Gannon University: Rankings, Courses & Admissions

Gannon University is ranked #244 in the U.S. News rankings, placing it in the middle-to-lower tier among U.S. universities. Due to its regional focus and emphasis on teaching over research, Gannon is not included in global assessments like the QS World University Rankings or THE rankings.

Here’s how Gannon University’s rankings have evolved over the years:

Subject-wise rankings can help you understand how your chosen program performs. Let’s look into the details.

Top Course-wise Ranking 2024/25

In course-wise rankings, Gannon's undergraduate engineering program (#115) performs relatively well compared to its nursing program (#566) in the U.S. News rankings. Specializations like physical therapy (#198) and occupational therapy (#133) show potential for improvement.

Here are the subject-wise rankings for Gannon University:

Not sure if Gannon University is the right fit for your master’s? Take a look at Gannon University Rankings 2025 to see how it compares globally and within your field!

After reviewing the academic performance across various programs at Gannon University, let’s now take a look at the admission requirements for students.

Gannon University is a smaller institution with an enrollment of 4,665 students. As a result, the university does not have a strict application deadline. There are two major intakes: Fall (August) and Spring (January). 

The Summer intake (May) is optional and has limited course offerings. Gannon University operates on a rolling admissions basis, accepting applications until seats are filled.

Here are the intakes and deadlines at Gannon University:

With the requirements and deadlines covered, let’s check out the programs you can study at Gannon University.

Gannon University is moderately selective with a 77% acceptance rate, indicating it is open to a wide range of applicants. Understanding the admission process in advance can help you prepare your documents early and take the necessary admission tests (e.g., SAT) to increase your chances.

Below is a breakdown of the admission requirements and application deadlines for Gannon University.

Admission Requirements

Admission requirements mainly include a minimum GPA between 2.5 and 3.0 on a 4.0 scale, along with academic transcripts from previous studies. 

For undergraduate programs, SAT or ACT scores may be required. For graduate programs, GRE or GMAT scores could be requested if your GPA does not meet the minimum threshold.

International applicants must also provide proof of English language proficiency through IELTS or TOEFL. Once admitted, you will receive a Form I-20, which is required to apply for an F-1 student visa.

Here are the admission requirements to study at Gannon University:

Academic Qualification

A minimum GPA ensures you can handle the academic workload. Gannon University requires a GPA between 2.5 and 3.0 on a 4.0 scale, depending on the program. In addition, you may need to submit academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose.

Here are the requirements:

Language Proficiency

International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through tests like IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE. Students who have completed previous education in English may be eligible for a waiver.

Here are the English language requirements:

Note: Competitive scores for Gannon University may vary depending on the number of applications received.

Competitive Exams 

Undergraduate programs, such as engineering or business, may require SAT or ACT scores. For graduate admission, GRE or GMAT scores are generally not mandatory. However, if your GPA falls below the required minimum, you may be asked to submit GRE or GMAT scores based on the program.

Here are the test requirements for Gannon University admission:

Note: Requirements vary with programs. Check the official website of the university for the latest news.

Visa Requirements 

The U.S. denies about 41% of student visa applications each year. To avoid this, understanding visa requirements in advance is crucial. To study at Gannon University, you need to have a valid passport and an official letter of acceptance. 

You also need to provide financial proof to receive the Form I-20, which is needed to apply for a USA F-1 visa.

Here are the Visa requirements for admissions at Gannon University:

Not sure if your scores meet the admission requirements? Visit the Gannon University Admission Page for all the details on eligibility and criteria.

Now, let’s look at Gannon University’s admission process to understand the available intakes and deadlines.

Gannon University offers 130 programs, including 67 undergraduate, 29 master’s, and 6 doctoral degrees. These programs span disciplines such as engineering, business, humanities, and nursing.

Gannon is one of the few institutions offering an accredited degree in Cyber Engineering through its School of Engineering.

Here are some popular programs offered at Gannon University:

• Master of Athletic Training: Prepares you for a career in sports medicine, combining clinical training with classroom learning to develop the skills to diagnose and treat sports-related injuries.
• Master of Science in Embedded Software Engineering: Focuses on designing and developing embedded systems, equipping you with skills in programming, hardware design, and real-time systems.
• MBA in Business Analytics: Provides advanced knowledge in data analysis, business intelligence, and decision-making processes.
• Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice: Offers a complete understanding of criminal law, justice systems, and criminology.
• Bachelor of Science in Cyber Engineering: Integrates computer science, engineering principles, and cybersecurity, training students to design and protect secure networks and systems.
• Bachelor of Arts in Global Cultures: Explores global societies, offering insights into cultural, political, and economic factors shaping the modern world.
• Bachelor of Science in Nursing: This coursework prepares you for registered nursing careers with a combination of theoretical coursework and hands-on clinical practice.

After exploring some popular courses at Gannon University, let’s check out the tuition fees for programs like MBA and MS.

Program Fees at Gannon University

At the graduate level, Gannon University charges around $1,260 per credit for science programs and $1,135 per credit for business programs. Undergraduate tuition is $42,450 for engineering and $40,020 for both humanities and science programs.

Here are the tuition costs for different programs at Gannon University:

Note: 

• Fees may vary depending on the specialization. Please refer to the official Gannon University website for the most up-to-date information.
• The currency conversions are based on the current exchange rate.

Apart from tuition, students also need to cover costs for housing, food, and books. Here's a breakdown of the overall expenses at Gannon University.

If you're looking at a two-year program, tuition makes up about 22.3% of your total costs. For a four-year degree, it goes up to around 62.1% to 65.5% of your overall on-campus expenses. At Gannon, undergraduate engineering costs $42,450 a year, while business is about $40,020.

Graduate programs are charged per credit. Engineering costs $1,260 per credit, and business costs $900 per credit.

Here’s the cost associated with studying at Gannon University:

In addition to tuition fees, there are additional costs such as housing and food. Let’s explore them.

The cost of living depends on your lifestyle choices. Major expenses include accommodation, food, and health insurance. If you live away from campus, you’ll also need to account for transportation costs.

Here are the additional expenses to consider.

Note: The currency conversions are based on the current exchange rate.

Gannon offers scholarships like the International Grant to reduce tuition costs. Students can also explore external options like the Fulbright program for added support. Let’s explore these available options. 

Paying for university can be overwhelming, especially with rising tuition and living costs. At Gannon, nearly 95% of students receive some form of aid from a $52 million annual grant pool. With 85.2% of U.S. undergraduates relying on loans, knowing your scholarship options early can help you plan better.

Here are some scholarships available at Gannon University.

Internal Scholarships

Internal scholarships at Gannon University are funded through its own budget, federal grants, and donations. Notable scholarships include the Presidential Scholarship, which offers full tuition coverage, and the Maroon & Gold Award, which provides up to $19,000 in benefits.

Here are some internal scholarships:

In addition to university scholarships, you can explore financial aid opportunities provided by government programs and trusts, such as Fulbright. Let’s take a closer look.

External Scholarships

External scholarships are funded by government programs or foundations and are typically awarded based on factors like nationality. At Gannon University, you can apply for government-sponsored scholarships like Fulbright scholarships or foundation-backed Inlaks Shivdasani scholarships (up to $100,000).

Here are some external scholarship options:

Placement outcomes are a strong indicator of both academic quality and employer trust. Let’s take a look at the placement rates at Gannon University.

Gannon University offers an active campus life with over 90 clubs and organizations, providing plenty of opportunities to explore new interests. Students can stay active with 23 university sports or join recreational and fitness clubs. 

For career development, Gannon provides resources like Handshake and Interstride to help students become career-ready.

Here are the different activities at Gannon University:

• Clubs and Organizations:
  • Gannon 101: A program promoting collaborative learning and academic success.
  • IgKnight: A peer-to-peer networking platform designed to help students connect and support each other.
• Recreation and Wellness:
  • Fitness Programs: Includes activities like yoga and pilates to promote overall wellness.
  • Sports: Recreational sports such as pickleball and ping pong to stay active and have fun.
• Health & Counseling:
  • Health Services: Assistance with BP checks, flu infections, tuberculosis screening, and other health concerns.
  • Counseling: Support for mental health, including counseling for depression and suicidal thoughts.
• Career Exploration and Development:
  • Handshake: A platform connecting students with alumni and internship opportunities.
  • Big Interview: Virtual assistance with interview preparation and tips to build job readiness.
  • Interstride: A global job and internship search platform with over 250,000 opportunities available domestically and internationally.
  • Career Ready Knights: Gain valuable experience and career skills throughout your time on campus.

Gannon University alumni have made significant contributions across various fields, including politics, academics, sports, and more. Here are some notable alumni.

At Gannon University, 90% of undergraduate students and 98% of graduate students secured employment within six months of graduation (2021). Previously, undergraduates achieved a placement rate of 96%, while graduate students recorded a 97% rate in 2020.

Over the past five years, placement rates have consistently remained above 90%, reflecting the university's focus on career readiness and real-world preparation.

Here’s a snapshot of placement rates over the years:

Now, let’s explore the top recruiters hiring graduates from Gannon University.

Top recruiters

Gannon University does not officially publish a list of top recruiters. However, based on employer participation in career fairs and recruitment events, here are some companies known to hire Gannon graduates:

• Wabtec Corporation: Roles in engineering, manufacturing, and operations.
• Marquette Savings Bank: Opportunities in finance, banking operations, and customer service.
• Logistics Plus: Positions in supply chain management, logistics coordination, and international business.
• GECAC: Careers in social services, community outreach, and nonprofit administration.
• Erie Insurance: Jobs in claims, underwriting, IT, and business analysis.
• Allegheny Health Network: Roles in healthcare, nursing, and administrative support.

Students at Gannon can gain hands-on experience through CPT and OPT programs available for STEM disciplines. Let’s explore these opportunities in more detail.

Internship and Co-op Opportunities

Students can explore career development opportunities through resources like Interstride and Handshake. These platforms help connect you with employers for CPT and OPT opportunities.

Here are some career development resources at Gannon University:

• CPT (Curricular Practical Training): Gannon University provides opportunities for international students, including those in STEM disciplines, to gain practical experience via CPT.
• OPT (Optional Practical Training): After graduation, international students in STEM fields can apply for up to 36 months of OPT employment, which is a real-world work experience opportunity. 

Gannon University has two campuses: one in Erie and another in Ruskin. Let’s explore the distinct features each campus has to offer.

Gannon University Campuses

Gannon University does not have campuses in Erie, Pennsylvania, or Ruskin, Florida. However, Gannon University has physical campuses in Erie, Pennsylvania, on the banks of Lake Erie, and another in Ruskin, Florida, which caters to health science courses.

Here are the features of Gannon University campuses:

1. Erie (Pennsylvania)

The Erie campus is known for the following:

• All undergraduate engineering and computing programs have achieved or maintained ABET accreditation through September 2030.
• In the 2023–24 academic year, Gannon ranked seventh nationally in the Division II Athletics Directors Association (D2 ADA) Academic Achievement Awards.

2. Ruskin (Florida)

The Physician Assistant (PA) program at the Ruskin campus has a 94% graduation rate over the past four years.

For better decision-making, it's important to understand how Gannon performs across different parameters compared to other universities. Let’s take a look at its performance.

Gannon University V/S Wichita State University V/S Wright State University: Which is Better?

Choosing a university for higher studies is a big decision, and to make the right choice, it’s important to compare it with similar institutions. 

For instance, Gannon University’s average placement salary of $38,400, compared to $31,800 at Wright State University, offers insight into graduate employability. This helps build a better understanding of what each university offers.

To get a clearer picture, let’s take a look at how Gannon University performs against similar schools like Wichita State University and Wright State University.

Note: The tuition fee is calculated as the average for top courses.

Gannon's U.S. News rank of #244 is notably higher than Wichita State (#296) and Wright State (392–434), indicating a stronger overall reputation. It also offers a higher average graduate salary at $38,400, outperforming both Wichita and Wright. 

However, Gannon has fewer total courses (130) compared to the broader variety at Wichita (373) and Wright (315).

Now that you have a better understanding of how Gannon compares to similar universities, let’s take a look at the student services it offers.

Gannon University has over 47,000 alumni who have made significant contributions across various fields, like defence to politics. Notable alumni include healthcare researcher Theresa Guise and archaeologist Suzanne Richard.

Here are some distinguished alumni from Gannon University.