Marian University grew out of the dedication and vision of Sister Theresa Hackelmeier and the Sisters of Saint Francis, Oldenburg, Indiana, who established a school in Oldenburg, Indiana, in 1851. In 1936, the school became Marian College and moved to Indianapolis in 1937. In 2009, Marian College became Marian University.
Marian University is the only Catholic University in Indianapolis and central Indiana, serving more than 5,100 students, including 4,000 undergraduate and 1,200 graduate students, earning degrees in the arts, business, education, engineering, math, medicine, nursing, ministry, and the natural and physical sciences.
Marian University strives to be a Catholic liberal arts university distinguished in its ability to educate and form transformative leaders for service to the world. We welcome students of all faiths who seek an educational experience framed within the context of our Franciscan sponsorship values—dignity of the individual, peace and justice, reconciliation, and responsible stewardship.
The institution grew out of the dedication and vision of Sister Theresa Hackelmeier and the Sisters of St. Francis, Oldenburg, who established a school in Oldenburg, Indiana, in 1851. The college was founded in Oldenburg in 1936 and moved to Indianapolis in 1937. On July 1, 2009, Marian College became Marian University.
Daniel J. Elsener became the eighth president of Marian College, now Marian University, on August 1, 2001. President Elsener has dedicated his professional life to the mission of Catholic education. As a result of his energetic and visionary leadership the university has experienced great success recruiting students and raising money to advance the mission of the university.
Marian University is proud to be a higher education institution just ten minutes away from downtown Indianapolis. Here, you’ll not only get to benefit from the exceptional employment and internship opportunities the city has to offer but also its diverse culture and lively personality.
Whether it’s walking around Monument Circle, floating down the canal in a paddleboat, visiting the various historical sites and museums, or dining on Mass Ave, you’ll quickly find your favorite local hangouts and love this city just as much as we do.
Marian University is authorized by name in statute as an approved institution of higher education in the state of Indiana. In full compliance with federal rules, please contact the Indiana Commission for Higher Education at www.in.gov/che/2744.htm for Indiana’s higher education complaint resolution process.
Marian University's comprehensive financial aid packages make a Marian University education affordable. Grants, scholarships, work-study, and loans are available.
Talk about a place where everybody knows your name! Marian University is a close-knit community focused on the needs of students and committed to their education, safety, social well-being, and success. Our four residence halls and student apartments provide a safe, wholesome, and fun community life. You'll always find plenty to do on and around campus.
A close-knit community means more opportunities to get involved and develop your leadership skills. You’ll have more chances to lead in the areas that really interest you...and more chances to explore new interests, too!
Other schools may prepare you for a career. Marian University prepares you for life.
© 2024 Marian University
Notice of Nondiscrimination
Marian University does not discriminate on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, sex, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, creed, national origin, age or disabilities in the selection of administrative personnel, faculty and staff, and students.
*Placement rates are gathered from data collected from graduates within six months of graduation.
Students may make a complaint to the Indiana Commission of Higher Education.
Marian University is sponsored by the Sisters of St. Francis, Oldenburg, Indiana.
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