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Siena Heights University

Adrian, MI

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

1,533
Total Students
$30K
Tuition (In-State)
$30K
Tuition (Out-State)
$17K
Avg Net Price
67%
Acceptance Rate
51%
Graduation Rate
6-year
72%
Retention Rate
Master's Colleges & Universities
Classification

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About Siena Heights University

Siena Heights: A Century of Dominican-Inspired Education, Nearing its Close

Siena Heights University, deeply rooted in the traditions of the Adrian Dominican Sisters, began its journey in 1919 as St. Joseph's College, dedicated to educating women. Over the decades, it evolved, taking the name Siena Heights College in 1939, inspired by Saint Catherine of Siena. A significant step in its growth was becoming coeducational in 1969, broadening its reach and impact. By 1998, recognizing its expanded graduate studies, the institution proudly adopted its current name: Siena Heights University.

Throughout its history, Siena Heights University was closely affiliated with and sponsored by the Dominican Sisters, embodying their mission through its motto, "Laudare, Benedicere, Praedicare"—to praise God, to bless His people, and to preach His gospel. While the provided information doesn't detail specific academic strengths or the intricacies of the student experience, its long-standing accreditation by the Higher Learning Commission speaks to its commitment to quality education within a values-rich environment.

However, for prospective students and families, it is crucial to be aware of a recent and significant development. Despite welcoming its largest incoming class in history with 445 students in 2024, the university's leaders announced on June 30, 2025, that Siena Heights University will officially close at the end of the 2025–26 school year. This decision was made citing financial situations, operational challenges, and long-term sustainability concerns, marking the conclusion of a profound legacy in higher education.

Key Highlights

  • Founded in 1919 as St. Joseph's College by the Adrian Dominican Sisters.
  • Became coeducational in 1969, expanding educational opportunities.
  • Achieved university status in 1998, reflecting growth in graduate programs.
  • Operated under the Dominican motto: "Laudare, Benedicere, Praedicare" (to praise God, to bless His people and to preach His gospel).
  • Welcomed its largest incoming class of 445 students in 2024.
  • Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
  • Scheduled to close permanently at the end of the 2025–26 academic year.

Timeline

1919
Founded for women as St. Joseph's College by the Adrian Dominican Sisters.
1939
Renamed Siena Heights College, after Saint Catherine of Siena.
1969
Became coeducational, opening its doors to men.
1998
Renamed Siena Heights University, following expansion of graduate studies.
2024
Welcomed its largest incoming class in university history (445 students).
2025
University leaders announced on June 30, 2025, the planned closure of Siena Heights University.
2026
Scheduled to close permanently at the end of the 2025–26 school year.

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