Siena Heights University to Shut Down: What You Should Know

A small Michigan Catholic university has announced that it will be closing its doors following the 2025-2026 school year.

The school, located in Adrian, Michigan, has been open since 1919.

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Siena Heights University, originally opened by the Adrian Dominican Sisters and named St. Joseph College, has sat high upon a bluff above Adrian for 105 years. But after the class of 2026 graduates, it will cease operations.

Siena Heights University in Michigan Closing For Good

Why is Siena Heights University closing? Simply put, it comes down to money. The university said in a press release that leadership,

assessed the financial situation, operational challenges, and long-term sustainability. Despite the dedication of our board, faculty, staff, students, alumni, and supporters, continuing operations beyond the coming academic year is no longer feasible.

An article from Inside Higher Ed may shed a little more light on the situation. According to Inside Higher Ed, enrollment at the university has dropped over the past several years.

Despite the positive turn last fall, Siena Heights’ enrollment has declined over the last decade. While the latest federal enrollment data lists 1,832 students enrolled in fall 2023, that represents a significant drop from a recent high of 2,707 in 2015. - Inside Higher Ed

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The university said in their statement that they will work with underclassmen to find them other institutions that they can go to to finish out their degrees.

Business As Usual for the 2025-2026 School Year at Siena Heights University

The university says that it aims to have a normal school year this upcoming year. This includes the myriad of sports offered to both male and female students and the nearly 60 academic majors offered.

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Gallery Credit: Scott Clow