About Mercyhurst University
Mercyhurst University is a four-year private school located in Erie, Pennsylvania. Mercyhurst was founded in 1926 by the Sisters of Mercy and is affiliated with the Roman Catholic Church. The school was granted university status in 2012.
With Mercyhurst Online, students anywhere in the world can benefit from the high-quality faculty and resources the school is known for. Students can choose from a number of graduate degrees and certificates online. Programs feature advanced-level knowledge and leadership skills with the flexibility you need to balance your many responsibilities as a working adult.
The Office of Distance Learning helps support online students and aids in the development of online courses. The office works to expand learning opportunities and enhance program development and technology training. MU’s distance learning programs are designed to benefit adult learners, working professionals, military personnel, and anyone looking for new career opportunities.
Mercyhurst University offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in the following schools:
- Hafenmaier College of Humanities, Arts & Social Sciences
- Walker College of Business
- Ridge College of Intelligence Studies & Applied Sciences
- Zurn College of Natural & Health Sciences
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Accreditation & Licensing
Mercyhurst University is accredited by:
Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
Type:
4-year, Private not-for-profitHighest Level Offered:
Master's degreeReligious Affiliation:
Roman CatholicGraduate Enrollment:
431Fully Online Graduate Students:
38%Median Debt After Graduation (4-Year Degree):
$25,305Average Undergraduates Receiving Aid:
93%Per Undergraduate Average Aid Award:
$30,789Yellow Ribbon Program:
YesCredit for Military Training:
YesMercyhurst offers a clear path to finish your degree. Programs are organized well, and classes are rigorous but manageable. Students who stay on pace can keep moving toward graduation with steady progress.
Cost is an important part of the plan. Tuition is listed at $45,770 per year, and some students may pay a high amount out of pocket. It also helps to plan for end-of-program timing and final fees. Some students finish classes before the spring ceremony, and a $200 graduation fee may apply.
At Mercyhurst, support feels personal and easy to access. Small classes help students get quick replies and direct help from professors. Classes are taught by professors, not teaching assistants, which keeps communication clear.
Advising and program support are a strength for many students. Students describe their programs as very good, with no major issues. That kind of follow-through helps when deadlines, grading questions, or course planning come up.
Administrative consistency gets mixed reactions at times, but day-to-day academic support is a clear plus. Students know where to go for help and often get it fast.
Mercyhurst online classes fit students who want structure. Courses feel organized and paced with clear expectations. The work is rigorous, but still manageable.
Instructor access is a key part of the online fit. Professors are approachable and give extra time when needed. Small-class dynamics support direct contact and quicker help. This setup works best for students who want active instructor support, not a hands-off format.
Classes are a real strength at Mercyhurst. Professors teach the courses, not teaching assistants. The work is serious, but classes stay engaging and enjoyable. In small graduate programs, three professors may share teaching.
That mix brings different styles while keeping the course steady. The pace feels focused but manageable from week to week. Programs are organized, so students know what to expect. Small class sizes mean more direct contact with professors and less chance of feeling lost. Even when other areas may vary, the classroom experience is often personal, clear, and worth the effort.
Mercyhurst is at its best in the classroom. Professors are easy to reach and stay involved. Classes are small, so students get personal attention. Teaching is clear and direct, with professors leading each course.
The work is challenging but manageable, and the academic structure feels steady and well organized. The main note is day-to-day office processes. Some students report issues with financial-office follow-through, including account holds and a $200 graduation fee after finishing. Cost can also feel high for some families. Even so, Mercyhurst is a strong fit for students who want close faculty support and a structured academic path.
Mercyhurst is at its best in the classroom. Professors are easy to reach and stay involved. Classes are small, so students get personal attention. Teaching is clear and direct, with professors leading each course.
The work is challenging but manageable, and the academic structure feels steady and well organized. The main note is day-to-day office processes. Some students report issues with financial-office follow-through, including account holds and a $200 graduation fee after finishing. Cost can also feel high for some families. Even so, Mercyhurst is a strong fit for students who want close faculty support and a structured academic path.
Online Programs offered by Mercyhurst University
All Programs
Business
Computer Science & IT
Criminal Justice, Safety & Law
Frequently Asked Questions About Mercyhurst University
Is Mercyhurst University accredited?
Yes. Mercyhurst University is institutionally accredited by Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
How many online programs does Mercyhurst University offer?
Mercyhurst University offers 11 online programs currently listed on GetEducated.
What degree levels does Mercyhurst University offer?
Mercyhurst University is focused on master's-level programs.
How should students contact admissions at Mercyhurst University?
Ready to connect? Check Admission Details to get admissions, tuition, and timeline details directly from the school.
Is Mercyhurst University expensive, and what are the tuition costs?
Roughly speaking, Mercyhurst University falls into GetEducated’s $$ tuition tier, which points to a mid tuition range.
How quickly can I enroll at Mercyhurst University?
Enrollment at any school can be a quick process; if all required admission requirements are met. This is where students can get hung up and slow down the process by taking too long to gather required documentation.
What should transfer students ask Mercyhurst University first?
The first thing you must do is order your transcripts from any previous school you attended and have them provided to the new school immediately with the hopes of receiving an unofficial transfer credit evaluation quickly. In an ideal world, students would have an official transfer credit evaluation done prior to committing to enrollment at any school; however with the vast majority of schools, official transfer credit evaluations happen after you are already enrolled, typically in the first semester.
What GPA do most Mercyhurst University programs require?
Most listed programs require a minimum GPA of 3.0.
Is Mercyhurst University military friendly?
Mercyhurst University shows Yellow Ribbon support. Check Yellow Ribbon eligibility before you apply, since program-level benefits can vary.
How can students request information from Mercyhurst University through GetEducated?
Comparing schools right now? Request Information to get admissions, tuition, and start-date details sent directly to you.
What documents are most commonly required for Mercyhurst University applications?
Most listed programs ask for Official College Transcript(s), Statement of Purpose/Intent, Resume/CV, and Recommendation/Reference Letter(s). Getting these ready early can keep the application process moving.
Does Mercyhurst University accept life experience credit?
Mercyhurst University accepts life experience credit, but qualifying can be harder than expected and fees may still apply. Check Transfer Options to confirm what applies to your program.
Are Mercyhurst University programs fully online or mixed?
Mercyhurst University programs are primarily listed as 100% Online, which can help students screen for schedule fit before applying.
What kinds of online programs does Mercyhurst University offer?
Mercyhurst University has online program options in areas such as Criminal Justice, Safety & Law, Business, Computer Science & IT, and Nursing; start with the field that best matches your career goal, then compare cost, format, and admissions requirements. Compare Programs to get program, admissions, and cost details before applying.
Are any admission tests required for Mercyhurst University programs?
One recurring admissions-test item is Proof of English Language Proficiency (International Students). Students should confirm whether it applies to their specific program.
Do in-state and out-of-state tuition totals differ at Mercyhurst University?
For programs with both totals published, in-state and out-of-state tuition totals are typically the same.
Do any Mercyhurst University programs have state authorization limitations?
State authorization restrictions are not prominent across available programs, but students should still confirm eligibility for their state. Check State Eligibility before applying to confirm whether your program is available where you live.
How often can students start at Mercyhurst University?
Start times per year typically range from 3-6 for most schools. For Mercyhurst University, students should confirm the next available start date for their specific program before applying.
How should working adults compare Mercyhurst University programs?
Working adults should compare program format, pacing, total cost, and application requirements before choosing a path.
What should students compare before choosing a Mercyhurst University program?
Students should compare accreditation fit, program format, application requirements, total cost, and whether the timeline works with their schedule.
Featured Ranking Reports
Mercyhurst University is featured in 4 of our ranking reports!
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Geographic and Educational Overview
Mercyhurst University is located in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania at a Glance:
Top Majors in Pennsylvania:
Top Incentives in Pennsylvania:
- PA State Grant Program: Up to $4,525 annually
Top Career Pathways in Pennsylvania:
- Entry Level: Clinic Manager ($65,000)
- Mid Level: Healthcare Administrator ($95,000)
- Senior Level: Hospital Director ($150,000+)
- Required Education: BS Healthcare Administration
- Certifications: ACHE, CMPE