Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College (SMWC) is excited to announce a new articulation agreement with Marian University in Indianapolis, offering students the opportunity to pursue a combined dual-degree program in engineering. This partnership with Marian’s E. S. Witchger School of Engineering allows SMWC students to earn both a Bachelor of Science degree in mathematics from SMWC and a Bachelor of Science degree in engineering from Marian University.
Both institutions, founded as Catholic colleges, share a strong emphasis on liberal arts traditions, providing students with a values-based education. SMWC President Brennan J. Randolph expressed enthusiasm for the seamless transition this agreement offers students: “As the landscape of higher education continues to evolve, agreements like this enable smaller institutions to expand learning opportunities for their students. We believe that this will be a natural fit for SMWC and Marian University. We are excited to work with President Elsener and Marian University.”
“These partnerships reflect our shared commitment to student-centered innovation and to preparing future leaders for high-impact careers critical to Indiana’s future,” said Marian University President Daniel J. Elsener. “This mission-centered collaboration brings Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College and Marian University together to better serve students and the state through an education that is illumined by the light of faith and grounded in gospel values.”
Articulation agreements outline the process by which credits earned at one institution are transferred to another, enabling students to expand their collegiate goals and ensure a clear career pathway. Collaborative relationships between higher education institutions have led to an increase in such agreements, providing students with more options.
The 3+2 dual-degree engineering program allows students to begin their studies at SMWC, and after three years, qualified students will be granted admission to Marian University for two years, where they can enroll in civil engineering, mechanical engineering, biomedical engineering or chemical engineering. During the five years, students will earn two baccalaureate degrees: a degree in mathematics from SMWC and a degree in engineering from Marian University.
Janet Clark, Ph.D., provost and executive vice president for academic affairs, commended the faculty of the Department of Science and Mathematics for aligning the curriculum to support this agreement, stating, “This will ensure a smooth transition for students as they pursue their engineering degree at Marian. We are excited to offer our students this expanded opportunity.”
Dual-degree programs in engineering are gaining popularity, offering students a comprehensive education and a competitive edge in the job market. SMWC President Randolph highlighted the benefits: “It is a great opportunity for our students to further pursue their education at Marian University, with its state-of-the-art engineering center, cutting-edge labs, high-tech classrooms and collaborative learning spaces. The dual-degree program between Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College and Marian University offers students a unique opportunity to engage with both campus communities, fostering deeper strengths, confidence and career mobility in their chosen field.”
Additionally, SMWC announced a second articulation agreement with Marian University’s Tom and Julie Wood College of Osteopathic Medicine. This agreement offers SMWC graduates with a baccalaureate degree in biology-preprofessional a Fast-Track Interview track and an Early Decision track. Up to five students per track who meet the requirements will be guaranteed an interview and a fast-track admission decision.
“In the past, students who wanted to pursue a medical degree after earning their preprofessional degree at The Woods had to search for their next destination for medical school. With this agreement, students who want to pursue a medical degree will work with both institutions’ advisors for a competitive application to continue their education at a top-ranked osteopathic medical school right here in Indiana,” said Clark.