Saint Martin's University

Health professions dominate the academic landscape at Saint Martin's, with nursing being the most popular major (70 graduates reported by Niche). The university offers multiple pathways into healthcare, including exercise science programs, while also maintaining strengths in computer and information systems security (66 graduates) and business-related fields. Graduate programs in accounting, business, and engineering provide flexible options for working professionals. The curriculum balances career preparation with liberal arts foundations—a hallmark of its Catholic identity—though the program mix leans decidedly toward practical, vocational fields rather than theoretical disciplines.

With 39% of students living on campus, Saint Martin's fosters a residential community that revolves around its 40+ clubs and active student government. The Office of Campus Life promotes engagement through the Benedictine values of 'faith, reason, and service,' though the Instagram presence suggests students appreciate the practical community-building as much as the spiritual dimension. Sports play a notable role despite not being a powerhouse program—the university fields NCAA Division II teams. The Pacific Northwest location means outdoor activities abound, though the suburban Lacey setting keeps the vibe more low-key than urban campuses.

The 6-year graduation rate sits at 58% overall, with Pell Grant recipients graduating at a 38% rate—numbers that reflect the university's mix of traditional and non-traditional students. Early career earnings are modest at $36,427 one year post-graduation (below national averages), though the #16 ranking for Best Value in the West suggests the return on investment holds up. Notably, U.S. News also ranks Saint Martin's #34 for social mobility, indicating it effectively serves lower-income students. These outcomes align with its mission-driven focus rather than prestige metrics.

Saint Martin's distributes over $20 million annually in scholarships, with first-year aid packages averaging $30,976. The net priceNet priceWhat a family actually pays after grants and scholarships are subtracted from the sticker price — usually far less than the published cost. calculator suggests many students pay around $22,779 after grants—a relative bargain for private education, explaining its Best Value ranking. Notably, 83% of first-years receive need-based aidNeed-based aidFinancial aid awarded based on your family's ability to pay, as measured by forms like the FAFSA, rather than on achievements. averaging $35,078, indicating aggressive discounting to maintain enrollment. The university transparently promotes its net price calculator, signaling awareness that cost is a key factor for its demographic.

Saint Martin's carves a distinctive niche as a Benedictine university that prioritizes access over exclusivity. Its 16:1 student-faculty ratio and nursing program success stories exemplify hands-on learning, while the monastic heritage surfaces in service-learning requirements and campus ministry presence. The university doesn't try to compete with elite liberal arts colleges or research universities—instead, it delivers pragmatic degrees with a values-oriented approach at a price point that makes private education attainable. For students seeking small classes, outdoor recreation, and career preparation without cutthroat competition, it's a compelling option.