University of Mary is the degree-granting establishment in Bismarck, North Dakota. It also serves accelerated degree programs at satellite locations in North Dakota, Montana, Kansas, Wyoming, and Missouri. Initially formed as Mary College and accredited the Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, it changed its name to the University of Mary in 1986. 

Mary's purpose is to meet the needs of people in the region. University continues to explore new ways to provide outstanding religious, academic, and cultural opportunities that carry forth the vision of its founders and sponsors, the Sisters of Annunciation Monastery. 

University of Mary, America’s Leadership University has been committed to lifelong studing. It was the first college in the area to offer specialized programs (nursing and education) intended to respond to the unique needs of adult learners.
Online Learning means students take classes and earn a degree using their computer to access course material and activities. The students can be anywhere in the world and still earn the degree from the University of Mary through online classes. 
On-Site Learning means student physically attend classes at one of numerous University of Mary education facilities set up in communities across the country. Students interact with an instructor and other students as they work to earn degree.

University of Mary Graduate Program
The University of Mary defines leadership as competence in one's chosen profession, courage in making ethical decisions based on Benedictine values and compassion in serving the needs of other people. All graduate programs are designed for competence in a focused area and allow for individualized planning and goals.

The student generates new knowledge through completion of an integrative, scholarly project. Application of skills, research, interaction with mentors and experts in student’s field -all this and more contribute to a personalized graduate study program that meets student’s needs and interests and takes to the next level of professionalism and leadership.