 students, administrators, faculty, and staff, of the University of Mary proudly led the 2017 March for Life in Washington, D.C. This annual event is one of many opportunities to witness and serve. In addition, students can grow their faith by participating in various organizations, such as Collegians for Life, Vera Forma, Knights of Columbus, University Christian Fellowship, and Marauders for Christ.
On the University of Mary campus, we want you to feel at home. With a wide selection of housing options, from traditional residence halls to apartment living; state-of-the-art dining services; and countless clubs and service opportunities, your time outside the classroom will be spent making meaningful connections with students from around the world, all while learning in a unique setting.
› 24/7 anytime, all-you-care-to-eat dining experience
› A full suite of the amenities of a large campus with the community feeling of a smaller campus
› From a convenience store to a wellness center, bank and coffee shop, Mary’s campus offers what students want in a campus experience
› 18 NCAA Division II varsity athletics teams and more than 50 student organizations
› A myriad of recreational opportunities
Mary’s Convocation programs and other events present some of the most sought-after speakers and presenters today on topics ranging from current events and cutting-edge science to enduring principles and the fine arts.
Past speakers include:
› Father Michael Schmitz, “Christian Adulting: The Signs of Spiritual Maturity”
› Matt Birk, former Minnesota Viking and Super Bowl champion, Greatness Through Virtue speaker
› Ross Douthat, “Three Religions of America”
› Dr. Scott Hahn, “Hope to Die, Hope to Rise: Eucharistic Amazement”
› Jens Lindemann, Master Class Guest Musician
› George Weigel, “Lessons in Hope: My Unexpected Life with St. John Paul II”
Students are from all 50 states and 35 countries
Student Recreation & Wellness is committed to enhancing the educational experience and promoting lifelong wellness. On campus, we offer students a fitness studio, rock wall, racquetball courts, fieldhouse, and intramural leagues. And Rec & Wellness also has equipment available for students to check out, such as bicycles, basketballs, tents, sleeping bags, kayaks, and canoes.
The University of Mary welcomes all to our breathtaking Grotto, dedicated to Mary, the Mother of Jesus, the patroness and namesake of the university. Students, faculty, friends, alumni, and pilgrims from near and far are drawn to this sacred place to pray, find healing and hope, and draw closer to God.
University Center (LVUC) is more than a study spot, it’s students’ home away from home with beautiful stone fireplaces and comfortable sitting areas. Lumen Vitae, Latin for “The Light of Life,” fittingly names this center that brings life to the heart of the University of Mary campus. Inside the LVUC are our Crow's Nest Campus Restaurant (open 24/7), coffee shop, convenience store, bookstore, living rooms, clinic, and bank, all in a welcoming atmosphere.
The Lumen Vitae University Center is home to many campus events, such as Monday Morning Mission, which is every Monday at 10 am in the Lower Living Room. All are welcome to come worship God, grow in fellowship, and engage with our local community in service!
To ensure that students have access to high-quality medical services on campus, the university partners with CHI St. Alexius Health to operate our Student Health Clinic. A full range of services are available, including:
› Medical exams and physicals
› Common laboratory services, prescriptions, vaccinations, and wellness education
› Easy access to other services, specialists and resources
A branch of Bravera is located inside the LVUC. Business students at Mary hold leadership roles at this branch, making it a unique opportunity for our students to learn and a convenient banking option for all members of our campus community.
Located in the lower level of the Lumen Vitae University Center (LVUC), the Lanterman Lodge serves as a memorial to our beloved friend, Kirk Lanterman (1931-2019), as well as a living tribute to the generosity of Kirk and his wife, Janet, to the university. Featuring shimmering waterfalls surrounded by vibrant, tropical flora, cozy study nooks, and a nearly 700-gallon aquarium of schooling fish, this indoor garden has taken root as a popular respite for quiet study that doubles as an oasis of warmth and flourishing life.
› Diverse collection of live tropical plants
› Year-round warmth, bright light, and running water
› Quiet study spaces for both individuals and groups
› 10-foot-long aquarium
A favorite spot to enjoy sunny spring days, the Lodge’s rooftop terrace offers a breathtaking view of the Missouri River Valley.
Throughout the academic year, students from all across campus flock to the Lodge to catch up on homework, write papers, and prepare for exams in a quiet and beautiful space.
On campus,
YOU’RE AT HOME YOU’RE AT
The life you lead in college is as important as the one you are preparing for.
While you’re here we want you to feel at home. So each of Mary’s residence halls has its own character, marked by its location, architectural features, and the spirit and traditions handed on from one University of Mary class to the next.
We offer a wide variety of housing options spread across nine residence halls and two apartment communities.
› Boniface East – 115-bed residence hall for upperclassmen. Houses the Saint Teresa of Calcutta Community for Mothers.
› Boniface West – 68-bed residence hall for upperclasswomen.
› Boyle Hall – 120-bed residence hall for upperclasswomen.
› Deichert Hall – 72-bed residence hall for upperclassmen.
› Greg Butler Hall – 143bed residence hall for upperclasswomen.
› Hillside Hall – 123-bed residence hall for freshman and transfer women.
› Riverview Hall – 134-bed residence hall for upperclassmen. Houses Saint Joseph’s Hall, a community for men who desire to grow in faith, virtue, and holiness.
› Roers Hall – 303-bed residence hall primarily for freshman women. Houses Saint Scholastica Hall, a community for upperclasswomen who desire to grow in faith, virtue, and holiness.
› North Hall – 339-bed residence hall for both freshman men and upperclassmen.
› The Cloisters (Monte Casino & Subiaco) – Apartment living for juniors, seniors, and graduate students. Each building features 11 two-bedroom units and one one-bedroom unit.
Our residence halls feature all the amenities of home, including high-speed internet, free laundry facilities, and study and recreation lounges.
The university’s on-campus “pub” allows students a beautiful venue to watch a football game, shoot some pool, play old-time arcade games, or just enjoy the view or a great conversation.
The Crow’s Nest offers unlimited 24/7 dining with fresh breakfast, lunch, and dinner options, including an allergen-free station and an all-night made-to-order bistro grille. Attached to the Crow’s Nest is Susanne’s, a full-service Caribou Coffee shop with specialty drinks, at no extra cost, for students with a meal plan.
This full-service Caribou Coffee shop across campus from the Crow’s Nest features easy-tograb specialties like wraps and salads. It is a warm and intimate space for students to get coffee, study, or have lunch with friends in a fun setting.
Mary offers you ample opportunity to participate in and attend sporting activities throughout the school year.
Whether you’re an athlete yourself, or a fan, you’ll love how Marauders athletics contributes to campus life. And if you aren’t a sports fan yet, just wait! You will be!
NCAA WOMEN’S SPORTS
Basketball
Cross Country
Golf
Indoor Track and Field
Outdoor Track and Field
Soccer
Softball
Swimming and Diving
Tennis
Volleyball
NCAA MEN’S SPORTS
Baseball
Basketball
Cross Country
Football
Golf
Indoor Track and Field
Outdoor Track and Field
Wrestling
ACHA DIVISION I MEN’S
Hockey
USA COLLEGE CLAY
TARGET LEAGUE
Clay Shooting Sports
The University of Mary men’s hockey team won the 2022 ACHA DII National Championship, making them back-to-back national champions. The team moved to ACHA DI in the 2023-2024 season.
D’Andra Morris-McLennon won the triple jump title at both the 2022 NCAA Division II Indoor and Outdoor championships. Her winning mark of 13.00 meters at the indoor championships was the 10th best effort all-time in NCAA Division II. The senior from Kingston, Jamaica, was the first UMary scholarathlete to win an NCAA championship in a field event. Selected as the 2022 USTFCCCA Central Region Indoor Field Athlete of the Year, 2022 Northern Sun Indoor and Outdoor Field Athlete of the Year, and 2022 NCAA Woman of the Year conference nominee, Morris is an 8-time All-American and a 10-time NSIC champion in her Marauders career.
Open to all majors, theater at Mary offers students and community members the opportunity to participate in two main stage productions annually. And, for those who want more, Mary offers a theater minor.
Theater, under the direction of Hollywood actor and award-winning film director and producer Professor Daniel Bielinski, is one of many opportunities for students to participate in and enjoy the arts at Mary.
A variety of musical and theatrical performances, art displays, and guest speakers enrich and expand Mary’s educational offerings.
We welcome performers, technicians, and assistants with all levels of experience. Auditions for most productions are publicly announced at the beginning of each academic year. All are welcome and encouraged to participate.
CHRISTMAS AT MARY is an annual tradition for the entire community highlighting Mary’s excellent music program.
Our ANNUAL JAZZ FESTIVAL showcases some of the biggest stage and studio artists today in concert with University of Mary jazz students.
With over 15 student music ensembles, you can participate even if you elect not to major or minor in music!
The University of Mary’s campus in Rome gives students a unique opportunity to study in the ‘Eternal City.’ Best of all, the cost of room, board, and tuition for our Rome campus is the same as our Bismarck campus.
immerses you in a diversity of cultures and settings to provide you with an international perspective of ‘leadership in the service of Truth.’
Our study-abroad offerings include a variety of options, from one- and two-week programs to an entire semester.
Global Studies options include:
› Semester in Rome, Italy
› Summer in Milan, Italy, for Gary Tharaldson School of Business students
› Summer faculty-led trips with past destinations including Israel, France, Northern Ireland, China, England, and Poland
› Mission and volunteer trips to Guatemala, Peru, and Cambodia
› A domestic exchange program at Arizona State University
Through an unprecedented partnership between the University of Mary and Arizona State University, University of Mary students can study for a semester at ASU, while ASU students can take courses in Catholic Studies taught by University of Mary faculty on the ASU campus.
On service and medical mission trips to Peru, students have the opportunity to study and learn more about the world, while they better the lives of those in need.
The list of things you can do in Bismarck and Mandan is amazing. Whether indoors or outdoors, any time of the year, you’ll have plenty to choose from when it comes to food, fun, shopping, and outings. Student favorites include:
› Concerts at the Bismarck Event Center and historic Belle Mehus City Auditorium
› Buckstop Junction Historical Village
› Dakota Zoo
› Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park
› Huff Hills Downhill Skiing
› Kirkwood Mall
› Missouri River
› North Dakota Heritage Center and State Museum
› Activities through the National Gold Medal Winner Bismarck Parks and Recreation District (BPRD)
› Semi-professional sports including the Bismarck Larks (Northwoods League Baseball) and Bismarck Bobcats (North American Hockey League)
› State Capitol
› Over 60 parks and seven golf courses
› A variety of outdoor amenities and opportunities including: BPRD Geocache Challenge, community gardens, disc golf courses, skate parks, educational trails, and water sports such as canoeing, kayaking, and fishing.
and Mandan, Mary offers students all the attractions and conveniences of an exciting and growing urban setting. Students can take advantage of a wide array of events and entertainment in an exciting and growing community, especially for young adults. Additionally, the Bismarck Airport, conveniently located less than five minutes from campus, offers daily direct service to six destinations on four airlines.
Historic downtown Bismarck and Mandan offer an array of dining, shopping, and entertainment venues including theater, concerts, and annual outdoor events such as the Street Fair, Art in the Park, and Mandan Rodeo Days, among others.
The Bismarck and Mandan communities offer dozens of city parks, along with indoor and outdoor facilities, to stay active. They also include more than 76 miles of recreational trails for students to explore.
when scholarships and other aid are factored in, University of Mary students pay less on average and graduate with less debt on average than students at some of the most notable public and private colleges and universities in North Dakota, our region, or anywhere in the U.S. Year-Round
Our innovative Year-Round Campus program offers an additional academic semester in the summer, giving you the option to graduate with your bachelor’s degree in 2.6 years and master’s in four — before your peers even finish their first degree! Campus life remains as vibrant as ever during the summer, with campus activities and programs continuing all year.
99% of undergraduate students receive financial aid –a combination of grants, scholarships, loans, or work study.
Know the value of your numbers
There are numerous university degrees and education options and there are numerous ways to help cover the costs of your education.
Thanks to scholarships, grants, loans, and campus employment, there are many ways to make your University of Mary education affordable. The financial aid team works closely with you to explore all of the funding resources available. Their goal is to ensure that every student receives our best comprehensive offer of financial assistance and that your affordable investment in a University of Mary education becomes a reality.
To maximize your financial aid, complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as soon as it becomes available.
Use Mary’s federal code: 002992.
› Merit-based Scholarships – Your academic accomplishments are rewarded through the Sister Thomas Welder or Saint John Henry Newman scholarships. We are ACT and SAT test optional, but the amount of a merit-based scholarship may increase with a submitted test score.
› Catholic Scholars – Eligible graduates of Catholic high schools can receive free room and board, thanks to a group of our donors who love Catholic schools.
› Servant Leadership Scholarship – Accepted students with a 3.25 or above GPA are encouraged to compete in the fall and spring Servant Leadership Competition for an additional merit scholarship.
› Gregorian Scholars Honors Program – Applicants to this program receive consideration for one of two elite academic scholarships.
› University of Mary Need-Based Grant – Eligibility and consideration is given to freshmen and transfer students who demonstrate need based on the results of the student’s FAFSA application. Offer amounts vary and are designed to help fulfill a calculated percentage of unmet need.
› Hamm School of Engineering Scholarship – This scholarship provides substantial support to select engineering students through their academic journey.
› CHI Nursing Scholarship – Students enrolled in Mary’s nursing program can qualify to receive their senior year of nursing tuition free.
› Sanford Health Scholarship – This generous scholarship supports students across a range of majors related to health care in their freshman and junior years.
› Federal Pell Grant – A Federal Pell Grant, unlike a loan, does not have to be repaid. The amount depends on financial need, costs to attend school, status as a full-time or parttime student, and plans to attend school for a full academic year or less.
› Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (SEOG) – The Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant, commonly referred to as SEOG, is a grant offered to undergraduate students who demonstrate exceptional financial need. Federal Pell Grant recipients receive priority consideration for SEOG funding.
› Federal Work Study (FWS) – The FWS Program provides funds that are earned through part-time employment either on or off campus.
› Subsidized Loan – This loan is for students with demonstrated financial need, as determined by federal regulations. No interest is charged while a student is in school at least half-time, during grace periods, and during deferment periods. Full payments of principal and interest begin six months after a student drops below half-time enrollment.
› Unsubsidized Loan – This loan is not based on financial need. Interest begins accruing from the time of disbursement. Interest payments are billed quarterly while a student is in school. Full payments of principal and interest begin six months after a student drops below half-time enrollment.
› Parent PLUS Loan – This loan is for parents of dependent undergraduate students. Students must be enrolled half-time. Parent borrowers enter repayment 60 days after final loan disbursement.
BACHELOR’S DEGREE PROGRAMS
• Accounting
• Business Administration
• Business Education
• Business Management
• Computer Information Systems
• Cybersecurity Administration
• Financial Services and Banking
• Marketing
• Project Management
• Sport and Leisure Management
GRADUATE DEGREE PROGRAMS
• Doctor of Business Administration
• Master of Business Administration (specializations in Business Operations, Catholic Philanthropy, Health Care, Human Resource Management, Project Management, Public Administration, Virtuous Leadership)
• Master of Organizational Leadership (specializations in Catholic Philanthropy, Health Care, Human Resource Management, Managerial Leadership, Project Management, Public Administration, Virtuous Leadership)
• MBA/MA in Philosophy
Hamm School of Engineering
BACHELOR’S DEGREE PROGRAMS
• Civil Engineering
• Computer Engineering
• Computer Science
• Construction Engineering
• Construction Management
• Electrical Engineering
• Environmental Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering
BACHELOR’S DEGREE PROGRAMS
• Biology Education
• Business Education
• Chemistry Education
• Child Development Studies
• Coaching and Sport Studies
• Criminal Justice
• Early Childhood Education
• Elementary Education
• English Education
• History Education
• Human Support Services
• Mathematics Education
• Music Education
• Physical Education
• Psychology
• Social Studies Education
• Social Work
• Special Education
GRADUATE DEGREE PROGRAMS
• Doctor of Education (programs in K-12 Education and Higher Education, optional concentrations for Catholic educators)
• Master of Education (programs in Catholic Montessori, Curriculum Instruction and Assessment, Physical Education and Athletic Administration, Reading, School Administration, Special Education Leadership, Special Education Strategist, Teacher Leadership, and optional concentrations for Catholic educators)
• Master of Science in Counseling (concentrations in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and School Counseling)
• Master of Social Work
BACHELOR’S DEGREE PROGRAMS
• Biomechanics
• Communication Sciences and Disorders
• Exercise Science
• Nursing (available tracks in BSN, LPN to BSN, RN to BSN, Second Degree BSN, and Year-round Campus Nursing Academy)
• Occupational Performance
• Radiologic Technology
• Respiratory Therapy
GRADUATE DEGREE PROGRAMS
• Doctor of Nursing Practice (programs in Family Nurse Practitioner and Nursing Organizational Leadership)
• Doctor of Occupational Therapy
• Doctor of Physical Therapy
• Master of Science in Athletic Training
• Master of Science in Bioethics
• Master of Science in Clinical Exercise Physiology
• Master of Science in Kinesiology
• Master of Science in Nursing (programs in Nurse Educator, Nursing and Health Care Informatics, and Nursing Leadership and Management)
• MSN/MS in Nursing Health Care Informatics and Bioethics Dual Degree
• MSN/MS in Nursing Leadership and Bioethics Dual Degree
• MSN/MBA in Health Care Administration Dual Degree
• Master of Science in Respiratory Therapy
• Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology
• Athletic Training
• Chiropractic
• Clinical Exercise Physiology
• Dentistry
• Historic Preservation
• Law
• Medicine
• Occupational Therapy
• Optometry
• Pharmacy
• Physical Therapy
• Physician Assistant
BACHELOR’S DEGREE PROGRAMS
• Biochemistry
• Biology
• Biology Education
• Catholic Studies
• Chemistry
• Chemistry Education
• Communication (concentrations in General Communication, Media Production, and Strategic Communication)
• Dramatic Arts
• English
• English Education
• History
• History Education
• Mathematics
• Mathematics Education
• Music
• Music Education
• Music Performance
• Philosophy
• Politics
• Sacred Music
• Social Studies Education
• Spanish
• Theology
• University Studies
GRADUATE DEGREE PROGRAMS
• Master of Arts in Applied Catholic Theology
• Master of Arts in Apostolic Leadership (Catholic Studies)
• Master of Arts in Music
• MBA/MA in Philosophy
• Podiatry
• Speech-Language Pathology
• Veterinary Medicine
• Wildlife Management and Conservation Biology
When you apply to the University of Mary, you join a growing number of students who are seeking an education for the whole of life, and we want to make the application process as smooth as possible.
Visit umary.edu/Apply to complete the online application and submit your $30 application fee. The application process is quick – it only takes 10 to 15 minutes to complete the form.
Visit with your high school counselor to send your transcripts to us. Use the University of Mary codes when you take your test. Our ACT code is 3201 and our SAT code is 6248. (ACT, SAT, or CLT tests are encouraged but optional.)
To apply for financial assistance at Mary, you must complete the FAFSA. We encourage you to complete the FAFSA as soon as it is available by using the online FAFSA application at fafsa.gov. University of Mary’s school code is 002992.
We review each application on an individual basis and accept those who will make positive contributions to our community and achieve academic success.
The University of Mary offers you so much more than you realize. No dollar amount can compare to what the university has to offer, but even if it did, the University of Mary is extremely affordable.”
— Jennifer Jeffers, ’21, marketing and financial services & banking double major
• Talk one-on-one with an admissions representative.
• Have lunch on us in our 24/7 campus restaurant! 1.
• Get a feel for who we are by touring our campus with a current student.
• Get to know faculty members in your program(s) of interest.
• Sit in on a class of your choice.
• Attend Mass.
• Meet with a coach or ensemble director.