Mercer University
Macon, GA
Quick Facts
Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education
About Mercer University
Mercer University: Georgia's oldest private research university, driven by innovation and service.
Nestled in Macon, Georgia, Mercer University stands as the state's oldest private university, a vibrant research institution committed to shaping leaders and serving communities. With over 9,000 students across 12 diverse colleges and schools, Mercer is classified as an "R2: Doctoral Universities — High research activity" institution, contributing significantly to both academic advancement and regional development. Its core mission often centers on vital community needs, notably training primary care physicians for Georgia's rural and underserved areas.
Mercer's rich history began on January 14, 1833, as Mercer Institute in Penfield, Georgia, a boys' preparatory school named after the prominent Baptist leader, Jesse Mercer. Just four years later, in 1837, it earned its university charter, adopting its current name in 1838. The university's strategic move to Macon in 1871 marked a new era of growth, establishing itself in a bustling center of commerce. Throughout its history, Mercer has demonstrated a commitment to national service, even participating in the V-12 Navy College Training Program during World War II.
Academically, Mercer excels with a strong emphasis on research and practical application. Its School of Engineering is the only private engineering school in Georgia and maintains a crucial partnership with Robins Air Force Base, providing unique opportunities for students. The university's innovative spirit is exemplified by the "Mercer On Mission" project, recognized by the Clinton Global Initiative, which provides low-cost prosthetics to amputees in developing nations. Its School of Medicine is consistently lauded for its dedication to family medicine, underscoring Mercer's commitment to addressing real-world health challenges.
Beyond academics, Mercer offers a dynamic student experience across its multiple campuses, including the historic main campus in Macon, a graduate and professional campus in Atlanta, and medical school campuses in Savannah and Columbus. Students can also engage in a spirited NCAA Division I athletic program, with the Mercer Bears competing in the Southern Conference, fostering a strong sense of community and pride.
Key Highlights
- ✦Oldest private university in Georgia, founded in 1833.
- ✦Classified as an "R2: Doctoral Universities — High research activity" institution.
- ✦Enrollment of over 9,000 students across 12 colleges and schools.
- ✦Endowment of $502 million as of 2022.
- ✦Home to the only private engineering school in Georgia, with a strong partnership with Robins Air Force Base.
- ✦Mercer On Mission project recognized by the Clinton Global Initiative for developing low-cost prosthetics for amputees.
- ✦School of Medicine ranked 17th nationally in family medicine in 2005, focused on training physicians for rural Georgia.
- ✦The Townsend-McAfee Institute has become a leading publisher of choral music and church Bible study material.
Timeline
Schools & Colleges
6 notable schools within Mercer University
Stetson-Hatcher School of Business
Founded in 1984, it holds the highest level of accreditation (AACSB) and offers BBA, MBA, Professional MBA, and Executive MBA programs. It also hosts the Mercer University Executive Forum, Georgia's premier business outreach program.
School of Engineering
Founded in 1985, it is the only private engineering school in Georgia, providing undergraduate and graduate degrees. It's a primary provider of engineers for Robins Air Force Base and recognized for its 'Mercer On Mission' project creating low-cost prosthetics.
Townsend School of Music
Opened in 2006, it offers undergraduate and graduate music degrees, housed in the state-of-the-art Allan and Rosemary McCorkle Music Building. It also includes the Robert McDuffie Center for Strings, limited to 26 students.
School of Law (Walter F. George School of Law)
Founded in 1873, it is one of the oldest law schools in the U.S. and offers a Juris Doctor (JD) degree and a joint JD/MBA program.
James and Carolyn McAfee School of Theology
Founded in 1994 and affiliated with the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship, it offers graduate theological programs and is a national center of Baptist scholarship, housing the American Baptist Historical Society and the Baptist History and Heritage Society.
School of Medicine
Founded in 1982, it is partially state-funded and focuses on training primary care physicians for rural Georgia, consistently recognized for its family medicine program. It has campuses in Macon, Savannah, and Columbus, offering MD and master's programs in family therapy.
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