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Founded in 1926, Mercyhurst University is a private, church-affiliated institution located in Erie, Pennsylvania. You will find its campus perched on a hill with stunning views over Lake Erie. The university's architecture is notably influenced by English Gothic design, creating a picturesque learning environment.


Overview of Mercyhurst University


The university hosts a vibrant academic community with an undergraduate enrollment of approximately 2,292 students as of fall 2023. You have access to a variety of baccalaureate, master's, and preprofessional degree programs, including a recently redefined Data Science major with a focus on AI.

The 75-acre campus blends historic charm with modern facilities, ensuring a comprehensive and engaging educational experience. Key Features include academic buildings and student residence halls that harmoniously merge tradition with innovation.

For those interested in remote education, Mercyhurst offers online learning options, allowing you to pursue degrees and certifications remotely. This flexibility ensures you can tailor your educational experience to fit within your personal and professional life.

Mercyhurst's location not only provides scenic beauty but also places you in proximity to a bustling community with dynamic cultural and recreational opportunities. Whether you're attending classes on-campus or engaging online, you'll be part of a rich and supportive academic environment.

General Information


School Type Private not-for-profit
Campus Setting City: Small
Campus Housing Yes
Student Faculty Ratio 14:1
Graduation Rate 62%
Year Founded 1926

Student Enrollment


Total Students3,041

Undergraduate
2,641
Graduate
400

Undergraduate Student

Male 1,056
1,056
Female 1,585
1,585

Graduate Student

Male 160
160
Female 240
240

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Top Rankings For Mercyhurst University


Mercyhurst University Acceptance Rate and Admissions


APPLICATIONS3,893

Male 1,576
Female 2,317

ACCEPTANCE3,192

Male 1,277
Female 1,923

Acceptance Rate82%

Male 81%
Female 83%

Enrollment 607

Male 268
Female 346
Admissions
Application Fee N/A
High School GPA Required
High School Rank Considered But Not Required
High School Transcripts Required
College Prep Courses Considered But Not Required
Recommendations Required
SAT/ACT N/A
Formal demonstration of competencies Considered But Not Required
TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) Recommended
Application Deadline Rolling
Common Application Accepted Yes

Mercyhurst University Tuition Cost & Financial Aid


When considering attending Mercyhurst University, understanding the tuition and associated costs is crucial. Undergraduate tuition stands at approximately $45,585 for both Pennsylvania residents and out-of-state students. This represents a slight increase from previous years. Graduate program costs vary by field of study. The per-credit fee is standard across many programs, with additional charges related to specific fields.

For those pursuing an associate degree or certificate, you can expect costs around $7,164 per semester. This includes tuition and standard fees but does not cover additional courses or unique program requirements.

Food and board costs should also be taken into account. While variable, these can significantly add to your overall expenses. Ensure you budget for potential dining and housing fees when planning your finances. You'll encounter a mix of tuition fees and other charges. Some programs may have additional costs for materials, lab access, or specific resources. These can be included in the general fees or billed separately.

Financial aid opportunities are available to help offset these expenses. As a Yellow Ribbon Program participant and Purple Heart University, Mercyhurst offers various institutional aids and scholarships for those demonstrating financial need.

Average net price 2020-2021
Net Price $25,785
Average Total Aid $30,945
Students Receiving Financial Aid 100%
Room & Board $14,025

Sticker Price


  • Tuition In-State - $43,460
  • Tuition Out-of-State - $43,460
  • Books and Supplies - $1,200
  • Room & Board - $14,025
  • Other - $2,061

Popular Academic Programs at Mercyhurst University


When attending Mercyhurst University, you will find a diverse range of academic programs. The university offers undergraduate and graduate degrees, including associate, bachelor’s, and master’s programs. The student-faculty ratio is 15:1, facilitating an engaging learning environment.

There are over 50 majors available, with popular choices including Business, Criminal Justice, and Health Sciences. These programs are designed to prepare you for your career by providing both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.

The REACH Curriculum is a unique aspect of the available education, teaching you to appreciate art and culture and to value interconnectedness. This curriculum emphasizes service and cultural awareness and enriches educational experience beyond your major field of study.

Mercyhurst maintains small class sizes, with nearly 64.6% of classes having fewer than 20 students. This ensures personalized attention and fosters a nurturing educational atmosphere.

Along with rigorous academic programs, you may also explore opportunities through the Office of Global Programs. These include semester-long and summer study abroad options, enhancing your global perspective and cultural competence.

Focusing on metrics like retention and graduation rates, Mercyhurst supports student success. The emphasis is on providing resources and guidance to help you achieve your academic and career aspirations.

Student Population Total


Student Population 3,041

Undergraduate
2,641
Graduate
400
Evening Classes : Yes
Online Learning : Yes

Most Popular Programs & Majors

(# of Diplomas Awarded by Subject)


Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services 106 Total Graduates / 19%
Fashion Merchandising 17 Graduates
Finance, General 16 Graduates
Marketing, Other 14 Graduates
Hospitality Administration/Management, General 11 Graduates
Accounting 11 Graduates
Business Administration and Management, General 11 Graduates
Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services, Other 11 Graduates
Military Technologies and Applied Sciences 86 Total Graduates / 16%
Intelligence, General 86 Graduates
Health Professions and Related Programs 60 Total Graduates / 11%
Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General 19 Graduates
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse 13 Graduates
Public Health, General 10 Graduates
Athletic Training/Trainer 9 Graduates
Homeland Security, Law Enforcement, Firefighting and Related Protective Services 54 Total Graduates / 10%
Criminal Justice/Safety Studies 35 Graduates
Forensic Science and Technology 19 Graduates
Biological and Biomedical Sciences 47 Total Graduates / 9%
Biology/Biological Sciences, General 33 Graduates
Exercise Physiology and Kinesiology 9 Graduates
Biochemistry 3 Graduates
Bioinformatics 2 Graduates
All Other Diplomas 36%

Outcome & Salary


You can expect various outcomes when graduating from Mercyhurst University. With a graduation rate of approximately 59% and a transfer-out rate of 24%, you join an institution recognized for its above-average performance compared to many private universities in Pennsylvania. Though this may seem low, students who transfer out may go on to graduate from other institutions, bring the total graduation rate higher. The retention rate of around 80% indicates that most new students choose to continue their education at Mercyhurst, reflecting a positive overall student experience.

Mercyhurst also offers strong job placement programs designed to help you transition into your professional career. The university's Career and Professional Development Center annually gathers data on graduates' employment status, focusing on their first professional experiences. Moreover, for specific programs, the university tracks the pass rate for certifications, ensuring that you have the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in your field. This preparation can enhance your employability and professional credibility.

By focusing on structured career pathways and continuous student support, Mercyhurst University aims to create a smooth transition from academic life to achieving professional goals.

Graduates Salary
College Grads Early Career Salary $49,600
College Grads Average Salary $65,000
College Grads Mid Career Salary $81,000
Return on Investment (ROI)
10 Year Salary Earnings Potential $650,000
20 Year Salary Earnings Potential $1,460,000
Cost of Education (Net Price) 4 Year $103,140
10 Year Projected ROI $546,860
20 Year Projected ROI $1,356,860
No College Education Salary Comparison
National Average Salary $38,792
10 Year Projected Income $387,920
20 Year Projected Income $775,840

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