St. Mary-of-the-Woods College

Founded in 1840 by Saint Mother Theodore Guerin and the Sisters of Providence, Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College (SMWC) is the oldest, private, Catholic liberal arts college for women in the United States. For almost two centuries, the College has enabled students to cultivate their interests, think critically, communicate responsibly, engage in lifelong learning and effect positive change in a global society. SMWC offers these educational opportunities to both men and women through distance and graduate programs, while remaining committed to our heritage as a women-only campus. Saint Mother Theodore Guerin believed, as our faculty and staff do, that a commitment to Catholic values combined with a passion for a rich liberal arts education is key to empowering students as leaders. Our philosophy stresses an exploration of spirituality, a respect for diversity, a passion for stewardship and, as our college motto, Virtus cum Scientia (Virtue and Knowledge United) proclaims, a devotion to the unity of faith and reason. In today's ever-changing world, we continue to advance the liberal arts education that defines us. Students are trained to think abstractly, to make informed decisions, to devise creative solutions to complex problems, and most importantly, to become well-rounded human beings, determined to make a lasting impact in their careers and communities. SMWC is a place where students flourish and find their voice, and make it heard across the country and around the world. This solid foundation begins with our small class sizes. With a low faculty-student ratio of 11:1, students at SMWC have many opportunities for active participation and meaningful interaction with faculty. The College creates an environment where students learn to solve problems and develop the confidence to express themselves intelligibly. The College chose a bold course of action to put a private college education in the hands of students seeking a high quality, liberal arts experience. To help families manage the rising costs of higher education, the College created its Tuition Promise. Beginning with the 2011-12 academic year, the SMWC Tuition Promise ensures the price of tuition for incoming freshmen campus students will remain the same for four years. While many families' financial circumstances may change in a four-year period, tuition will not. Students and their families can base financial planning on this certainty. With 36 years of experience in distance education, our distance and online programs give men and women from all corners of the world an opportunity to pursue their long-term goals, while balancing professional and personal responsibilities. Those with an appetite for knowledge will excel with independent study combined with significant faculty interaction. Consistent communication and technology seamlessly woven into our curriculum makes us a great choice for distance learners. Our faculty is extremely effective in creating the same 'ah ha' moments for students online as in the classroom. By developing an active engagement with knowledge, we recently combined distance and campus students to work collaboratively and leading teams to solve problems for local business entities. Inspired by the determination of Saint Mother Theodore Guerin, the College embraces its role as a pioneer and leader in women's and distance education. A commitment to support students as they master the methodology of a discipline, while ensuring a well-rounded liberal arts education, is not a lofty goal but a reality. It is reflected in our innovative curriculum, supportive campus community and a distinctive pedagogy. A strong sense of empowerment is embedded in the soul of the College, which is evident in the students it attracts and in the successful alumnae worldwide, who are forever connected to The College.