Whether your graduate studies courses take place online or on campus, you will enjoy a well-rounded student experience at Saint Mary’s College.

Learn from dedicated faculty and real-world practitioners. Gain valuable research skills with the help of graduate-program-specific librarians and library resources. Build lasting networks of professionals and fellow graduate students. All within a graduate school focused on community, inclusion, and your success.

Topical Research Assistantships

As a student at SMC, you’ll complete rigorous coursework in the latest research methods, along with a graduate studies research project. Faculty throughout our graduate programs are practicing professionals in their fields and stay up to date with fresh research methods that align with student interests and current events.

Many of our graduate students take their learning even further by applying their new expertise in additional capstone, practice innovation, practicums, or other projects.

Assistantships for Graduate Students

We believe that graduate school should be accessible and affordable for every student who wants to continue their education and prepare for their dream career. That’s why at Saint Mary’s, you will know the cost of your program’s tuition and fees from the moment you start. Tuition rates do not increase as long as you remain enrolled in the program.

Additionally, graduate students at Saint Mary’s can apply for graduate assistantships that provide free housing on campus and a stipend of $750 each semester (Fall and Spring only).

Graduate students who qualify for an assistantship work 10 hours per week in the assigned office during the semester and 5 hours in the summer. Help fund your graduate studies while gaining valuable work experience and making connections across campus.

Learn more about graduate studies financial aid

Community Partnerships

As you complete your graduate studies at Saint Mary’s, you can take advantage of our many community partnerships to receive first-hand experience working with clients beyond our campus boundaries.

We maintain community partnerships with organizations such as the Boys and Girls Club, La Casa de Amistad, and Catholic Charities. Not only do these community partnerships enhance your professional and student experience, but these organizations also benefit from our graduate students’ care and expertise.

Mentoring Program

Success in graduate school is about more than academic pursuits. We want our graduate students to succeed holistically, and we offer a faculty-graduate student mentorship that pairs you with a faculty member outside your academic department. Faculty mentors can provide support throughout your student experience at Saint Mary’s in topics including:

• The BIPOC student experience in academia
• LGBTQ topics
• Family/work/school–life balance
• Diverse faith traditions

If you are a graduate student interested in participating in our mentoring program, please fill out this form, and our office will be in touch.

Graduate Student Association

Few things are as vital to a thriving college campus as the community. We offer many student-run organizations, associations, and programs to help you create the best student experience possible.

The Graduate Student Association gives a voice to our graduate student population and provides meaningful representation for all incoming and current students.

An Inclusive and Diverse Student Experience

The Division for Inclusion and Equity ensures that all Saint Mary’s undergraduate and graduate program students have equal access to resources and assistance‚ regardless of their economic status. From laptops and emergency travel funds to winter clothing and professional attire, we do our best to enhance the student experience and position our graduate students for success.

Located in the Division for Inclusion and Equity is the LGBTQ+ Center, which provides a safe and comfortable space for LGBTQ members and allies to study and socialize. The space is ideal for small meetings, studying, or quick breaks from your graduate studies.

Health and Wellness

It’s important during graduate school to care for your emotional, physical, and mental health. The Health and Counseling Center empowers and supports your health and wellness through answering your questions, performing health services, and providing counselors.

Housed in the same building is our state-of-the-art Angela Athletic & Wellness Complex, which includes a full gym, basketball court, and cafe for all Saint Mary’s students, faculty, and staff.

Academic and Technological Resources

Whether you’re working on an essay for English class or preparing for a biology exam, the Writing and Tutoring Center has your back. They offer both in-person and online tutoring resources for graduate students in a broad range of academic topics, in addition to writing-specific tutors for research papers.

ResNet is our student IT resource and will help you with all things related to your technology needs, including WiFi. ResNet provides vital assistance for both online and on-campus students.

Career Resources for Life

In addition to creating a positive student experience for every Saint Mary’s student, we’re also dedicated to helping students succeed long after they finish their graduate studies and go out into the world. The Career Crossings Office provides lifetime career services for alumnae of Saint Mary’s graduate programs.

As you complete your graduate program, the Career Crossings Office will assist you with:

• Resume and letter writing
• Job search strategies
• Networking strategies
• Interview preparation
• Career exploration and transitioning

Professors who care about your graduate studies success