Submitted by Saint Martin’s University
Saint Martin’s University is reaffirming its commitment to student success with the launch of a new Four-Year Graduation Guarantee for select high-demand majors, ensuring eligible students can earn their degrees on time or receive the support to finish at no additional cost.
The initiative is part of the University’s continued focus on academic excellence and affordability, which has also earned it recognition as a 2025–2026 College of Distinction, including national and state awards in eight additional categories.
“Students and their families want a clear, dependable path to graduation, and that’s exactly what our Four-Year Graduation Guarantee delivers,” said interim provost David Olwell, Ph.D.“This program provides students in high-demand fields who follow the specified path with structure, support and peace of mind—while reinforcing our mission to help them thrive academically and professionally.”
Saint Martin’s Four-Year Graduation Guarantee is available to first-year students pursuing degrees in Engineering, Nursing, Education or Business Administration. Through a personalized academic plan, consistent advising and clear expectations, the program outlines a straightforward path to graduation in eight semesters. If a required course is unavailable, Saint Martin’s will provide an approved substitute, waive the requirement, or cover the cost for the student to complete the course in a future term.
The new guarantee complements the University’s growing reputation for providing an exceptional undergraduate experience—one recognized for the second consecutive year by the national college guide Colleges of Distinction.
For the 2025–2026 academic year, Saint Martin’s has been named a College of Distinction for its overall excellence in undergraduate education and received badges in the following categories:
- Catholic College of Distinction – identified as an institution that prepares both the minds and hearts of students for success, integrating opportunities to grow, serve and lead with compassion.
- Washington College of Distinction – recognized as a top Washington university
- Career Development – earned by the University’s intentional focus on post-graduate opportunities and extensive offering of resources readying students for success beyond graduation
- Military Support – recognized for comprehensive programs that best support service members to thrive in and beyond the classroom
- Business – in recognition of hands-on business programs that produce experienced, responsible leaders for the corporate world
- Education – in recognition of the program’s practical experiences, advising and mentoring, high-impact practices and successful student outcomes for tomorrow’s teachers
- Engineering – in recognition of the program’s dedication to providing a dynamic, experience-based undergraduate education for future engineers
- Nursing – in recognition of the program’s hands-on learning to produce well-rounded, thoughtful and skilled nurses of tomorrow
“These honors validate what we already know: Saint Martin’s offers a transformative college experience grounded in academic rigor, student experience and support, and transformative outcomes,” said University President Bill Brownsberger, S.T.D. “Our Four-Year Graduation Guarantee is one more way we’re investing in our students’ success.”
The College of Distinction awards recognize schools for excellence in key areas of undergraduate education: engaged students, great teaching, vibrant communities and successful outcomes. Unlike traditional ranking systems, these honors are based on a school’s ability to provide high-impact educational experiences and meaningful support throughout the college journey.
Saint Martin’s has been honored consistently in categories that reflect its strengths in academic rigor, faculty mentoring, career preparation, social mobility and support for military-affiliated students. The University’s focus on affordability, career readiness, and personalized education continues to make it a top choice for students looking for an education that prepares them to lead with heart in both their careers and in their wider communities.
Learn more about the Four-Year Graduation Guarantee and the University’s award-winning academic programs.
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