Oct. 3, 2008

Bismarck, ND — As the University of Mary prepares to kick-off its yearlong 50^th Anniversary celebration, it is also once again cheering a record-breaking fall enrollment. A total of 2,862 students enrolled at America’s Leadership University this fall, up from 2,783 in fall 2007. This marks the 20^th straight year of increased fall enrollment at the university.

“The University of Mary’s continued growth in enrollment is particularly significant in light of the current economy and the decreased number of college-age students,” notes Vice President of Academic Affairs Dr. Diane Fladeland. “I think the university’s emphasis on providing quality, values-based education in today’s high-demand fields and its documented exceptional post-graduation placement rate, as well as its accessibility and affordability, are very important to students and parents alike.”

“As we look forward to beginning our campus-wide celebration of 50 years as North Dakota’s only private Christian, Catholic and Benedictine university, our continued growth in enrollment is an exciting affirmation of our role as a unique community of learners dedicated to serving the needs of the region’s people,” says University of Mary President Sister Thomas Welder. “Milestones such as the recent opening of the Tharaldson School of Business and our growing number of undergraduate and graduate fields of study continue to carry forward the tradition and values of our founding Sisters into new arenas, helping to ensure the future of our state, region, and young people.”

As the University of Mary approaches its 50^th anniversary celebration, Nov. 17, 2008, to Nov. 17, 2009, the school continues to be one of the region’s fastest-growing colleges, with ongoing expansion of its areas of study, degree programs, and delivery options. It offers 44 undergraduate majors, various pre-professional concentrations and a dual-degree, pre-engineering program. It also offers master’s degrees in business administration, counseling, education, management, nursing, occupational therapy, and project management, as well as a Doctor of Physical Therapy.

Both graduate and undergraduate accelerated degree programs for adult learners are offered through the School of Accelerated and Distance Education’s 16 sites in six states and online. The University of Mary has enjoyed continuous accreditation by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools since 1969.