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U.S. News #332 Private nonprofit, 4-year

Mercy College

Dobbs Ferry, New York · www.mercy.edu

中文

U.S. News National 2027

#332

Acceptance rate

85.8%

2025

Peer median 77.9%

Tuition per year

$22,880

$38,130 with room and board

Peer median $34,392

Undergraduates

6,774

Student-faculty ratio 16:1

Peer median 13 : 1

Graduation rate

29.8%

4-year; 6-year rate 45.7%

Peer median 44.6%

“Peers” are all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).

About

Mercy University, known for its commitment to academic excellence and community service, is a private university located in Dobbs Ferry, New York. The university prides itself on its strong liberal arts curriculum that fosters critical thinking and ethical leadership among students. With a mission deeply rooted in the principles of the Sisters of Mercy, the school emphasizes values such as compassion, social justice, and respect for all individuals. Its campus culture encourages students to engage in service-oriented activities, promoting a sense of responsibility toward the community and the world at large.

The university boasts modern facilities that enhance the learning experience, including state-of-the-art classrooms, laboratories, and study areas. Additionally, Mercy University offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various fields, including health sciences, business, education, and social work. The faculty is composed of experienced professionals and scholars dedicated to providing personalized attention to students, fostering an environment conducive to academic and personal growth. With a focus on holistic development, the university encourages participation in a variety of extracurricular activities, including sports, arts, and student organizations, which contribute to a vibrant campus life. Mercy University's commitment to producing well-rounded graduates is reflected in its successful alumni, who have made significant contributions across numerous industries.

Key Insights on Tuition, Graduation, and Retention Rates

Mercy University, a private institution, has exhibited notable trends in tuition rates, graduation, and retention rates over the years. Notably, the tuition for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students has consistently increased from $17,576 in 2014 to $22,106 in 2024, representing a steep rise of approximately 25.7% over the decade. This upward trend in tuition reflects a broader national pattern where the cost of higher education continues to escalate, impacting student affordability and accessibility.

In terms of academic outcomes, the graduation rates have shown a positive trajectory, particularly the timely graduation rate for undergraduates, which improved from about 17.7% in 2013 to approximately 32.8% in 2023. This increase of over 85% in the graduation rate indicates that Mercy University is making strides in supporting students through to degree completion, which is increasingly crucial for student success and employability in today’s competitive job market.

Retention rates have also remained relatively stable, hovering around the mid-70% range in recent years. The retention rate for undergraduates increased modestly from 67.4% in 2013 to approximately 73.9% in 2023. This stability suggests that once students enroll, they are likely to remain at Mercy University, potentially due to effective student support services and community engagement that the institution offers.

Together, these indicators paint a picture of a university that, despite rising costs, is enhancing its educational outcomes and fostering student persistence. As the landscape of higher education continues to evolve, Mercy University’s focus on improving graduation and retention rates will be pivotal in attracting and retaining prospective students.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Suburb of a large city
Nearest major city
New York, about 25 mi
Nearest international airport
John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), about 25 mi
Dobbs Ferry, New York
Also known as
Mercy
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Not applicable
President
Susan Parish (President)
Phone
8006372969
City
Dobbs Ferry, New York
Address
555 Broadway, Dobbs Ferry, NY 10522

Rankings & Admission

Acceptance rate (%)

Peer median 77.9% · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Acceptance rate by gender, 2025

Men
83.0%
Women
87.4%

In 2020: men 76.4%, women 84.2%.

U.S. News National Universities · last 10 years
#332Ranked #332 every year from 2027 to 2027

Data insights

Trends in Admission Rates at Mercy University

The admission rates at Mercy University reveal significant trends over the years, reflecting broader shifts in higher education dynamics. From 2009 to 2023, the male admission rate started at approximately 34.8% and has increased to about 80.8%, indicating a growing accessibility for male applicants. Similarly, female admission rates have also seen an upward trajectory, moving from around 34.9% to 88.3% over the same period.
The increase in enrollment numbers illustrates Mercy University's expanding capacity and appeal; for instance, enrollment grew from 594 students in 2009 to 929 in 2023. However, the number of denied applications has fluctuated, suggesting that while more students are being accepted, there remains a competitive landscape. For example, in 2014, the university faced its highest denial count at 2,799, which coincided with a notable dip in male acceptance rates.
Moreover, the total number of deferred admissions has also risen significantly, peaking at 5,846 in 2023. This may reflect a strategic response to the current challenges in higher education, such as economic uncertainty or a shift towards more flexible learning options. The rising deferral rates could indicate students' desire to reassess their plans in response to external factors, including the ongoing impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and its effect on college experiences.
In conclusion, Mercy University’s admission trends illustrate not only the institution's evolving policies but also the changing landscape of higher education, where strategies must adapt to both student needs and external challenges.

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

Nursing School#457▼30
Social Sciences and Humanities1 programs—

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 not considered, even if submitted IPEDS (US Department of Education) has no recent SAT/ACT data for admitted students here. GPA, course rigor, essays and activities matter more.

Data insights

Trends in Admissions Data at Mercy University

The admissions data for Mercy University over the years reveals significant trends and shifts in standardized testing performance and participation. It's noteworthy that between 2007 and 2019, there appears to be a lack of available data, which may indicate changes in the university's reporting practices or a transition period in the admissions process. This gap is particularly relevant as higher education institutions increasingly adapt to changing societal norms surrounding standardized testing.

From 2020 onwards, the data indicates a gradual increase in the range of scores for both the SAT and ACT, highlighting a potential rise in the academic preparedness of admitted students. For example, the 2020 incoming class had SAT reading scores starting from 450 to 540, while by 2023, this range improved significantly to 510 to 630. This suggests that the university has been attracting a more academically competitive cohort over time.

The percentage of students submitting SAT scores has fluctuated, with 30% in 2020 dropping to just 4% by 2023. This decline might reflect a broader trend in the higher education landscape where many institutions, including Mercy University, have moved towards test-optional admissions policies. This shift can lead to a more diverse applicant pool, as many students may feel that standardized tests do not accurately reflect their potential or achievements.

Overall, Mercy University seems to be navigating the changing admissions landscape effectively, which mirrors a larger national trend towards a more holistic approach to evaluating prospective students. This movement may ultimately lead to a richer educational environment that values diverse experiences and backgrounds.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 9 in 10

8,642 applicants in 2025, 85.8% admitted

7,418 admitted 1,224 not admitted Yield 14.3%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Associate230 international (0.0%)
Bachelor's1,25142 international (3.4%)
Master's73236 international (4.9%)
Doctoral230 international (0.0%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
326
Business Administration and Management, General
179
Psychology, General
151
Health Professions and Related Clinical Sciences, Other
111
Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration
54
Social Sciences, General
53
Early Childhood Education and Teaching
40
Communication, General
31
Accounting
30
Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance
23

U.S. studentsInternational

Popular graduate programs

  • Business Administration and Management, General · Master's92 (8% international)
  • Early Childhood Education and Teaching · Master's87 (0% international)
  • Elementary Education and Teaching · Master's55 (0% international)
  • Mental Health Counseling/Counselor · Master's49 (2% international)
  • Physician Assistant · Master's45 (0% international)
  • Speech-Language Pathology/Pathologist · Master's39 (3% international)

Data insights

Analysis of Graduation Data from Mercy University

The graduation data from Mercy University in 2023 reveals significant insights into the trends of various academic programs, particularly in the fields of health and business administration. Notably, the Registered Nursing program stands out with a total of 318 graduates, complemented by three international students, indicating a robust interest in healthcare professions. This aligns with national trends where nursing remains a high-demand occupation, further emphasized by the ongoing global health challenges.

In contrast, the Business Administration program shows no graduates at the bachelor's level but boasts a notable 109 master's graduates, including 17 international students. This suggests a shift in focus for students pursuing advanced business degrees rather than undergraduate studies, reflecting a potentially increasing competitiveness in the job market that favors experienced candidates.

Moreover, the data indicates that certain fields, such as Public Administration and Education, have no graduates, which raises questions about their appeal and the institution's capacity to attract students to these disciplines. Understanding the reasons behind this could be crucial for Mercy University to enhance its program offerings and marketing strategies.

Additionally, it is noteworthy that the majority of associate degrees have not been reported, suggesting a potential area for growth. Encouraging more international students to enroll in these programs could diversify the student body and strengthen the university's global presence.

Overall, the graduation data from Mercy University highlights crucial trends in student preferences and market demands, reflecting broader societal needs for skilled professionals in healthcare and advanced business fields.

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

Health professionshas 750 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Speech-Language Pathology/Pathologist.$64,610
Health/Health Care Administration/Management.$76,030
Occupational Therapist Assistant.$41,731
Physician Assistant.$148,070
Clinical Laboratory Science/Medical Technology/Technologist.$116,152
Marriage and Family Therapy/Counseling.$62,004
Mental Health Counseling/Counselor.$62,004
Occupational Therapy/Therapist.$78,477-$85,511
Physical Therapy/Therapist.$78,477-$85,511
Nursing Education.$144,954
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse.$103,248-$147,383
Nursing Administration.$103,248-$147,383
Family Practice Nurse/Nursing.$103,248-$147,383
Health Professions and Related Clinical Sciences, Other.$40,769
Businesshas 343 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Business Administration and Management, General.$51,254-$72,697
Accounting.$48,423-$80,269
Human Resources Management/Personnel Administration, General.-
Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods, Other.-
Educationhas 302 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Education, General.-
Educational, Instructional, and Curriculum Supervision.$101,590
Superintendency and Educational System Administration.$101,590
Educational Administration and Supervision, Other.$101,590
Special Education and Teaching, General.$73,351
Counselor Education/School Counseling and Guidance Services.-
Elementary Education and Teaching.$71,705
Early Childhood Education and Teaching.$71,705
English/Language Arts Teacher Education.$78,319
Mathematics Teacher Education.$78,319
Reading Teacher Education.$78,319
Science Teacher Education/General Science Teacher Education.$78,319
Social Studies Teacher Education.$78,319
Biology Teacher Education.$78,319
Chemistry Teacher Education.$78,319
Teaching English as a Second or Foreign Language/ESL Language Instructor.$83,830-$101,022
Psychology has 194 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Psychology, General.$38,338-$51,034
School Psychology.$72,865
Computer and information sciencehas 74 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Information Science/Studies.-
Computer Science.-
Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance.$50,576-$73,197
Social sciencehas 62 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Social Sciences, General.-
International Relations and Affairs.-
Sociology, General.-
Homeland security has 59 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration.$42,997
Homeland Security.-
Communication has 51 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Communication, General.$24,261
Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication.-
Public Relations/Image Management.-
Public administrationhas 38 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Human Services, General.$49,916
Social Work.$44,745
English has 37 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
English Language and Literature, General.$45,168-$49,067
Biologyhas 31 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.$41,054
Biomedical Sciences, General.$41,054
Zoology/Animal Biology.-
Parks, recreation, leisure has 18 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Exercise Science and Kinesiology.$32,572
Agricultural has 16 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Veterinary/Animal Health Technology/Technician and Veterinary Assistant.-
Legal professionshas 12 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Legal Studies.$41,535
Visual and Performing artshas 12 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Graphic Design.-
Music Technology.$20,606
Liberal arts has 10 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies.$49,815
Foreign languages has 9 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Spanish Language and Literature.-
History has 7 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
History, General.-
Mathmatics and statistics has 4 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Mathematics, General.-

Students

8,991 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 33:67 · Freshman retention 75.7%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (6,774)

Hispanic
3,235 · 47.8%
Black
1,725 · 25.5%
White
1,107 · 16.3%
Asian
304 · 4.5%
International
162 · 2.4%
Two or more races
136 · 2.0%
Unknown
87 · 1.3%

Age distribution

Bachelor's

Under 18
16.6%
18–19
26.3%
20–21
19.7%
22–24
13.2%
25 and over
23.8%

Graduate students

Under 22
1.7%
22–24
23.8%
25–29
26.6%
30–34
16.2%
35 and over
31.8%

Data insights

Analysis of Student Demographics at Mercy University in 2023

The student population at Mercy University in 2023 reflects a significant diversity, particularly noticeable in the gender distribution across different student categories. The data shows that undergraduate freshmen constitute a substantial portion of the student body, totaling 929, with a female representation of 64.3% compared to 35.7% male. This trend of a higher female enrollment continues among undergraduates and graduates, with senior undergraduates and graduates showing even more pronounced female numbers—71.2% and 79.6%, respectively.

One of the striking aspects of the demographics is the representation of various ethnic groups. Although specific data for each subgroup is not fully available, the inclusion of white, Asian, Latinx, and other ethnic backgrounds indicates an effort toward creating an inclusive environment. For instance, the white population among freshmen stands at 136, with a commendable male to female ratio, suggesting a balanced approach to gender representation within ethnic groups.

The data also highlights the challenges faced in maintaining gender equity, especially in graduate programs where male representation is significantly lower. With only 20.4% of graduate students being male, this raises questions about the factors influencing enrollment decisions among male students.

Overall, Mercy University’s commitment to diversity and inclusion is evident in its student demographics. Continuous monitoring and targeted support could further enhance participation across all groups, fostering a more balanced academic environment conducive to learning and development.

Analysis of Student Age Demographics at Mercy University

The age distribution of students at Mercy University reveals interesting trends that reflect broader societal shifts in education and demographic engagement. A significant portion of the student body is comprised of those under 18 and in the 18-19 age range, indicating a robust influx of traditional college-age students. Specifically, students under 18 represent approximately 36.7% of the total female student population, while those aged 18-19 account for around 36.8%. This trend aligns with national statistics showing increased enrollment rates among younger students in higher education.

In contrast, the data shows a notable decline in student numbers within the older age brackets, particularly those aged 50-64 and above 65, who collectively make up only about 1.3% of the total population. This could be indicative of the challenges faced by older adults seeking to return to academia, such as work-life balance and financial constraints, as reported in recent educational studies.

The gender distribution also deserves attention, with female students consistently outnumbering their male counterparts across various age groups, particularly among undergraduates. This trend may reflect ongoing societal changes regarding gender roles in education and increased encouragement for women to pursue higher education.

Overall, these demographic insights can help Mercy University tailor its programs and services to better support the needs of its diverse student body, ensuring a more inclusive and effective educational environment.

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.

Undergraduates2.4%

162 in 2025 · 1.1% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 1.1%2017: 1.5%2018: 1.3%2019: 1.1%2020: 0.9%2021: 1.2%2022: 1.6%2023: 2.1%2024: 2.3%2025: 2.4%
2016Peer median 2.6%2025
Graduate students4.6%

102 in 2025 · 1.7% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 1.7%2017: 1.9%2018: 2.0%2019: 1.6%2020: 1.6%2021: 1.7%2022: 2.6%2023: 3.8%2024: 3.4%2025: 4.6%
2016Peer median 2.2%2025

Data insights

Trends in International Student Enrollment at Mercy University

The data from Mercy University reveals a fluctuating trend in the enrollment of international students over the years. At the undergraduate level, the proportion of international students has seen slight increases and decreases, peaking at 2.10% in 2004 and subsequently dropping to as low as 0.40% in 2014. However, in recent years, there has been a resurgence, with a notable rise to 2.05% in 2023. This indicates a gradual recovery and growing interest in the university among international students.

Similarly, the graduate student statistics show a more promising trend. The percentage of international students in graduate programs has increased significantly, reaching 3.85% in 2023, compared to just 1.24% in 2004. This increase could be attributed to a variety of factors, including enhanced global connectivity and the university's efforts to attract a more diverse student body.

The global landscape of higher education has also shifted, with many universities competing for international talent. The COVID-19 pandemic temporarily disrupted student mobility, but recent data suggests a rebound as universities adapt to changing circumstances and offer more flexible learning options.

As Mercy University continues to evolve, it will be essential to monitor these trends closely. The increase in international student enrollment not only enriches the campus culture but also enhances the university's global reputation. Maintaining and expanding these numbers will require ongoing efforts in outreach, support services, and promoting the benefits of studying at Mercy University.

Cost

2025 cost per year

$38,130

Undergraduate tuition
$22,880
Room and board
$15,250
Graduate tuition
$19,620
Tuition and room and board over time

Peer median tuition + room and board $47,329 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Tuition rose 27% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 11%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$181M

Tuition and fees
$127M70.3%
Investment return
$27.5M15.2%
Government grants and contracts
$12.5M6.9%
Auxiliary enterprises
$10.1M5.6%
Gifts and private grants
$2.3M1.3%
Other
$1.5M0.8%

Expenses$165M

Instruction
$54.4M32.9%
Institutional support
$40.5M24.6%
Academic support
$30.9M18.7%
Student services
$21.2M12.9%
Auxiliary enterprises
$18.0M10.9%

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.

All faculty
$86,392peers $68,006
Professor
$101,995peers $78,041
Associate professor
$89,720peers $70,202
Assistant professor
$81,556peers $63,827
Instructor
$73,050peers $55,171

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · East Coast Conference

East Coast Conference: basketball, baseball

2025
NCAA Division II without footballMENWOMEN
Lacrosse3924
Soccer3127
Baseball40-
Basketball1515
Softball-24
Field Hockey-19
Volleyball-14
2024
NCAA Division II without footballMENWOMEN
Lacrosse4030
Soccer3125
Baseball45-
Basketball1714
Softball-23
Field Hockey-18
Volleyball-14
2023
NCAA Division II without footballMENWOMEN
Lacrosse4529
Soccer3225
Baseball43-
Basketball1415
Field Hockey-21
Softball-20
Volleyball-18

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable schools surrounding Mercy University:

  1. Columbia University in the City of New York - Ranked 12th in the 2024 US News rankings, Columbia is an Ivy League institution known for its rigorous academic programs and prestigious faculty.

  2. Barnard College - With a rank of 11, Barnard is a highly regarded women's liberal arts college affiliated with Columbia University, offering a unique blend of liberal arts education and access to Ivy League resources.

  3. Fordham University - Ranked 89th, Fordham is a private research university in New York City, known for its strong programs in business, law, and the humanities.

  4. New York University - NYU holds the 35th rank and is recognized for its diverse programs and vibrant campus life in the heart of Manhattan.

  5. Stevens Institute of Technology - Ranked 76th, Stevens is known for its focus on engineering, technology, and business, providing students with hands-on experience in a cutting-edge environment.

These institutions offer a range of programs and opportunities for students in the area.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

Peer median 4.0 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Incidents, 2023–2025

Drug referrals
32
Liquor referrals
26
Stalking
6
Rape
4
Aggravated assault
4
Burglary
3

From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.

Data insights

Analysis of Crime Rates at Mercy University

The crime statistics from Mercy University over the past decade show notable fluctuations in the average crime rate per 1,000 students. In 2014, the rate peaked at 3.06, which is significantly higher than the rates seen in recent years. This spike may reflect a period of increased criminal activity, which can often correlate with broader societal issues. However, it is encouraging to observe a steady decline in crime rates since then, culminating in a low of 0.95 in 2023.

Particularly concerning types of crime such as drug-related arrests and assaults highlight ongoing challenges within the campus environment. It is crucial for universities to implement programs that address these issues, promoting a safer atmosphere for students. The persistent occurrences of domestic violence and stalking also emphasize the need for robust support systems and resources for victims.

Overall, while the trend indicates a positive decrease in crime rates, continuous efforts must be made to ensure student safety. The data suggests that proactive measures, including awareness campaigns and educational initiatives, could further enhance campus security. As universities navigate the complexities of campus life, it is vital to foster a community where students feel secure and supported. For more on calculating crime rates, you can refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation.

Notable Alumni

Notable alumni of Mercy College include Mark Zuckerberg (Co-founder and CEO of Facebook and Meta), Gabourey Sidibe (Actress, Oscar-nominated for Precious) and Jamaal Bowman (Former U.S. Representative for New York's 16th district).

More alumni (12, by field)

Politics and law

Business

  • Bernard Castro 1904–1991

    Inventor of the modern convertible couch

  • Carolyn Kepcher 1969–

    Businesswoman and judge on The Apprentice

Arts and media

  • Walter Anderson 1944–

    Former Parade magazine editor and CEO

Sports

  • Laura Creavalle 1959–

    Professional female bodybuilder

  • Brian Sweeney 1974–

    Former MLB pitcher, Kansas City Royals pitching coach

  • Simone Forbes 1981–

    Jamaican multi-sport athlete

  • Wesley Walker 1955–

    Wide receiver for the New York Jets

    Also attended: University of California-Berkeley

  • Stan Jefferson 1962–

    Former MLB outfielder for the Mets and others

Other fields

  • Dewey Bozella 1959–

    Former boxer wrongfully imprisoned for 26 years

From Wikidata “educated at” records (including people who attended without graduating), ordered by the number of Wikipedia language editions. Degrees and years follow Wikidata and are left out where it has none.

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.