Your Student Experience

Whether your grad program courses take place online or on the campus of Saint Mary’s, you will have a well-rounded student experience. Here you will learn from dedicated faculty and real-world practitioners. You will gain valuable research skills with the help of graduate program specific librarians and library resources. And most programs are flexible allowing you to balance coursework and work/life commitments. All in a collegial and friendly community.

Topical Research Opportunities

All SMC graduate students complete coursework in research methods, along with a research project. Many students take this a step further and apply their new skills and understanding to additional capstone, practice innovation, practicum, or other projects. Faculty keep research fresh and timely by allowing students and current events to shape the direction of research.

Graduate Assistantship

Graduate students at Saint Mary's can apply for Graduate Assistantships after being accepted into a program. GAships offer students free housing on campus and a stipend of $750/semester (Fall and Spring only) in exchange for 10 hours of work per week in the assigned office. GAships are open in academic and administrative departments accross campus, with available positions often changing. 

GA Application requirements include a resume/C.V., a cover letter, and an interview. Please reach out to graduateadmission@saintmarys.edu for information about available positions. 

Community Partnerships

Thanks to extensive community partnerships, students in our on-campus programs will gain first hand experience working with clients located beyond our campus boundaries. Area organizations like LOGAN, Lighthouse Autism Center, and the Readiness Center benefit from our graduate students' care and expertise.

Mentoring Program

You can enroll in our faculty-grad student mentorship program at any time. The purpose of this program is to pair graduate students with faculty members outside of their department who can provide support for them in their graduate school experience. Grad students and mentors can be matched on topics students feel they need support and community in, such as BIPOC experience in academia, LGBTQ topics, family/work/school life balance, diverse faith traditions. This program is allowing students to build networks and connections in graduate school that don’t strictly pertain to their academic pursuits, instead helping them succeed at Saint Mary’s holistically. If you are a student interested in participating in this program, please fill out the form linked here, and our office will be in touch.

GSA

The Graduate Student Association was formed to provide a voice for the graduate student population here on Saint Mary’s College campus. With a growing number of graduate programs offered, we wish to provide representation for all incoming and current students. This organization seeks to serve as a connection between students and faculty so students can succeed academically, but also thrive socially through engagement activities and interactions with students and staff.

Locked Tuition

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.

Career Resources for Life

The Career Crossing Office is a comprehensive place for you to explore your career, capitalize on the skills and knowledge you’ve acquired in your master’s program, and help transition you to your occupation. As a grad student, the Career Crossings Office will assist you with

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

What’s more, as a Saint Mary’s alumni, you can access SMC career resources for life.