Roman Catholic institution covering more than 105 acres (42 hectares) in a residential area of Grand Rapids, Mich. Its history traces back to a normal school—that is, a teacher-training institution—established by the Dominican Sisters of Grand Rapids in 1886. The school merged with Sacred Heart College in 1922 and together they took on the name Marywood College. Men were first admitted in 1931, and the name was changed to Grand Rapids Junior College. It became a four-year college in 1940 under its present name, which honors philosopher and theologian Thomas Aquinas. Enrollment consists of approximately 2,000 undergraduate and 500 graduate students, most of whom are state residents. Women greatly outnumber men. More than 40 percent of the undergraduates are over the age of 25, and many attend part-time. Traditional-age students must reside in campus housing during their freshmen and sophomore years. The academic calendar is divided into semesters. More than half of the full-time faculty hold doctorates. The college also employs a large number of part-time instructors. Aquinas awards associate, bachelor's, and master's degrees. Programs in business and in education are offered at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. Other disciplines available to undergraduates include liberal arts and sciences, visual and performing arts, computer sciences, athletic training, communications, environmental sciences, interior design, international studies, medical technologies, and religious studies. Between 15 and 20 percent of the undergraduates pursue advanced studies within a year of graduation. Extracurricular activities at the college include performing arts groups, an alcohol awareness club, a multicultural organization, publications, and intramural sports. Varsity sports teams compete in the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics. |