St Catherine University

St. Catherine University, affectionately known as St. Kate's, stands as a beacon of progressive education in Saint Paul, Minnesota. Founded in 1905 as one of the Midwest's first institutions of higher learning specifically for women, St. Kate's has a rich history of empowering its students. While its baccalaureate programs remain dedicated to women, the university thoughtfully extends its graduate and associate programs to both women and men, fostering a dynamic and inclusive learning environment.

This private Catholic university is renowned for its commitment to diversity and accessibility. St. Kate's actively recruits and supports minority students and non-traditional learners, embodying a forward-thinking approach to higher education. Notably, it launched one of the nation's first "Weekend College" programs—now the College for Adults—and was the first private college to actively welcome and retain Hmong students, building one of the largest Hmong scholar populations in the country.

Academically, St. Kate's offers a comprehensive range of programs. Its historical significance is underscored by its adaptability, particularly during World War II when it responded to a critical nursing shortage by expanding its baccalaureate nursing degree and taking leadership of local hospital nursing schools. This dedication to serving community needs through academic excellence continues to shape its educational offerings and student experience, making it a vibrant and supportive community for its 3,699 students.