Institutional Research is traditionally defined as a collection of activities designed to support the information needs of the College. These needs focus on the twin demands of externally mandated reporting and internally directed decision-making. Institutional Research should be the repository for definitions and reporting standards that allow clear communication between divisions. Information, not data, is the objective.

The Office of Institutional Research (OIR) contributes to the College mission by providing consistent and reliable data to inform and support information-driven decision-making, institutional planning, and the assessment of student learning.  The OIR collaborates with College community members to identify information needs, collect and manage data, provide analysis, disseminate clear findings, and encourage data-driven discussion.  The OIR serves the diverse information needs and reporting demands of the campus and external entities in a timely, unbiased, and responsible manner.

To achieve its mission, the Office of Institutional Research establishes the following goals:

  • Provide consistent and reliable data to inform and support information-driven decision-making, planning, and assessment of student learning.
  • Collaborate with campus community to identify information needs.
  • Respond to external data request (IPEDS, guidebooks, etc.) in a timely, accurate, and thorough manner.
  • Develop professionally.
  • Be a faithful steward of College resources and promote opportunities for sustainability.

This site is set-up to provide information and data about Saint Mary's College to external and internal stakeholders.  If you would like to request any additional data, please contact us.