
5000 Abbey Way SE, Lacey, WA 98503, USA


Saint Martin's University traces its origins to 1895, founded by the Benedictine monks as a small institution aiming to provide higher education grounded in a holistic approach. Initially established as a college to serve students in the region, it reflected the educational priorities of its founding community, emphasizing both intellectual and moral development. Over the decades, the university expanded its academic programs in response to the evolving needs of students and society, transitioning from a liberal arts college into a comprehensive university offering a wider range of undergraduate and graduate degrees.
The institution's growth was steady, guided by its foundational mission while adapting to modern educational demands. It introduced professional programs alongside traditional liberal arts courses, thereby attracting a more diverse student body. This evolution signaled a shift toward a balanced curriculum designed to prepare students for various career paths. Throughout its history, Saint Martin's University has maintained a commitment to fostering a supportive learning environment, integrating values with academic rigor.
Today, its historical roots continue to influence its identity, blending tradition with innovation to serve contemporary students. The university's adaptation from its humble beginnings to a dynamic higher education institution illustrates its responsiveness to both community needs and broader educational trends.
Saint Martin's University offers a range of academic divisions designed to cater to diverse academic interests and career aspirations. The university is organized into several faculties and departments that collectively cover humanities, sciences, business, and professional studies.
The College of Arts and Sciences forms the core of the university's liberal arts education. It includes departments such as English, history, biology, and mathematics, providing students with foundational knowledge and critical thinking skills across various disciplines. This college emphasizes a broad-based education while also supporting specialized study within each department.
Students interested in professional and technical fields can explore options within the School of Business and Economics. This school integrates business fundamentals with experiential learning, preparing students for leadership roles in various industries. Its curriculum includes concentrations in accounting, management, and marketing, among others.
For those drawn to health sciences and related programs, Saint Martin's University has developed departments focused on nursing and health studies. These departments combine classroom instruction with practical clinical experience, equipping students with the competencies necessary for healthcare professions.
The School of Education supports future educators through programs that emphasize both theory and practice. Students benefit from hands-on training and coursework aimed at preparing them for teaching careers at different educational levels.
Lastly, the university maintains specialized programs in areas such as engineering and environmental science. These departments emphasize innovation, sustainability, and applied research, aiming to address contemporary challenges through interdisciplinary study.
Saint Martin's University is situated in Lacey, Washington, at 5000 Abbey Way SE, within the western area of the city. This location provides students with access to a suburban environment that balances proximity to urban amenities with a quieter campus setting. Lacey is part of the greater Seattle metropolitan area, with SeaTac Airport serving as the nearest major air travel hub, facilitating convenient transportation for students and visitors. The area code for contact is 491-4700, supporting easy communication with the university's administrative offices.
Saint Martin's University aims to provide a comprehensive educational experience that fosters intellectual growth, ethical reflection, and personal development. Its mission emphasizes preparing students to engage thoughtfully and responsibly in a diverse, complex world through a strong liberal arts foundation combined with professional studies.
The university's vision highlights a commitment to cultivating a community that supports lifelong learning, critical inquiry, and service. It seeks to empower students to become leaders who contribute positively to society while respecting different perspectives and values.
Prospective students can expect an education that balances academic rigor with opportunities for practical application, encouraging them to challenge assumptions and develop a broad understanding of their chosen fields alongside a meaningful ethical framework.
The institution prioritizes inclusive learning environments and strives to nurture not only career readiness but also personal integrity and civic responsibility among its students.
Name of the institution
Saint Martin's UniversityLevel of institution
Four or more yearsControl of institution
PrivateSetting type
City: SmallInstitutional Category
Degree - granting, primarily baccalaureate or aboveInstitution size category
1,000 - 4,999School type
UniversityMain student body
CoeducationalCalendar system
SemestersFoundation year
1895
Certificate of less than 1 year
Bachelor's degree
Postbaccalaureate certificate
Master's degree
Post-master's certificate
Doctor's degree - research/scholarship
Certificate of at least 1 year, but less than 2 years
Associate's degree
Certificate of at least 2 years, but less than 4 years
Doctor's degree - professional practice
Doctor's degree - other
Other degreeDegrees
Accounting and Related Services
Data not availableAnthropology
Data not availableBiology, General
$27,783Business Administration, Management and Operations
$38,669Chemistry
Data not availableCivil Engineering
$62,495Communication and Media Studies
Data not availableComputer and Information Sciences, General
Data not availableComputer Science
$49,039Criminal Justice and Corrections
$35,985Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
Data not availableEducation, General
Data not availableEnglish Language and Literature, General
Data not availableHealth and Physical Education/Fitness
Data not availableHistory
Data not availableLiterature
Data not availableMathematics
Data not availableMechanical Engineering
$57,996Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other
Data not availableMusic
Data not availableNatural Resources Conservation and Research
Data not availablePolitical Science and Government
Data not availablePsychology, General
$34,491Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
$73,524Religion/Religious Studies
Data not availableSocial Work
$38,709Special Education and Teaching
Data not availableTeacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods
$47,606