Mercyhurst University and UPMC Hamot have announced a new partnership designed to strengthen the region’s healthcare workforce while expanding educational opportunities for students interested in pursuing careers in the medical field.
The collaboration will allow Mercyhurst University to reinstate an academic program focused on preparing students for careers in healthcare, helping to address growing workforce needs across northwestern Pennsylvania.
University and healthcare leaders say the partnership reflects a shared commitment to developing the next generation of healthcare professionals while ensuring local healthcare providers have access to a skilled and well-trained workforce.
Mercyhurst University President Dr. David Livingston and April Murphy, Chief Nursing Officer at UPMC Hamot, joined together to formally announce the initiative, highlighting the importance of collaboration between higher education and healthcare institutions.
The partnership comes at a time when healthcare systems nationwide continue to face workforce challenges, particularly in nursing and other patient care professions. By creating additional pathways for students to enter the healthcare field, Mercyhurst and UPMC Hamot hope to help meet the increasing demand for qualified healthcare workers throughout the region.
Officials said the restored academic program will provide students with opportunities to gain the education and skills needed for successful healthcare careers while strengthening the pipeline of talent available to local employers.
The announcement underscores both organizations’ long-term investment in the health and well-being of the Erie community. Through the partnership, students will have greater access to healthcare-focused education, while regional healthcare providers will benefit from a stronger workforce prepared to serve patients across northwestern Pennsylvania.
Leaders from both institutions described the collaboration as an important step toward addressing workforce shortages and ensuring the region continues to have access to high-quality healthcare services for years to come.