Why Saint Martin's?

The Benedictine tradition

The only Benedictine Catholic university west of the Rockies, Saint Martin's embraces a philosophy of living, not just learning. We'll prepare you to lead a life of purpose, service, and compassion.

In the Benedictine tradition, Saint Martin's is committed to the education of the "whole" you. That tradition values community, listening, and stewardship. Here you'll be embraced and supported from your very first day to graduation day—and beyond. You'll be surrounded by professors, staff, and students who believe that listening is the key to understanding and learning. As we listen with our hearts, we learn to trust one another, to respect our differences, and to find opportunities where our unique talents and abilities can help create a better world.

The right size

Our small student-faculty ratio (10:1) and small average class size (12) mean you’ll know and be known by your professors, as well as your fellow students. Here, you'll have the opportunity to work directly with professors, lead a research project, play a sport, or start a club. At Saint Martin's, everyone is as passionate about your hopes, dreams, and goals as you are.

We may be small, but our offerings are abundant: 21 majors, minors, and several pre-professional and graduate programs; study-abroad programs to 18 countries; 13 NCAA Division II teams and 12 intramural sports; and over 20 student-run clubs and organizations.

Location, location, location

Saint Martin's is within minutes of downtown Olympia, home to a vibrant arts community, hosting local and nationally recognized artists, as well as the State Capitol. This area has been named on more than seven national "Best Cities" lists, including Kiplinger’s 2009 Top 10. We're also located halfway between Seattle and Portland, #2 and #7 (respectively) on Outside magazine's Top 10 America's Best Cities list.

Here you'll be surrounded by all sorts of outdoor opportunities like hiking, water sports, skiing, and scenic mountains trails. With so much to do and see, just steps from your door, you’ll have the experience of a lifetime at Saint Martin’s University.