Siena Heights University to Close: Your Guide to Other Catholic Colleges in Michigan
As Siena Heights University in Adrian prepares to close its doors at the end of the next academic year due to ongoing financial challenges, many students and families might be wondering about other Catholic higher education options in Michigan. Fortunately, the state is still home to three other esteemed Catholic institutions that continue to uphold a rich tradition of faith-based learning and diverse academic programs.
Siena Heights University: A Legacy Concludes
Siena Heights University, a Catholic liberal arts college with a history spanning over a century, will cease operations after the upcoming academic year. Founded in 1919 by the Adrian Dominican Sisters as St. Joseph College for women, it grew to serve approximately 2,300 students in the 2023-24 school year. President Douglas Palmer announced the closure on June 30, citing significant financial hurdles faced by many small liberal arts colleges today.
Despite its closure, the university’s enduring spirit is expected to live on through its graduates, faculty, and staff, who have contributed to its mission of providing education guided by a Roman Catholic philosophy.
Michigan’s Remaining Catholic University Landscape
For those seeking a Catholic college experience within Michigan, three prominent institutions continue to serve students: University of Detroit Mercy, Madonna University, and Aquinas College. Each offers a unique environment, academic strengths, and a commitment to Catholic values.
University of Detroit Mercy: A Historic Detroit Institution
As Michigan’s oldest Catholic university, the University of Detroit Mercy holds a significant place in the state’s educational history. Its origins trace back to 1877 with the founding of Detroit College by the Jesuits. Later, in 1941, the Religious Sisters of Mercy opened Mercy College for women. These two respected institutions merged in 1990 to form the comprehensive university known today.
Located in the heart of Detroit with additional campuses in Novi, Corktown (School of Dentistry), Riverfront (School of Law), and Macomb, Detroit Mercy offers over 100 undergraduate and graduate programs. With a student body of approximately 5,600, it provides a vibrant academic community. Full-time tuition rates typically fall within the $30,000 range, varying by program.
The Jesuits, founded by Ignatius Loyola, are known for their commitment to education and social justice, while the Religious Sisters of Mercy, founded by Catherine McAuley, are dedicated to service and spiritual growth, often taking vows of poverty, chastity, obedience, and service.
Madonna University: Education Rooted in Livonia
Situated in Livonia, Madonna University provides a Catholic education under the leadership of President Christopher Dougherty. Established in 1937 as Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary Junior College by the Felician Sisters, the university has expanded significantly over the years.
Madonna University caters to a student body of about 2,040 undergraduate and 404 graduate students. It boasts a wide array of career-focused programs, including over 60 bachelor’s degrees, 70 certificates, and 30 master’s and doctoral programs. The university also has additional campus locations in Southfield and Macomb. Undergraduate full-time tuition is approximately $27,360 for 24-36 credits, with specific programs and room and board being extra. The Felician Sisters, a Franciscan community, follow the Rule of the Brothers and Sisters of the Third Order Regular of Saint Francis, emphasizing spirituality and service.
Aquinas College: Grand Rapids’ Liberal Arts Gem
In Grand Rapids, Aquinas College stands as a testament to Catholic liberal arts education. Founded in 1886 by the Dominican Sisters, the college is named in honor of the 13th-century saint, Thomas Aquinas.
Aquinas College serves over 1,100 full-time undergraduate and graduate students (as of 2023) and offers more than 100 majors and minors. Traditional undergraduate tuition for 12-20 credit hours is about $41,192. The Dominican Sisters of Grand Rapids trace their roots to 13th-century France, dedicating themselves to education and serving those in need.
Comparing Michigan’s Catholic Universities
Here’s a quick overview of the three remaining Catholic universities in Michigan:
| University | Main Location | Founding Orders | Est. Total Students | Est. Annual Undergrad Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Detroit Mercy | Detroit | Jesuits, Religious Sisters of Mercy | 5,600 | $30,000 range |
| Madonna University | Livonia | Felician Sisters | 2,444 | $27,360 |
| Aquinas College | Grand Rapids | Dominican Sisters | 1,100 | $41,192 |
Frequently Asked Questions
- Why is Siena Heights University closing?
Siena Heights University is closing at the end of its next academic year due to significant financial challenges, a common issue for many small liberal arts colleges. - How many Catholic universities are left in Michigan?
After Siena Heights University closes, there will be three Catholic universities remaining in Michigan: University of Detroit Mercy, Madonna University, and Aquinas College. - What kind of programs do these universities offer?
All three universities offer a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including liberal arts, career-focused majors, and professional degrees. You can find over 100 programs at each institution. - Are there options for students outside of Southeast Michigan?
Yes, while Madonna University and University of Detroit Mercy are in Metro Detroit, Aquinas College is located in Grand Rapids in West Michigan, providing a geographically diverse option.
Despite the regrettable closure of Siena Heights University, prospective students in Michigan still have strong options for quality Catholic higher education, each offering a distinct community and academic experience rooted in a rich faith tradition.
Siena Heights University to close other catholic colleges
