Women’s College Advantage
A CSM education is shaped by three powerful forces: the strength of a women’s college, the values of the Mercy tradition, and academic programs designed to prepare students for meaningful careers and leadership in their communities.
The Value of a Women’s Education
In many co-ed classrooms, research shows men tend to speak more often. At a women’s college, that dynamic shifts. Women lead the conversation, presenting ideas, asking questions, and stepping into leadership roles with confidence.
Guided by the values of the Sisters of Mercy, students are also encouraged to lead with purpose, pursuing excellence while serving others with compassion, dignity, and integrity.
Students stop asking: Can I do this?
They start asking: How far can I go?
81%
Prepared for Their First Job
Graduates say women’s colleges prepared them well for careers compared to 54% from public universities.
62%
Six-Year Graduation Rate
Women’s colleges have a 62.2% six-year graduation rate compared to 54% at public universities.
31
All-Women’s Colleges
College of Saint Mary is proud to be one of just 31 all-women’s colleges operating today in the United States.
Source: Women’s College Coalition
Who Thrives at a Women’s College
Students who choose a women’s college are often looking for an environment where they can grow in confidence, challenge themselves academically, and prepare to lead. CSM students are surrounded by peers who support one another, faculty who know them personally, and opportunities that encourage them to step forward and make their voices heard.
A women-centered education is often a great fit for students who:
- Want to build confidence as leaders in the classroom, on campus, and in their future careers
- Value close relationships with faculty and personalized academic support
- Want opportunities to lead in student organizations, research, internships, and service
- Prefer a close-knit campus community where collaboration and encouragement are part of the culture
- Are motivated by purpose, and want their education to prepare them for meaningful work and impact
At CSM, you’re encouraged to speak up, lead, and try new things. Being surrounded by confident women pushes you to become one, too.
Jocelyn Esquivel Hernandez, Business
Get Ready To Join Us
Wherever you’re starting from, we’ll help you build a future with confidence.