University of Mount Saint Vincent’s Seton College Expands After Breakout First Year

University of Mount Saint Vincent’s Seton College Expands After Breakout First Year

Created in partnership with the Come To Believe Network, this low-cost, high support program is the third of its kind in the nation

Riverdale, NY — The University of Mount Saint Vincent (UMSV) is expanding Seton College, its groundbreaking two-year division, following a highly successful first year marked by strong student outcomes and overwhelming demand. Seton College is the first program of its kind in the New York region and only the third in the nation built on this high-impact, debt-free model.

Applications for the fall 2025 cohort have soared by 353 percent—from 150 in 2024 to 680 this year. By April, 95 students had already committed to enroll, compared to zero at the same point last year. Enrollment will nearly double, increasing from 65 to 125 students for this year’s incoming class. With both the inaugural group and the incoming class enrolled, the program will serve approximately 190 students by the start of the Fall 2025 semester.

Seton College is designed for students who have been historically underserved by the traditional four-year model. Through federal and state financial aid combined with institutional scholarships, Seton students attend tuition-free, with no out-of-pocket costs for transportation, meals while on campus, or support services.

“This is what higher education should look like—accessible, affordable, and focused on student success,” said Dr. Susan R. Burns, President of the University of Mount Saint Vincent. “The energy around Seton College has exceeded expectations, and we’re excited to grow the program to serve even more students who deserve this opportunity.”

“We meet students where they are—and equip them with what they need to reach their full potential." said Dr. Lynne Bongiovanni, Provost and Dean of Faculty. “This model removes systemic barriers and replaces them with opportunity and personalized support. That’s how transformation happens.”

In addition to earning an associate degree debt-free, students can transition into a bachelor’s program at UMSV or pursue direct-to-career options. Seton College also provides access to industry-recognized credentials—including phlebotomy and real estate licensing—broadening post-graduation pathways.

Many Seton College students are first-generation college attendees. The program provides small class sizes (often around 12 students), free transportation via MTA passes and shuttles, and on-campus breakfast and lunch daily. Plans for the coming year include hiring additional dedicated faculty and expanding academic advising and career development support.

“I knew I had potential in high school, but I didn’t fully reach that,” said Yellin Figuereo ’26. “But I’m actually an honor student now here for my first year. And I’m so proud of myself. And I think the faculty just helped me and the staff and my professors since they are here to help us and, you know, make us reach our full potential.”

Seton College was created in partnership with the Come To Believe Network (CTB) and established through the generosity of several partners and donors, including the University of Mount Saint Vincent’s founders, the Sisters of Charity of New York. Through CTB’s efforts, this high-support, low-cost college model has also been successfully implemented at Loyola University Chicago’s Arrupe College and the University of St. Thomas’s Dougherty Family College in Minnesota. Seton College is the third in the nation to adopt the model.

About the University of Mount Saint Vincent
Founded in 1847 by the Sisters of Charity, the University of Mount Saint Vincent offers a nationally recognized liberal arts education and a select array of professional programs on a landmark campus overlooking the Hudson River. Enriched by the opportunities of New York City, the Mount equips students with the knowledge, skills, and experiences necessary for achievement and leadership in the 21st century.