About
Southern Adventist University is a private Seventh-day Adventist university in Collegedale, Tennessee. It is owned and operated by the Southern Union Conference of Seventh-day Adventists. The university was founded in 1892 as Graysville Academy and was the first Adventist school in the southern United States. It relocated to Collegedale in 1916 and was renamed Southern Junior College. In 1944, Southern began awarding baccalaureate degrees and was renamed Southern Missionary College. 1996, the institution started conferring master's degrees and adopted its current name. Southern offers associate, baccalaureate, master's, and doctoral degrees.
Southern Adventist University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). The university has a student body of over 3,000 students from the United States and over 70 other countries. Southern Adventist University is known for its strong academics, Christian atmosphere, and commitment to service. The university offers over 100 undergraduate majors, minors, and over 40 graduate programs. Southern Adventist University is also home to the world's most extensive Seventh-day Adventist library.
Calculate your effective cost of attendance at Southern Adventist University for Undergraduate Programs.
Take the list price and subtract aid and loans to get your out-of-pocket cost.
- List Price (It does not include textbooks, travel, or healthcare): $34,050 /year
- Free Financial Aid (Includes scholarships, grants, and gifts): – $15,890 /year - On Average
- Working on Campus: – $2500 /year
- Loans: – $7890 /year
Typical Remaining Out-of-Pocket for Freshmen = $7,770 /year
The cost may vary depending on the program you choose.
Southern Adventist University Tuition fee and budget for 2023-2024 Graduate Programs
This is an estimated budget for a typical semester (or summer) with a full-time load of 9 hours.
- Master's-level tuition for 2023-24 is $715 per credit hour.
- Doctorate-level tuition is $925 per credit hour.
Budget Estimates for one semester in 2023-2024
|
Components |
MASTER'S |
DOCTORAL |
|
Tuition |
$6,435 |
$8,325 |
|
Books and supplies |
$500 |
$500 |
|
Total |
$6,935 |
$8,825 |
The acceptance rate for international students at Southern Adventist University is 75%. Southern Adventist University is not ranked in the QS World University Rankings. However, it is ranked 49 out of 136 Regional Universities South in the 2022-2023 edition of U.S. News & World Report's Best Colleges. It is also ranked 14 in the "Best Value Schools" category in the same edition.
Top Reasons to Study in the Southern Adventist University
- Strong academics: Southern Adventist University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), one of the six regional accrediting agencies in the United States. The university offers over 100 undergraduate majors, minors, and over 40 graduate programs.
- Christian Atmosphere: Southern Adventist University is committed to providing students with a biblical worldview. The university requires all students to take a religion course each semester, and there are many opportunities for students to get involved in Christian activities on campus.
- Commitment to service: Southern Adventist University is committed to preparing students to make a difference in the world. The university offers a variety of service-learning opportunities, and students are encouraged to get involved in local and global communities.
- Vibrant campus life: Southern Adventist University has a vibrant campus life that offers something for everyone. There are over 100 student organisations on campus, and students can participate in various activities, including sports, clubs, and intramurals.
- Beautiful campus: Southern Adventist University is located on a beautiful 1,000-acre campus in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains. The campus has various academic buildings, residence halls, athletic facilities, and recreational amenities.
- Affordable tuition: Southern Adventist University offers students affordable tuition and financial aid packages. This makes it possible for students from all backgrounds to attend the university.
Admissions
Avg acceptance rate (Bachelors)
74%
Application Fee
$40
How to Apply at Southern Adventist University
The application process for international students is the same as for domestic students. Additional requirements are there for fresh and transfer undergraduate and graduate students.
Fresh Undergraduate/Graduate International Admissions
- Application: You can apply through the Online Application from their official website.
- The application fee is $75 for international students.
- Required Materials: In addition to the application, applicants must submit the following:
- Official transcripts from all schools/colleges/universities attended.
- Entrance exam scores: SAT/ACT (for undergraduates), GRE/GMAT (Required for graduate and PhD students)
- English proficiency test scores like Internet-Based TOEFL (iBT), IELTS, Duolingo, iTEP or PTE
- Personal statement/Essay writing
- Two letters of teacher recommendation
- Financial Aid Statement of Intent
Transfer Students Undergraduate/Graduate International Admissions
- Application: You can apply through the Online Application on their official website.
- The application fee is $75 for international students.
- Required Materials: In addition to the application, applicants must submit the following:
- Official transcripts from all schools/colleges/universities attended.
- Entrance exam scores: SAT/ACT (for undergraduates), GRE/GMAT (Required for graduate and PhD students)
- English proficiency test scores like Internet-Based TOEFL (iBT), IELTS, Duolingo, iTEP or PTE
- Personal statement/essay writing
- Transfer Report Form
- Letter of recommendation
- Financial documentation
Documents Required to Apply to Southern Adventist University
Undergraduate Students
- Complete the Online Application from their official website
- Official transcripts from all previous your high school attended
- SAT/ACT scores
- Internet-Based TOEFL (iBT), IELTS, Duolingo, iTEP or PTE English Test scores.
- Personal statement/Essay writing
- Two letters of recommendation
- Financial documentation
- Resume
- Additional Documents:
- Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student (F-1) Status
- I-20 Form
- Passport
- Visa Sponsorship Letter
Graduate Students/PhD or Scholar Students
- Complete the Online Application from their official website
- Official transcripts from all previous high school or college attended
- GRE/GMAT scores
- Internet-Based TOEFL (iBT), IELTS, Duolingo, iTEP or PTE English Test scores.
- Personal statement
- Three letters of recommendation
- Resume (Relevant work experience)
- Additional Documents:
- Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student (F-1) Status
- I-20 Form
- Passport
- Visa Sponsorship Letter
All documents must be in English or have an official English translation
Exams Accepted By Southern Adventist University
Undergraduate Students
- Entrance Tests: SAT/ACT exam.
- English Proficiency Tests: Internet-Based TOEFL (iBT), IELTS, Duolingo, iTEP or PTE English Test scores.
Graduate Students/Ph.D. Students
- Entrance Tests: GRE/GMAT exam
- English Proficiency Tests: Internet-Based TOEFL (iBT), IELTS, Duolingo, iTEP or PTE English Test scores.
Campus Life
Transportation in the city
- Public bus: The Chattanooga Area Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) operates bus service in the city. The closest bus stop to the university is on Apison Pike, about a 10-minute walk from campus. The RTA bus fare is $2.25 for a single ride.
- Taxi: Several taxi companies operate in the city. Taxi fares are typically around $2 per mile.
- Ride-hailing services: Uber and Lyft are also available in the city. Ride-hailing fares are typically based on the distance travelled and the time of day.
- Bicycle: The university has a bike share program allows students, faculty, and staff to rent bicycles for short-term use. The bike share fee is $5 per day.
- Personal vehicle: Parking is available on campus if you drive to the university. Parking permits are required and can be purchased online or at the Transportation Services office.
Services offered by the university
- Academic advising: The university has a team of advisors who can help students plan their coursework and choose suitable classes for their academic goals.
- Financial aid: The university offers a variety of financial aid programs to help students pay for their education. These programs include grants, scholarships, loans, and work-study opportunities.
- Health services: The university has a health centre that provides medical, dental, and vision care for students. The health centre also offers counselling services and other health-related resources.
- Student life: The university offers a variety of student life activities, including clubs, organisations, sports, and recreation. These activities allow students to get involved on campus and meet new people.
- Career services: The university's career services office helps students find jobs and internships. The office offers resume writing assistance, interview tips, and other career-related services.
- Technology services: The university has a computer lab and a help desk that provide students access to technology resources. The help desk also offers technical support to students and faculty.
- Religious life: Southern Adventist University is a Seventh-day Adventist institution, and it offers a variety of religious life activities, including worship services, Bible studies, and mission trips.
Student life at Southern Adventist University
- Get involved in student organisations. There are over 100 student organisations at Southern Adventist University, so there will surely be something for everyone. You can join academic clubs, religious groups, sports teams, or social organisations.
- Take part in intramural sports. If you're not interested in competing at the varsity level, you can still get involved in sports by participating in intramurals. Various intramural sports include basketball, volleyball, soccer, and flag football.
- Attend concerts and plays. The university's Fine Arts department hosts a variety of concerts, plays, and other performances throughout the year. This is a great way to enjoy the arts and meet new people.
- Go to the movies. The university has its movie theatre, which shows a variety of films, from new releases to classics.
- Visit the campus gardens. The university has beautiful gardens that are open to the public. This is a great place to relax and enjoy nature.
- Go hiking or biking. The university is located in a beautiful area with plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation. You can go hiking, biking, or fishing in the nearby mountains.
- Serve the community. Southern Adventist University is committed to service, and students have many opportunities to participate in community service projects. This is a great way to give back to the community and make a difference.
On campus accomodation at Southern Adventist University
- Thatcher Hall: Thatcher Hall is a women's residence hall with a capacity of 200 students. It has single and double rooms, a standard room, laundry facilities, and a kitchen.
- Thatcher South: Thatcher South is also a women's residence hall with a capacity of 200 students. It has the same amenities as Thatcher Hall.
- Talge Hall: Talge Hall is a men's residence hall with a capacity of 200 students. It has single and double rooms, a standard room, laundry facilities, and a kitchen.
- Southern Village: Southern Village is an apartment-style complex for upperclassmen and graduate students. It has one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments, a pool, laundry facilities, and a fitness centre.
- Laumere Court Apartments: Laumere Court Apartments is an apartment-style complex for students who are 23 years of age or older. It has one- and two-bedroom apartments, a pool, laundry facilities, and a fitness centre.
Housing Cost
The cost of on-campus housing varies depending on the type of housing and the number of occupants. For example, a single room in Thatcher Hall costs $3,050 per semester, while a two-bedroom apartment in Southern Village costs $6,000.
Faculty
University Faculty:Student Ratio
University Faculty Stats
- Number of faculty: Southern Adventist University has over 300 full-time faculty members.
- Faculty qualifications: Most faculty members at Southern Adventist University have PhDs or other terminal degrees.
- Faculty research: Faculty members at Southern Adventist University conduct research in various fields, including the sciences, humanities, and social sciences.
- Faculty teaching: Faculty members at Southern Adventist University are committed to teaching excellence. They are also actively involved in student advising and mentoring.
- Faculty diversity: The faculty at Southern Adventist University is diverse in terms of their academic backgrounds, teaching styles, and cultural experiences.
- Faculty awards: Faculty members at Southern Adventist University have received numerous awards for their teaching, research, and service.
Career Opportunities
University Endowments Value
Internship opportunities at Southern Adventist University
- Internships: Southern Adventist University offers a variety of internship opportunities for students in various fields. These internships are typically unpaid, but they can provide valuable experience and help students to network with potential employers.
- Part-time jobs: Southern Adventist University also offers a variety of part-time jobs for students. These jobs are typically paid and can help students earn money to help pay for their education.
Placement of Southern Adventist University
Job Placement
According to the university's website, Southern Adventist University graduates have a 90% job placement rate within six months of graduation.
Top Employers
The university does not publish a list of hiring companies, but some of the most common employers of Southern Adventist University graduates include:
- Hospitals and healthcare organisations: Southern Adventist University's College of Nursing is one of the country's largest and most respected nursing schools. Many Southern Adventist University graduates work in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare organisations.
- Education: Southern Adventist University's College of Education is well-respected. Many Southern Adventist University graduates go on to work as teachers, counsellors, and other educational professionals.
- Business: Southern Adventist University's College of Business offers a variety of business programs. Many Southern Adventist University graduates work in business, finance, and accounting.
- Nonprofit organisations: Southern Adventist University has a solid commitment to service. Many Southern Adventist University graduates work for nonprofit organisations, such as hospitals, schools, and churches.
- Government: Southern Adventist University graduates can also find jobs in government, such as at the federal, state, or local level.
Salaries
The average salary for Southern Adventist University graduates varies depending on the field of study and the experience level. However, according to the university's website, the average salary for recent graduates is $50,000 per year.
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Last updated August 14, 2026