St Mary's is an academic, residential college affiliated with the University of Melbourne. The College was initially founded by the Loreto Sisters and is based on the Catholic tradition; however, each year, we welcome students from diverse religious backgrounds into our community, from all over Australia and worldwide. We pride ourselves on the diversity of our students and the inclusiveness of our community.
With 167 students, St Mary's is a medium-sized College. This means that it is small enough to get to know everyone but large enough to gain a wide range of friends. St Mary's places great emphasis on the education and development of the whole person – and as such, we encourage the pursuit of academic excellence while enjoying the many social, sporting, cultural, and spiritual opportunities on offer. We work hard to ensure that our students experience a 'home away from home when they join the St Mary's College community – that they feel supported, happy, safe, and fulfilled as they transition from school to university and live in a big city.
Our genuine commitment to our students' pastoral care forms an integral part of St Mary's life. With warm and approachable staff, dedicated academic tutors experienced residential tutors, and empathetic student mentors, there is always someone looking out for you, willing to listen or provide advice. People are valued and respected for their strengths and differences. Regardless of your background, you will find your place to belong in the St Mary's community.
Above all, we aim to provide a supportive environment in which each individual is challenged to develop holistically. We are a college in the Catholic tradition and welcome people of all faiths, and none we are inspired by the Gospels and strive to live by their values. St Mary's is a unique college community with alumni from all walks of life around the world. Each of them has benefited from their time in College.
While academic pursuits remain at the core of the College, we strive for our students' holistic development. Cultural pursuits are encouraged and facilitated – examples include the annual musical production and the oratory competition. St Mary's students are engaged with the contemporary world in community service – volunteering in local not-for-profits and charities, tutoring migrant and refugee children, raising awareness of important issues. We offer spiritual development opportunities too – the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage to Spain provides a unique aspect to college life, and college Masses provide an opportunity for prayer and reflection. A full social life is facilitated by the student club, with a diverse program of events throughout the year.
