Associate Degree, Certificate Cost, and Financial Aid

An affordable education made simple.

Mercyhurst University continues to take steps to ensure that our education remains affordable and accessible to associate degree and certificate students, as well as non-traditional students. The Office of Graduate and Professional Admissions is committed to helping students navigate the admissions and financial aid processes, ensuring a straightforward approach to accessing their education.

Tuition for full-time (12-18 credits) non-traditional students (typically undergrad students ages 24 or older), as well as associate degree and certificate students, can be found below. In addition to tuition, these students pay a modest registration fee and, for applicable programs (see below), a program fee per semester.

The table below provides estimated costs for the 2024-2025 academic year for our standard academic programs, as well as an example of a financial aid award for a student with a Student AID Index (SAI) of -1,500 from the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Tuition and fees are for standard programs; additional program fees, ranging from $500 to $1,000 per semester, apply to allied health, Nursing, and select baccalaureate programs. PHEAA State Grants are for Pennsylvania residents only.

Please note that costs vary from year to year, and costs listed are estimates only and are subject to change. 

Depending on financial aid eligibility, many students will be able to earn their degrees at no direct cost — and may even receive a refund on student loans to help pay for books and other college costs. Students choosing to reside on campus will incur additional costs for room and board, depending on the student’s selected living and dining arrangements. When planning for college, you should also consider indirect costs for things like books, supplies, transportation, and personal expenses.

Value and Affordability

Mercyhurst University offers low tuition rates plus opportunities for institutional aid for those with a demonstrated need, making our costs on par with most community colleges. In addition:

• An admissions counselor works with students throughout the application and financial aid processes, helping them identify all available federal, state, and institutional aid, grants, and scholarships.
• Nearly 100% of our students qualify for financial aid (federal grants and loans, state grants, and/or Mercyhurst scholarships).
• Our career-oriented certificate and associate degree programs will yield benefits to students throughout their lifetime, whether they choose to begin their career immediately after graduation or continue on for a four-year degree.
• Many of our associate degree programs include convenient 2+2 options with our bachelor’s programs, allowing students to build on their education and earn a bachelor’s in two additional years. 
   

Financial Aid and Scholarships

When considering financial aid, it is important to keep in mind each institution’s “sticker cost” (tuition, plus room and board, if applicable) and “actual cost” (what the student ultimately pays, after factoring in financial aid, grants, scholarships, etc.). We are committed to helping students reach their academic goals without incurring significant financial burden. Non-traditional students and associate degree and certificate students eligible for this tuition rate may be eligible for an institutional McAuley Scholarship to help meet demonstrated financial need.

Both the Office of Admissions and the Office of Student Financial Services (SFS) are available to answer questions and discuss financial aid options. Our counselors can also explain financial aid offers and determine out-of-pocket amounts.

To start the financial aid process, submit the FAFSA and include Mercyhurst's school code, 003297.