College of Saint Mary sees increase in first-time, first year, healthcare professions students

OMAHA, Neb. – College of Saint Mary (CSM) experienced growth in first-time, first year students and healthcare professions programs, according to census data for fall 2025.

“Our enrollment this fall represents the heart of our mission and the future of our community. As the assistant vice president of enrollment services, I see enrollment as a measure of our shared commitment—to allow opportunity, to support academic excellence and to prepare women to lead with commitment and compassion,” said Andrea Loll, assistant vice president of enrollment services. “Sustained and strategic enrollment growth ensures that we can continue delivering personalized education, fostering an inclusive environment and living out our Mercy values for future generations.”

CSM enrolled 759 students, including 118 first-time, first year students, which is a 44% increase from fall 2024 to fall 2025 and the most first-time, first year students since 2018.

Undergraduate enrollment increased by 10% and graduate enrollment increased by 7% from fall 2024 to fall 2025.

“In the face of a looming ‘enrollment cliff’ and declining first-year admissions nationwide, College of Saint Mary continues to stand apart. These accomplishments reflect the lasting appeal of a college that values genuine connection in a close-knit community and a mission to empower women to lead with excellence, compassion, dignity, inclusivity and integrity,” said Larry Hughes, director of assessment and institutional effectiveness. “In a time of standardized enrollment models and programs, CSM’s distinctive, purpose-driven spirit inspires learners to pursue not just an education, but a truly transformative journey.”

CSM’s healthcare programs are experiencing steady growth. The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program had a 24% increase in enrollment, the Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies (MSPAS) program had its largest enrollment since it began in 2015 and the Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program had a 17% increase in enrollment, the highest enrollment in the program since it began in 2020.

The College's retention of first-time, first year students increased by nearly 83% from fall 2024 to fall 2025, which is higher than the national average for colleges in the United States, according to the National Student Clearinghouse Research Center.