Access

The University of St. Thomas is committed to improved access to its graduate, undergraduate and community outreach programs. 

St. Thomas’ history and its self-understanding as a Catholic institution call for service to a wide range of students.  As a diocesan university, in and of the city, it seeks to find ways of being educationally relevant and responsive to the changing needs of our community and its members.  While it is impossible to be all things to all people, there are important reasons to support and enhance access for all qualified students.  First, it is a matter of social justice.  A second and equally compelling reason is the need to further develop a learning community in which students grow and thrive as a result of contact with others of differing backgrounds, experiences and characteristics.

Rationale:

A diverse university community creates a rich learning environment that better reflects the larger world in which we live.  Without legitimate and genuine diversity, members of our community are deprived of perspectives that contribute to the pursuit of truth.

“The Catholic Church, which embraces men and women of every nation, race, people and tongue (Rev 7:9), is called to be, in a world marked by ideological, ethnic, economic and cultural divisions, the living sign of the unity of the human family.”     
-Pope John Paul II:  Ecclesia in America, #32.

Because we respect the dignity of each person and value the unique contributions of everyone, we strive to create a vibrant diverse community in which, together, we work for a more just and inclusive society. 
-UST Convictions: #4, 5

Strategic Priority 1:

As a Catholic university which seeks “to advance the common good,” St. Thomas will provide resources to recruit and develop a talented and diverse community of faculty, staff and students who are committed to leadership and service in society.

Indicators of achievement of this priority

• Scholarships are directed toward students who give evidence of an interest and ability to be community leaders
• Participation in community-based learning and research is increased
• Cultural understanding and community service are hallmarks of a St. Thomas education
• Institutional practices and policies foster a culture of inclusion, diversity, and collaboration among students, faculty, staff, and administrators

Strategic Priority 2:

The University will attract and retain a highly talented and diverse student body at the undergraduate and graduate levels by reducing financial barriers and improving the environment for under-represented groups on campus.

Indicators of achievement of this priority

• Scholarships for undergraduate and graduate students are increased to reduce financial barriers
• Percentage of students of color, international, first-generation, and students of other under-represented groups increases
• Retention of historically underrepresented students maintains approximate parity with other groups on campus
• Higher ratings are evident on climate surveys
• Without compromising the essence of the core requirements, the transfer process for undergraduates is simplified and access for adult students is enhanced
• Technology enables student services to be more accessible and effective
• Outreach, recruitment and support programs for first-generation college students and new immigrants are successful
• Ongoing professional development opportunities on the value of learning and working in a diverse community are available to faculty, staff and students, and are well-attended