DES MOINES, Iowa — Mercy Health Sciences University, formerly Mercy College of Health Sciences, announced record enrollment for fall 2026, with a total of 1,003 students, including 399 new students. This milestone reflects an increase of 7.5 percent over fall 2025 and the highest enrollment in the University’s 127-year history, surpassing the previous record of 956 students set in fall 2021.
“This record enrollment is a powerful affirmation of Mercy Health Sciences University’s mission and momentum as we continue to address Iowa’s critical healthcare workforce needs,” said Dr. Adreain Henry, OD, EdD, MBA, President of Mercy Health Sciences University. “While our new University identity and the Joyce E. Lillis College of Nursing, scheduled to open in early 2027, signal a bold investment in the future, the foundation of our success remains unchanged: exceptional hands-on learning, transformative clinical partnerships, and a commitment to compassionate service inspired by the enduring legacy of the Sisters of Mercy.”
Mercy Health Sciences University recognizes that healthcare employers across Iowa continue to report significant workforce shortages in nursing, allied health, and other clinical fields. The University’s hands-on learning model, strong clinical partnerships, and healthcare-focused programs represent a direct response to that need, giving students real-world experience alongside a rigorous faith-based academic foundation. Together, the new identity and expanded facilities reflect an institution investing in its future to meet Iowa’s growing demand for skilled healthcare professionals.
Construction on the new Joyce E. Lillis College of Nursing is underway, with a Grand Opening planned for April 2027. The expanded space will support continued growth in clinical training capacity and reinforce the University’s role as a healthcare education leader in Iowa.
About Mercy Health Sciences University
Mercy Health Sciences University, formerly Mercy College of Health Sciences, is a health sciences specialty university rooted in the Catholic heritage of the Sisters of Mercy. Located in the heart of downtown Des Moines, Iowa, Mercy Health Sciences University offers master’s, bachelor’s, and associate degrees, certificates, and continuing education courses. Through our unique hands-on learning, unparalleled clinical rotations, and accelerated education offerings, our students are prepared to enter the workforce quickly with the critical skills necessary to make an immediate impact in their chosen healthcare careers. Guided by our Core Values of Knowledge, Reverence, Integrity, Compassion, and Excellence, Mercy Health Sciences University has been transforming students into successful healthcare professionals for 127 years.
