Mount St. Joseph University welcomes 409 new undergraduate students while advancing its “To New Heights” Strategic Plan
CINCINNATI —Mount St. Joseph University (the “Mount”) begins the 2026-27 Academic Year with continued enrollment strength and expanded academic and student-life opportunities, as the University advances the second year of its To New Heights Strategic Plan.
Undergraduate enrollment remains among the strongest the Mount has experienced in the past two decades, marking the second consecutive year at historically high levels. Vice President for Enrollment Dr. Chris Powers shared, “I am excited about the new year, as the University welcomes another strong incoming class this Fall, while maintaining overall undergraduate enrollment growth. It is also encouraging to see the growing retention and continuation.”
In addition, The Mount experienced enrollment growth among underrepresented minority students, with overall enrollment increasing nine percent over the previous year. Underrepresented minority students comprise one-quarter of the University’s student body.
“This year reflects the momentum we are building at Mount St. Joseph University and the confidence students and families continue to place in a Mount education,” said Dr. H. James Williams, President of Mount St. Joseph University. “We are growing while remaining focused on what matters most: knowing our students, supporting their success and preparing them to lead lives of purpose and contribute to a better world.”
The Mount’s enrollment strength comes as the University advances To New Heights, its Strategic Plan, through 2030. The plan is already driving new investments in academic programs, student success, engagement, and the overall campus experience.
Those investments are increasingly visible across campus this Fall. The newly renovated Seton Commons Student Center creates a vibrant hub for student life, with private study rooms, comfortable gathering spaces, a kitchen and café area, Lions Express—a convenient grab-and-go market for food and everyday essentials—and The Den Game Room. The Mount also renovated the Japanese Garden outdoor space and added a Fire Pit in The Quad as another way to facilitate student experience and fun.
The following programs are new for the 2026-27 Academic Year:
- A bachelor’s degree and minor in Artificial Intelligence;
- A Master of Social Work program;
- An Intercollegiate Athletic Communication Certificate;
- NCAA Division III women’s wrestling;
- A peer-to-peer mentoring program; and
- Weeks of Welcome, an extended series of events from Aug. 20 through Oct. 2, designed to help students build relationships, discover opportunities and become part of the Mount community.
Together, these investments reflect a Mount that is growing, evolving, and focused on what students need to thrive. From innovative academic programs to new spaces and expanded opportunities for connection, the University is bringing To New Heights to life across the campus.
About the Mount
As a Catholic institution rooted in the values of the Sisters of Charity, Mount St. Joseph University excels at serving the common good. Undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral students at the Mount are inspired to think beyond the classroom and redraw the bounds of what’s possible for their futures. This is accomplished through individualized educational experiences, a safe, secure campus environment, and an all-in commitment from faculty and staff to inspire students to reach their highest potential. The Mount fosters life-long learners who serve, care, and contribute to the world beyond their front doors.
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