Northeastern University and Marymount Manhattan College merger FAQ

Why did Marymount Manhattan College merge with Northeastern University?

In 2024, MMC’s Board of Trustees unanimously voted to pursue this opportunity after completing a thoughtful, deliberative, and thorough process to explore ways to preserve MMC’s mission as an institution of higher learning for the long term.

In recent years, institutions across the country have been confronting significant challenges regarding enrollment and finances. This is particularly true for small, private liberal arts colleges, including MMC. Recognizing these mounting challenges, MMC’s Board of Trustees proactively sought out a plan in 2024 to ensure the continuation of the core elements of MMC for generations to come.

Over the past two years, Northeastern and MMC have worked diligently to map their curricula, create pathways for student mobility between campuses, and explore opportunities to expand research and experiential learning programs in the financial and media capital of the world.

What is the new name of the new entity?

Northeastern University – New York City

How is Northeastern’s campus in New York City different from other out-of-state institutions that also have a presence there?

Northeastern University is the first out-of-state university to provide a full suite of undergraduate programs in New York State.

What will happen to the Marymount Manhattan College name and campus?

With the merger completed, the new entity is now called Northeastern University – New York City. Northeastern values MMC’s legacy and intends to preserve and enhance MMC’s East 71^st Street campus for generations to come. Certain named spaces, including the Judith Mara Carson Center for Visual Arts and the Theresa Lang Theatre, will be retained as part of Northeastern University – New York City.

How did the merger affect MMC’s existing degree programs?

Northeastern and MMC worked together to map existing MMC degree programs into Northeastern’s curriculum. Students enrolled and admitted at the time of the merger can continue to pursue their chosen field(s) of study. In cases where program offerings have changed, students are receiving individualized guidance and support to ensure a pathway toward degree completion.

What happened to MMC’s performing arts programs, including their dance programs?

Northeastern University – New York City will maintain an emphasis on the performing arts while connecting it with Northeastern’s innovative approach to fields like Artificial Intelligence, engineering, business, and more. MMC’s existing dance program will remain and continue to enroll students.

Will Northeastern University – New York City offer expanded undergraduate or graduate degree programs in the future?

Northeastern is committed to expanding opportunities for undergraduate and graduate education and lifelong learning, and will continue to evaluate offerings across its global system, including the New York City campus. Over time, enrollments could span a range of academic disciplines, including those that align with the unparalleled economic ecosystem that is New York City.

Does the merger expand Northeastern’s experiential learning and co-op offerings in New York City?

Northeastern already has partnerships in New York City with employers across multiple industries. New York City has been a popular destination for Northeastern students pursuing co-op opportunities, for many years. The merger expands the regional network of partnerships—and the opportunities for Northeastern University – New York City students—by adding MMC’s existing network of partners in the entertainment and performing arts industries.

How does the merger affect tuition and financial aid for currently enrolled MMC students?

Consistent with the agreement, students enrolled at MMC at the time of the merger will not incur additional tuition or fees apart from customary annual increases. All existing financial aid awards are being honored.

How does the merger affect the employment of MMC faculty and staff?

All full-time MMC faculty members at the time of the merger became Northeastern faculty and received contracts, with the option to be considered for available tenured, tenure-track and non-tenure-track positions. All staff employed by MMC upon the effective date of the merger became employees of Northeastern University. Staff positions will be evaluated based on the demand to support the mission and operations of Northeastern University – New York City, which are expected to grow over time.

How will Northeastern University – New York City preserve MMC’s unique legacy?

As part of the merger, Northeastern is establishing a center that reflects the strengths and traditions of MMC. Northeastern will also retain MMC’s Bedford Hill and Taconic College prison education programs.

Why is Northeastern continuing to grow its global network of campuses?

The development of the global university system has strengthened Northeastern in myriad ways, including our financial health, demand for our educational offerings, faculty recruitment, philanthropic opportunities, and brand visibility. Most importantly, our multi-campus network has expanded the impact of our teaching and research. The addition of a New York City campus will further amplify all of these benefits, while also providing powerful differentiation at a time when higher education is undergoing profound changes.