GWYNEDD VALLEY, PA — Gwynedd Mercy University is undertaking one of its largest recent academic expansions, adding programs in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, nonprofit leadership, music and trauma-informed care as the university responds to changing workforce needs following three consecutive years of undergraduate enrollment growth.
The university will introduce programs beginning in fall 2026 and 2027 spanning graduate, undergraduate and certificate education. It also plans to relaunch its RN-to-BSN program in January 2027 as demand continues for nurses with bachelor’s degrees.
The expansion includes a Doctor of Education in Organizational & Nonprofit Leadership, AI and Innovation; Master of Science programs in Cybersecurity and Artificial Intelligence; a Bachelor of Arts in Music Industry; and a Trauma-Informed Care Certificate. Gwynedd Mercy will also add minors in Forensic Science and Marketing.
The move broadens the university’s exposure to fields being reshaped by technology while extending its offerings in health care, organizational leadership and other professional disciplines.
“Universities have a responsibility to anticipate where opportunities are emerging and prepare students accordingly,” President Deanne H. D’Emilio said. “These new programs broaden what students can study at GMercyU while reinforcing the values and professional focus that define a Mercy education.”
The doctoral program will examine the use of innovation and emerging technologies in organizational strategy and decision-making. The cybersecurity and AI master’s programs will include work involving cybersecurity, machine-based AI and human-based AI, according to the university.
The Music Industry bachelor’s program will combine music with media production, digital communications and business. The Forensic Science minor will draw from biology, criminal justice, psychology and computer information science.
The Trauma-Informed Care Certificate will focus on understanding trauma and applying trauma-informed practices across professional settings.
The RN-to-BSN relaunch adds a health care component to the expansion. The program is intended for registered nurses seeking bachelor’s-level preparation and is scheduled to return in January.
The new offerings arrive as Gwynedd Mercy reports three consecutive years of growth among new campus undergraduate students. The university also received its highest number of first-year applications in more than 20 years for fall 2026, providing additional momentum as it expands its academic portfolio.
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