Mercyhurst University
The Vibe Check
Mercyhurst offers a close-knit, supportive campus atmosphere where students feel seen and valued, blending rigorous academics with a strong sense of community. The historic, tree-lined campus provides a serene environment that encourages personal growth and meaningful connections among peers and faculty.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
Test Optional
This school does not require SAT/ACT scores for admission
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
Can I Get In?
Estimate your admission chances
⚠️ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.
Academics & Majors
Mercyhurst is recognized for its strong programs in health professions, business, and criminal justice, with a focus on experiential learning and internships. The university emphasizes teaching quality with small class sizes and offers research opportunities, particularly through its unique Intelligence and Criminal Justice programs.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Erie
Students enjoy Erie's lakeside location, with opportunities for hiking, biking, and beach activities at Presque Isle State Park, especially in the warmer months. The city also offers a growing downtown with local restaurants, coffee shops, and seasonal festivals, providing a mix of relaxed and active entertainment.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($47,452):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
Mercyhurst's campus is generally considered safe, with campus security and emergency alert systems in place. The surrounding Erie area has typical city concerns, but the campus itself is a secure and welcoming environment for students.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Highly regarded programs in Intelligence Studies and Criminal Justice with strong industry connections
- ✓ Personalized attention from faculty due to small class sizes and a low student-to-faculty ratio
- ✓ Beautiful lakeside campus with access to outdoor recreation at Presque Isle
- ✓ Strong focus on experiential learning through internships and co-op programs
Cons
- ✗ Graduation rate of 61.2% is below the national average for private universities
- ✗ Erie's location can feel remote, with fewer major city amenities compared to larger metropolitan areas
- ✗ Tuition cost is high relative to the average post-graduation earnings
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
Mercyhurst is particularly renowned for its Intelligence Studies and Criminal Justice programs, which are among the best in the nation. It also has strong offerings in Health Professions, Business, and the Visual and Performing Arts, with a focus on hands-on learning and community engagement.
Mercyhurst has an acceptance rate of 83.23%, making it generally accessible for most applicants. While it's not highly selective, strong grades, a solid essay, and demonstrated interest can improve your chances of admission.
Campus life is active and community-focused, with a variety of student organizations, Division II athletics, and arts performances. Students enjoy a balanced environment with easy access to Erie's outdoor attractions, fostering both social and personal growth.
With an average net price of $27,263 and median earnings of $47,452 after 10 years, Mercyhurst offers a moderate return on investment. It's a solid value for students pursuing high-demand fields like health professions or criminal justice, especially if they leverage financial aid and internships.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Private
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 2,966
- In-State Tuition $44,510
- Zip Code 16546
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With an average net price of $27,263, Mercyhurst can be a more affordable option compared to many private universities, especially with financial aid. The 10-year median earnings of $47,452 suggest a moderate return on investment, making it a reasonable choice for students seeking a private education without excessive debt.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.