Six Programs Recognized
MACON, Ga. — Mercer University has been named a College of Distinction for the 2026-27 academic year, a prestigious designation awarded to schools whose commitment to engaged, experiential education sets them apart.
Mercer was recognized as a private university on both the state and national levels and in the categories:
- Business — Affirms a dynamic and ethics-driven business education
- Education — Highlights commitment to preparing the next generation of transformative educators
- Engineering — Recognizes the school’s commitment to preparing career-ready problem solvers
- Nursing — Recognizes hands-on learning and career readiness in healthcare
- Career Development — Honors outstanding support for students’ post-graduation success
- Transfer Students — Reflects Mercer’s commitment to making the transfer process clear, equitable and academically sound
The recognitions are based on Colleges of Distinction’s unique evaluation criteria known as the Four Distinctions: Engaged Students, Great Teaching, Vibrant Community and Successful Outcomes. Colleges of Distinction conducts in-depth research and direct interviews with each institution, selecting only those whose campuses reflect a genuine, student-first philosophy.
“At Mercer, we believe a college education should inspire students to discover their purpose while equipping them with the skills and experiences to make a difference,” said Mercer University President Penny L. Elkins, Ph.D. “Through personalized mentoring, hands-on learning and meaningful opportunities both inside and outside the classroom, we empower our students to graduate with the knowledge, confidence and character to make a lasting impact on their professions and communities.”
This marks the first year Colleges of Distinction has recognized institutions in the Transfer Students category. The new designation comes as transfer enrollment continues to grow nationwide, with more students making deliberate, cost-conscious decisions about where to begin — and complete — their college education.
Among the qualities that distinguished Mercer in the evaluation include:
- A clearly articulated transfer credit policy paired with equivalency tools and articulation agreements that protect students’ prior work
- Dedicated transfer admissions staff and clearly visible pathways to admission
- Merit- and need-based aid available to transfer applicants
- Transfer-specific academic advising resources designed to help students map their credits and complete their degree efficiently
- Meaningful transfer enrollment and strong completion outcomes
“At Mercer, we’re committed to making every step of the transfer process as seamless and supportive as possible — from evaluating prior coursework and providing personalized advising to helping students quickly become engaged members of our campus community,” said Tony Kemp, associate vice president for administration and special programs. “This recognition reflects our commitment to ensuring transfer students have the resources and opportunities they need to thrive and complete their degrees.
Colleges of Distinction highlights schools that champion educational impact. That includes everything from first-year seminars and collaborative projects to undergraduate research, global learning and internships. Mercer’s inclusion is a result of its commitment to these high-impact practices and the personalized support it offers students.
“Today’s students are navigating a college landscape shaped by rising costs, rapid technological change and real uncertainty about the future of work,” said Tyson Schritter, chief operating officer at Colleges of Distinction. “What they need from higher education isn’t just a credential, but preparation for the world ahead. Mercer University delivers that through the kind of intentional, high-impact education that equips students for whatever comes next.”
To view Mercer’s profile, visit collegesofdistinction.com/school/mercer-university/
