Gannon University
The Vibe Check
Gannon University feels like a tight-knit, goal-oriented community with a strong focus on career preparation. The urban campus in downtown Erie creates a dynamic environment where students are immersed in a professional setting, yet the small class sizes foster a supportive, family-like atmosphere. There's a palpable energy centered on hands-on learning and service.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
SAT data not available
Average: 1120
ACT Score Range
ACT data not available
Average: 24
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
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Academics & Majors
Gannon's academics are anchored in strong professional programs, particularly in health professions and engineering, with a focus on practical, hands-on training. The faculty are known for being accessible and invested in student success, often integrating real-world projects into the curriculum. Students have opportunities for undergraduate research, especially in the sciences and biomedical fields, supported by modern facilities.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Erie
Student life in Erie is a mix of campus-centric activities and exploring the city's unique lakeside attractions. Students enjoy free time at Presque Isle State Park for beaches, biking, and water sports, or catching a game at the Erie Insurance Arena. The downtown area offers a growing scene of local coffee shops, breweries, and restaurants, with seasonal festivals like the popular Roar on the Shore motorcycle rally adding extra excitement.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($58,845):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
Gannon University has its own campus police force and promotes a 'See Something, Say Something' culture, contributing to a generally safe on-campus environment. The surrounding downtown Erie area has seen revitalization but, like any city, requires students to practice standard urban safety awareness, especially at night.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Strong, hands-on programs in high-demand fields like health professions and engineering.
- ✓ Prime urban location in downtown Erie provides easy access to internships and clinical rotations.
- ✓ High acceptance rate makes it an accessible option for many applicants.
- ✓ Modern campus facilities, including the impressive Gannon University Small Business Development Center.
Cons
- ✗ Erie's harsh, snowy winters can be a significant adjustment for students from warmer climates.
- ✗ As a private university, the sticker price is high, though net price is more manageable.
- ✗ The urban setting may feel limiting for those who prefer a traditional, isolated college town atmosphere.
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
Gannon University is particularly well-known for its rigorous and highly-regarded programs in Health Professions (including nursing and physical therapy), Engineering, and Business. The university emphasizes a 'Global Edge' curriculum, integrating real-world experience and global perspectives into all majors, and is recognized for its strong Catholic identity and commitment to service and ethical leadership.
No, Gannon University is not considered highly selective. With an acceptance rate of 76.7%, it is an accessible school for a broad range of applicants. While admissions are not ultra-competitive, successful applicants typically have a solid high school GPA and a completed college-preparatory curriculum. Meeting the university's average GPA and SAT/ACT ranges will make an applicant very competitive for admission and merit-based scholarships.
Campus life at Gannon is active and community-focused, with over 100 student clubs and organizations. The university's NCAA Division II athletics (the Golden Knights) are a major part of school spirit, and the on-campus Recreation and Wellness Center is a central hub for student fitness and activities. Because most students live on campus, especially in their first years, there's a strong sense of community, and the urban location allows students to easily explore Erie's downtown and waterfront during their free time.
For many students, especially those in Gannon's top-ranked professional programs, the university is a worthwhile investment. The average net price of $23,206 is significantly lower than the sticker price, and the 10-year median earnings of $58,845 indicate a solid financial return. The strong career placement rates in high-growth fields like healthcare and engineering, combined with hands-on learning that makes graduates job-ready, often justify the cost of attendance.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Private
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 3,371
- In-State Tuition $37,951
- Zip Code 16541
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With an average net price of $23,206, Gannon presents a more affordable option than its sticker price suggests, especially for a private university. The 10-year median earnings of $58,845 for graduates provide a solid return on investment, particularly when paired with the university's strong career placement in high-demand fields like healthcare and engineering. For students pursuing these majors, the financial value of the degree is strong.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.