College of Saint Mary

Key Highlights

• Private non-profit institution with strong academic tradition
• Located in a major metropolitan area with excellent opportunities
• Research-intensive with extensive graduate programs
• Diverse academic programs across multiple disciplines

Student Life & Environment

Life at College of Saint Mary centers on a residential community where women support one another's growth through challenging coursework, leadership development, and personal transformation. The suburban Omaha campus provides residence halls, dining facilities, athletic venues, and gathering spaces designed to build community among students living together. Most undergraduates live on campus, creating consistent opportunities for informal interaction that builds lasting friendships. The all-women environment shapes campus culture in distinctive ways, removing certain social pressures present in coeducational settings while creating space for authentic self-expression. Student organizations span academic interests, cultural identities, service commitments, and recreational activities. Athletic teams compete in NAIA sports including soccer, basketball, volleyball, swimming, softball, cross country, and golf. Campus ministry programs invite students into spiritual exploration regardless of religious background, with Mass celebrated regularly and retreat opportunities available throughout the year. Service learning connects classroom concepts with community needs, embedding the Sisters of Mercy commitment to service in the educational experience. The career center works with students from first year through graduation, helping identify goals, gain experience through internships, and prepare for job searches. Mental health counseling and wellness programming support students navigating the stresses of college life. The dining hall provides gathering space where students connect across class years and academic programs. Omaha's cultural attractions, restaurants, and entertainment options provide off-campus diversions accessible by car or public transit.

Location & Surroundings

Omaha has grown into one of the Midwest's most underrated cities, combining economic vitality with affordability and quality of life that attract young professionals and families alike. The metropolitan area exceeds 900,000 residents, large enough to offer urban amenities while maintaining the friendliness and accessibility of smaller communities. Major corporations including Berkshire Hathaway, Mutual of Omaha, Union Pacific, and Kiewit maintain headquarters here, creating professional opportunities across finance, insurance, transportation, and construction industries. The healthcare sector employs thousands, with the University of Nebraska Medical Center and major hospital systems providing clinical sites for nursing students and employment for graduates. The Old Market district anchors downtown entertainment with restaurants, galleries, and live music venues in historic warehouse buildings. The Henry Doorly Zoo consistently ranks among America's best, featuring innovative exhibits and conservation programs. The College World Series brings national attention each June when the best college baseball teams compete at Charles Schwab Field. The Joslyn Art Museum houses significant collections spanning ancient to contemporary art. Housing costs remain remarkably affordable compared to coastal cities, allowing graduates to build financial security early in their careers. The Missouri River forms the eastern boundary, with Council Bluffs, Iowa just across the water. Interstate 80 connects Omaha to Denver to the west and Chicago to the east. The airport provides convenient connections to major hubs. Winters bring genuine cold and occasional snow, while summers can be hot and humid.

Costs & Career Outcomes

College of Saint Mary occupies a distinctive position as Nebraska's only women's college, offering an educational experience available nowhere else in the region. The all-women undergraduate environment creates classroom dynamics where students consistently lead discussions, take intellectual risks, and develop confidence in their abilities and ideas. Research consistently shows that women's college graduates achieve disproportionately in leadership positions, corporate boards, and professional advancement. The Sisters of Mercy heritage infuses institutional culture with commitment to service, particularly for marginalized communities, shaping graduates who understand their professional responsibilities broadly. Small classes ensure faculty know students individually, providing mentorship that supports both academic success and career development. Nursing programs maintain exceptionally high licensure pass rates, reflecting curriculum quality and clinical preparation that employers recognize. Education programs build partnerships with school districts throughout the Omaha area, facilitating placement for student teaching and often employment upon graduation. The Catholic identity welcomes students of all faiths while providing formation in ethical reasoning and social responsibility. Campus ministry creates space for spiritual exploration alongside rigorous professional preparation. Financial aid packages make education accessible, with institutional scholarships and grants reducing the net cost for most students. Graduate programs in nursing, education, and other fields expand the college's impact while welcoming students of all genders. Career services maintain employer relationships throughout the region, connecting students with internships and graduates with employment opportunities. The alumnae network provides mentoring and professional connections spanning decades of graduates now serving across industries.

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