| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Education & Teaching | |
| Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
Founded: 1869
Type: Private Christian university
Location: Henderson, Tennessee, about 80 miles east of Memphis
Affiliation: Churches of Christ
Motto: "Teaching How to Live and How to Make a Living"
FHU offers undergraduate, graduate, and professional degrees in a variety of fields.
Popular Majors:
Bible and Ministry
Business Administration
Education
Nursing
Psychology
Arts and Humanities
Academic Structure:
College of Arts and Sciences
College of Biblical Studies
College of Business
College of Education and Behavioral Sciences
The university emphasizes small class sizes and a personalized approach to learning.
The university’s campus is spread across 96 acres in a peaceful, small-town setting.
Facilities include modern classrooms, a library, a performing arts center, athletic facilities, and dormitories.
FHU also has a Graduate School of Theology and an online education program.
FHU promotes a strong sense of community rooted in Christian values.
Spiritual Life: Daily chapel services are a key part of the student experience, reinforcing the school's faith-based mission.
Extracurriculars:
Over 30 student organizations
Intramural sports
Missions programs and service opportunities
Athletics:
The FHU Lions compete in the NAIA (National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics) as part of the American Midwest Conference (AMC).
Sports include basketball, baseball, softball, soccer, and more.
FHU has a selective admissions process.
Application Requirements:
High school transcripts
ACT/SAT scores (optional in some cases)
Essays and recommendations (depending on program)
The university is known for its welcoming environment and support for international students.
Tuition is relatively affordable compared to other private universities in the U.S.
FHU offers scholarships, grants, and work-study opportunities to help students manage costs.
Many scholarships are specifically tailored for students involved in church and ministry.
FHU alumni are active in various professions and ministries worldwide.
The university’s strong network within Churches of Christ makes it a popular choice for students pursuing religious vocations.
Each year, FHU hosts the Freed-Hardeman University Bible Lectureship, a prominent event that draws speakers and attendees from across the U.S. and the world.
FHU provides bachelor's degree programs in various disciplines. Here are some key areas of study:
College of Biblical Studies
Bible
Biblical Studies
Missions
Youth and Family Ministry
Ministry Leadership
College of Arts and Sciences
Humanities:
English
History
Communication and Journalism
Fine Arts:
Art and Design
Music
Theatre
Mathematics and Sciences:
Biology
Chemistry
Environmental Science
Mathematics
Computer Science:
Software Engineering
Cybersecurity
College of Business
Accounting
Business Administration
Marketing
Finance
Economics
Management
Sports Administration
College of Education and Behavioral Sciences
Education:
Elementary Education
Secondary Education (subject-specific areas like Math, Science, English)
Special Education
Psychology and Counseling:
Psychology
Social Work
Criminal Justice
Health Sciences
Nursing (BSN)
Pre-Medical Studies
Pre-Pharmacy
Pre-Dentistry
Pre-Physical Therapy
FHU offers several advanced degrees for students seeking professional and academic growth:
Master of Business Administration (MBA):
Focus on strategic leadership and management
Master of Education (M.Ed.):
Curriculum and Instruction
Special Education
Educational Leadership
Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Master of Arts in Ministry
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Family Nurse Practitioner
Specialist Degrees
Education Specialist (Ed.S.)
Instructional Leadership
Doctor of Education (Ed.D.):
Leadership in Schools, Nonprofits, or Higher Education
FHU also offers flexible online programs, allowing students to balance work and study. These include:
Bachelor’s degrees in Business, Psychology, and General Studies
Graduate programs such as:
MBA
M.Ed.
Master of Arts in Ministry
Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Course Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Bible and Ministry |
4 years |
$24,300 |
|
Youth and Family Ministry |
4 years |
$24,300 |
|
Missions |
4 years |
$24,300 |
|
Business Administration |
4 years |
$24,300 |
|
Accounting |
4 years |
$24,300 |
|
Finance |
4 years |
$24,300 |
|
Marketing |
4 years |
$24,300 |
|
Sports Administration |
4 years |
$24,300 |
|
Elementary Education |
4 years |
$24,300 |
|
Special Education |
4 years |
$24,300 |
|
Secondary Education (Subject-Specific) |
4 years |
$24,300 |
|
Nursing (BSN) |
4 years |
$24,300 |
|
Biology |
4 years |
$24,300 |
|
Chemistry |
4 years |
$24,300 |
|
Environmental Science |
4 years |
$24,300 |
|
Psychology |
4 years |
$24,300 |
|
Social Work |
4 years |
$24,300 |
|
Criminal Justice |
4 years |
$24,300 |
|
English |
4 years |
$24,300 |
|
History |
4 years |
$24,300 |
|
Art and Design |
4 years |
$24,300 |
|
Music |
4 years |
$24,300 |
|
Theatre |
4 years |
$24,300 |
|
Mathematics |
4 years |
$24,300 |
|
Computer Science |
4 years |
$24,300 |
|
Cybersecurity |
4 years |
$24,300 |
|
Software Engineering |
4 years |
$24,300 |
Master’s Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
|
1–2 years |
$11,880 |
|
Master of Arts in Ministry |
1–2 years |
$9,000 |
|
Master of Education (M.Ed.) |
1–2 years |
$9,600 |
|
- Curriculum and Instruction |
1–2 years |
$9,600 |
|
- Special Education |
1–2 years |
$9,600 |
|
- Educational Leadership |
1–2 years |
$9,600 |
|
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) |
2 years |
$13,200 |
|
- Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) |
2 years |
$13,200 |
|
Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling |
2 years |
$9,600 |
Doctorate Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) |
3–4 years |
$9,600 |
|
- Leadership in Schools |
3–4 years |
$9,600 |
|
- Leadership in Higher Education |
3–4 years |
$9,600 |
|
- Leadership in Nonprofits |
3–4 years |
$9,600 |
Affordable Tuition: Compared to many private universities in the U.S., FHU offers competitive tuition rates and numerous scholarship opportunities.
Faith-Based Education: FHU integrates Christian principles into academics and student life.
Safe Campus Environment: Located in Henderson, Tennessee, FHU provides a peaceful, small-town atmosphere for focused learning.
Personalized Attention: Small class sizes ensure close interaction with professors and a personalized education experience.
Diverse Community: FHU has students from various countries, fostering a multicultural learning environment.
Here’s an overview of the steps to apply as an international student:
Online Application:
Submit the online application via the FHU website.
A non-refundable application fee (typically around $50) may apply.
Academic Requirements:
Submit official transcripts (secondary/high school and/or college-level coursework) with certified English translations if necessary.
Meet minimum GPA requirements (usually a 2.5–3.0 on a 4.0 scale for undergraduate programs).
English Language Proficiency:
Provide proof of English proficiency through tests like:
TOEFL: Minimum score of 550 (paper-based) or 80 (internet-based)
IELTS: Minimum overall score of 6.5
Duolingo: Accepted as an alternative (specific score requirements vary)
This requirement may be waived if prior education was in English.
Standardized Tests (Optional):
SAT/ACT scores are optional for undergraduate applicants but may strengthen your application.
Proof of Financial Support:
Submit bank statements or affidavits showing sufficient funds to cover tuition and living expenses for at least one year.
Passport and Visa:
Provide a copy of your passport during the application process.
After admission, FHU issues an I-20 Form, which is needed to apply for the F-1 Student Visa.
Step 1: Submit the Application
Complete the online application on the FHU website.
Pay the non-refundable application fee (typically $50).
Step 2: Submit Academic Transcripts
Provide official high school transcripts or GED scores.
Transcripts must be sent directly from the school to FHU.
A minimum GPA of 2.5–3.0 on a 4.0 scale is typically required.
Step 3: Standardized Test Scores (Optional)
Submit SAT/ACT scores if applicable (optional for most programs):
SAT: Recommended score of 1020 or higher.
ACT: Recommended score of 20 or higher.
Test-optional applicants may be evaluated based on transcripts, essays, and other materials.
Step 4: Additional Documents
Complete a personal statement or essay if requested.
Letters of recommendation (optional but encouraged for some programs).
Step 5: Financial Documentation
Submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) (for U.S. citizens) to determine eligibility for financial aid.
Step 6: Application Decision
Once all documents are submitted, FHU reviews applications and notifies students of their admission decision within 2–4 weeks.
Step 1: Choose a Program and Apply Online
Select a graduate program and complete the online application.
Pay the application fee (varies by program, typically $50).
Step 2: Submit Academic Transcripts
Provide official transcripts from all colleges or universities attended.
A minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 is required for most graduate programs.
Step 3: Program-Specific Requirements
Depending on the program, you may need to submit:
GRE, GMAT, or other test scores (optional for some programs).
Letters of recommendation.
Resume or curriculum vitae (CV).
Statement of purpose or personal essay.
Portfolio (for creative programs such as art or design).
Step 4: Financial Documentation
Apply for financial aid or scholarships if needed.
Submit FAFSA (for U.S. students) or other relevant documents.
Step 5: Admission Decision
FHU typically reviews graduate applications within 2–6 weeks and provides decisions.
Step 1: Submit the Online Application
Complete the international student application on FHU’s website.
Pay the non-refundable application fee (typically $50).
Step 2: Submit Transcripts
Provide official high school and/or college transcripts.
Transcripts must be certified and translated into English if necessary.
A minimum GPA of 2.5–3.0 is required for most undergraduate programs.
Step 3: English Proficiency Requirements
Submit one of the following test scores to demonstrate English proficiency:
TOEFL: Minimum score of 80 (internet-based).
IELTS: Minimum score of 6.5.
Duolingo: Minimum score of 105.
Applicants who completed their education in English-speaking schools may request a waiver.
Step 4: Financial Documentation
Submit proof of financial ability to cover tuition and living expenses for at least one year.
Provide bank statements or affidavits of support.
Step 5: Passport Copy
Submit a copy of your valid passport.
Step 6: Receive I-20 Form
After acceptance, FHU will issue the I-20 Form (required for the F-1 student visa application).
Step 7: Apply for an F-1 Student Visa
Use the I-20 form to apply for a visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate.
Pay the SEVIS fee and schedule a visa interview.
Step 8: Arrival on Campus
Attend the international student orientation upon arrival at FHU.
FHU offers two main intakes for both undergraduate and graduate programs:
Semester |
Start Date |
Application Deadline |
|---|---|---|
|
Fall Semester |
Late August |
Domestic Students: July 1 |
|
Spring Semester |
Mid-January |
Domestic Students: December 1 |
Special Programs/Short Courses: Some programs may offer rolling admissions or summer intakes. Always check the specific program details.
To apply for a bachelor’s degree program, students must meet the following criteria:
Criteria |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Academic Qualifications |
High school diploma or equivalent (GED). A GPA of 2.5–3.0 on a 4.0 scale is preferred. |
|
English Language Proficiency |
For international students: |
|
|
- TOEFL: Minimum score of 80 (internet-based). |
|
|
- IELTS: Minimum overall score of 6.5. |
|
|
- Duolingo: Minimum score of 105. |
|
|
- Waivers available for students who completed education in English-speaking countries. |
|
Standardized Tests (Optional) |
ACT or SAT scores (recommended but optional). |
|
Additional Requirements |
- Personal essay (optional but recommended). |
|
|
- Letters of recommendation (optional for most programs). |
To apply for a master’s degree program, students must meet the following criteria:
Criteria |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Academic Qualifications |
Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution with a minimum GPA of 3.0. |
|
English Language Proficiency |
For international students: |
|
|
- TOEFL: Minimum score of 80 (internet-based). |
|
|
- IELTS: Minimum overall score of 6.5. |
|
|
- Duolingo: Minimum score of 105. |
|
|
- Waivers available for students who completed education in English-speaking countries. |
|
Program-Specific Requirements |
Some programs may require additional documentation, such as: |
|
|
- GRE/GMAT scores (optional for most programs). |
|
|
- Letters of recommendation (2–3, depending on the program). |
|
|
- Statement of purpose or personal essay. |
|
|
- Resume or CV for professional programs (e.g., MBA). |
To apply for a doctoral program, students must meet the following criteria:
Criteria |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Academic Qualifications |
Master’s degree from an accredited institution with a minimum GPA of 3.0. |
|
Professional Experience |
Relevant professional experience is often required for leadership-focused programs. |
|
English Language Proficiency |
Same as for master’s programs (TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo, or waiver based on prior education). |
|
Program-Specific Requirements |
Additional documents may include: |
|
|
- Research proposal or essay explaining career goals and research interests. |
|
|
- 3 letters of recommendation. |
Ranking Organization |
Category |
Ranking/Rating |
|---|---|---|
|
U.S. News & World Report |
Regional Colleges (South) |
Ranked Top 20 |
|
|
Best Value Schools (Regional South) |
Ranked Top 10 |
|
|
Best Undergraduate Teaching (Regional) |
Recognized |
|
Niche Rankings |
Best Christian Colleges in America |
Top 50 |
|
|
Best Colleges for Religious Studies in U.S. |
Top 30 |
|
College Factual |
Best Colleges for Bible Studies |
Highly Rated |
|
Colleges of Distinction |
Christian Universities |
Recognized for Excellence |
|
QS World University Rankings |
Not ranked (due to its regional/niche focus) |
N/A |
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Award Amount (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Academic Merit Scholarships |
Based on high school GPA and ACT/SAT scores: |
$2,000–$12,000 per year |
|
- Presidential Scholarship |
GPA: 3.8+ and ACT: 30+ / SAT: 1360+ |
Up to $12,000 per year |
|
- Dean’s Scholarship |
GPA: 3.5+ and ACT: 26–29 / SAT: 1230–1350 |
Up to $10,000 per year |
|
- Provost’s Scholarship |
GPA: 3.0+ and ACT: 22–25 / SAT: 1100–1220 |
Up to $8,000 per year |
|
- Achievement Scholarship |
GPA: 2.5+ and ACT: 18–21 / SAT: 970–1090 |
Up to $6,000 per year |
|
Christian Leadership Scholarship |
For students actively involved in church leadership |
Up to $8,000 per year |
|
Need-Based Aid |
Based on demonstrated financial need |
based on need |
|
Bible Scholarships |
For students majoring in Bible studies or ministry |
$2,000–$6,000 per year |
|
Transfer Scholarships |
For transfer students with a minimum GPA of 2.5 |
$3,000–$6,000 per year |
|
International Student Scholarship |
For international students based on academic performance |
$2,000–$10,000 per year |
|
Athletic Scholarships |
For student-athletes recruited for FHU sports teams |
(partial to full tuition) |
|
Fine Arts Scholarships |
For students in music, art, or theatre programs |
(audition required) |
|
Honors Scholarship |
For students accepted into the FHU Honors Program |
$1,000–$2,000 per year |
|
National Merit Scholarships |
National Merit Finalists and Semi-Finalists |
Up to full tuition |
|
Legacy Scholarship |
For children or grandchildren of FHU alumni |
$1,500 per year |
|
Tennessee HOPE Scholarship |
For Tennessee residents meeting state HOPE criteria |
$4,500–$5,700 per year |
Facility/Accommodation |
Details |
Cost Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
On-Campus Housing Options |
|
|
|
- Sewell Hall (Men) |
Traditional dorm-style housing for male students. |
$3,400–$4,000 |
|
- Scott Hall (Women) |
Traditional dorm-style housing for female students. |
$3,400–$4,000 |
|
- Dixon Hall (Men) |
Suite-style housing for male students with shared bathrooms. |
$4,200–$4,800 |
|
- Gardner Hall (Women) |
Suite-style housing for female students with shared bathrooms. |
$4,200–$4,800 |
|
- University Commons Apartments |
Apartment-style housing for upperclassmen, including private bedrooms. |
$5,200–$6,000 |
|
Meal Plans |
|
|
|
- Unlimited Meal Plan |
Unlimited meals in the dining hall. |
$5,000–$5,500 |
|
- Block Meal Plan |
14–19 meals per week with declining balance options for snacks. |
$4,000–$4,800 |
|
Campus Facilities |
|
|
|
- Libraries |
Modern library with study spaces, group rooms, and extensive resources. |
Included in tuition fees |
|
- Academic Buildings |
Fully equipped classrooms and labs for various majors. |
Included in tuition fees |
|
- Fitness Center |
Gym facilities, weight rooms, and exercise classes. |
Included in tuition fees |
|
- Student Center |
Hangout spaces, cafeteria, and recreation facilities. |
Included in tuition fees |
|
Laundry Facilities |
On-campus laundry rooms in dormitories (coin or card-operated). |
$150–$200 annually |
|
Internet and Utilities |
High-speed internet and utilities in dorms and apartments. |
Included in housing fees |
FHU provides a welcoming, tight-knit campus environment where students are encouraged to build lasting relationships with peers, faculty, and staff. With a student-to-faculty ratio of approximately 14:1, students benefit from personalized attention and mentorship opportunities.
As a Christian university affiliated with the Churches of Christ, spiritual life is integral to the FHU experience:
Daily Chapel Services: All students gather each weekday for chapel, a time of worship, singing, and inspirational messages.
Bible Studies and Devotionals: Opportunities to deepen faith through group studies and ministry events.
Missions and Outreach: Students can participate in mission trips, both domestic and international, to serve communities and spread faith.
FHU offers a wide variety of clubs, organizations, and activities for students to get involved in outside the classroom:
Student Organizations: Over 30 groups, including academic societies, service clubs, and special interest organizations.
Social Clubs: The university’s version of fraternities and sororities, which host social events, service projects, and competitions.
Leadership Opportunities: Students can join groups like the Student Government Association (SGA) to develop leadership skills and represent their peers.
Fine Arts: Students interested in music, theatre, or art can showcase their talents in performances, exhibitions, and productions.
FHU’s athletic programs and recreation facilities play a significant role in student life:
FHU Lions Athletics: The university competes in the NAIA (National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics) as part of the American Midwest Conference. Sports include basketball, soccer, baseball, softball, and volleyball.
Intramural Sports: For those who prefer casual competition, intramural leagues include activities like flag football, basketball, and volleyball.
Fitness Facilities: The on-campus fitness center includes weight rooms, cardio equipment, and group exercise classes.
FHU organizes a range of events throughout the year to engage students and create lasting memories:
Annual Bible Lectureship: A major event that draws visitors and speakers from around the world.
Homecoming Week: Includes events like parades, games, and alumni gatherings.
Spring Olympics: A campus-wide event with friendly competitions and activities.
Coffee Houses and Open Mic Nights: Casual opportunities for students to unwind and share their talents.
Living on campus fosters a close community experience. Dormitories and apartments are designed to provide safe and supportive spaces for students to thrive. Resident Assistants (RAs) organize social events and create a welcoming environment.
FHU provides robust support services to ensure students succeed academically, socially, and emotionally:
Counseling Services: Free and confidential counseling is available for all students.
Academic Support: Tutoring, writing centers, and workshops help students excel in their studies.
Career Services: Guidance on internships, resumes, and job placements.
Service is a core part of student life at FHU:
Students can participate in local community outreach projects or international mission trips.
Service days are organized to give back to the Henderson community and beyond.
Although FHU is a Christian institution, it welcomes students from various backgrounds and countries, fostering a culturally diverse campus. International students are supported through orientation programs, cultural events, and dedicated resources.
FHU's Career Center provides a range of services to help students prepare for the workforce, including:
Career Counseling: One-on-one sessions to help students identify career goals and pathways.
Resume and Cover Letter Assistance: Professional guidance in creating job application materials.
Mock Interviews: Practice sessions to build confidence and refine interview skills.
Internships and Job Placement: Assistance in finding internships during college and full-time job opportunities after graduation.
Networking Opportunities: Alumni connections and employer networking events to foster professional relationships.
Strong Connections with Employers:
FHU has partnerships with regional and national employers, particularly in fields like education, healthcare, business, and ministry.
Many students secure jobs through on-campus recruitment events, internships, or referrals from faculty and alumni.
Internship Opportunities:
FHU places significant emphasis on internships, which provide hands-on experience and often lead to job offers.
Popular internship fields include business administration, computer science, nursing, psychology, and ministry.
Graduate School Pathways:
Many FHU students pursue advanced degrees after graduation. The university boasts a strong acceptance rate for students applying to medical schools, law schools, and graduate programs in theology and counseling.
Support for International Students:
The Career Center assists international students with CPT (Curricular Practical Training) and OPT (Optional Practical Training) to gain work experience in the U.S.
Specific programs like business and computer science are popular among international students for placements.
FHU graduates are employed in a variety of industries, including:
Education: Many graduates become teachers, principals, and administrators in schools and colleges.
Healthcare: Graduates from the nursing and pre-medical programs find placements in hospitals and clinics.
Business and Finance: Alumni secure roles in accounting, marketing, finance, and management with companies like Regions Bank, FedEx, and Enterprise Holdings.
Ministry and Missions: Graduates are placed in churches, non-profits, and mission organizations globally.
Technology: Graduates of computer science and cybersecurity programs often secure roles in IT and software companies.
While exact statistics may vary, here are some general trends observed at FHU:
Education and Nursing Programs: Nearly 90% of graduates find jobs or secure placements in related fields shortly after graduation.
Business Programs: Graduates in business administration, finance, and accounting often report job offers within 6 months.
Bible and Ministry: Many students pursuing Bible studies or ministry receive full-time offers from churches and mission organizations before graduation.
The average starting salaries for FHU graduates vary depending on the field of study:
Business and Finance: $45,000–$60,000 per year
Nursing: $55,000–$70,000 per year
Education: $40,000–$50,000 per year
Computer Science/IT: $60,000–$80,000 per year
Ministry: $30,000–$40,000 per year (often supplemented with housing or benefits)
FHU has a strong alumni network that plays a critical role in helping students secure placements. Alumni frequently:
Offer mentorship to current students.
Help connect students with job opportunities in their fields.
Many FHU graduates remain in Tennessee or the Southeastern U.S., taking advantage of the region's job market.
Students interested in ministry and missions often secure placements globally.
Graduate students in education and leadership roles frequently advance to positions like school administrators or nonprofit leaders.
The acceptance rate of Freed-Hardeman University (FHU) is approximately 92%, making it a selective yet accessible institution for students who meet the admission requirements.
High Acceptance Rate:
FHU’s high acceptance rate reflects its mission to provide quality Christian-based education to a wide range of students.
Students who meet the academic and personal requirements outlined by the university have a strong chance of admission.
Academic Requirements:
A minimum GPA of 2.5–3.0 on a 4.0 scale is typically required for undergraduate programs.
While SAT/ACT scores are optional, submitting them can strengthen your application.
Graduate Programs:
Admission to graduate programs (e.g., MBA, M.Ed., MSN) is more selective, often requiring a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0, letters of recommendation, and program-specific qualifications.
International Students:
The university also welcomes international students, with emphasis on academic performance, English proficiency (e.g., TOEFL or IELTS), and proof of financial ability.
Freed-Hardeman University
158 East Main Street
Henderson, Tennessee 38340
United States