Overview
Mercy College of Health Sciences is an open admission private four-year institution in Des Moines, Iowa. The school accepts most applicants who complete the application process.
Admission Guide
Mercy College of Health Sciences uses a rolling admissions process, so you can apply throughout the year rather than facing strict deadlines. Submit your application, high school transcripts, and any required prerequisite coursework documentation directly through their online portal.
The nursing program requires specific prerequisite courses in sciences and math that you must complete before starting the clinical sequence. You'll need anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and chemistry with lab components. Complete these at Mercy or transfer them from another accredited institution, but verify transfer credit approval before enrolling elsewhere.
Housing fills up quickly despite the small student body. Apply for residence halls as soon as you submit your admission application. The campus operates primarily as a commuter school, so many students live off-campus in nearby Des Moines apartments.
Clinical rotations begin early in most health science programs. You'll rotate through UnityPoint Health facilities, including Iowa Methodist Medical Center and Blank Children's Hospital, both within walking distance of campus. This proximity means shorter commutes during clinical rotations compared to other nursing schools that send students across large metropolitan areas.
Plan your course schedule carefully. Many upper-level courses are offered only once per academic year, particularly in specialized health programs. Missing a required course can delay graduation by a full year. Meet with your academic advisor each semester to map out your remaining requirements and avoid scheduling conflicts.
Financial aid processing happens year-round, but submit your FAFSA early to maximize aid opportunities. The school offers payment plans if you need to spread tuition costs across the semester rather than paying upfront.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $23,417/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $17,328
- Students Receiving Aid
- 34%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 48.6%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $62,234/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 52.6%
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Mercy College of Health Sciences require SAT or ACT scores for admission?
Mercy College of Health Sciences has adopted a test-optional admissions policy. Students can choose whether to submit standardized test scores as part of their application.
What is the application deadline for Mercy College of Health Sciences?
Mercy College of Health Sciences operates on a rolling admissions basis. Applications are reviewed as they are received, so applying early is recommended for the best chance of admission and housing.
Can I transfer credits to Mercy College of Health Sciences?
Mercy College of Health Sciences accepts transfer credits from regionally accredited institutions. Credits must be relevant to your program of study and you typically need a grade of C or better for transfer approval.
Does Mercy College of Health Sciences offer early decision or early action?
Mercy College of Health Sciences uses rolling admissions rather than early decision or early action programs. Students receive admission decisions within a few weeks of submitting a complete application.