
The Launch of SMC’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Program!
A message to the Saint Mary's Community
I am thrilled to share exciting news today that marks a pivotal moment in Saint Mary’s history.
Late Friday afternoon, the Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Senior College and University Commission granted full accreditation to our Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program. This follows earlier approval from the California Board of Registered Nursing—meaning Saint Mary’s has been given the green light to officially welcome students!
Beginning in the Fall 2025 semester, Saint Mary’s will offer a fully accredited Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree. In fact, a number of students are already on campus this summer, taking core curriculum courses and getting a head start on their nursing education. As the inaugural Nursing Program New Student Orientation approaches on August 8 and 15, excitement is building among our first cohort.
To mark this historic new program, we will host a celebratory ribbon-cutting event early in 2026—details to come in the months ahead.
The launch of this program reflects our College’s deep commitment to the well-being of our communities and the rising demand for skilled healthcare professionals nationwide. The BSN program is designed to prepare students with the knowledge, compassion, and hands-on experience needed to thrive in today’s dynamic healthcare landscape.
As with any major academic undertaking, some short-term disruptions are to be expected. This summer, construction activity—especially around Galileo Hall—may result in occasional noise and other inconveniences as we begin developing facilities for our new Nursing program. Soon after, work will begin on the first floor of Filippi Academic Hall, which will be transformed into a state-of-the-art Simulation Center—one of the program’s signature features. We appreciate your patience and understanding as we bring this important project to life.
Graduates of this program will be equipped to make a meaningful difference in hospitals, clinics, and communities across the Bay Area and beyond. I could not be more proud of the many dedicated individuals who worked tirelessly to make this vision a reality, including Acting Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost Carol Ann Gittens, Director of Nursing Pam Stanley, their colleagues and campus partners, and the entire Nursing team.
Congratulations to everyone who is helping launch Saint Mary’s newest academic program! Together, we are empowering the next generation of compassionate, ethical, and skilled healthcare professionals.
With warmest regards,
Roger J. Thompson, EdD
President