Mount Mercy University
Acceptance rate
82.5%
2025
Peer median 77.9%
Tuition per year
$40,878
$52,478 with room and board
Peer median $34,392
Undergraduates
1,139
Student-faculty ratio 14:1
Peer median 13 : 1
Graduation rate
49.4%
4-year; 6-year rate 57.4%
Peer median 44.6%
“Peers” are all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Mount Mercy University, located in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, is known for its strong commitment to liberal arts education and a focus on holistic student development. Established in 1928, the university has a rich history that emphasizes the values of service, social justice, and community engagement. The institution's motto, "Not for School, but for Life," reflects its dedication to preparing students not just academically but also as responsible and ethical citizens. This ethos is deeply embedded in its curriculum and extracurricular activities, encouraging students to engage with the community and develop leadership skills.
The campus environment at Mount Mercy is vibrant and supportive, fostering a strong sense of community among students and faculty. With a student-to-faculty ratio of 13:1, students receive personalized attention and mentorship from experienced professors who are dedicated to their academic and professional success. The university offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs across multiple disciplines, including business, education, health sciences, and liberal arts. Additionally, Mount Mercy boasts modern facilities, including state-of-the-art classrooms, a fitness center, and a library that supports both academic and research endeavors. The university also emphasizes the importance of athletics and offers various sports programs that encourage student participation and promote a balanced lifestyle. With a focus on holistic education and community involvement, Mount Mercy University is well-equipped to help its students achieve their personal and professional goals.
Analysis of Key Educational Metrics at Mount Mercy University
Mount Mercy University, a private institution, has seen notable trends in its tuition fees and student metrics over the years. The undergraduate tuition has consistently increased, rising from approximately $26,310 in 2014 to $39,070 in 2024. This increase of about 48% over a decade reflects the broader trend in higher education where tuition costs continue to outpace inflation. Such rising costs often lead students to accumulate significant debt, raising concerns about the affordability of higher education.
In conjunction with rising tuition, the student enrollment figures have shown a decline. From a peak of 1,580 undergraduate students in 2017, the number dropped to 1,271 by 2023. This trend might indicate a diminishing interest in private institutions or could be a consequence of the increasing financial burden faced by prospective students. The reduction in enrollment could also impact the university's revenue and its ability to maintain quality education and resources.
Moreover, the graduation rates have fluctuated, with the on-time graduation rate dropping to 49.25% in 2023 from a high of 65.71% in 2016. Such variations raise concerns about student support and retention strategies at the university. The retention rate also reflects some instability, with a drop from 82.28% in 2014 to about 73.73% in 2023. This decline indicates potential issues in maintaining student satisfaction and engagement throughout their academic journey.
Overall, Mount Mercy University faces challenges in balancing rising tuition costs, declining enrollment, and variable graduation rates. Addressing these issues will be crucial for the institution's future sustainability and reputation in the competitive higher education landscape.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Midsize city
- Nearest major city
- Des Moines, about 110 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Des Moines International Airport (DSM), about 110 mi
- Also known as
- Mount Mercy College
- Academic calendar
- 4-1-4
- Religious affiliation
- Roman Catholic
- President
- Dr. Todd A. Olson (President)
- Phone
- 3193638213
- City
- Cedar Rapids, Iowa
- Address
- 1330 Elmhurst Dr NE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52402-4797
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 77.9% · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 64.9%, women 66.5%.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Trends at Mount Mercy University
The admission data from Mount Mercy University reveals significant trends over the years regarding acceptance rates and enrollment figures. Starting from 2009, the acceptance rate for males was notably high, around 75.44%, while females had a slightly higher acceptance rate of 82.29%. However, as the years progressed, there was a noticeable decline in acceptance rates for both genders, particularly for males, dipping to around 48.51% by 2018. This decline may indicate a growing selectivity in the admissions process, possibly in response to an increasing number of applications or changes in the university's academic standards.
Enrollment numbers have fluctuated, peaking at 241 in 2017 before stabilizing around 220-225 in the following years. Notably, the number of denied applications surged dramatically in 2016, with 436 applicants turned away, which could reflect a more competitive admissions environment or changes in institutional priorities.
The deferred admissions figures also illustrate a trend of students opting to delay their entry, increasing from 151 in 2009 to a remarkable 957 by 2023. This could suggest a shift in student preferences or external factors influencing students' decisions to postpone their college education.
Overall, Mount Mercy University appears to be navigating a complex landscape of admissions, where selectivity is increasing and student behavior regarding enrollment is evolving. This trend is not unique to Mount Mercy but reflects broader patterns seen across many universities in the United States, especially in the wake of changing demographics and the impact of recent global events on education.
School and Program Rankings
U.S. News school and program rankings · Click a school to see its programs, and a program for its full ranking
Undergraduate Rankings · 2027 edition
Ranks in blue are top 10 · ▲▼ change from the previous edition · “—” means no overall ranking for that school · Medical schools are ranked in tiers since the 2025 edition
Test Scores
SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted IPEDS (US Department of Education) has no SAT/ACT data for students admitted in 2025.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Data at Mount Mercy University
The admission data from Mount Mercy University reveals some significant trends regarding standardized test submissions over the years. Notably, the percentage of students submitting ACT scores has remained high, with nearly all applicants providing their scores in the earlier years, although the number of submissions appears to have decreased over time. In 2008, for example, 99% of applicants submitted their ACT scores, while by 2023, only 4% of applicants submitted SAT scores.
The SAT and ACT scores indicate that the middle 50% of admitted students have consistent performance, with Reading and Mathematics scores consistently falling between 480 to 610. This range suggests a stable applicant pool, although it raises questions about the accessibility and inclusivity of the admissions process.
Interestingly, the drop in the number of submitted SAT scores could be reflective of broader trends in higher education, where many institutions have adopted test-optional policies, prioritizing holistic review processes over standardized testing. This aligns with national discussions around the effectiveness of standardized testing in predicting college success, especially during a time when many students have faced educational disruptions due to the global pandemic.
Overall, while Mount Mercy University continues to attract a competitive pool of applicants, the changing landscape of admissions criteria and the emphasis on standardized tests indicate a need for ongoing evaluation of these practices to ensure they align with the institution's mission of fostering a diverse and capable student body.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 8 in 10
1,041 applicants in 2025, 82.5% admitted
859 admitted 182 not admitted Yield 27.9%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Business Administration and Management, General · Master's25 (24% international)
- Marriage and Family Therapy/Counseling · Master's24 (0% international)
- Business Administration, Management and Operations, Other · Master's14 (0% international)
- Educational Leadership and Administration, General · Master's11 (0% international)
- Public Health Education and Promotion · Master's11 (0% international)
- Nursing Education · Master's10 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at Mount Mercy University
The graduation data from Mount Mercy University for 2023 reveals some intriguing trends across various fields of study. Notably, Registered Nursing stands out prominently, with 78 graduates obtaining their bachelor's degrees. This reflects a strong emphasis on healthcare education, which is increasingly vital given the ongoing global health challenges and the demand for qualified healthcare professionals.
In contrast, the Business Administration program did not produce any undergraduate graduates, although it did yield 25 master's graduates. This discrepancy could signal a growing trend toward advanced degrees in business, as professionals may be seeking to enhance their qualifications in a competitive job market, especially with the rise of complex business environments influenced by technology and globalization.
Another point of interest is the absence of international students graduating from these programs. While many universities are seeing an increase in international enrollment, Mount Mercy University's data indicates a potential area for growth in attracting global talent. As international students often contribute diverse perspectives and skills, enhancing recruitment efforts could enrich the academic environment and foster innovation.
Additionally, the lack of doctoral graduates across the board suggests that the university may wish to develop or promote more advanced research opportunities in various disciplines. This could not only enhance the institution's academic reputation but also prepare graduates for high-level positions in academia and industry.
Overall, the data highlights the importance of strategic program development and international engagement to align with workforce demands and educational trends.
All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Health and Medical Administrative Services, Other. | $47,209 | |||
| Marriage and Family Therapy/Counseling. | $58,121 | |||
| Public Health, General. | - | |||
| Public Health Education and Promotion. | - | |||
| Medical Illustration and Informatics, Other. | - | |||
| Nursing Education. | - | |||
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $75,229 | |||
| Nursing Administration. | $75,229 | |||
| Family Practice Nurse/Nursing. | $75,229 | |||
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing, Other. | $75,229 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business/Commerce, General. | $55,752 | |||
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $55,057-$80,745 | |||
| Logistics, Materials, and Supply Chain Management. | $55,057-$80,745 | |||
| Organizational Leadership. | $55,057-$80,745 | |||
| Business Administration, Management and Operations, Other. | $55,057-$80,745 | |||
| Accounting. | $64,190 | |||
| Finance, General. | $55,292 | |||
| Hospitality Administration/Management, Other. | - | |||
| Human Resources Management/Personnel Administration, General. | $58,229-$75,236 | |||
| Management Information Systems, General. | - | |||
| Marketing/Marketing Management, General. | $49,925 | |||
| Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration. | $44,552-$49,624 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - | |||
| Biochemistry. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Social Work. | $40,817 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Political Science and Government, General. | - | |||
| Sociology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $45,385 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Science. | - | |||
| Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Natural Resources/Conservation, General. | - | |||
| Natural Resources Conservation and Research, Other. | - | |||
| Environmental/Natural Resources Law Enforcement and Protective Services. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Graphic Design. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Philosophy. | - | |||
| Religion/Religious Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Speech Communication and Rhetoric. | - |
Students
1,417 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 41:59 · Freshman retention 72.8%
- Continuing undergraduates 726
- First-year undergraduates 238
- Graduate students 278
- Transfers and others 175
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,139)
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at Mount Mercy University in 2023
The student demographics at Mount Mercy University for 2023 reveal significant trends in enrollment and gender representation. Among the total student body, undergraduate freshmen make up a notable portion with 224 students, of which 45.5% are male and 54.5% are female. This relatively balanced ratio indicates a welcoming environment for both genders, especially for new students entering higher education.
On the other hand, undergraduate juniors and seniors represent a larger segment of the student population, with 822 students, showcasing a predominance of female students at 65.2%, compared to 34.8% male. This disparity suggests that there may be factors contributing to higher retention rates among female students, potentially allowing them to thrive within the university environment.
Graduate students, numbering 255, also show a significant gender gap, with only 27.5% identifying as male. This trend could reflect broader societal patterns in higher education where women are increasingly pursuing advanced degrees, particularly in fields traditionally dominated by men.
The demographic breakdown by race and ethnicity, although not fully detailed, is crucial to understanding the university's diversity. The representation of white students appears substantial across categories, which may indicate areas for improvement in fostering a more inclusive environment for underrepresented groups.
Overall, the data presents an opportunity for Mount Mercy University to enhance its outreach and support systems, ensuring that all students, regardless of gender or background, can succeed and feel included in the academic community. Addressing these disparities may also align with national trends aiming to promote equity in higher education.
Analysis of Student Age Demographics at Mount Mercy University
The age distribution of students at Mount Mercy University reveals interesting insights into the demographics of the student body. The largest group of students falls within the 18-19 age range, with 160 males and 222 females, indicating a robust influx of traditional-aged students. This aligns well with national trends, where many students enter college immediately after high school.
However, as we move to the 20-21 age bracket, we see a slight decline in male enrollment but an increase in female enrollment, highlighting a growing trend of women pursuing higher education compared to their male counterparts. In fact, females outnumber males significantly in almost every age category, reinforcing the ongoing narrative of women's advancement in academia.
The 22-24 age category shows a diversification of the student body as it includes a mix of undergraduate and graduate students, suggesting that some individuals are opting for further studies after their undergraduate degrees. Notably, there is a visible drop in numbers for older age groups, particularly from 25-29 and beyond, which may reflect the challenges of balancing education with work and family commitments.
Interestingly, there is a consistent representation of students aged 30 and above, indicating that Mount Mercy University attracts non-traditional students, likely those seeking career advancement or a change in their professional paths. This aligns with recent trends in higher education where lifelong learning is becoming increasingly important.
Overall, the data reflects a vibrant and diverse student body at Mount Mercy University, showcasing both traditional and non-traditional students. This diversity enriches the educational environment and prepares all students to engage in a workforce that values varied perspectives and experiences.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
136 in 2025 · 3.2% in 2016
21 in 2025 · 2.7% in 2016
Data insights
Commentary on International Student Enrollment Trends at Mount Mercy University
The data from Mount Mercy University reveals a notable increase in the number of international undergraduate students over the years. Starting from just one international student in 2004, the university has seen a significant growth, reaching 95 international students by 2023, which translates to 7.47% of the total undergraduate population. This upward trend reflects the institution's growing appeal among international students, likely influenced by the increasing globalization of education and the university's efforts to enhance its international programs.
In contrast, the number of international graduate students has shown more variability. While the graduate enrollment figures indicate a peak in 2020 with 10 international students, the percentage of international students in the graduate program remains relatively low. By 2023, there were 13 international students, making up 5.10% of the total graduate population. This inconsistency may reflect broader trends in graduate education where international student enrollment can be more sensitive to geopolitical factors and changing visa policies.
Overall, the data suggests that Mount Mercy University is successfully attracting international students, particularly at the undergraduate level. This trend not only enriches the campus diversity but also enhances cultural exchange, providing all students with a broader perspective in their educational journey. As global dynamics continue to evolve, institutions like Mount Mercy University may need to adapt their strategies to sustain and further grow their international student body, particularly in graduate programs.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$52,478
- Undergraduate tuition
- $40,878
- Room and board
- $11,600
- Graduate tuition
- $12,148
Peer median tuition + room and board $47,329 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 45% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 35%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$32.6M
Expenses$33.2M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NAIA · Heart of America Athletic Conference
Heart of America Athletic Conference: football, basketball, baseball, cross country
| NAIA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 83 | 45 |
| Basketball | 51 | 37 |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 37 | 40 |
| Volleyball | 34 | 42 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 32 | 34 |
| Baseball | 63 | - |
| Bowling | 22 | 30 |
| Golf | 21 | 18 |
| Softball | - | 37 |
| Cross Country | 13 | 15 |
| Lacrosse | - | 22 |
| Other Sports | - | 11 |
| NAIA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 78 | 33 |
| Basketball | 44 | 40 |
| Baseball | 78 | - |
| Volleyball | 36 | 33 |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 23 | 26 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 23 | 26 |
| Bowling | 24 | 23 |
| Softball | - | 43 |
| Golf | 19 | 21 |
| Cross Country | 10 | 18 |
| Lacrosse | - | 13 |
| Other Sports | - | 12 |
| NAIA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 77 | 34 |
| Baseball | 92 | - |
| Basketball | 46 | 41 |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 43 | 29 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 42 | 30 |
| Volleyball | 33 | 31 |
| Bowling | 27 | 24 |
| Cross Country | 19 | 24 |
| Softball | - | 42 |
| Other Sports | - | 42 |
| Golf | 20 | 15 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
University of IowaIowa City · 24.2 mi
U.S. News #100
-
Grinnell CollegeGrinnell · 57.8 mi
Liberal Arts #16
-
Augustana CollegeRock Island · 66.4 mi
Liberal Arts #91
-
Knox CollegeGalesburg · 98.6 mi
Liberal Arts #85
-
Iowa State UniversityAmes · 102.6 mi
U.S. News #116
-
Drake UniversityDes Moines · 106.7 mi
U.S. News #191
-
University of Wisconsin-MadisonMadison · 136.3 mi
U.S. News #34
-
Beloit CollegeBeloit · 138.5 mi
Liberal Arts #100
-
Bradley UniversityPeoria · 138.8 mi
U.S. News #169
Data insights
Here are some notable schools near Mount Mercy University:
-
University of Iowa - Ranked 93rd in the 2024 US News rankings, the University of Iowa is a comprehensive university known for its strong research programs and diverse range of academic offerings.
-
Grinnell College - A highly esteemed liberal arts college, Grinnell College is ranked 11th in the 2024 US News rankings. It is renowned for its rigorous academics and commitment to social justice.
-
Iowa State University - With a rank of 115, Iowa State University offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs and is recognized for its research contributions and innovation.
-
Drake University - Ranked 178th in the 2024 US News list, Drake University is a private university with a strong emphasis on liberal arts education and professional programs.
-
University of Wisconsin-Madison - As a well-regarded comprehensive university ranked 35th, UW-Madison is known for its research excellence and vibrant campus life.
-
Carleton College - This prestigious liberal arts college is ranked 9th and is celebrated for its academic rigor and supportive community.
Each of these institutions contributes to a rich educational landscape in the vicinity of Mount Mercy University.
Peer median 4.0 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Incidents, 2023–2025
From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.
Data insights
Crime Trends at Mount Mercy University: A Declining Concern
The crime statistics from Mount Mercy University over the past decade reveal a notable decline in criminal incidents on campus. In 2013, the average crime rate per 1,000 students was 17.13, showcasing a concerning level of crime. However, by 2023, this rate had plummeted to just 2.23, marking a significant decrease in criminal activity.
The data indicates that various types of arrests, including gun-related arrests and drug-related offenses, have shown a downward trend over the years. For instance, while gun-related arrests were a concern in earlier years, they have become virtually non-existent in recent reports. Similarly, drug arrests have significantly decreased, contributing to the overall reduction of crime on campus.
This downward trend in crime can be attributed to several factors, including increased campus security measures, proactive community engagement, and educational programs aimed at preventing crime. Furthermore, the decline in incidents such as domestic violence and alcohol-related arrests suggests a positive shift in campus culture and student behavior.
Overall, the statistics paint a promising picture for Mount Mercy University, as the safety and well-being of students appear to be improving. As a result, prospective students and their families may find this trend reassuring when considering the university for their education. For further details on how crime rates are calculated, you can refer to this link: https://www.forwardpathway.com/33447.
References and Data Sources
Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.