Gwynedd Mercy University Launches New Online Graduate Programs in Nursing and Education

Gwynedd Mercy University (GMercyU), a leader in nursing, education and other professional programs for more than 75 years, is proud to announce the launch of three new online graduate programs in nursing and education. Starting in the fall 2025 semester, these programs will provide working professionals with the flexibility needed to advance their careers while meeting growing industry demands.

The new online offerings include:

• Doctorate in Education - Nursing Education Concentration, developed for nursing professionals seeking to transition into academic leadership roles by earning a doctorate degree with a focus on teaching and learning in higher education.
• Teaching & Learning in Higher Education Post-Master’s Certification, a program ideal for educators looking to enhance their teaching capabilities and advance their careers.
• Combined MSEA K-12 Principal Certification and Ed.D. in Educational Leadership, designed for aspiring educational leaders seeking both a master’s degree in educational administration with principal certification and a terminal degree in as few as four years.

“We are thrilled to offer these new programs, which provide a seamless path for graduate students to deepen their expertise and enhance their career prospects,” said Dr. Raymond Bandlow, Professor of Education Policy and Program Director of Doctoral Studies at Gwynedd Mercy. “The programs are designed to meet the evolving needs of the healthcare and education sectors, ensuring our graduates are well-equipped to make a meaningful impact.”

To support this initiative, Gwynedd Mercy partnered with Risepoint, a leader in education technology that specializes in helping universities expand their online learning opportunities.

These programs are being added as part of GMercyU’s focus on meeting the next great need in both the healthcare and education sectors. Nursing schools across the country, for example, had to turn away more than 65,000 qualified applicants in 2023 because of a shortage of qualified nursing faculty and there were nearly 2,000 full-time nursing faculty vacancies that year, according to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing.

The first cycle of classes begins in September 2025, with an application deadline of August 18, 2025. To learn more about the online programs and how to apply, click here.