CSM recognized for providing access to higher education and post-graduation earnings
OMAHA, Neb. – College of Saint Mary (CSM) received national recognition as a leading higher education institution for student opportunity and success by the Carnegie Classifications of Institutions of Higher Education.
CSM has been designated as a Higher Access, Higher Earnings Opportunity College and University, part of a newly developed Student Access and Earnings Classification published by the Carnegie Foundation and the American Council on Education.
This Carnegie classification honors institutions that provide exceptional access to higher education while delivering strong post-graduation earnings for their students.
“This recognition affirms College of Saint Mary’s mission to empower women through accessible, high-quality education that leads to meaningful employment and financial independence,” said Kimberly Allen, vice president of academic and student affairs. “We are dedicated to fostering social mobility and strengthening the Omaha community by equipping our graduates with the skills and opportunities needed to thrive.”
Over 3,700 institutions were evaluated, and 479 institutions were identified as Opportunity Colleges and Universities. The classification system uses advanced methodology to assess institutions by comparing student access and post-attendance earnings among peer institutions.
CSM met the rigorous criteria of having an access ratio at or above 1, demonstrating its commitment to welcoming a diverse and often underserved student population. Additionally, CSM’s graduates achieved an earnings ratio at or above 1.5, reflecting the college’s success in preparing students for rewarding careers and economic advancement.
The designation highlights CSM’s role as a vital contributor to workforce development and economic growth in the region. Graduates of CSM transform their own lives and contribute to building a stronger, more equitable local economy.
The Carnegie Classifications of Higher Education is the leading framework for recognizing and describing institutional diversity in U.S. higher education.
