Is University of Mary a Catholic college?

Yes. University of Mary is a Catholic college in the Diocese of Bismarck. Its sponsor is Benedictine Sisters of Annunciation Monastery.

What is University of Mary’s Compass Score?

87 out of 100 (grade A). It combines faith (75%) and academics (25%), each rated from official sources.

Where is Mass celebrated at University of Mary?

Mass is listed at Our Lady of the Annunciation Chapel and Our Lady of the Word Chapel. Days and times are on this page; please confirm with the parish or campus ministry before you go.

Is University of Mary Compass Recommended?

Yes. University of Mary meets the Compass Recommended standard for Catholic identity and academics.

Catholic college

University of Mary

LocationBismarck, ND
Type and sizePrivate nonprofit · 4-year · 3,794 students
SponsorBenedictine Sisters of Annunciation Monastery
TraditionBenedictine

Official website Recommended badge

Compass ScoreCatholic Life Score

Faith 75%Academics 25%

AFaith
93 of 100

CAcademics
70 of 100

Verified Oct. 7, 2026 · How the score works

Compass RecommendedWhat the badges mean

The University of Mary in Bismarck was founded in 1959 by the Benedictine Sisters of Annunciation Monastery, who still sponsor it. University Ministry lists Mass every day of the week, confession eight times weekly, and perpetual Eucharistic adoration in Benet Chapel, with a university chaplain and an assistant chaplain.

Mass, confession, and adoration

Confirm with the parish

Mass 8

Sunday9:00 AMOur Lady of the Annunciation Chapel · Chant Mass; academic-year schedule (summer times differ).
Sunday8:00 PMOur Lady of the Annunciation Chapel · Full choral All-University Mass.
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday7:00 AMOur Lady of the Annunciation Chapel · Academic-year schedule.
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday12:00 PMOur Lady of the Word Chapel
Friday12:00 PMOur Lady of the Annunciation Chapel
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday4:30 PMOur Lady of the Annunciation Chapel

Show 2 more mass times

Wednesday10:00 AMOur Lady of the Annunciation Chapel · All-University Mass; no classes, practices, or meetings scheduled.
Saturday10:00 AMOur Lady of the Word Chapel

Confession 5

Sunday6:30 PM–8:00 PMOur Lady of the Annunciation Chapel
Monday–Thursday3:00 PM–4:00 PMBenet Chapel · Confessional/vesting room.
Tuesday7:00 PM–8:00 PMOur Lady of the Annunciation Chapel · During Exultate (adoration with praise music).
Wednesday7:00 PM–9:00 PMOur Lady of the Annunciation Chapel
Saturday7:00 PM–8:00 PMBenet Chapel

Adoration 2

Sunday–Saturday12:00 AM–11:59 PMBenet Chapel · Perpetual adoration (24 hours a day); sign up for a weekly hour.
Tuesday7:00 PM–8:00 PMOur Lady of the Annunciation Chapel · Exultate: praise and worship before the Blessed Sacrament.

Times come only from official parish, chaplaincy, or school pages, and can change with the season. Last verified Oct. 7, 2026.

Sources for these times (2)

University Ministry | University of Maryumary.edu/faith-service/university-ministry · verified Oct. 7, 2026
“Sunday 9 am (Chant Mass) Our Lady of the Annunciation Chapel 8 pm (Full choral, All-University Mass) Our Lady of the Annunciation Chapel Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday 7 am Our Lady of the Annunciation Chapel 12 pm Our Lady of the Word Chapel 4:30 pm Our Lady of the Annunciation Chapel”
Sunday Masses are at 9 AM and 8 PM; on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday Mass is at 7 AM, noon and 4:30 PM in campus chapels.
“Sunday 9 am (Chant Mass) Our Lady of the Annunciation Chapel 8 pm (Full choral, All-University Mass) Our Lady of the Annunciation Chapel Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday 7 am Our Lady of the Annunciation Chapel 12 pm Our Lady of the Word Chapel 4:30 pm Our Lady of the Annunciation Chapel”
Sunday Masses are at 9 AM and 8 PM; on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday Mass is at 7 AM, noon and 4:30 PM in campus chapels.
“Sunday 9 am (Chant Mass) Our Lady of the Annunciation Chapel 8 pm (Full choral, All-University Mass) Our Lady of the Annunciation Chapel Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday 7 am Our Lady of the Annunciation Chapel 12 pm Our Lady of the Word Chapel 4:30 pm Our Lady of the Annunciation Chapel”
Sunday Masses are at 9 AM and 8 PM; on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday Mass is at 7 AM, noon and 4:30 PM in campus chapels.
“Sunday 9 am (Chant Mass) Our Lady of the Annunciation Chapel 8 pm (Full choral, All-University Mass) Our Lady of the Annunciation Chapel Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday 7 am Our Lady of the Annunciation Chapel 12 pm Our Lady of the Word Chapel 4:30 pm Our Lady of the Annunciation Chapel”
Sunday Masses are at 9 AM and 8 PM; on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday Mass is at 7 AM, noon and 4:30 PM in campus chapels.
“Wednesday 10 am (All-University Mass) Our Lady of the Annunciation Chapel No classes, practices, or meetings scheduled Friday 7 am Our Lady of the Annunciation Chapel 12 pm Our Lady of the Annunciation Chapel Saturday 10 am Our Lady of the Word Chapel”
Wednesday has a 10 AM All-University Mass with no classes scheduled; Friday Masses are at 7 AM and noon; Saturday Mass is at 10 AM.
“Sunday 9 am (Chant Mass) Our Lady of the Annunciation Chapel 8 pm (Full choral, All-University Mass) Our Lady of the Annunciation Chapel Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday 7 am Our Lady of the Annunciation Chapel 12 pm Our Lady of the Word Chapel 4:30 pm Our Lady of the Annunciation Chapel”
Sunday Masses are at 9 AM and 8 PM; on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday Mass is at 7 AM, noon and 4:30 PM in campus chapels.
“Wednesday 10 am (All-University Mass) Our Lady of the Annunciation Chapel No classes, practices, or meetings scheduled Friday 7 am Our Lady of the Annunciation Chapel 12 pm Our Lady of the Annunciation Chapel Saturday 10 am Our Lady of the Word Chapel”
Wednesday has a 10 AM All-University Mass with no classes scheduled; Friday Masses are at 7 AM and noon; Saturday Mass is at 10 AM.
“Wednesday 10 am (All-University Mass) Our Lady of the Annunciation Chapel No classes, practices, or meetings scheduled Friday 7 am Our Lady of the Annunciation Chapel 12 pm Our Lady of the Annunciation Chapel Saturday 10 am Our Lady of the Word Chapel”
Wednesday has a 10 AM All-University Mass with no classes scheduled; Friday Masses are at 7 AM and noon; Saturday Mass is at 10 AM.
“Confession Times Sunday 6:30 - 8 pm Our Lady of the Annunciation Chapel Monday: 3 - 4 pm Benet Chapel Tuesday 3 - 4 pm Benet Chapel 7 - 8 pm (with Adoration and praise music)Our Lady of the Annunciation Chapel Wednesday 3 - 4 pm Benet Chapel 7 - 9 pm Our Lady of the Annunciation Chapel Thursday 3 - 4 pm Benet Chapel Saturday 7 - 8 pm Benet Chapel”
Confession is scheduled eight times a week: Sunday evening, Monday through Thursday afternoons, Tuesday and Wednesday evenings, and Saturday evening.
“Confession Times Sunday 6:30 - 8 pm Our Lady of the Annunciation Chapel Monday: 3 - 4 pm Benet Chapel Tuesday 3 - 4 pm Benet Chapel 7 - 8 pm (with Adoration and praise music)Our Lady of the Annunciation Chapel Wednesday 3 - 4 pm Benet Chapel 7 - 9 pm Our Lady of the Annunciation Chapel Thursday 3 - 4 pm Benet Chapel Saturday 7 - 8 pm Benet Chapel”
Confession is scheduled eight times a week: Sunday evening, Monday through Thursday afternoons, Tuesday and Wednesday evenings, and Saturday evening.
“Confession Times Sunday 6:30 - 8 pm Our Lady of the Annunciation Chapel Monday: 3 - 4 pm Benet Chapel Tuesday 3 - 4 pm Benet Chapel 7 - 8 pm (with Adoration and praise music)Our Lady of the Annunciation Chapel Wednesday 3 - 4 pm Benet Chapel 7 - 9 pm Our Lady of the Annunciation Chapel Thursday 3 - 4 pm Benet Chapel Saturday 7 - 8 pm Benet Chapel”
Confession is scheduled eight times a week: Sunday evening, Monday through Thursday afternoons, Tuesday and Wednesday evenings, and Saturday evening.
“Confession Times Sunday 6:30 - 8 pm Our Lady of the Annunciation Chapel Monday: 3 - 4 pm Benet Chapel Tuesday 3 - 4 pm Benet Chapel 7 - 8 pm (with Adoration and praise music)Our Lady of the Annunciation Chapel Wednesday 3 - 4 pm Benet Chapel 7 - 9 pm Our Lady of the Annunciation Chapel Thursday 3 - 4 pm Benet Chapel Saturday 7 - 8 pm Benet Chapel”
Confession is scheduled eight times a week: Sunday evening, Monday through Thursday afternoons, Tuesday and Wednesday evenings, and Saturday evening.
“Confession Times Sunday 6:30 - 8 pm Our Lady of the Annunciation Chapel Monday: 3 - 4 pm Benet Chapel Tuesday 3 - 4 pm Benet Chapel 7 - 8 pm (with Adoration and praise music)Our Lady of the Annunciation Chapel Wednesday 3 - 4 pm Benet Chapel 7 - 9 pm Our Lady of the Annunciation Chapel Thursday 3 - 4 pm Benet Chapel Saturday 7 - 8 pm Benet Chapel”
Confession is scheduled eight times a week: Sunday evening, Monday through Thursday afternoons, Tuesday and Wednesday evenings, and Saturday evening.
“We are excited to have perpetual adoration on campus which takes place in Benet Chapel.”
Perpetual Eucharistic adoration takes place in Benet Chapel on campus.
Retreats & Events | University of Maryumary.edu/faith-service/university-ministry/retreats-events · verified Oct. 7, 2026
“Each Tuesday evening from 7-8 pm, we offer an opportunity for praise and worship before the Blessed Sacrament in adoration, with confessions also available at the same time.”
Exultate offers praise and worship during adoration, with confession, on Tuesdays 7-8 PM.

Catholic churches nearby

CampusCatholic centerOpen a street map ›

No Catholic churches are mapped in OpenStreetMap within 3 miles. The map may be incomplete; check the local diocese’s parish directory.

Faith scorecard

Each line is one thing we looked for. A check means yes, a half means partly, a dash means no. “Not enough information” means official sources did not say.

Sacramental life

100 of 100 points on what we could document.

Yes:
Weekday Mass on campus during the academic yearEvery weekday (5 or more weekdays) (Monday, Tuesday, Thursday: 7 AM, noon, 4:30 PM. Wednesday 10 AM All-University Mass. Friday 7 AM and noon. Saturday 10 AM Mass also.)
Sources (1)
1. University Ministry | University of Maryumary.edu/faith-service/university-ministry · verified Oct. 7, 2026
  “Sunday 9 am (Chant Mass) Our Lady of the Annunciation Chapel 8 pm (Full choral, All-University Mass) Our Lady of the Annunciation Chapel Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday 7 am Our Lady of the Annunciation Chapel 12 pm Our Lady of the Word Chapel 4:30 pm Our Lady of the Annunciation Chapel”
  Sunday Masses are at 9 AM and 8 PM; on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday Mass is at 7 AM, noon and 4:30 PM in campus chapels.
  “Wednesday 10 am (All-University Mass) Our Lady of the Annunciation Chapel No classes, practices, or meetings scheduled Friday 7 am Our Lady of the Annunciation Chapel 12 pm Our Lady of the Annunciation Chapel Saturday 10 am Our Lady of the Word Chapel”
  Wednesday has a 10 AM All-University Mass with no classes scheduled; Friday Masses are at 7 AM and noon; Saturday Mass is at 10 AM.
Yes:
Sunday Mass on campus (including Saturday vigil)Two or more weekend Masses (Sunday 9 AM (chant) and 8 PM (All-University Mass); the Saturday 10 AM Mass is not a vigil.)
Sources (1)
1. University Ministry | University of Maryumary.edu/faith-service/university-ministry · verified Oct. 7, 2026
  “Sunday 9 am (Chant Mass) Our Lady of the Annunciation Chapel 8 pm (Full choral, All-University Mass) Our Lady of the Annunciation Chapel Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday 7 am Our Lady of the Annunciation Chapel 12 pm Our Lady of the Word Chapel 4:30 pm Our Lady of the Annunciation Chapel”
  Sunday Masses are at 9 AM and 8 PM; on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday Mass is at 7 AM, noon and 4:30 PM in campus chapels.
Yes:
Scheduled confession on campusThree or more scheduled times per week (Eight scheduled times weekly: Sun 6:30-8 PM, Mon-Thu 3-4 PM, Tue 7-8 PM, Wed 7-9 PM, Sat 7-8 PM.)
Sources (1)
1. University Ministry | University of Maryumary.edu/faith-service/university-ministry · verified Oct. 7, 2026
  “Confession Times Sunday 6:30 - 8 pm Our Lady of the Annunciation Chapel Monday: 3 - 4 pm Benet Chapel Tuesday 3 - 4 pm Benet Chapel 7 - 8 pm (with Adoration and praise music)Our Lady of the Annunciation Chapel Wednesday 3 - 4 pm Benet Chapel 7 - 9 pm Our Lady of the Annunciation Chapel Thursday 3 - 4 pm Benet Chapel Saturday 7 - 8 pm Benet Chapel”
  Confession is scheduled eight times a week: Sunday evening, Monday through Thursday afternoons, Tuesday and Wednesday evenings, and Saturday evening.
Yes:
Eucharistic adorationEvery weekday or more often, or perpetual adoration (Perpetual adoration in Benet Chapel.)
Sources (2)
1. University Ministry | University of Maryumary.edu/faith-service/university-ministry · verified Oct. 7, 2026
  “We are excited to have perpetual adoration on campus which takes place in Benet Chapel.”
  Perpetual Eucharistic adoration takes place in Benet Chapel on campus.
2. Catholic Identity & Culture | University of Maryumary.edu/faith-service/catholic-identity-culture · verified Oct. 7, 2026
  “Daily Mass and a rich sacramental life 24/7 Perpetual Eucharistic Adoration”
  The university offers daily Mass and 24-hour perpetual adoration.
Yes:
Priests serving studentsAt least one full-time priest chaplain (or a resident community of priests serving campus ministry) (Father Paul Gardner, University Chaplain and Director. Father Anthony Baker, OSB, Assistant Chaplain.)
Sources (2)
1. University Ministry | University of Maryumary.edu/faith-service/university-ministry · verified Oct. 7, 2026
  “Father Paul Gardner University Chaplain, Director of the Saint John Paul II Center for University Ministry Ed Konieczka Assistant Director of University Ministry Rebecca Raber, DMA Director of Choral Studies, Cappella & Concert Choir, Fellow in Catholic Studies Maria Reimann Ministry Coordinator Father Anthony Baker, OSB Assistant Chaplain”
  University Ministry lists five staff: the university chaplain and director, an assistant director, the Cappella choir director, a ministry coordinator, and an assistant chaplain.
2. Father Paul Gardner | University of Maryumary.edu/about/directory/father-paul-gardner-0 · verified Oct. 7, 2026
  “Father Paul Gardner University Chaplain Director of the Saint John Paul II Center for University Ministry University Ministry Contact 701-355-3708”
  Father Paul Gardner is University Chaplain and Director of University Ministry; phone 701-355-3708.
Yes:
Chapel open for prayer on campusYes (Daily Mass in Our Lady of the Annunciation Chapel and Our Lady of the Word Chapel; perpetual adoration in Benet Chapel.)
Sources (1)
1. University Ministry | University of Maryumary.edu/faith-service/university-ministry · verified Oct. 7, 2026
  “Sunday 9 am (Chant Mass) Our Lady of the Annunciation Chapel 8 pm (Full choral, All-University Mass) Our Lady of the Annunciation Chapel Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday 7 am Our Lady of the Annunciation Chapel 12 pm Our Lady of the Word Chapel 4:30 pm Our Lady of the Annunciation Chapel”
  Sunday Masses are at 9 AM and 8 PM; on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday Mass is at 7 AM, noon and 4:30 PM in campus chapels.
  “Wednesday 10 am (All-University Mass) Our Lady of the Annunciation Chapel No classes, practices, or meetings scheduled Friday 7 am Our Lady of the Annunciation Chapel 12 pm Our Lady of the Annunciation Chapel Saturday 10 am Our Lady of the Word Chapel”
  Wednesday has a 10 AM All-University Mass with no classes scheduled; Friday Masses are at 7 AM and noon; Saturday Mass is at 10 AM.
  “We are excited to have perpetual adoration on campus which takes place in Benet Chapel.”
  Perpetual Eucharistic adoration takes place in Benet Chapel on campus.
Yes:
Published weekly schedule of Mass, confession, and adoration30 or more times a week (31 weekly times documented: 15 Mass, 8 confession, 8 adoration.)Computed from the verified Mass, confession, and adoration times listed on this page (each day a time is offered counts once).

N/A

Theology and core curriculum

Not enough information: official sources cover less than 60% of this area.

Not enough information:
Theology or religious studies courses required of all bachelor's studentsNot enough information: not found in official sources.
Not enough information:
Required theology includes explicitly Catholic content (Scripture, Catholic tradition, sacraments)Not enough information: not found in official sources.
Not enough information:
Philosophy courses required of all bachelor's studentsNot enough information: not found in official sources.
Not enough information:
Core curriculum explicitly draws on the Catholic intellectual traditionNot enough information: not found in official sources.
Yes:
Theology or religious studies major offeredYes (B.A. in Theology (major and minor).)
Sources (1)
1. Theology | University of Maryumary.edu/academics/undergraduate-programs/theology · verified Oct. 7, 2026
  “Theology Program Type Major, Minor Degrees Offered B.A.”
  A B.A. major in theology is offered.
Not enough information:
Publicly affirms Ex Corde Ecclesiae in mission or governance documentsNot enough information: not found in official sources.

Campus culture and residence life

91 of 100 points on what we could document.

Yes:
Campus ministry staffing (chaplains, ministers, and professional staff)Five or more (5 staff: University Chaplain/Director, Assistant Director, Cappella choir director, Ministry Coordinator, Assistant Chaplain. FOCUS missionaries not counted.)
Sources (2)
1. University Ministry | University of Maryumary.edu/faith-service/university-ministry · verified Oct. 7, 2026
  “Father Paul Gardner University Chaplain, Director of the Saint John Paul II Center for University Ministry Ed Konieczka Assistant Director of University Ministry Rebecca Raber, DMA Director of Choral Studies, Cappella & Concert Choir, Fellow in Catholic Studies Maria Reimann Ministry Coordinator Father Anthony Baker, OSB Assistant Chaplain”
  University Ministry lists five staff: the university chaplain and director, an assistant director, the Cappella choir director, a ministry coordinator, and an assistant chaplain.
2. Cappella | University of Maryumary.edu/faith-service/university-ministry/cappella · verified Oct. 7, 2026
  “Cappella, the new University of Mary Chapel Choir, is part of the Saint John Paul II Center for University Ministry.”
  Cappella, the chapel choir directed by Dr. Rebecca Raber, is part of University Ministry and sings at campus liturgies.
Partly:
Retreats offered to students each yearOne to three (New Student Retreat, Returning Student Retreat, Senior Retreat; students may also help lead parish youth retreats.)
Sources (1)
1. Retreats & Events | University of Maryumary.edu/faith-service/university-ministry/retreats-events · verified Oct. 7, 2026
  “All incoming students are invited to attend our New Student Retreat in the natural beauty of North Dakota.”
  University Ministry holds a New Student Retreat.
  “Returning students are welcome to join a retreat where they will be invited to deepen their relationship with God in a location off-campus with prayer and guided meditations.”
  University Ministry holds an off-campus retreat for returning students.
  “All graduating seniors are invited to attend our Senior Retreat in the spring.”
  University Ministry holds a spring Senior Retreat.
Yes:
Catholic student organizations and faith-formation groupsThree or more (FOCUS Bible studies, Collegians for Life, Core Catholicism, Fraternity of Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati, Knights of Columbus, Marauders for Christ, Vera Forma.)
Sources (1)
1. Student Groups | University of Maryumary.edu/faith-service/university-ministry/student-groups · verified Oct. 7, 2026
  “The Fellowship of Catholic University Students (FOCUS) is a Catholic collegiate outreach program”
  FOCUS serves the campus, with Bible studies and a listed team of missionaries.
  “Collegians for Life serves to uphold the dignity of human life in all stages, promote a more vibrant culture of life at Mary”
  Collegians for Life is a pro-life student group.
  “join our chaplain, Father Paul Gardner, on Sunday evenings at 6 pm in the Harold Schafer Leadership Center Great Room.”
  Core Catholicism, led by the chaplain, meets Sunday evenings at 6 PM for those learning about or entering the Catholic Church.
  “The Fraternity of Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati seeks to gather young men from the University of Mary together aspiring to ideals of charity, hospitality, fraternity, study, and prayer.”
  The Fraternity of Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati is a men's group.
  “The council at the University of Mary is in the process of renewing and rebuilding its membership through the activities on our campus and local community.”
  The university has a Knights of Columbus council.
  “Marauders for Christ is a scholar-athlete led organization with the mission to unite and build community between scholar-athletes on campus”
  Marauders for Christ is a faith group for athletes.
  “Open to women of all faiths, Vera Forma is a community of women in pursuit of virtuous femininity, sisterhood, and identity in Christ.”
  Vera Forma is a women's faith community.
Yes:
Single-sex residence optionsSingle-sex residence halls available (Separate residence facilities for men and women.)
Sources (1)
1. Student Handbook (approved July 15, 2026) | University of Maryumary.edu/sites/default/files/2022-08/Student-Handbook.pdf · verified Oct. 7, 2026
  “Consistent with Catholic teaching and the University’s religious convictions, the University maintains separate residential facilities for men and women”
  The university maintains separate residence facilities for men and women.
  “Deichert Hall is a residence for men. Boyle Hall is a residence for women.”
  Deichert Hall houses men and Boyle Hall houses women.
Yes:
Overnight guest policy in residence hallsOvernight guests of the opposite sex not permitted (Overnight guests must be the same sex; opposite-sex visitors only during open house hours (noon-10 PM Sun-Thu, noon-midnight Fri-Sat in traditional halls).)
Sources (1)
1. Student Handbook (approved July 15, 2026) | University of Maryumary.edu/sites/default/files/2022-08/Student-Handbook.pdf · verified Oct. 7, 2026
  “students may only have overnight guests of the same sex.”
  Overnight guests must be of the same sex as the host.
  “the University has established open house hours when guests of the opposite sex may be present in the residence halls.”
  Opposite-sex visitors are allowed in residence halls only during set open house hours.
Yes:
Faith life in residence halls (hall chaplains, hall Masses, or faith-based living communities)Yes (Saint Joseph's Hall (men) and Saint Scholastica Discernment Hall (women). Morning Prayer in residence-hall chapels.)
Sources (3)
1. Student Groups | University of Maryumary.edu/faith-service/university-ministry/student-groups · verified Oct. 7, 2026
  “Saint Joseph’s Hall is a unique residence life community for men enrolled at the University of Mary who have the desire to live in community in order to grow in faith, character, and holiness.”
  Saint Joseph's Hall is a faith-based residential community for men, with its own chapel.
  “Members of Saint Scholastica Hall live together in community on the third floor of Roers Hall and intentionally discern religious life.”
  Saint Scholastica Hall is a residential discernment community for women considering religious life.
2. University Ministry | University of Maryumary.edu/faith-service/university-ministry · verified Oct. 7, 2026
  “7:30 am — Women (Jacob’s Well in Roers Hall) 7:30 am — Men (St. Anne’s Chapel in St. Joseph’s Hall)”
  Morning Prayer is prayed on weekdays in residence-hall prayer spaces for women and men.
3. Catholic Identity & Culture | University of Maryumary.edu/faith-service/catholic-identity-culture · verified Oct. 7, 2026
  “Faith-based residence hall communities for men and women, with chapels and common prayer”
  The university has faith-based residence hall communities with chapels and common prayer.
Not enough information:
Office or senior officer for mission and Catholic identityNot enough information: not found in official sources.

Service and Catholic social teaching

88 of 100 points on what we could document.

Yes:
Service or volunteer centerYes (Mission for Life Program, which organizes the Day of Service.)
Sources (2)
1. Christian Life & Service | University of Maryumary.edu/faith-service/christian-life-service · verified Oct. 7, 2026
  “The Mission for Life Program is based on the Christian, Catholic, and Benedictine tradition of service and hospitality.”
  The Mission for Life Program organizes service rooted in the Catholic and Benedictine tradition.
2. Day of Service | University of Maryumary.edu/about/events/day-of-service · verified Oct. 7, 2026
  “Reach out to Mission for Life by email or call 701-355-8228”
  Mission for Life is a staffed program with its own contact line and organizes the Day of Service.
Partly:
Service-learning or community engagement in the curriculumAvailable (courses or programs) (Global service-learning trips; senior capstone service-learning in Communication Sciences and Disorders.)
Sources (2)
1. Service Trips | University of Maryumary.edu/academics/study-abroad/service-trips · verified Oct. 7, 2026
  “the University of Mary offers you unique opportunities to serve others globally through global service learning trips.”
  The university offers global service-learning trips.
2. University of Mary Students Transform Learning into Service (May 28, 2026)umary.edu/about/news/all-stories/university-mary-students-transform-learning-service-through-community-driven · verified Oct. 7, 2026
  “CSD students are also making a difference through their Senior Capstone Service-Learning Experience”
  The Communication Sciences and Disorders program includes a senior capstone service-learning experience.
Not enough information:
Catholic social teaching in the curriculum (course, minor, center, or core requirement)Not enough information: not found in official sources.
Yes:
Pro-life engagement (student pro-life group, support for pregnant and parenting students, or institutional initiatives)Two or more (Collegians for Life, annual March for Life trip, Saint Teresa of Calcutta Community for Mothers (housing for women facing crisis pregnancy or with young children).)
Sources (3)
1. Student Groups | University of Maryumary.edu/faith-service/university-ministry/student-groups · verified Oct. 7, 2026
  “Collegians for Life serves to uphold the dignity of human life in all stages, promote a more vibrant culture of life at Mary”
  Collegians for Life is a pro-life student group.
2. March for Life | University of Maryumary.edu/about/events/march-for-life · verified Oct. 7, 2026
  “Each year, the University of Mary sends busses of students to the March for Life in Washington, DC”
  The university sends buses of students to the March for Life each year.
3. Student Handbook (approved July 15, 2026) | University of Maryumary.edu/sites/default/files/2022-08/Student-Handbook.pdf · verified Oct. 7, 2026
  “Be facing a crisis pregnancy or in need of extra support with their child(ren) who are between the ages of newborn to pre-”
  The Saint Teresa of Calcutta Community for Mothers houses single women facing a crisis pregnancy or needing support with young children.
Yes:
Justice and solidarity programs (immersion trips, poverty, migration, or care-for-creation initiatives)Two or more (Peru service mission trip. Monday Morning Mission service to the underserved. Life and Dignity Week.)
Sources (3)
1. Service Trips | University of Maryumary.edu/academics/study-abroad/service-trips · verified Oct. 7, 2026
  “Students in any major can participate in our service trip to Peru each May.”
  Students in any major can join an annual service trip to Peru.
2. Retreats & Events | University of Maryumary.edu/faith-service/university-ministry/retreats-events · verified Oct. 7, 2026
  “All Christians are welcome every Monday morning at 10 am in the Lower Living Room of the Lumen Vitae University Center for a time to worship God, grow in fellowship, and engage with our local community in service!”
  Monday Morning Mission is a weekly worship and service gathering.
3. Life and Dignity Week | University of Maryumary.edu/about/events/life-and-dignity-week · verified Oct. 7, 2026
  “Community Learning Day — Throughout the day, we will focus on topics concerning the dignity of the human person and seeing everything through the lens of Catholic social teaching.”
  Life and Dignity Week includes a Community Learning Day on human dignity and Catholic social teaching.
Yes:
Service explicitly rooted in the Catholic mission (run with campus ministry or the mission office, or framed by Catholic social teaching)Yes (Mission for Life is based on the Christian, Catholic, and Benedictine tradition of service. Monday Morning Mission combines worship and service.)
Sources (2)
1. Christian Life & Service | University of Maryumary.edu/faith-service/christian-life-service · verified Oct. 7, 2026
  “The Mission for Life Program is based on the Christian, Catholic, and Benedictine tradition of service and hospitality.”
  The Mission for Life Program organizes service rooted in the Catholic and Benedictine tradition.
2. Retreats & Events | University of Maryumary.edu/faith-service/university-ministry/retreats-events · verified Oct. 7, 2026
  “All Christians are welcome every Monday morning at 10 am in the Lower Living Room of the Lumen Vitae University Center for a time to worship God, grow in fellowship, and engage with our local community in service!”
  Monday Morning Mission is a weekly worship and service gathering.

Grades come from the documented indicators under the published rubric. “Not enough information” does not mean the school lacks it.

Strengths

Mass is scheduled every day of the week, with up to three Masses on several weekdays and two on Sunday.
Sources (1)
1. University Ministry | University of Maryumary.edu/faith-service/university-ministry · verified Oct. 7, 2026
  “Sunday 9 am (Chant Mass) Our Lady of the Annunciation Chapel 8 pm (Full choral, All-University Mass) Our Lady of the Annunciation Chapel Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday 7 am Our Lady of the Annunciation Chapel 12 pm Our Lady of the Word Chapel 4:30 pm Our Lady of the Annunciation Chapel”
  Sunday Masses are at 9 AM and 8 PM; on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday Mass is at 7 AM, noon and 4:30 PM in campus chapels.
  “Wednesday 10 am (All-University Mass) Our Lady of the Annunciation Chapel No classes, practices, or meetings scheduled Friday 7 am Our Lady of the Annunciation Chapel 12 pm Our Lady of the Annunciation Chapel Saturday 10 am Our Lady of the Word Chapel”
  Wednesday has a 10 AM All-University Mass with no classes scheduled; Friday Masses are at 7 AM and noon; Saturday Mass is at 10 AM.
Confession is scheduled eight times a week and perpetual adoration takes place in Benet Chapel.
Sources (1)
1. University Ministry | University of Maryumary.edu/faith-service/university-ministry · verified Oct. 7, 2026
  “Confession Times Sunday 6:30 - 8 pm Our Lady of the Annunciation Chapel Monday: 3 - 4 pm Benet Chapel Tuesday 3 - 4 pm Benet Chapel 7 - 8 pm (with Adoration and praise music)Our Lady of the Annunciation Chapel Wednesday 3 - 4 pm Benet Chapel 7 - 9 pm Our Lady of the Annunciation Chapel Thursday 3 - 4 pm Benet Chapel Saturday 7 - 8 pm Benet Chapel”
  Confession is scheduled eight times a week: Sunday evening, Monday through Thursday afternoons, Tuesday and Wednesday evenings, and Saturday evening.
  “We are excited to have perpetual adoration on campus which takes place in Benet Chapel.”
  Perpetual Eucharistic adoration takes place in Benet Chapel on campus.
Residence facilities are separate for men and women, overnight guests must be of the same sex, and faith-based residential communities are offered.
Sources (2)
1. Student Handbook (approved July 15, 2026) | University of Maryumary.edu/sites/default/files/2022-08/Student-Handbook.pdf · verified Oct. 7, 2026
  “Consistent with Catholic teaching and the University’s religious convictions, the University maintains separate residential facilities for men and women”
  The university maintains separate residence facilities for men and women.
  “students may only have overnight guests of the same sex.”
  Overnight guests must be of the same sex as the host.
2. Student Groups | University of Maryumary.edu/faith-service/university-ministry/student-groups · verified Oct. 7, 2026
  “Saint Joseph’s Hall is a unique residence life community for men enrolled at the University of Mary who have the desire to live in community in order to grow in faith, character, and holiness.”
  Saint Joseph's Hall is a faith-based residential community for men, with its own chapel.
  “Members of Saint Scholastica Hall live together in community on the third floor of Roers Hall and intentionally discern religious life.”
  Saint Scholastica Hall is a residential discernment community for women considering religious life.
Pro-life engagement includes a student group, an annual March for Life trip, and a residential community for mothers facing crisis pregnancy.
Sources (3)
1. Student Groups | University of Maryumary.edu/faith-service/university-ministry/student-groups · verified Oct. 7, 2026
  “Collegians for Life serves to uphold the dignity of human life in all stages, promote a more vibrant culture of life at Mary”
  Collegians for Life is a pro-life student group.
2. March for Life | University of Maryumary.edu/about/events/march-for-life · verified Oct. 7, 2026
  “Each year, the University of Mary sends busses of students to the March for Life in Washington, DC”
  The university sends buses of students to the March for Life each year.
3. Student Handbook (approved July 15, 2026) | University of Maryumary.edu/sites/default/files/2022-08/Student-Handbook.pdf · verified Oct. 7, 2026
  “Be facing a crisis pregnancy or in need of extra support with their child(ren) who are between the ages of newborn to pre-”
  The Saint Teresa of Calcutta Community for Mothers houses single women facing a crisis pregnancy or needing support with young children.

Concerns

University Ministry lists three retreats for students (new student, returning student, senior); the rubric's top tier is four or more.
Sources (1)
1. Retreats & Events | University of Maryumary.edu/faith-service/university-ministry/retreats-events · verified Oct. 7, 2026
  “All incoming students are invited to attend our New Student Retreat in the natural beauty of North Dakota.”
  University Ministry holds a New Student Retreat.
  “Returning students are welcome to join a retreat where they will be invited to deepen their relationship with God in a location off-campus with prayer and guided meditations.”
  University Ministry holds an off-campus retreat for returning students.
  “All graduating seniors are invited to attend our Senior Retreat in the spring.”
  University Ministry holds a spring Senior Retreat.

Know something we missed? Suggest a correction.

Campus ministry home

Saint John Paul II Center for University Ministry

Address: 7500 University Drive, Bismarck, ND 58504
Location: On campus
Facilities: chapel

View on map ↗

Source: umary.edu, verified Oct. 7, 2026, umary.edu, verified Oct. 7, 2026, umary.edu, verified Oct. 7, 2026

Catholic clubs and student life

26 groups and regular activities · 19 on campus, 7 off campus

Retreats 3

New Student RetreatOff campus
Weekend retreat for incoming students with talks by the chaplain.
umary.edu
Returning Student RetreatOff campus
Off-campus retreat with prayer and guided meditation.
umary.edu
Senior RetreatOff campus
Spring
Weekend retreat for graduating seniors.
umary.edu

Service 5

Parish youth retreat teamsOff campus
Students are formed to help lead retreats for junior high and high school students in Diocese of Bismarck parishes.
umary.edu
March for LifeOff campus
January
Buses of students travel to the March for Life in Washington, D.C.
umary.edu, umary.edu
Day of ServiceOff campus
Annual day when students, faculty and staff volunteer across Bismarck-Mandan.
umary.edu
Peru Service Mission TripOff campus
May
Service trip open to students in any major.
umary.edu
Monday Morning MissionOn campus
Mondays 10 AM
Weekly worship, fellowship and community service gathering in the Lumen Vitae University Center.
umary.edu

Faith formation 7

LUMEN8On campus
Thursday evenings
Late-night podcast-style show with the chaplain and guests.
umary.edu
Prayer DayOn campus
Annual community day of prayer with a guest speaker.
umary.edu
Vocations JamboreeOn campus
Annual event with vocations representatives.
umary.edu
Core CatholicismOn campus
Sundays 6 PM
Sessions with the chaplain for those learning about or entering the Catholic Church.
umary.edu
Saint Joseph's HallOn campus
Faith-based men's residential community with a chapel.
umary.edu
Saint Scholastica Discernment HallOn campus
Women's residential community discerning religious life, with a daily holy hour and Liturgy of the Hours.
umary.edu

Show 1 more

Life and Dignity WeekOn campus
January
Week of events on human dignity, including a Community Learning Day on Catholic social teaching.
umary.edu

Clubs and groups 6

FOCUS Bible studiesOn campus
FOCUS missionaries lead Bible studies; the team promotes the SEEK conference.
umary.edu, umary.edu, umary.edu
Collegians for LifeOn campus
Pro-life student organization open to all students.
umary.edu
Fraternity of Blessed Pier Giorgio FrassatiOn campus
Men's fraternity of charity, hospitality, study and prayer under the Center for Catholic Studies.
umary.edu
Knights of ColumbusOn campus
College council of the Knights of Columbus.
umary.edu
Marauders for ChristOn campus
Faith community led by scholar-athletes.
umary.edu
Vera FormaOn campus
Women's faith community.
umary.edu

Liturgy and prayer 4

ExultateOn campus
Tuesdays 7-8 PM
Praise and worship before the Blessed Sacrament, with confession available.
umary.edu
Daily Rosary at the GrottoOn campus
Daily 4 PM
Led by the Knights of Columbus at the Warford Grotto.
umary.edu
Morning Prayer, Vespers and Night PrayerOn campus
Weekdays 7:30 AM (Morning Prayer)
Liturgy of the Hours in residence-hall and campus chapels.
umary.edu
CappellaOn campus
Auditioned chapel choir that sings at Wednesday and Sunday evening campus liturgies.
umary.edu

Social life 1

Celebration of Mary's BirthdayOn campus
September 8
Candlelight rosary at the Grotto followed by a birthday party.
umary.edu

Everything listed is published by the school, its campus ministry, or the parish. Ask the campus minister what’s happening this semester.

Campus ministry

Sources (3)

University Ministry | University of Maryumary.edu/faith-service/university-ministry · verified Oct. 7, 2026
“Father Paul Gardner University Chaplain, Director of the Saint John Paul II Center for University Ministry Ed Konieczka Assistant Director of University Ministry Rebecca Raber, DMA Director of Choral Studies, Cappella & Concert Choir, Fellow in Catholic Studies Maria Reimann Ministry Coordinator Father Anthony Baker, OSB Assistant Chaplain”
University Ministry lists five staff: the university chaplain and director, an assistant director, the Cappella choir director, a ministry coordinator, and an assistant chaplain.
“The Saint John Paul II Center for University Ministry is located in the Benedictine Center.”
University Ministry is based in the Saint John Paul II Center for University Ministry in the Benedictine Center.
“The Saint John Paul II Center for University Ministry is located in the Benedictine Center.”
University Ministry is based in the Saint John Paul II Center for University Ministry in the Benedictine Center.
“7500 University Drive, Bismarck, ND 58504”
The university's address is 7500 University Drive, Bismarck, ND 58504.
“We are excited to have perpetual adoration on campus which takes place in Benet Chapel.”
Perpetual Eucharistic adoration takes place in Benet Chapel on campus.
Student Groups | University of Maryumary.edu/faith-service/university-ministry/student-groups · verified Oct. 7, 2026
“The Fellowship of Catholic University Students (FOCUS) is a Catholic collegiate outreach program”
FOCUS serves the campus, with Bible studies and a listed team of missionaries.
“The council at the University of Mary is in the process of renewing and rebuilding its membership through the activities on our campus and local community.”
The university has a Knights of Columbus council.
Catholic Identity & Culture | University of Maryumary.edu/faith-service/catholic-identity-culture · verified Oct. 7, 2026
“FOCUS Missionaries: We have FOCUS missionaries serving our campus throughout the year.”
FOCUS missionaries serve the campus.

Reach out

Contact details for Father Paul Gardner (University Chaplain; Director of the Saint John Paul II Center for University Ministry) and 4 official social and news channels are available to signed-in users.

We keep campus ministers’ emails behind sign-in to protect them from spam.

My rating and notes

Academic Excellence

70 of 100

From federal data, on fixed published scales.

Each measure counts for the share shown.

Graduation rate 35% of score67%
First-year retention 20% of score84%
Entering students' test scores 15% of scoreSAT 1,159 · ACT 23.5
Student-to-faculty ratio 15% of score14 to 1
Instructional spending per student 15% of score$8,897

Bars show points on each measure’s scale. How Academic Excellence is computed.

Source: College Scorecard (College Scorecard, most recent cohorts (data release 06/10/2026))

Cost and value

Federal data, shown separately. Cost, debt, and earnings are never part of any grade.

Value and outcomes
Undergraduate students Fall enrollment (IPEDS)	2,650
Total students	3,794
Average net price (per year) After grants and scholarships, for students receiving federal aid	$17,770
Cost of attendance (per year)	$33,672
Median federal debt at graduation	$24,000
Graduation rate First-time, full-time students finishing within 150% of normal time	67%
First-year retention	84%
Median earnings 10 years after entry	$60,909
Admission rate	75%
Students receiving Pell grants	21%

Admission test scores (middle 50% of admitted students who submitted scores)
Average SAT	1159
SAT reading & writing	580–680
SAT math	530–660
ACT composite	21–26
Test policy	Considered but not required

Value index: 64 / 100 (how it’s computed)

Sources: College Scorecard · IPEDS College Navigator · Net price calculator
College Scorecard, most recent cohorts (data release 06/10/2026); IPEDS 2024-25 directory and institutional characteristics; fall 2023 enrollment.

Local Church

Diocese of Bismarck

The Most Reverend David D. Kagan, Bishop of Bismarck

Formal address: “Your Excellency”

Source: usccb.org, verified Oct. 7, 2026.

Diocese determined from the county using NCES Catholic school records. Confirm with the diocese.

About this school’s data

IPEDS unit ID 200217
Carnegie classification: Doctoral/professional university
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (U.S. Department of Education DAPIP)
Religious affiliation (IPEDS): Roman Catholic
Report an error or a newer source
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Questions families ask

Is University of Mary a Catholic college?: Yes. University of Mary is a Catholic college in the Diocese of Bismarck. Its sponsor is Benedictine Sisters of Annunciation Monastery.
What is University of Mary’s Compass Score?: 87 out of 100 (grade A). It combines faith (75%) and academics (25%), each rated from official sources.
Where is Mass celebrated at University of Mary?: Mass is listed at Our Lady of the Annunciation Chapel and Our Lady of the Word Chapel. Days and times are on this page; please confirm with the parish or campus ministry before you go.
Is University of Mary Compass Recommended?: Yes. University of Mary meets the Compass Recommended standard for Catholic identity and academics.

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