Women’s only university adds programs, changes name

Since its founding in 1925, Mount St. Mary’s College in Los Angeles has graduated more than 18,000 alums, attracted world-class faculty, added a second campus in downtown L.A., and developed more than 40 degree programs. Last week the school celebrated a transformative moment in the institution’s history when it went from MSMC to Mount Saint Mary’s University.

The new university status reflects the depth and range of academic offerings. Mount Saint Mary’s boasts a comprehensive liberal arts and sciences curriculum that emphasizes leadership, service and innovation. In addition to more than 30 undergraduate degrees, the University’s co-ed Graduate Division now provides 11 degrees, and counting, at the master’s and doctoral levels.

In the 20-plus years after its creation, Mount Saint Mary’s Weekend and Evening College continues to grow, offering year-round, flexible, and online programs for working adults. The name change also highlights the University’s growing influence as a leader in women’s education.

In March, Mount Saint Mary’s will release its fourth annual Report on the Status of Women and Girls in California™. The University is also partnering with the City of Los Angeles in 2015 to produce a series of reports identifying areas of gender inequity and other factors important to the quality of life for all 3.8 million Angelenos.

“This is a proud day,” says Mount Saint Mary’s President Ann McElaney-Johnson. “Ninety years after our founding, we are still creating innovative academic programs that prepare our students for lives of purpose. Across all levels of the University, we’re engaging our students in experiences that not only help them meet their own needs, but also the needs of their communities and a 21st century economy.”

Money Magazine ranks Mount Saint Mary’s No. 1 in the United States for “Colleges That Add The Most Value.” BestColleges.com named it one of “The 50 Most Diverse U.S. Colleges.” The Hollywood Reporter tabbed the University’s film program one of “5 Schools to Watch” internationally. Bright Hub said it boasts one of “The Top 10 Nursing Programs in the Nation.”

Mount Saint Mary’s is the only women’s university in Los Angeles. Since 1925, the campus has helped students discover what it takes to be unstoppable by offering year-round, flexible, and online programs for undergraduate and graduate students. The Mount experience extends beyond the classroom, empowering students to build leadership skills and develop a passion for service. Each day, alums are using their knowledge and skills to better themselves, their communities and the world. More information available at: www.msmu.edu.