College of Saint Mary Profile
The College of Saint Mary (CSM), located in Omaha, Nebraska, is a distinguished private Catholic institution dedicated to the education of women. Established in 1923 by the Sisters of Mercy, CSM has built a rich legacy of empowering women through academic excellence, leadership development, and a strong commitment to Catholic values. The university’s long-standing mission is to foster intellectual, spiritual, and personal growth in a supportive, inclusive environment.
Accreditation and Academic Excellence
CSM holds accreditation from The Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, ensuring that its academic programs meet the highest standards of quality. In 2004, the university was accepted into the Academic Quality Improvement Program (AQIP), an initiative that emphasizes continuous improvement and enhances the institution’s commitment to ongoing academic and operational excellence.
The university offers a range of programs, from associate’s to graduate degrees, in a variety of fields. The nursing programs at CSM—comprising associate’s, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees—are accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC), ensuring that students receive a comprehensive and rigorous education in nursing practice. In addition, the university’s occupational therapy program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE), a division of the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA). This accreditation speaks to the quality of CSM’s health sciences programs, which equip students with the skills necessary to succeed in the healthcare profession.
The business administration programs at CSM, including business leadership and business information systems, are accredited by the International Assembly for Collegiate Business Education (IACBE), a respected body that ensures business programs meet global standards of excellence. This further underscores CSM’s dedication to providing students with a competitive edge in today’s fast-evolving business world.
University Memberships and Affiliations
CSM is a member of several prestigious organizations that reinforce its academic standing and dedication to women’s higher education. These include the American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education, the National Coalition of Women’s Colleges, the Mercy Conference of Higher Education, and the Association of Catholic Colleges and Universities, among others. These affiliations provide CSM with access to a network of like-minded institutions and contribute to its reputation as a leader in Catholic higher education.
Additionally, CSM is a part of the Council for Independent Colleges, the Nebraska Council on Teacher Education, and the Association of Independent Colleges and Universities of Nebraska. These memberships strengthen CSM’s academic profile and demonstrate its commitment to maintaining strong ties with regional and national education organizations.
Rankings and Recognition
The College of Saint Mary is highly regarded for its academic offerings and its focus on developing well-rounded, socially conscious leaders. In U.S. News & World Report’s 2011 rankings, CSM was placed 44th among Regional Colleges in the Midwest. This recognition highlights the university's commitment to providing a high-quality education in a nurturing and student-centered environment.
Conclusion
The College of Saint Mary stands as a beacon of academic excellence, providing women with the tools they need to succeed both personally and professionally. With its strong Catholic foundation, rigorous academic programs, and commitment to continuous improvement, CSM is a leading institution for those seeking a transformative education. Whether in nursing, business, education, or health sciences, students at CSM are prepared to make a lasting impact in their communities and in their chosen fields.
