About Mercer University
Mercer University builds future pharmacists, engineers, and business leaders on Baptist foundations that date back to 1833. The 4,620 students on this Macon campus know they're getting rigorous professional training wrapped in Christian values. Notable graduates include TV legal analyst Nancy Grace and former U.S. Senator Johnny Isakson, who both learned to blend principled thinking with practical skills.
The financial picture works in students' favor. While sticker price hits $40,890 for tuition, the average student pays just $22,350 after aid kicks in. Graduates earn a median of $58,354 ten years out, easily covering the typical $24,199 in debt with monthly payments of $257. That return on investment explains why 93.8% of graduates find employment.
The student body tilts heavily female at 64.46%, reflecting strong nursing and education programs alongside the flagship pharmacy school. With 86.37% of students from Georgia, campus feels like an extended state family. The 13:1 student-faculty ratio means professors actually know your name, while Division I athletics as the Bears gives everyone something to cheer about. The 82.72% retention rate suggests most students find their fit quickly.
The financial picture works in students' favor. While sticker price hits $40,890 for tuition, the average student pays just $22,350 after aid kicks in. Graduates earn a median of $58,354 ten years out, easily covering the typical $24,199 in debt with monthly payments of $257. That return on investment explains why 93.8% of graduates find employment.
The student body tilts heavily female at 64.46%, reflecting strong nursing and education programs alongside the flagship pharmacy school. With 86.37% of students from Georgia, campus feels like an extended state family. The 13:1 student-faculty ratio means professors actually know your name, while Division I athletics as the Bears gives everyone something to cheer about. The 82.72% retention rate suggests most students find their fit quickly.
Academics & Faculty
Mercer operates as a Baptist-affiliated research university with particularly strong programs in pharmacy, engineering, and business. The 13:1 student-faculty ratio creates an intimate learning environment where professors know students personally. Mercer's College of Pharmacy ranks among the top programs in the Southeast, while the School of Engineering emphasizes hands-on learning through industry partnerships. The 73.4% six-year graduation rate reflects solid academic support, though some students struggle with the rigorous coursework in technical fields. Business students benefit from connections to Atlanta's corporate community just 90 minutes north. The university's Christian foundation shapes campus culture and integrates faith perspectives into academic discussions across disciplines.
Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- 13:1
- Full-Time Faculty
- 97.3%
- Graduation Rate (4-year)
- 73.5%
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 73.4%
- Retention Rate
- 82.7%
- Median Earnings (10 years)
- $58,354
- Carnegie Classification
- Doctoral University (R2)
Popular Programs by Earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings |
|---|---|---|
| Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Administration. | Doctoral | $115,064 |
| Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions. | Master | $95,930 |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Master | $90,856 |
| Educational Administration and Supervision. | Doctoral | $87,604 |
| Computer Engineering. | Master | $85,538 |
| Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering. | Master | $75,204 |
| Curriculum and Instruction. | Doctoral | $72,682 |
| Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions. | Doctoral | $71,127 |
| Business/Commerce, General. | Master | $70,736 |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Bachelor | $62,299 |
Campus Life
Mercer's 150-acre campus sits in the heart of Macon, about 85 miles southeast of Atlanta. With housing capacity for 3,205 students and total enrollment of 4,620, roughly two-thirds of students live on campus, creating a tight-knit community feel. Georgia's mild climate means you'll need light jackets for winter but plenty of sunscreen for those long, humid summers that stretch well into September.
The 13:1 student-faculty ratio fosters close relationships with professors, especially important given Mercer's reputation for rigorous pharmacy and engineering programs. Women make up 64% of the student body, and the school's Baptist heritage shapes campus culture without being overwhelming. With 86% of students from Georgia, many head home on weekends, but those who stay enjoy Division I Bears athletics and campus activities. The Southern Conference sports scene provides solid entertainment, while Macon's downtown offers restaurants and music venues. Students often gather at the campus quad between classes, and Greek life provides additional social opportunities for those seeking them.
The 13:1 student-faculty ratio fosters close relationships with professors, especially important given Mercer's reputation for rigorous pharmacy and engineering programs. Women make up 64% of the student body, and the school's Baptist heritage shapes campus culture without being overwhelming. With 86% of students from Georgia, many head home on weekends, but those who stay enjoy Division I Bears athletics and campus activities. The Southern Conference sports scene provides solid entertainment, while Macon's downtown offers restaurants and music venues. Students often gather at the campus quad between classes, and Greek life provides additional social opportunities for those seeking them.
- Setting
- City-Midsize
- Housing Capacity
- 3,205 beds
- Calendar System
- Semester
- Study Abroad
- Available
- Founded
- 1833
Campus Safety (2023)
62 total reported incidents. Source: Clery Act / U.S. Department of Education
| Offense | On Campus | Residential | Noncampus | Public Property |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stalking | 16 | 5 | 0 | 0 |
| Rape | 7 | 7 | 0 | 0 |
| Fondling | 6 | 4 | 0 | 0 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft | 6 | 0 | 1 | 0 |
| Burglary | 2 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
| Domestic Violence | 3 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Dating Violence | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
| Aggravated Assault | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Robbery | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Climate & Weather
- January Avg
- 35°–59°F
- July Avg
- 71°–93°F
- Annual Precipitation
- 46.9"
- Annual Snowfall
- 0.0"
Student Demographics
Mercer draws heavily from Georgia, with 86% of students calling the state home. This reflects the university's deep Baptist roots and reputation as a trusted regional institution. Women make up nearly two-thirds of the student body, likely drawn to Mercer's strong programs in pharmacy, nursing, and education. The campus brings together a diverse mix of students, with 32% Black enrollment reflecting the school's commitment to serving Georgia's demographics. One-third of students receive Pell Grants, showing Mercer's mission to make Christian higher education accessible across economic backgrounds.
- Men
- 35.5%
- Women
- 64.5%
- White
- 42.8%
- Black
- 31.9%
- Hispanic
- 8.3%
- Asian
- 8.3%
- In-State Students
- 86.4%
- Pell Grant Recipients
- 33.3%
Location
Mercer University sits in Macon, Georgia, about 80 miles southeast of Atlanta. The city of 157,000 residents serves as the geographic center of Georgia and offers a blend of Southern history and college town energy. Macon's location along the Ocmulgee River provides outdoor recreation opportunities, while the historic downtown features antebellum architecture and a growing arts scene. The area experiences a humid subtropical climate with mild winters. With 86% of students coming from in-state, Mercer draws heavily from Georgia's population centers. The campus benefits from Macon's position as a regional center for healthcare and logistics. Students considering colleges in Georgia may also compare Mercer University with similar schools in the region.
- Address
- Macon, Georgia 31207
After College
Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education
- Median Earnings (10 years)
- $58,354
- Median Earnings (5 years)
- $63,074
- Mean Earnings (6 years after entry)
- $40,400
- Loan Repayment Rate
- 46.6%
- Monthly Loan Payment
- $257/mo
- Median Debt at Graduation
- $24,199
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the acceptance rate at Mercer University?
Mercer University accepts 74.68% of applicants with an average SAT score of 1275. The Baptist-affiliated institution draws primarily from Georgia, with 86.37% of students coming from in-state.
How much does Mercer University cost after financial aid?
Students pay an average net price of $22,350 despite the $40,890 sticker price. Graduates leave with a median debt of $24,199, which translates to monthly loan payments of $257.
What are the strongest academic programs at Mercer University?
The university maintains a 13:1 student-faculty ratio across its respected pharmacy, engineering, and business programs. Founded in 1833, Mercer combines rigorous academics with strong Christian values in its curriculum.
What do Mercer University graduates earn after college?
Alumni earn a median salary of $58,354 ten years after graduation with a 93.8% employment rate. The university's professional programs help explain why 73.40% of students graduate within six years.
Where do students live at Mercer University?
The Macon campus houses 3,205 students with room and board costing $14,528 annually. The mid-sized city setting provides an intimate college atmosphere while maintaining access to urban amenities.
Does Mercer University compete in Division I athletics?
The Bears field 18 varsity sports in the NCAA Division I Southern Conference with 469 total athletes. The athletic program awards over $10.5 million in scholarships annually, reflecting the university's commitment to competitive sports.
