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SMWC Among Nation’s Best for Veterans

News | 01.28.2016
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Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College (SMWC) recognizes the unique needs of military personnel in pursuing a college degree, from funding assistance process and securing financial aid, to registering for classes. SMWC’s strong support of veterans earned its recognition as one of the 2016 Best Colleges for Veterans by U.S. News & World Report.  SMWC ranks number 15 in the Midwest region for participation in federal initiatives that help veterans and active-duty service members pursue a college education.  The rankings are based on graduation rates, faculty resources, reputation and other markers of academic quality.

This year, 721 schools ranked among the 2016 Best Colleges for Veterans across 10 separate categories: National Universities, National Liberal Arts Colleges, Regional Universities (North, South, Midwest and West) and Regional Colleges (North, South, Midwest and West).  

“The Woods is proud to offer an affordable and quality education for those who made sacrifices for our country and for their families,” said Brennan Randolph, SMWC vice president for enrollment management. “We respect their commitment to learning and serving others which parallels our mission.”

At SMWC, there are several ways to make a college education more affordable for veterans. Students who qualify for the U.S. Department of Veterans’ Affairs Yellow Ribbon Program may be able to attend in the undergraduate and graduate levels at no cost. This is made possible by the Post 9/11 GI Bill. Under this provision, eligible veterans will receive the cost of tuition and fees. Additionally, SMWC offers a special tuition rate for military students, spouses of active service members or members who have served in the military and are enrolling in the distance education program, Woods Online. This special tuition rate is $250 per credit hour. For graduate students, the tuition is $3,000 per academic year.

Jessica Hood, a former Marine and currently a Woods Online student from Shelburn, Ind., is taking advantage of the military education benefits. “The military benefits have so far paid for my entire education. I wouldn’t have been able to pursue a degree without the benefits.”

Hood added, “SMWC has been extremely understanding with my education needs and has done more than I could have asked for as far as ensuring my educational goals are met.”

Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College has received numerous other national recognitions.  See rankings >