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Mercyhurst University

Erie, PA

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

(Seize the day)

1926
Founded
Private university
Type
2,217
Total Students
2,274
Undergrad
358
Graduate
$45K
Tuition (In-State)
$45K
Tuition (Out-State)
$27K
Avg Net Price
83%
Acceptance Rate
59%
Graduation Rate
6-year
78%
Retention Rate
Master's Colleges & Universities
Classification
President: Kathleen Getz

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About Mercyhurst University

Mercyhurst: From founding vision to dynamic university, seizing the day.

Founded in 1926 by the Sisters of Mercy of the Diocese of Erie, Mercyhurst University began as a women's college committed to academic excellence and service. What started as Mercyhurst College with a focus on education and community, expanded significantly over the decades, becoming coeducational in 1969 and officially transitioning to Mercyhurst University in 2012. This evolution reflects a dynamic institution continuously adapting to meet the needs of its diverse student body.

Today, Mercyhurst is renowned for its innovative programs and vibrant student life. Prospective students will discover a rich academic environment, particularly in signature programs like Intelligence Studies and Hospitality Management, housed in modern facilities such as the state-of-the-art Center for Academic Engagement. The university's commitment to cutting-edge learning spaces is also evident in facilities like the Audrey Hirt Academic Center and the Mary D'Angelo Performing Arts Center, fostering creativity and scholarly pursuit.

Beyond academics, Mercyhurst offers a comprehensive student experience. The campus boasts contemporary residential options like Frances Warde Hall and Ryan Hall, providing comfortable and engaging living spaces. With a student body of 2,632 and a "seize the day" motto, the university encourages active participation in campus life, personal growth, and a strong sense of community. Mercyhurst continually invests in its facilities and programs, ensuring an enriching and supportive environment where students can thrive and prepare for successful careers.

Key Highlights

  • Founded in 1926 by the Sisters of Mercy of the Diocese of Erie.
  • Transitioned to a coeducational institution in 1969 and officially became Mercyhurst University in 2012.
  • Offers distinctive signature programs, including Intelligence Studies and Hospitality Management.
  • Features state-of-the-art facilities like the Center for Academic Engagement (opened 2012) and the $7.5 million Audrey Hirt Academic Center (opened 2002).
  • Expanded campus with facilities like the Mary D'Angelo Performing Arts Center (opened 1996) and a $25 million residence hall, Ryan Hall (opened 2018).
  • Operates as a private university with 2,632 students, led by President Kathleen Getz.
  • Motto: "Seize the day."

Timeline

1926
Mercyhurst College opened its doors, founded by the Sisters of Mercy.
1969
The board of trustees voted to make Mercyhurst a coed college.
1991
Mercyhurst purchased the Redemptorist Seminary, creating a branch campus in North East.
1996
The Mary D'Angelo Performing Arts Center opened.
2002
The $7.5 million Audrey Hirt Academic Center opened on campus.
2012
Mercyhurst College officially became Mercyhurst University.
2012
The Center for Academic Engagement opened, housing signature programs like Intelligence Studies.
2018
A US$25 million residence hall, Ryan Hall, opened, providing modern student suites.
🏛️
100 Years
of Excellence

Leadership

Kathleen Getz
President

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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