University of Saint Mary
Leavenworth, United States
University of Saint Mary
Leavenworth, United States
Founded
1923
Institution Type
Private Catholic
Undergraduate Enrollment
1,027
Acceptance Rate
87%
Discover the University of Saint Mary
Discover the University of Saint Mary
The University of Saint Mary (USM) is a private Catholic university located on a scenic 200-acre campus in Leavenworth, Kansas. Founded in 1923 by the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth, USM has a long tradition of academic excellence rooted in Catholic values and a commitment to serving students of all backgrounds.
USM offers over 30 undergraduate majors, minors, and concentrations, along with multiple graduate programs and doctoral degrees including a Doctor of Physical Therapy. The university maintains an intimate 11:1 student-faculty ratio and utilizes a semester-based academic calendar, ensuring personalized attention and mentorship for every student.
Recognized by The Princeton Review as one of the Best in the Midwest and ranked by U.S. News and World Report, USM combines a close-knit campus community with strong career-oriented programs in nursing, biology, exercise science, and more. The university also operates satellite campuses in Overland Park and offers robust online programs.
Key Milestones
- 1923: Founded as Saint Mary College by the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth as a school for women.
- 1974: Became the first four-year institution to offer a degree completion program in Kansas City.
- 1988: Became residentially coeducational, welcoming both men and women to live on campus.
- 2003: Changed its name to the University of Saint Mary, reflecting its expanded academic offerings.
Academic Programs and Structure
Academic Programs and Structure
The University of Saint Mary offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs grounded in the liberal arts tradition. With over 30 majors and concentrations, USM prepares students for careers in healthcare, business, education, and the sciences through hands-on learning and personalized instruction.
Health and Natural Sciences
Home to USM's most popular programs, this division prepares students for careers in healthcare and the sciences with rigorous coursework and clinical experiences.
- Nursing (BSN)
- Biology
- Exercise Science
Business and Professional Studies
Offers career-focused programs in business administration and related fields, including an MBA program for graduate students.
- Business Administration
- Sport Management
- Master of Business Administration (MBA)
Education
Prepares future educators with hands-on classroom experience and specialized programs in elementary, secondary, and special education.
- Elementary Education
- Secondary Education
- Master of Arts in Education
Behavioral and Social Sciences
Explores human behavior and societal structures through programs in psychology, criminology, and counseling.
- Psychology
- Criminology
- Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology
Graduate Health Sciences
Advanced graduate and doctoral programs in health sciences preparing students for clinical practice and leadership roles.
- Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)
- Master of Science in Nursing (MSN-FNP)
- Master of Science in Athletic Training
Arts, Humanities, and Communication
Fosters creativity and critical thinking through programs in the liberal arts, communication, and the humanities.
- English
- History
- Theology
Admission Requirements
Admission Requirements
Undergraduate Admission
- ApplicationOnline application with USD 25 non-refundable fee
- TranscriptsOfficial high school transcripts or GED equivalent
- Standardized TestsTest-optional policy (SAT/ACT scores not required)
- GPA RequirementCompetitive GPA recommended; contact admissions for details
- English ProficiencyTOEFL or IELTS required for international students
Graduate Admission
- ApplicationOnline graduate application with program-specific fee
- TranscriptsOfficial transcripts from all post-secondary institutions
- Bachelor's DegreeCompleted bachelor's degree from an accredited institution
- Letters of RecommendationVaries by program; typically 2-3 professional or academic references
- Additional RequirementsProgram-specific prerequisites may apply (e.g., clinical hours for DPT)
USM accepts applications on a rolling basis. Apply early for best scholarship consideration.
Deadlines vary by graduate program. Check with individual departments for specific dates.
Submit your FAFSA by this date for priority consideration for financial aid packages.
The Doctor of Physical Therapy program begins new cohorts annually in June.
Tuition, Fees, and Scholarships
Tuition, Fees, and Scholarships
As a private institution, the University of Saint Mary charges the same tuition rate regardless of residency. Eighty-two percent of first-year students receive need-based financial aid, and USM offers academic scholarships ranging from USD 12,000 to full tuition.
| Expense Category | On-Campus Student | Commuter Student |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition and Fees | USD 36,780 | USD 36,780 |
| Room | USD 4,790 | N/A |
| Board (Meal Plan) | USD 5,490 | Varies |
| Books and Supplies | USD 700 | USD 700 |
| Total | USD 47,760 | USD 37,480 (estimated) |
Academic Merit Scholarships
USM offers undergraduate academic scholarships ranging from USD 12,000 to full tuition based on academic achievement and potential.
- Award Range: USD 12,000 to full tuition
- Eligibility: Based on GPA and academic record
- Renewable: Yes, with satisfactory academic progress
Athletic Scholarships
As an NAIA institution with over 20 varsity sports, USM offers athletic scholarships to qualified student-athletes across all competitive programs.
- Award Type: Varies by sport and talent level
- Eligibility: Must meet NAIA eligibility requirements
- Application: Contact the coaching staff directly
Campus and Facilities
Campus and Facilities
The University of Saint Mary's main campus spans 200 acres of rolling hills in Leavenworth, Kansas, offering a scenic and peaceful setting for learning. The campus features historic academic buildings, modern athletic facilities, residential halls, and the beautiful Annunciation Chapel.
The iconic Annunciation Chapel serves as the spiritual heart of campus and a gathering place for the USM community.
The library and learning commons provide study spaces, free tutoring, skill workshops, and one-on-one academic counseling.
A 1,500-seat multi-purpose arena hosting basketball, volleyball, and featuring an indoor track and training facilities.
Housing and Dining
Residential Life
USM requires all students to live on campus through their sophomore year. Three residence halls offer a variety of living arrangements in a close-knit community.
- Berkel Hall — traditional residence hall
- Maria Hall — traditional residence hall
- Steele Hall — 4-person suites with kitchenette
Dining Options
USM provides multiple meal plan options for residential and commuter students, with dining facilities on the main campus.
- Full meal plans for residential students
- Flexible block meal plans for commuters
- On-campus dining hall with varied menu options
Student Life at USM
Student Life at USM
Student life at the University of Saint Mary is centered around a tight-knit, welcoming community where athletics, faith, and service play important roles. With over 20 varsity sports and numerous clubs and activities, there is always something happening on campus.
Leavenworth, Kansas — Location and City Life
Leavenworth, Kansas — Location and City Life
Life in Leavenworth
Leavenworth is a charming historic city in northeastern Kansas, situated along the Missouri River and the Glacial Hills Scenic Byway. Just 30 minutes from downtown Kansas City, students enjoy the quiet, safe atmosphere of a small town with easy access to the dining, entertainment, and career opportunities of a major metropolitan area.
Proximity to Kansas City
Downtown Kansas City is only a 30-minute drive away, offering concerts, professional sports, museums, restaurants, and internship opportunities.
Historic Fort Leavenworth
The oldest active U.S. Army post west of the Mississippi River is located nearby, contributing to the city's rich history and community.
Scenic Natural Beauty
The campus sits among the rolling hills of the Glacial Hills Scenic Byway, offering beautiful landscapes, nature preserves, and outdoor recreation.
Safe, Welcoming Community
Leavenworth offers a friendly small-town atmosphere with local restaurants, shops, and community events that make students feel at home.
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Where USM Graduates Work
Practical Information for Students
Practical Information for Students
For International Students
International students receive dedicated admissions guidance, including help with application requirements, English proficiency documentation, and transcript evaluation.
USM provides support for F-1 visa processing and ongoing immigration compliance to help international students maintain their legal status.
The Keleher Learning Commons offers free tutoring, skill workshops, one-on-one counseling, and academic advising to help all students succeed.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
University of Saint Mary Rankings
University of Saint Mary Rankings
The University of Saint Mary has earned recognition from multiple national ranking organizations for its academic quality, commitment to social mobility, and value. USM is consistently named among the Best in the Midwest by The Princeton Review.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Nursing | U.S. News & World Report | #385 |
| Social Mobility | U.S. News & World Report | #47 |
| Regional Universities Midwest | U.S. News & World Report | #92 |
| Best in the Midwest | The Princeton Review | Named to List |
Features
Founded in 1923 and rooted in Catholic values, the University of Saint Mary (USM) is a private, not-for-profit liberal arts university enrolling around 1,400 students, with a balanced split between undergraduate (~1,000) and graduate (~400) learners. The academic staff includes ~31 full-time faculty, or up to 174 instructional staff broadly. A standout outcome: 93% of graduates find employment, pursue further study, or engage in internships within six months—a strong indicator of early success. USM promotes diversity (students from 33 states and 19 countries) and enjoys recognition in regional rankings such as #91 in the Regional Midwest (US News). With small classes, strong financial support, and a community-focused atmosphere, it excels in nurturing student success.
Accommodation
Off-Campus Accommodations Students wishing to live off-campus need to research availability on their own, and should arrive well before the start of term to do so.
Work While Studying
See guidelines on working while studying here.
Co-op/Internship Participation
Even if you do NOT meet our minimum English requirement (IELTS or TOEFL), you still can get conditionally accepted in the program of your choice with the condition of completing our English program prior to starting your chosen program.
Featured Programmes
Average Time To Receive Acceptance Letter
September - June
Location
4100 S 4th Street, Leavenworth, KS 66048, United States
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