In recent months, lmmaculata University and Marywood University have been in conversation about how we can strengthen our already strong institutions in a post-COVID world. We are in dialogue about how to form some strategic partnerships without losing our individual identity or autonomy. We chose each other for this exciting conversation because of our mutual connection with the Sisters, Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary. Although these congregations are two separate entities, they are bound together by the same founders, history, and charism. Our universities are the beneficiaries of their 176-year history and we can’t help but be formed by the richness of their presence in our institutions.
In a world that suffers from the friction of competition and conflict, we have chosen to collaborate for the common good and for the students who are educated in our universities. We envision many ways of collaborating into the future. One such example is found in the MOU (Memorandum of Understanding) that was recently signed by our two Provosts. Elements of the MOU are provided here as an example of our early initiatives.
Academic Pathways
Graduate Programs at Marywood
Marywood will offer an unencumbered pathway to the master’s degree for highly qualified undergraduate students at lmmaculata as follows:
- Master of Arts in Art Therapy
- Master of Science in Criminal Justice
- Master of Social Work
Certain criteria are required to access these pathways. Financial consideration will be given to lmmaculata students.
Graduate Programs at lmmaculata
lmmaculata will offer an unencumbered pathway to the master’s degree for highly qualified undergraduate students at Marywood as follows:
- Master of Arts in Music Therapy
- Master of Science in Nursing
Certain criteria are required to access these pathways. Financial consideration will be given to Marywood students.
The governing boards of both lmmaculata and Marywood Universities have been informed of these deliberations and have encouraged both institutions to move forward in the formation of meaningful partnerships.
We believe that this is just the beginning of all we can do together. It is the hope of our two universities that our conversations will allow us to stretch and grow as institutions of higher education, that we will be able to find synergies that help us to thrive, and that we will become a model of collaboration among our peers. We will continue to communicate the progress we make as a result of future study and dialogue.
Barbara Lettiere, President
Immaculata University
Sister Mary Persico, IHM, President
Marywood University