About
Mercyhurst University is a private Roman Catholic university located in Erie, Pennsylvania. It was founded in 1926 by the Sisters of Mercy of the Diocese of Erie. The university has an enrollment of approximately 4,500 students and offers over 50 undergraduate and graduate degrees.
Mercyhurst is organised into four colleges:
- The College of Arts and Sciences
- The College of Business Administration
- The College of Education and Human Services
- The College of Health Sciences
- The university also has a graduate school and a law school.
Mercyhurst is known for its vital academic programs, commitment to service, and beautiful campus. The university is also home to several NCAA Division II athletic teams, including the Lakers men's and women's basketball teams. The acceptance rate for international students at Mercyhurst University is 86%.
Mercyhurst University is not ranked in the major global university rankings, such as the Times Higher Education World University Rankings, the Academic Ranking of World Universities, and the QS World University Rankings. However, it is ranked 0 out of 181 Regional Universities North by U.S. News & World Report.
The tuition fees for international students at Mercyhurst University vary depending on the program and the student's country of citizenship. For the 2023-2024 academic year, the tuition fee for undergraduate international students is $44,580 and for graduate international students is $46,980. In addition to tuition fees, international students are also responsible for paying a variety of other fees, such as:
- Student activity fee: $100
- Technology fee: $150
- Health insurance fee: $1,500
Top Reasons to Study in the Mercyhurst University
- Strong academics: Mercyhurst University offers over 80 undergraduate and 13 graduate programs, all accredited by their respective professional organisations. The university also has a 16:1 student-to-faculty ratio, meaning you'll get plenty of individual attention from your professors.
- Hands-on learning: Mercyhurst University believes doing is the best way to learn. That's why the university offers a variety of hands-on learning opportunities, such as internships, study abroad programs, and undergraduate research.
- Diverse student body: Mercyhurst University has a diverse student body from all over the world. This diversity creates a stimulating learning environment where students learn from each other's cultures and perspectives.
- Beautiful campus: Mercyhurst University is located on a beautiful 135-acre campus in Erie, Pennsylvania. The campus has various historic buildings and modern amenities, such as a new student recreation centre.
- Strong sense of community: Mercyhurst University has a strong sense of community. Students, faculty, and staff are all committed to helping each other succeed.
- Affordable tuition: Mercyhurst University is committed to making a college education affordable for all students. The university offers a variety of financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and loans.
Admissions
How to Apply at Mercyhurst University
The application process for international students is the same as for domestic students. Additional requirements are there for fresh and transfer undergraduate and graduate students.
Fresh Undergraduate/Graduate International Admissions
- Application: You can apply through the Online Application from their official website.
- There is no application fee for international students at Mercyhurst University.
- Required Materials: In addition to the application, applicants must submit the following:
- Official transcripts from all schools/colleges/universities attended.
- Entrance exam scores: SAT/ACT (for undergraduates), GRE/GMAT (Required for graduate and PhD students)
- English proficiency test scores like Internet-Based TOEFL (iBT), IELTS, Duolingo or PTE
- Personal statement/Essay writing
- Two letters of teacher recommendation
- Financial Aid Statement of Intent
Transfer Students Undergraduate/Graduate International Admissions
- Application: You can apply through the Online Application on their official website.
- There is no application fee for international students at Mercyhurst University.
- Required Materials: In addition to the application, applicants must submit the following:
- Official transcripts from all schools/colleges/universities attended.
- Entrance exam scores: SAT/ACT (for undergraduates), GRE/GMAT (Required for graduate and PhD students)
- English proficiency test scores like Internet-Based TOEFL (iBT), IELTS, Duolingo or PTE
- Personal statement/essay writing
- Transfer Report Form
- Letter of recommendation
- Financial documentation
Documents Required to Apply to Mercyhurst University
Undergraduate Students
- Complete the Online Application from their official website
- Official transcripts from all previous your high school attended
- SAT/ACT scores
- Internet-Based TOEFL (iBT), IELTS, Duolingo or PTE English Test scores.
- Personal statement/Essay writing
- Two letters of recommendation
- Financial documentation
- Resume
- Additional Documents:
- Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student (F-1) Status
- I-20 Form
- Passport
- Visa Sponsorship Letter
Graduate Students/PhD or Scholar Students
- Complete the Online Application from their official website
- Official transcripts from all previous high school or college attended
- GRE/GMAT scores
- Internet-Based TOEFL (iBT), IELTS, Duolingo or PTE English Test scores.
- Personal statement
- Three letters of recommendation
- Resume (Relevant work experience)
- Additional Documents:
- Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student (F-1) Status
- I-20 Form
- Passport
- Visa Sponsorship Letter
All documents must be in English or have an official English translation
Exams Accepted By Mercyhurst University
Undergraduate Students
- Entrance Tests: SAT/ACT exam.
- English Proficiency Tests: Internet-Based TOEFL (iBT), IELTS, Duolingo or PTE English Test scores.
Graduate Students/Ph.D. Students
- Entrance Tests: GRE/GMAT exam
- English Proficiency Tests: Internet-Based TOEFL (iBT), IELTS, Duolingo or PTE English Test scores.
Campus Life
Transportation in the city
- Public bus: The Erie Metropolitan Transit Authority (EMTA) operates a bus system that serves the city of Erie and surrounding areas. The EMTA bus stop is on Peach Street, just a short walk from the university campus.
- Taxi: Several taxi companies operate in the city of Erie. Taxis can be hailed on the street or called in advance.
- Ride-hailing services: Ride-hailing services such as Uber and Lyft are also available in Erie. These services can be booked through a mobile app.
- Bicycle: Erie has a bike share program that allows you to rent bicycles for short-term use. Bikes can be rented at stations located throughout the city.
- Walking: The city of Erie is relatively walkable. Many shops, restaurants, and attractions in the city centre are within walking distance of the university campus.
Services offered by the university
- Academic support: Mercyhurst University offers various academic support services, such as tutoring, a writing centre, and a math lab. These services are available to all students, regardless of their academic level.
- Financial aid: Mercyhurst University offers a variety of financial aid options to help students pay for their education. These options include scholarships, grants, and loans.
- Health services: Mercyhurst University has a student health centre providing medical, dental, and mental health services. A registered dietician and a pharmacist also staff the health centre.
- Dining services: Mercyhurst University has various dining options, including a cafeteria, a coffee shop, and a convenience store. Chartwells Higher Education operates the dining services.
- Recreation and fitness: Mercyhurst University has a recreation centre that offers a variety of fitness classes, a swimming pool, and a basketball court. The recreation center is also home to the university's athletic team, Mercyhurst Lakers.
- Housing: Mercyhurst University offers a variety of housing options for students, including traditional dorms, apartments, and suites. All housing options are located on campus.
- Student activities: Mercyhurst University has a variety of student activities, such as clubs, organisations, and intramural sports. These activities are a great way to get involved on campus and meet new people.
Student life at Mercyhurst University
- Join a club or organisation: Mercyhurst University has over 100 student clubs and organisations, so there's sure to be something for everyone. Clubs range from academic and professional organisations to social and recreational clubs.
- Get involved in intramural sports: Mercyhurst University offers a variety of intramural sports so you can stay active and have fun. Intramural sports include basketball, flag football, soccer, and volleyball.
- Attend a sporting event: Mercyhurst University is a member of the NCAA Division III and competes in 19 sports. You can cheer on the Lakers at home games or travel to away games.
- Go to a concert or show: Mercyhurst University hosts a variety of concerts and shows throughout the year. You can see a performance by a local band, a comedian, or a Broadway show.
- Take a day trip: Erie is a beautiful city with much to offer. You can visit the Erie Zoo, the Presque Isle State Park, or the National Civil War Museum.
- Volunteer in the community: Mercyhurst University encourages students to get involved in the community. You can volunteer at a local soup kitchen, homeless shelter, or animal shelter.
On campus accomodation at Mercyhurst University
- Traditional dorms: Traditional dorms are the most common type of housing on campus. They typically have two or four bedrooms, each with two beds, a dresser, and a desk. Dorms also have shared bathrooms and common areas.
- Apartments: Apartments are available for upperclassmen students. They typically have two or three bedrooms, each with a bathroom. Apartments also have a kitchen and a living room.
- Suites: Suites are a combination of a dorm and an apartment. They typically have two bedrooms, each with its bathroom. Suites also have a kitchen and a living room.
- Themed housing: Mercyhurst University also offers a variety of themed housing options, such as the Honors Living Learning Community, the Wellness Living Learning Community, and the International Living Learning Community. These communities allow students to live with other students who share their interests.
Faculty
University Faculty:Student Ratio
University Faculty Stats
- Number of faculty: Mercyhurst University has 350 full-time and 200 part-time faculty members.
- Faculty qualifications: The majority of Mercyhurst University faculty members have doctoral degrees.
- Faculty teaching experience: The average Mercyhurst University faculty member has 15 years of teaching experience.
- Faculty research: Mercyhurst University faculty members actively participate in research and scholarship. The university has several research centres and institutes, and faculty members regularly publish their research in peer-reviewed journals.
- Faculty awards and honours: Mercyhurst University faculty members have received numerous awards and honours for their teaching, research, and service.
Career Opportunities
Internship opportunities at Mercyhurst University
- Marketing Intern: This internship is for students interested in marketing and communications. The intern will help develop marketing materials, create social media content, and manage the university's website.
- Admissions Intern: This internship is for students interested in a career in admissions. The intern will help with tasks such as conducting campus tours, reviewing applications, and providing information to prospective students.
- Financial Aid Intern: This internship is for students interested in a career in financial aid. The intern will help with tasks such as processing financial aid applications, providing financial aid counselling, and managing the university's financial aid database.
- Teaching Assistant: This position is available to students majoring in education. Teaching assistants help professors grade papers, lead discussion sections, and prepare for classes.
- Resident Assistant: This position is available to upper-class students. Resident assistants live in residence halls and help to supervise students and maintain a safe and positive living environment.
Placement of Mercyhurst University
Top Hiring Companies
- Mercyhurst University
- Erie Insurance Group
- UPMC
- PNC Bank
- GE Transportation
- Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield
- Bank of America
- Dollar Bank
- First National Bank
- Erie Technology Park
Salaries
The average starting salary for Mercyhurst graduates is $45,000. However, the salary range can vary depending on the field of study and the specific job.
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Last updated August 14, 2026