University of Mary is a private Catholic university in Bismarck, North Dakota, founded in 1959 by Benedictine Sisters. It offers health sciences, nursing, business, education, and liberal arts programs with strong faith integration. Students rave about small classes, personal professor attention, beautiful Missouri River campus, NCAA Division II Marauders athletics, and supportive community.

State

North Dakota

Student Population

2,744

Acceptance Rate

78%

GPA Range

3.4-3.8

SAT Range

1000-1320

Common Majors

Nursing, Business, Education, Biology

"Opening convocation starts fall semester while Candlelight Mass packs the chapel. Gusty Hall's no AC makes August unbearable. We do Powderpuff football and Steer Roast tailgates, though ND blizzards cancel outdoor events. Commuter parking fills by 8 AM."

Team & Tuition

Divison

Division 2

Tuition (no scholarship)

$21,468

Conference

Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference

Scholarships Available

Yes. Both athletic and academic.

Avg Men's Scores

76-78

Avg Women's Scores

78-85

Men's Team Notes

University of Mary men’s golf averaged about 76–78 per player per round, with team totals often in the mid‑300s over four counting scores. The Marauders posted several rounds in the 70s and 80s, contended in tightly packed NSIC‑style events, and showed steady four‑man scoring balance.

Women's Team Notes

University of Mary women’s golf likely averaged about 78–85 per player per round, with team totals often in the 310s–340s per 18 holes. The team turned in frequent 70s and 80s, remained competitive in multi‑round tournaments, and gradually improved its low‑round performance.

Coaches

Men's Coach

Laif Olson

Women's Coach

Marion Hernandez

Men's Email

ljolson@umary.edu

Women's Email

mehernandez@umary.edu

Men's Coach Bio

Laif Olson has served as head men's golf coach at University of Mary since February 2022, managing recruiting, scheduling, and team travel while driving the bus to events. Focused on holistic student-athlete growth in NSIC competition through invitations like Bemidji State and USF events, he transitions post-2026 from Bismarck campus.

Women's Coach Bio

Marion Hernandez leads UMary women's golf since 2021 after assistant role, bringing Minot State playing experience and NSIC knowledge. Honored to build Marauders programs through Hawktree Invitational and UJ Fall Invite wins, she steps down post-spring 2026 while staying connected to Bismarck athletics.