Monsignor James Patrick Shea, President of the University of Mary | University Of Mary
Monsignor James Patrick Shea, President of the University of Mary | University Of Mary
The University of Mary in Bismarck, North Dakota, has reported its highest-ever enrollment for the 2025–26 academic year, with 3,973 students now attending. This record-setting figure includes increases in undergraduate, graduate, and online programs.
The university welcomed 1,296 new students this fall, a group that includes freshmen, transfer students, and graduate students. The student body now represents all 50 states and 20 countries. Most new enrollees come from outside North Dakota; Minnesota, Wisconsin, South Dakota, Colorado, Washington, and California are among the leading states of origin.
University officials attribute the growth to national outreach and efforts to serve learners at every stage of life. Rachael Brash, vice president for public affairs at the University of Mary said: “Not only does the University of Mary have record enrollment, we have increased enrollment in both undergraduate and graduate programs, here on campus and online. This proves that the University of Mary is a leader in educating students at every stage of their journey — from 18-year-olds beginning their undergraduate studies to adults advancing their professional careers. Families and students across the country are recognizing that Mary provides not only excellent academics, but also a faith-filled and supportive community where they truly belong.”
Retention rates have also improved; early data shows that 83% of last year’s freshmen returned for their sophomore year. Brash commented: “When students choose to stay, it shows they feel supported academically, personally, and spiritually, and that Mary is delivering on the promise we make to families. It also shows they’re succeeding in the classroom while finding a true sense of belonging in our community.”
The university is currently undertaking its largest construction project to date—the $45 million Marauders Athletics Complex—which forms part of its $272 million Vision 2030 Campaign. Scheduled for completion by fall 2027, this project will feature a Research and Performance Center focused on sports medicine and wellness as well as what will be North Dakota’s largest multipurpose sports dome.
Additionally this semester marks the launch of the Catholic Montessori Institute at the graduate level. The institute will hold its annual national conference October 16–18 as it aims to become a global center for Catholic Montessori education.
Brash noted: “Families continue to see the University of Mary as a place where students not only receive an excellent education but also a transformative experience rooted in faith service and community. Our enrollment growth new programs and historic campus projects all point to a university that is thriving and looking boldly toward the future.”
As nearly four thousand students begin or continue their studies this semester university leaders say these developments signal continued momentum for one of America’s growing Catholic universities.
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