Introduction

Mercyhurst University
Mercyhurst University is a fully accredited, Catholic, comprehensive institution founded in 1926 by the Sisters of Mercy and dedicated to the principle that education has the power to transform lives. With an esteemed liberal arts curriculum at its core, Mercyhurst emphasizes the dignity of each person and is committed to an examination of values as well as to quality academic, professional and career training, all within a climate of inquiry, collegiality, diversity and achievement.

Mercyhurst has built a network of distinctive undergraduate and graduate programs that extends far beyond its historical roots. Chief among them are the pioneering Tom Ridge College of Intelligence Studies and Applied Sciences, which also is the university’s leader in online learning initiatives; a burgeoning Health Professions and Public Health program; the Mercyhurst Center for Applied Politics, a rising star among public opinion polling centers; as well as internationally recognized programs in archaeology, forensic anthropology and the fine and performing arts. Ever nimble in preparing students for today’s global marketplace, Mercyhurst strives constantly to be relevant and distinctive in the choice of its academic offerings.

The university enrolls roughly 3,600 men and women and offers more than 65 undergraduate majors with nearly 70 concentrations and pre-professional tracks, ten graduate programs and nearly 20 associate degree programs. It maintains a strong commitment to experiential learning; a vibrant student and cultural life; championship athletic teams; and a long history of service and community engagement. In addition to its Erie campus, Mercyhurst educates students at the Booker T. Washington Center in downtown Erie as well as in Corry, Pennsylvania. It also maintains a flourishing academic center in Dungarvan, Ireland. This breadth gives the university an unparalleled capacity to educate, to build cross-disciplinary academic opportunities and to address complex issues.

University Learning for Today’s Student
Dynamic activity in shaping institutional purpose, planning academic programs, and meeting the needs of students of all ages — these reflect the motto of Mercyhurst University: “Carpe Diem,” or Seize the Day. Dedicated faculty advisors and academic counselors help students make the transition to university learning. Close student-faculty relationships give purpose and direction to students interested in shaping their university education to their goals and interests. The Career Development Center is available to guide students in their career exploration process. Computer laboratories and other modern facilities keep students competitive and up to date for the challenges of tomorrow.

Official Communication
Mercyhurst University recognizes many forms of communication for official university business. University officials may utilize written documentation, telephone conversations, and Mercyhurst-issued e-mail accounts or web documents as formal forms of communication. Official university business includes all actions of the university including but not limited to providing general information, course information, student conduct notices and administrative notices from the university.

Mercyhurst provides e-mail accounts to students; these are recognized as official document and notification addresses for university communications. All students are responsible for checking their Mercyhurst issued e-mail accounts and are held accountable for the contents of e-mails issued by the university.