St. Mary’s College of Maryland and Towson University have signed an agreement guaranteeing eligible SMCM graduates a clear path into nine of Towson’s master’s degree programs, the two institutions announced.
Students who meet minimum GPA requirements will be able to secure assured admission to Towson graduate programs after finishing their bachelor’s degree at St. Mary’s College and meeting each program’s specific requirements. The nine participating programs span actuarial science and predictive analytics, computer science, economic analytics, forensic science, health science, human resource development, nursing, professional writing and supply chain management.
Participants get more than just a guaranteed spot. The partnership includes coordinated academic advising between the two schools, chances to connect with Towson faculty and staff before enrolling, waived application fees, and a 30% tuition discount for out-of-state students for as long as they stay continuously enrolled in a Towson graduate program.
“This partnership creates new opportunities for students to continue their academic journey and pursue advanced degrees that prepare them for meaningful careers,” said Melanie Perreault, Towson’s provost and executive vice president for academic affairs. “By providing a clear pathway from St. Mary’s College of Maryland to Towson University’s graduate programs, we’re removing barriers associated with graduate education and helping students build the knowledge and skills needed to lead in Maryland and beyond.”
St. Mary’s College Provost and Dean of Faculty Katherine Gantz framed the deal as an extension of the college’s undergraduate approach. “St. Mary’s College of Maryland is committed to ensuring our students have access to outstanding opportunities after graduation, and this partnership expands those possibilities,” Gantz said. “Partnering with Towson University creates a clear, supportive bridge, allowing our graduates to take the curiosity, critical thinking and close mentorship they experience here straight into advanced study.”
Beyond the admissions pathway itself, the two schools plan joint recruitment events, information sessions and campus visits designed to get undergraduates thinking about graduate options early, along with collaborative programming to help identify and support prospective participants throughout the process.
The agreement takes effect this academic year for an initial three-year term. To qualify, students must enroll in a Towson graduate program within one year of completing their St. Mary’s College bachelor’s degree.
The deal is the second Southern Maryland higher-education pathway Towson has struck in less than a year. Last fall, Towson and the College of Southern Maryland signed a seamless transfer agreement guaranteeing CSM associate-degree graduates admission to Towson’s undergraduate programs, with a reverse-transfer option letting students earn both credentials. The new SMCM agreement extends that regional push a level higher, into graduate education.
It also comes amid a broader push at St. Mary’s College to expand partnerships under President Rhonda Phillips, who was inaugurated as the college’s eighth president in April and has listed deepening regional partnerships among her top priorities. The college also recently launched its “Compass” student success strategy aimed at improving student outcomes from enrollment through graduation.
More information on the Towson pathway program is available at smcm.edu/tugrad.
