The University of Mary in Bismarck has announced a new student enrollment record for the fall 2025 semester, reaching a total headcount of 3,973 students. This figure surpasses the previous record of 3,886 students set in the fall of 2024.
The growth was driven by the arrival of more than 1,200 new freshman, transfer, and graduate students. This marks another instance of rising enrollment figures among North Dakota's higher education institutions.
Key Takeaways
- The University of Mary's fall 2025 enrollment reached a record 3,973 students.
- The university's freshman retention rate is approximately 84%, significantly higher than the national average.
- Growth is supported by new academic programs and a major $45 million athletics complex construction project.
- This record is part of a broader trend of increasing student numbers across North Dakota colleges and universities.
Detailed Enrollment Figures and Demographics
The university confirmed that enrollment has increased across all major categories. This includes undergraduate and graduate programs, as well as both online and on-campus student populations. The student body now represents all 50 U.S. states and 20 different countries.
According to the university, the largest student populations from the United States come from North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, and Wisconsin. Significant numbers of students also hail from Colorado, Washington, and California, indicating a broad national reach.
"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," said Rachael Brash, Vice President for Public Affairs. "Families and students across the country are recognizing that (U-Mary) provides not only excellent academics, but also faith-filled and supportive community where they belong."
Student Retention Exceeds National Averages
A key factor in the university's growth is its strong student retention rate. Campus officials reported that approximately 84% of last year's freshmen returned for their sophomore year. This figure is notably higher than the most recent national average.
Retention by the Numbers
The National Student Clearinghouse Research Center, a nonprofit organization that tracks educational data, reports the latest national average for students returning for a second fall semester is 77.6%. The University of Mary's rate of 84% is more than six percentage points above this benchmark.
High retention rates are often seen as an indicator of student satisfaction and institutional success. They contribute directly to steady enrollment growth by ensuring a stable continuing student population year over year.
Strategic Expansion in Academics and Facilities
The enrollment surge coincides with significant investments in new programs and campus infrastructure. These developments are designed to attract students and enhance the university's academic and athletic offerings.
New Academic Initiatives
The university is expanding its academic portfolio with several new initiatives:
- Catholic Montessori Institute: A new graduate-level program launched this year that integrates Montessori educational philosophy with Catholic theology.
- Tuition-Free Scholarships: Beginning in fall 2026, the university will offer tuition-free scholarships through new academies for accounting and elementary education.
- Expanded Scholarship Program: The new offerings will bring the total number of specialized scholarships to 56. This includes 30 for nursing (which started in 2023), 10 for accounting, 10 for elementary education, and six for engineering and humanities.
Marauder Athletics Complex
Work is currently underway on the Marauder Athletics Complex, which the university describes as the largest campus project in its history. The $45 million project, which broke ground in April, is expected to be completed by fall 2027.
The complex will bring several sports back to campus, including football, soccer, softball, and track. Key features include North Dakota's largest multipurpose sports dome and a state-of-the-art Research and Performance Center. This center will integrate sports medicine, athletic conditioning, and wellness services for student-athletes.
Part of a Statewide Trend
North Dakota's Enrollment Boom
The University of Mary's success is part of a wider pattern of growth in higher education across North Dakota. Recently, Bismarck State College also announced a record headcount of over 4,500 students. Furthermore, the North Dakota University System (NDUS), which comprises 11 public colleges and universities, reported a total of 47,552 students. This is the highest system-wide enrollment since 2014. The University of Mary is a private institution and is not part of the NDUS.
The consistent growth across both public and private institutions suggests a strong demand for higher education in the region. Factors such as program diversity, facility upgrades, and strong student support systems appear to be contributing to this positive trend, positioning North Dakota as an attractive destination for students from across the country and the world.
