What Academic Programs and Study Formats Does SMWC Offer?

Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College (SMWC) offers more than 40 academic programs across three study formats: campus undergraduate programs, distance/online learning, and graduate programs. The right fit depends on whether you want a traditional residential college experience, need to study remotely, or are pursuing an advanced degree. The college's own site frames the choice around "Discover your major" and notes campus, distance, and graduate offerings, so prospective students should confirm the specific program and format pairing before applying.

Over 40 Academic Programs

SMWC describes its catalog as "more than 40 academic programs to prepare you for the career you want." That breadth means most students can find a major without transferring, but the format in which a given program is offered matters. Use the program list as a starting filter, then check the delivery format for each major you're considering.

Campus Undergraduate Programs

Campus programs are the traditional route: coursework on the Saint Mary-of-the-Woods campus in Indiana, with residence halls, athletics, campus ministry, clubs, and service-learning trips forming the surrounding student life. The site highlights a 13:1 student-to-faculty ratio and a residential community where, in the words of one student quoted on the page, "everybody knows everybody."

This format suits students who want a full-time, in-person college experience and can relocate. It is also where the college's athletic and co-curricular offerings are most accessible.

Distance and Online Learning

SMWC explicitly lists distance programs alongside campus and graduate offerings. Distance study is the relevant format for students who cannot relocate—working adults, caregivers, or those living far from Indiana—but availability varies by program. Before committing, verify that your intended major is offered at a distance and check any residency or in-person requirements the program carries.

Graduate Programs

Graduate programs are the third format named on the site. These are aimed at students who already hold a bachelor's degree and want an advanced credential. As with distance study, the specific graduate fields and their formats should be confirmed directly with the college, since the homepage does not enumerate them.

Comparing the Three Formats

Cost and Aid Considerations

Cost affects the format decision as much as academics. SMWC states that 95% of its students are awarded financial aid, and it cites almost $10 million in scholarships along with recognition as a Best Value School by U.S. News & World Report. Aid packages can differ by program and format, so request a financial aid estimate for the specific path you're considering rather than assuming the headline figures apply uniformly.

Next Steps

Start with the college's "Discover your major" tool to shortlist programs, then confirm the delivery format for each. From there, use the "Pay for college" resources to get an aid picture and the visit or tour option to see campus if residential study is in scope. Applying is described on the site as a quick, guided process. The main pitfall to avoid is assuming every one of the 40-plus programs is available in every format—check that pairing first.