| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
Motto: "Enter to Learn, Leave to Serve"
Type: Private, Catholic, Liberal Arts College
Affiliation: Roman Catholic (De La Salle Christian Brothers)
Location: Moraga, California (approximately 20 miles east of San Francisco)
Campus: Suburban setting on a 420-acre campus in the scenic Moraga Valley.
Enrollment: Around 3,500 students (including undergraduate and graduate programs).
Mascot: The Gaels
School Colors: Red and Blue
Saint Mary’s offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs emphasizing liberal arts, business, education, and science. The college has four main schools:
School of Liberal Arts
School of Science
School of Economics and Business Administration
Kalmanovitz School of Education
Signature Programs:
The college is known for its Great Books program, where students engage in the study of classic texts from various disciplines.
A robust business administration program, including an MBA program.
Strong teacher education programs in the Kalmanovitz School of Education.
Saint Mary’s emphasizes small class sizes, personalized attention, and a focus on critical thinking.
Saint Mary’s is a member of the NCAA Division I and competes in the West Coast Conference (WCC).
The college's sports teams are known as the Gaels, with basketball being the most prominent athletic program.
The men's basketball team has achieved national recognition, regularly competing in the NCAA tournament and challenging top teams like Gonzaga University.
Saint Mary’s offers a tight-knit community with a strong emphasis on service, social justice, and Catholic values.
There are over 50 student organizations and clubs, providing opportunities for leadership and community engagement.
The college also emphasizes Lasallian traditions, which include faith, inclusivity, and quality education.
Location: The campus is nestled in a picturesque valley, offering a peaceful learning environment close to the cultural and professional opportunities of the Bay Area.
Service-Oriented Education: True to its motto, the college promotes service learning and civic engagement.
Study Abroad: Saint Mary’s has a variety of study abroad programs in Europe, Asia, Latin America, and beyond.
Institute for Lasallian Social Action (ILSA): This initiative integrates community engagement and social justice into the educational experience.
Selective admissions process: The college seeks students who are academically driven and committed to contributing to their community.
Application Requirements:
High school transcript
Standardized test scores (SAT/ACT may be optional in some years)
Personal essay
Letters of recommendation
Saint Mary’s offers over 40 undergraduate majors and minors across a broad range of disciplines. These programs are organized under three main schools:
This school is focused on humanities, social sciences, and creative disciplines:
Majors:
Communication
English
Performing Arts (Dance, Music, Theatre)
Politics
History
Sociology
Psychology
Ethnic Studies
Anthropology
Art History
Modern Languages (Spanish, French)
Theology and Religious Studies
Philosophy
Women’s and Gender Studies
Justice, Community, and Leadership
Minors: Options include most of the above disciplines, as well as specialized programs like Creative Writing and Film, Television, and Media Studies.
Saint Mary’s is particularly known for its Great Books Program, which emphasizes classic literature, philosophy, and critical thinking.
Focused on natural and applied sciences, the School of Science offers programs designed for students interested in research, healthcare, technology, and environmental studies:
Majors:
Biology
Chemistry
Biochemistry
Environmental and Earth Science
Kinesiology
Mathematics
Physics
Computer Science
Health and Human Performance
Pre-Professional Programs:
Pre-Med
Pre-Dental
Pre-Pharmacy
Pre-Veterinary
Pre-Engineering
The business school at Saint Mary’s is well-regarded, offering programs in:
Majors:
Accounting
Economics
Business Administration (with concentrations in Finance, Marketing, Global Business, and Entrepreneurship)
Minors:
Business Administration
Economics
Saint Mary’s provides a variety of graduate degrees across business, education, leadership, and more. Graduate programs are housed in the School of Economics and Business Administration and the Kalmanovitz School of Education:
Recognized for its strong emphasis on teacher education and leadership:
Master’s Degrees:
Master of Arts in Teaching
Master of Education (M.Ed.)
Counseling (School Counseling or Marriage and Family Therapy)
Leadership (Educational or Organizational Leadership)
Special Education
Teaching Credentials:
Single-Subject Teaching Credential
Multiple-Subject Teaching Credential
Education Specialist Credential
Doctorate in Education (Ed.D.) is also available.
SEBA offers business and leadership programs designed for working professionals:
Master’s Degrees:
Master of Business Administration (MBA) – Includes Executive, Professional, and Global MBA tracks
Master of Science in Business Analytics (MSBA)
Master of Science in Financial Analysis and Investment Management (MS-FAIM)
Master of Science in Management
Master of Science in Marketing
Executive Education: SEBA also offers certificate programs and workshops for professional development.
Creative Writing (MFA): A highly regarded Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing program for aspiring authors and poets.
Leadership (MA): A Master’s in Leadership designed for professionals in various industries.
Saint Mary’s offers shorter programs for professional advancement or specialized skills:
Certificate Programs:
Project Management
Digital Marketing
Leadership and Management
Executive Coaching
Teaching Credentials: Programs for aspiring educators to earn teaching certifications.
Saint Mary’s also offers unique educational experiences and opportunities:
Great Books Program: An interdisciplinary curriculum where students engage with the foundational works of Western and global thought.
Honors Program: A challenging academic track for high-achieving students.
Study Abroad Programs: Options in Europe, Asia, Australia, and Latin America for students seeking international experience.
3+2 Engineering Program: In collaboration with other universities, this program allows students to complete a bachelor’s degree in three years at Saint Mary’s and then transfer to complete an engineering degree.
Saint Mary’s provides evening, weekend, and online courses to meet the needs of adult learners and professionals:
Bachelor's Degree Completion Program: For adults who want to complete a bachelor’s degree, particularly in Business or Liberal Arts.
Workshops and Custom Training Programs: Offered for businesses and organizations.
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Accounting |
4 years |
$55,000 |
|
Art History |
4 years |
$55,000 |
|
Biochemistry |
4 years |
$55,000 |
|
Biology |
4 years |
$55,000 |
|
Business Administration |
4 years |
$55,000 |
|
Chemistry |
4 years |
$55,000 |
|
Communication |
4 years |
$55,000 |
|
Computer Science |
4 years |
$55,000 |
|
Economics |
4 years |
$55,000 |
|
English |
4 years |
$55,000 |
|
Environmental and Earth Science |
4 years |
$55,000 |
|
Ethnic Studies |
4 years |
$55,000 |
|
Global Business |
4 years |
$55,000 |
|
History |
4 years |
$55,000 |
|
Health and Human Performance (Kinesiology) |
4 years |
$55,000 |
|
International Area Studies |
4 years |
$55,000 |
|
Justice, Community, and Leadership |
4 years |
$55,000 |
|
Mathematics |
4 years |
$55,000 |
|
Music |
4 years |
$55,000 |
|
Performing Arts (Dance) |
4 years |
$55,000 |
|
Performing Arts (Theatre) |
4 years |
$55,000 |
|
Philosophy |
4 years |
$55,000 |
|
Physics |
4 years |
$55,000 |
|
Politics |
4 years |
$55,000 |
|
Psychology |
4 years |
$55,000 |
|
Sociology |
4 years |
$55,000 |
|
Spanish |
4 years |
$55,000 |
|
Theology and Religious Studies |
4 years |
$55,000 |
|
Women’s and Gender Studies |
4 years |
$55,000 |
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Master of Business Administration (MBA) |
1.5–2 years |
$48,000–$50,000 |
|
Executive MBA (EMBA) |
18 months |
$48,000 |
|
Global MBA |
1 year |
$50,000 |
|
Master of Science in Business Analytics (MSBA) |
1–2 years |
$40,000–$45,000 |
|
Master of Science in Financial Analysis and Investment Management (MS-FAIM) |
1–2 years |
$40,000–$45,000 |
|
Master of Science in Marketing |
1–2 years |
$40,000–$45,000 |
|
Master of Arts in Leadership |
1–2 years |
$35,000–$40,000 |
|
Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) |
1–2 years |
$20,000–$30,000 |
|
Master of Education (M.Ed.) |
1–2 years |
$20,000–$30,000 |
|
Master of Arts in Counseling |
2–3 years |
$25,000–$35,000 |
|
Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) |
2–3 years |
$25,000–$35,000 |
|
School Counseling |
2 years |
$25,000–$35,000 |
|
Master of Arts in Special Education |
1–2 years |
$20,000–$30,000 |
|
Doctorate in Education (Ed.D.) |
3–4 years |
$20,000–$25,000 per year |
|
Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing (MFA) |
2 years |
$30,000–$35,000 |
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Doctorate in Educational Leadership (Ed.D.) |
3–4 years |
$20,000–$25,000 |
Location: The college is located in Moraga, California, a safe and quiet suburban town about 20 miles east of San Francisco. This proximity provides students access to world-class cultural, professional, and recreational opportunities in the San Francisco Bay Area.
Welcoming Community: Saint Mary’s fosters an inclusive environment where students from all over the world are welcomed and supported.
Personalized Learning: With a student-to-faculty ratio of 11:1, professors provide individualized support to help international students succeed.
Diverse Academic Programs: Offers over 40 undergraduate majors and several graduate programs tailored to diverse career goals.
Optional Practical Training (OPT): After graduation, international students on an F-1 visa may qualify for up to 12 months of OPT, and STEM graduates may qualify for an additional 24-month OPT extension.
Support Services for International Students: The college offers resources to help with visa assistance, cultural adjustment, academic support, and career planning.
International students can enroll in the same undergraduate and graduate programs as domestic students, including majors in liberal arts, sciences, business, and education. Some popular programs for international students include:
Business Administration (with concentrations in Marketing, Finance, Global Business)
Computer Science
Psychology
Biology
Environmental and Earth Science
Communication
Kinesiology
MBA (Master of Business Administration)
MS in Business Analytics
MS in Financial Analysis and Investment Management
MA in Leadership
MFA in Creative Writing
Ed.D. in Educational Leadership
International students must meet specific requirements for both undergraduate and graduate admissions:
A. Undergraduate Admissions:
Application Platforms: Apply via the Common Application or the Saint Mary’s College website.
Academic Requirements:
High school transcripts (must be translated into English if in another language).
Minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (or equivalent).
English Proficiency Requirements:
TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 80.
IELTS: Minimum score of 6.5.
Duolingo English Test: Minimum score of 105.
Students who have attended English-medium schools may request a waiver for the English proficiency test.
Standardized Tests: SAT/ACT scores may be optional. Check with the admissions office.
Essay and Letters of Recommendation:
Personal essay (required).
1–2 letters of recommendation (academic or professional).
B. Graduate Admissions:
Academic Requirements:
Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) from an accredited institution.
Transcripts (translated into English if applicable).
Minimum GPA requirement varies by program (typically 3.0 or higher).
English Proficiency Requirements:
TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 80–100, depending on the program.
IELTS: Minimum score of 6.5–7.0, depending on the program.
Program-Specific Requirements: Some programs may require additional materials, such as a resume, statement of purpose, or GRE/GMAT scores.
Recommendation Letters: Typically, 2–3 letters of recommendation are required.
Saint Mary’s accepts applications from first-year students, transfer students, and international students for undergraduate programs.
Choose a Program
Explore the available undergraduate programs and select the major you wish to pursue.
Submit an Application
Apply online through the Common Application or directly through the Saint Mary’s College application portal.
Application Fee: $60 (may be waived in certain cases—contact the admissions office).
Submit Required Documents
High School Transcripts: Must include a record of all completed coursework. If your transcripts are in a language other than English, they must be translated and evaluated.
Standardized Test Scores: Saint Mary’s is test-optional for most programs, but submitting SAT or ACT scores is optional unless required for a specific program or scholarship.
SAT: Saint Mary’s Code is 004675
ACT: Saint Mary’s Code is 0386
English Language Proficiency (for international students):
TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 80.
IELTS: Minimum score of 6.5.
Duolingo: Minimum score of 105.
Waivers are available for students from English-medium schools.
Letters of Recommendation: One or two letters from a teacher, counselor, or other academic mentor.
Personal Essay: Submit an essay of around 500 words (part of the Common Application).
Application Deadlines
Early Action Deadline: November 15
Regular Decision Deadline: January 15
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis after these dates.
Receive an Admission Decision Decisions are typically released within a few weeks of completing the application process.
Confirm Enrollment Once admitted, confirm your enrollment by submitting a $300 enrollment deposit (non-refundable). Deadlines to confirm enrollment are usually in May for fall intake.
Interview or Campus Visit: While not required, prospective students are encouraged to schedule a campus tour or interview with an admissions counselor.
Graduate programs at Saint Mary’s are housed in various schools, including the Kalmanovitz School of Education, the School of Economics and Business Administration (SEBA), and others. Each program has specific requirements.
Select a Program Explore the graduate programs offered and review the specific requirements for the program of interest.
Submit an Application
Apply online through the Saint Mary’s College graduate application portal.
Application Fee: Typically $50–$60 (varies by program).
Submit Required Documents
Transcripts: Submit official transcripts from all previous institutions. International transcripts must be evaluated by an approved agency such as WES or ECE.
Bachelor’s Degree: Must hold an accredited bachelor's degree (or equivalent for international students).
Letters of Recommendation: Typically 2–3 recommendation letters are required.
Statement of Purpose/Personal Essay: Write about your career goals, reasons for choosing the program, and how the degree will help you achieve your goals.
Resume/CV: Required for some programs (e.g., MBA or MS programs).
Test Scores (If Required):
GRE/GMAT: Required for some business or analytical programs like the MBA or MS in Business Analytics (waivers available in some cases).
TOEFL/IELTS/Duolingo: Required for international students who are non-native English speakers.
TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 80–100 (depending on the program).
IELTS: Minimum score of 6.5–7.0.
Program-Specific Requirements Some programs may have additional requirements, such as portfolios (for creative programs), interviews, or supplemental essays.
Application Deadlines
Deadlines vary by program, but most programs accept applications on a rolling basis.
Priority deadlines for fall admission are typically in March or April.
International students should apply earlier to allow time for visa processing.
Attend an Interview (If Required) Some programs, especially in business and education, may require an interview as part of the admission process.
Receive an Admission Decision Decisions are typically communicated within 4–6 weeks of submitting a completed application.
Confirm Enrollment
Confirm your enrollment by paying the deposit fee (varies by program, typically $300–$500).
For international students, this step is essential to receive your I-20 form for your student visa.
Saint Mary’s College offers two main intake periods:
Program Level |
Intake Periods |
Application Deadlines |
|---|---|---|
|
Undergraduate Programs |
Fall (August) |
Early Action: November 15 |
|
|
|
Regular Decision: January 15 |
|
|
Spring (January) |
Priority Deadline: November 1 |
|
Graduate Programs |
Fall (August) |
Varies by program (priority deadlines in March-April) |
|
|
Spring (January) |
Varies by program (check program-specific deadlines) |
|
|
Rolling Admissions (some programs) |
Applications are accepted year-round for certain programs |
|
International Students |
Typically Fall (August) or Spring (January) |
Apply at least 6 months before intake to allow time for visa processing |
Eligibility requirements for first-year undergraduate applicants:
Requirement |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Academic Qualification |
High school diploma or equivalent with strong academic performance. |
|
GPA Requirements |
Minimum 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale (or equivalent). |
|
English Proficiency |
For international students, one of the following is required: |
|
|
- TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 80. |
|
|
- IELTS: Minimum score of 6.5. |
|
|
- Duolingo English Test: Minimum score of 105. |
|
|
- Waivers available for students from English-medium schools or with strong SAT/ACT scores. |
|
Standardized Test Scores |
SAT/ACT scores are optional (test-optional policy). |
|
Personal Essay |
Part of the application; should discuss goals, achievements, and reasons for choosing Saint Mary’s. |
|
Letters of Recommendation |
One or two letters from teachers, counselors, or mentors are required. |
Eligibility requirements for graduate applicants vary by program. Below are the general requirements:
Requirement |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Academic Qualification |
A bachelor’s degree (or equivalent for international students) from an accredited institution. |
|
GPA Requirements |
Minimum 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale (or equivalent). |
|
English Proficiency |
For international students, one of the following is required: |
|
|
- TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 80–100 (varies by program). |
|
|
- IELTS: Minimum score of 6.5–7.0 (varies by program). |
|
|
- Duolingo English Test: Minimum score of 105–120. |
|
|
- Waivers available for students from English-medium institutions. |
|
Standardized Test Scores |
GRE/GMAT may be required for some programs (e.g., MBA or MS in Business Analytics). Waivers may be available based on work experience or academic performance. |
|
Letters of Recommendation |
Two or three recommendation letters from academic or professional references. |
|
Statement of Purpose/Essay |
Discuss career goals, reasons for pursuing the program, and how it aligns with your aspirations. |
|
Resume/CV |
Required for most graduate programs (e.g., MBA, MS). |
|
Program-Specific Requirements |
Some programs (e.g., Creative Writing MFA) may require a portfolio, writing samples, or interviews. |
Ranking Organization |
Category |
Rank/Rating |
|---|---|---|
|
QS World University Rankings |
Not Ranked Globally (Primarily Regional Focus) |
N/A |
|
U.S. News & World Report |
Regional Universities (West) |
Top 10 |
|
U.S. News & World Report |
Best Undergraduate Teaching |
Top 10 |
|
U.S. News & World Report |
Best Value Schools (West) |
Top 15 |
|
U.S. News & World Report |
Social Mobility (West) |
Top 10 |
|
College Factual |
Business Administration Program |
Top 15% Nationwide |
|
Niche Rankings |
Best Catholic Colleges in America |
Top 50 |
|
Niche Rankings |
Safest College Campuses in America |
Top 10% |
|
Forbes |
America's Top Colleges |
Listed |
|
The Princeton Review |
Best Regional Colleges |
Included in "Best Western Colleges" list |
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility |
Award Amount (USD) |
Key Details |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Merit-Based Scholarships |
Undergraduate students based on academic achievement (GPA, SAT/ACT optional) |
$10,000–$30,000 per year |
Automatically awarded upon admission. Renewable for up to 4 years if GPA requirements are maintained. |
|
International Student Scholarships |
International undergraduate students with strong academic records |
$5,000–$15,000 per year |
Automatically considered during the admissions process. No separate application required. |
|
Lasallian Leadership Scholarship |
Students with a record of leadership and community service |
Up to $13,000 per year |
Application required, demonstrating leadership activities and service commitment. Renewable annually. |
|
Gael Scholars Award |
High-achieving undergraduate students (GPA 3.8+ recommended) |
Up to $30,000 per year |
Limited to a select number of students. Automatically awarded based on academic records. |
|
Transfer Merit Scholarships |
Transfer students with strong academic records (GPA of 3.0+ preferred) |
$6,000–$15,000 per year |
Automatically awarded upon admission for eligible transfer students. Renewable annually. |
|
Alumni Legacy Scholarship |
Children or grandchildren of Saint Mary’s alumni |
$2,000 per year |
Application required. Available for undergraduate students only. |
|
Brother Dominic Barry Scholarship |
Undergraduate students with financial need and academic merit |
N/A |
Requires FAFSA submission or financial documentation for international students. |
|
Saint Mary’s College Grant |
Based on demonstrated financial need (domestic and international students) |
(up to full tuition) |
Requires FAFSA (domestic) or CSS Profile (international). Renewable annually. |
|
Catholic High School Graduate Grant |
Graduates of Catholic high schools |
$2,000 per year |
Automatically awarded to eligible students. |
|
Performing Arts Scholarships |
Students with talent in music, dance, or theatre arts |
$6,000–$12,000 per year |
Application, audition, or portfolio submission required. Renewable annually. |
|
STEM Scholarship |
Students majoring in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics |
$5,000–$15,000 per year |
Based on academic merit. Application required. |
|
Athletic Scholarships |
NCAA Division I student-athletes |
N/A |
Awarded by the Athletics Department for recruited athletes. |
|
Diversity Scholarship |
Students from underrepresented backgrounds |
$5,000–$10,000 per year |
Requires application or essay highlighting contributions to diversity and inclusion. |
|
Graduate Program Scholarships |
Graduate students in select programs (e.g., MBA, Education, Leadership) |
$2,000–$10,000 per year |
Program-specific. Check with individual graduate departments for eligibility and application details. |
|
Military Service Scholarships |
Veterans, active-duty military, or their dependents |
N/A |
Available through the Yellow Ribbon Program and other veteran support programs. |
|
External Scholarships |
Open to all students; funded by external organizations |
N/A |
Students can apply independently to external scholarships. Guidance provided by the Financial Aid Office. |
Accommodation Type |
Description |
Amenities |
Cost per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Traditional Residence Halls |
Shared rooms for first-year and sophomore students. |
- Double/triple occupancy |
$8,000–$10,500 |
|
Suite-Style Housing |
Suites with shared bedrooms and private/common bathrooms for upperclassmen. |
- 4-6 person suites |
$10,500–$12,000 |
|
Townhouses (Apartment-Style) |
Independent living for juniors, seniors, and graduate students. |
- Fully furnished |
$11,500–$13,000 |
|
Commuter Housing |
Flexible housing options for students living off-campus. |
- Access to campus dining and common facilities |
Not Applicable |
|
Family Housing (Limited) |
Housing available for married students or those with dependents. |
- Limited availability |
(contact housing office) |
|
Off-Campus Housing Assistance |
Guidance provided for students seeking accommodation outside campus. |
- Assistance finding rental apartments nearby |
(approx. $12,000–$18,000/year) |
1. Campus Community and Atmosphere
Saint Mary’s College has a close-knit and supportive community due to its small size and personalized approach to education. With a student-to-faculty ratio of 11:1, students build strong connections with their professors and peers. The campus atmosphere is inclusive, welcoming, and centered on Lasallian Catholic values, emphasizing respect, service, and social justice.
The college’s location in Moraga, California, offers students a safe and serene environment while still being close to the dynamic San Francisco Bay Area. This allows students to enjoy both a peaceful campus life and the professional and cultural opportunities of nearby cities like San Francisco, Oakland, and Berkeley.
2. Clubs and Organizations
Saint Mary’s College hosts over 50 student organizations and clubs, catering to a wide range of interests, including academic, cultural, recreational, and social activities. These groups allow students to connect with like-minded peers, develop leadership skills, and make lasting friendships. Popular clubs include:
Cultural and Diversity Organizations: Such as the Black Student Union, Latinx Student Union, Asian Pacific American Student Association, and LGBTQ+ clubs.
Service-Oriented Groups: Students participate in service initiatives through groups like the Mission and Ministry Center and the Catholic Institute for Lasallian Social Action (CILSA).
Recreational and Hobby Clubs: Options include outdoor adventure groups, dance clubs, and theater troupes.
Academic and Career-Oriented Clubs: Business, pre-med, and tech-related student organizations provide networking and learning opportunities.
Greek Life: While not as prominent as at larger universities, there are service-oriented fraternities and sororities.
3. Athletics and Recreation
Saint Mary’s is known for its Division I athletic programs, with the college’s teams, the Gaels, competing in the West Coast Conference (WCC). The most popular sport on campus is men’s basketball, with the team often participating in the NCAA tournament and rivaling schools like Gonzaga.
Other sports teams include soccer, baseball, volleyball, and cross country. Students can also participate in intramural and club sports, such as rugby, ultimate frisbee, and more.
For recreation, students can use the on-campus Joseph L. Alioto Recreation Center, which offers:
A state-of-the-art fitness center
A swimming pool
Rock climbing walls
Fitness classes (e.g., yoga, Zumba, strength training)
4. Arts and Culture
Saint Mary’s fosters creativity and expression through its performing arts programs. Students can participate in:
Theater productions, dance performances, and music ensembles.
Events like open mic nights, art exhibits, and concerts.
Opportunities to study or perform abroad through cultural exchange programs.
The college’s Museum of Art on campus hosts rotating exhibits, providing students with exposure to local and international artists.
5. Campus Events and Traditions
Saint Mary’s is known for its annual campus traditions that bring the community together. Some of the most beloved events include:
Welcome Week and Orientation: For new students to get to know campus life and make connections.
GaelFest: A fall festival featuring music, food, and games.
De La Salle Week: Celebrating the Lasallian heritage with community service, faith-based events, and lectures.
Spring Fling: An end-of-year celebration with entertainment, activities, and performances.
Commencement Week Activities: Senior celebrations, dinners, and the graduation ceremony.
Additionally, the college regularly hosts guest speakers, film screenings, career fairs, and networking events.
6. Service and Social Justice
Rooted in its Catholic and Lasallian values, Saint Mary’s emphasizes service and social justice as core components of student life. Programs like the Catholic Institute for Lasallian Social Action (CILSA) connect students with local and global service projects, addressing issues such as education inequality, homelessness, and environmental sustainability.
Students can participate in community engagement opportunities such as:
Tutoring and mentoring programs in local schools.
Habitat for Humanity builds.
Mission trips and immersion experiences abroad.
7. Spiritual Life
Saint Mary’s provides resources for students to explore their faith and spirituality, regardless of religious background. The Mission and Ministry Center offers:
Masses and prayer services in the campus chapel.
Retreat programs for spiritual reflection.
Opportunities for interfaith dialogue and learning.
The campus fosters an inclusive spiritual community, encouraging students to grow both spiritually and ethically.
8. Study Spaces and Facilities
The campus offers a variety of spaces for studying and collaboration, such as:
The Saint Mary’s Library, equipped with private study rooms, a cafe, and computer labs.
The Joseph L. Alioto Recreation Center, which doubles as a place to relax and socialize.
Outdoor seating areas and scenic spots for studying in the open air.
9. Dining and Food Options
Saint Mary’s dining facilities offer a variety of meal options to suit different dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. The main dining areas include:
The Oliver Hall Dining Commons, featuring buffet-style meals.
The Cafe Louis, a coffee shop and snack bar.
Additional grab-and-go meal options.
Meal plans are mandatory for on-campus residents, ensuring students have access to nutritious meals.
10. Support Services
Saint Mary’s provides a wide range of student support services to help students thrive:
Academic Support: Peer tutoring, writing assistance, and faculty office hours.
Counseling and Health Services: Free or low-cost mental health counseling, medical care, and wellness programs.
Career Development: Guidance on internships, job searches, resume building, and networking.
International Student Services: Support with visas, cultural adjustment, and academic success.
Disability Support Services: Accommodations for students with physical or learning disabilities.
11. Proximity to the San Francisco Bay Area
Saint Mary’s location in Moraga allows students to enjoy a serene campus environment while being just a short drive from the cultural, recreational, and professional opportunities in San Francisco, Oakland, and Berkeley. Students often take advantage of the nearby attractions, such as:
Tech and business internships in Silicon Valley.
Cultural experiences like museums, theaters, and festivals.
Outdoor activities like hiking in the nearby hills and visiting the California coastline.
1. Career Development Center
The Career and Professional Development Services (CPDS) office at Saint Mary’s offers comprehensive support to help students prepare for and secure job placements. Services include:
Career Coaching and Advising: Individual counseling to explore career paths, prepare resumes, and develop interview skills.
Internship Support: Guidance in securing internships in the San Francisco Bay Area and beyond, offering real-world experience while studying.
On-Campus Recruitment Events: Job fairs, networking events, and employer visits are held regularly, connecting students with top companies.
Workshops and Seminars: Focused on professional development topics like LinkedIn optimization, interview prep, and workplace etiquette.
2. Internship Opportunities
Internships play a significant role in preparing students for full-time jobs. Saint Mary’s College has strong connections with employers in various industries, especially in the San Francisco Bay Area, Silicon Valley, and beyond.
Popular Internship Providers:
Apple
Salesforce
Kaiser Permanente
Deloitte
Wells Fargo
Oakland Athletics (sports internships)
Fields with Strong Internship Presence:
Business (marketing, finance, accounting)
Technology (software development, data analytics)
Education
Sports Management
Healthcare and Public Health
These internships often lead to full-time job offers after graduation.
3. Job Placement Rates
Saint Mary’s has a strong track record for job placements, with a significant percentage of graduates finding employment or enrolling in graduate programs shortly after graduation.
Placement Rate: Around 95% of graduates report being employed, in graduate school, or engaged in a service project (like Teach for America) within 6 months of graduation.
Median Starting Salary: The average starting salary for Saint Mary’s graduates is approximately $55,000–$70,000, depending on the field of study.
Top Employers: Graduates work at well-known companies such as:
Amazon
Oracle
EY (Ernst & Young)
Bank of America
Tesla
Chevron
Nonprofit organizations and schools across California and beyond.
4. Alumni Network
Saint Mary’s College boasts a strong alumni network that actively supports current students through mentorship and networking opportunities. Alumni often provide career guidance and help students secure internships or job placements.
The Gael Alumni Network spans across industries like business, healthcare, technology, education, and the arts.
Alumni-hosted events, like networking nights and guest lectures, help students connect with professionals in their fields of interest.
5. Placement by Field of Study
Graduates of Saint Mary’s College excel in diverse industries. Below are some popular fields of study and their associated placement outcomes:
Business Administration:
High placement rate in finance, marketing, and accounting roles.
Employers: Deloitte, KPMG, Salesforce, Wells Fargo, Bank of America.
Computer Science:
Placement in technology roles like software engineering and data analytics.
Employers: Google, Apple, Oracle, Tesla, and other tech companies in Silicon Valley.
Education:
Graduates often find teaching positions in K-12 schools across California.
Many pursue advanced degrees in education or counseling.
Healthcare and Science:
Strong placement in healthcare organizations and research roles.
Employers: Kaiser Permanente, UCSF Medical Center, biotech firms.
Psychology and Sociology:
Graduates enter social services, counseling, or human resources roles.
Many continue with graduate studies in psychology, social work, or law.
Arts and Communication:
Graduates work in media, public relations, and marketing roles.
Employers: Nonprofits, startups, and cultural organizations.
6. Graduate School Admission
Many Saint Mary’s graduates pursue advanced degrees at prestigious institutions in fields like law, business, education, and healthcare.
Top Graduate Schools Attended by Alumni:
Stanford University
University of California, Berkeley
University of Southern California (USC)
UCLA
Harvard University
Columbia University
7. Unique Placement Features
Bay Area Advantage: The college’s proximity to San Francisco and Silicon Valley gives students access to world-class job opportunities in business, technology, and entrepreneurship.
Liberal Arts Foundation: The emphasis on critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving prepares graduates for diverse and evolving job markets.
Service-Oriented Careers: Many graduates enter service-oriented fields like education, counseling, and nonprofit work, reflecting the college’s Lasallian values.
8. Success Stories
A business administration graduate secures a role as a financial analyst at Google after completing an internship through the college’s network.
A computer science major begins a career in software development at Tesla, following a capstone project in collaboration with industry professionals.
An education major becomes a teacher in a Bay Area school district, supported by resources from the Kalmanovitz School of Education.
A psychology graduate is accepted into a Ph.D. program at UC Berkeley, with mentorship from Saint Mary’s faculty.
9. Support for International Students
International students receive tailored support for placements through:
CPT (Curricular Practical Training): Allows students to work in internships during their studies.
OPT (Optional Practical Training): Provides up to 12 months of work authorization post-graduation, with an additional 24-month STEM extension for eligible programs.
Global Career Network: Alumni connections worldwide help international students secure jobs or internships in their home countries or abroad.
Undergraduate Admissions:
The acceptance rate reflects the college’s commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive student body, welcoming students from various backgrounds.
Applicants with a GPA of 3.0 or higher and strong extracurricular involvement have a good chance of being admitted.
Graduate Admissions:
Acceptance rates for graduate programs vary depending on the program, with professional programs like the MBA and MS in Business Analytics having more competitive requirements.
International Students:
International students meeting academic and English proficiency requirements (e.g., TOEFL/IELTS scores) are also admitted at a similar rate.
Saint Mary's College of California
1928 Saint Mary's Road,
Moraga, CA 94575,
United States.
