St. Ambrose University, a Roman Catholic college in eastern Iowa, has announced its plans to acquire Mount Mercy University, another nearby institution. The merger is expected to be completed by summer 2025, pending regulatory and accreditor approvals. Despite the combination, both universities intend to maintain separate campuses and academic programs.
The decision to merge was described as a “strategic combination” that would allow the institutions to share resources and reduce costs. This, in turn, could lead to potential savings for students and their families. Mount Mercy University will retain its name and be known as the Mount Mercy Campus of St. Ambrose University.
Although St. Ambrose University has a higher enrollment compared to Mount Mercy, the two institutions share similar missions and characteristics. Both are Catholic institutions that focus on serving their local communities while also having a broader reach. The presidents of both universities have expressed optimism about the merger, citing compatibility in culture and mission.
While both universities have experienced declines in enrollment in recent years, they see potential for growth in their graduate programs. There are discussions about introducing new undergraduate majors and athletics programs, as well as expanding graduate offerings to attract more students. The main goal of the merger is to enhance educational access for traditional-age and adult learners, with a focus on improving student experiences.
The merger will be carried out in two phases, with the first phase expected to be completed by summer 2025. During a transition period of about a year, St. Ambrose will operate Mount Mercy as a separate university before fully combining the two institutions. This transition may result in some personnel changes, but the universities are committed to ensuring operational efficiencies and preserving their missions.
Tuition rates for students have not been finalized, but both universities have stated their commitment to providing generous financial aid packages. They aim to communicate any changes in tuition to students and do not anticipate significant increases. The focus is on making the transition smooth and maintaining the central focus on students throughout the merger process.
Overall, the merger of St. Ambrose University and Mount Mercy University presents an opportunity for growth, collaboration, and enhanced educational experiences for students. By combining their resources and expertise, the two institutions aim to create a stronger, more sustainable academic environment for the benefit of their communities and beyond.