| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Art & Humanities | |
| Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Art & Humanities | |
| Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
Founded: 1892 (originally as Graysville Academy, moved to Collegedale in 1916).
Motto: "Power for Mind and Soul."
Type: Private, co-educational, Christian university.
Affiliation: Seventh-day Adventist Church.
Campus: The university has a beautiful 1,300-acre campus in the foothills of the Smoky Mountains.
Colors: Blue and White.
Mascot: "Southern Accent" (a Southern gentleman character is sometimes used informally as a mascot).
Enrollment: Approximately 2,500–3,000 students, including undergraduate and graduate programs.
Accreditation: Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate, bachelor's, and master's degrees.
Southern Adventist University offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs across several disciplines. It is known for its Christ-centered education and strong focus on health, sciences, and community service.
School of Nursing:
One of the university's most prominent and competitive programs.
Offers BSN, RN-to-BSN, and master's degrees in nursing.
School of Business:
Offers business-related degrees with a strong ethical focus.
School of Education and Psychology:
Provides degrees in education, psychology, and counseling.
School of Religion:
Prepares students for careers in ministry and theology.
School of Journalism and Communication:
Known for its hands-on approach and award-winning student publications.
School of Visual Art and Design (SVAD):
Offers programs in graphic design, film production, animation, and more.
School of Computing:
Focuses on computer science, cybersecurity, and IT.
Faith-Based Education:
All programs incorporate biblical principles, and students are encouraged to grow spiritually alongside their academics.
Worship Services:
Weekly vespers, chapel services, and various campus ministry programs are part of campus life.
Service Opportunities:
Students are actively involved in mission trips, community service, and outreach projects.
Hulsey Wellness Center: A state-of-the-art health and fitness facility.
McKee Library: Houses books, digital resources, and study spaces.
Village Market: A health-food store on campus offering vegetarian and vegan options.
Student Housing: Includes residence halls and apartment-style living for upperclassmen.
Outdoor Opportunities: The campus has hiking and biking trails, with access to the Smoky Mountains and other natural attractions.
Diverse Student Body: While the university is affiliated with the Adventist Church, it welcomes students from diverse religious and cultural backgrounds.
Clubs and Organizations: Over 30 student organizations, including honor societies, cultural clubs, and interest-based groups.
Sports and Intramurals: The university offers intramural sports leagues and recreational activities.
Admissions: Southern has a rolling admissions policy but recommends early applications.
Financial Aid: Offers scholarships, grants, and work-study programs. Many Adventist students receive tuition discounts.
Located in Collegedale, Tennessee, just 15 miles east of Chattanooga, Southern Adventist University is in a serene and picturesque area. Its proximity to Chattanooga provides access to urban amenities while maintaining a peaceful campus atmosphere.
The mission of Southern Adventist University is to nurture Christlikeness, develop academic excellence, and encourage a life of service.
1. School of Business
Accounting (BBA)
Business Administration (BBA)
Financial Management (BBA)
Long-Term Care Administration (BBA)
Management (BBA)
Marketing (BBA)
Entrepreneurship (BBA)
International Business (BBA)
Economics (BA)
2. School of Computing
Computer Science (BS)
Embedded Systems (BS)
Information Systems (BS)
Software Development (BS)
Cybersecurity (BS)
Web Development (AS)
3. School of Education and Psychology
Psychology (BA, BS)
Outdoor Leadership (BS)
Clinical Mental Health Counseling (pre-professional)
Elementary Education (BS)
Secondary Education (BS)
Special Education (BS)
Health, Physical Education, and Recreation (BS)
4. School of Journalism and Communication
Public Relations (BA)
Journalism (BA)
Broadcast Journalism (BA)
Communication Studies (BA)
Media Production (BA)
5. School of Nursing
Traditional Nursing (BSN)
RN to BSN (for licensed nurses)
Accelerated BSN
LPN to BSN (for licensed practical nurses)
6. School of Visual Art and Design (SVAD)
Animation (BFA)
Film Production (BFA)
Graphic Design (BFA)
Fine Art (BFA)
Photography (BFA)
Media Design (BA)
7. School of Religion
Theology (BA)
Pastoral Care (BA)
Biblical Studies (BA)
Missions (BA)
Religious Studies (BA)
Evangelism (BA)
8. School of Social Work
Social Work (BSW)
9. School of Music
Music (BA, BM)
Music Education (BM)
10. School of Sciences
Biology Department:
Biology (BS)
Biology (BA)
Biomedical Biology (BS)
Environmental Biology (BS)
Allied Health: Pre-Med, Pre-Dental, Pre-Veterinary, etc.
Chemistry Department:
Chemistry (BS, BA)
Biochemistry (BS)
Pre-Pharmacy Program
Physics and Engineering Department:
Physics (BS)
Engineering Studies (AS)
Mathematics Department:
Mathematics (BS, BA)
Actuarial Science (BS)
11. Global Community Development and Sustainability
Global Community Development (BS)
Environmental Studies (BS)
Southern Adventist University also offers several master's degree programs in various fields:
1. Master’s in Business
Master of Business Administration (MBA)
Emphasis in Management
Emphasis in Healthcare Administration
2. Master’s in Nursing
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Nurse Practitioner
Nurse Educator
Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
3. Master’s in Education and Counseling
Master of Education (MEd)
Curriculum and Instruction
Outdoor Education
Master of Science in Counseling
School Counseling
Clinical Mental Health Counseling
4. Master’s in Religion
Master of Ministry (MMin)
Master of Arts in Religion (MA)
Emphasis in Biblical and Theological Studies
5. Master’s in Social Work
Master of Social Work (MSW)
Standard program
Advanced standing program
Southern Adventist University also offers associate degrees and certificate programs for students who want to pursue shorter, focused programs of study:
Associate of Science (AS) in Web Development
Associate of Science (AS) in Allied Health
Associate of Arts (AA) in General Education
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
Certificate in Cybersecurity
Southern Adventist University provides preparatory courses and pathways for students planning to enter professional schools in the following fields:
Pre-Medicine
Pre-Dentistry
Pre-Law
Pre-Veterinary Medicine
Pre-Pharmacy
Pre-Physical Therapy
Pre-Occupational Therapy
Pre-Optometry
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Accounting (BBA) |
4 Years |
$24,600 |
|
Business Administration (BBA) |
4 Years |
$24,600 |
|
Marketing (BBA) |
4 Years |
$24,600 |
|
Management (BBA) |
4 Years |
$24,600 |
|
Financial Management (BBA) |
4 Years |
$24,600 |
|
Cybersecurity (BS) |
4 Years |
$24,600 |
|
Computer Science (BS) |
4 Years |
$24,600 |
|
Information Systems (BS) |
4 Years |
$24,600 |
|
Software Development (BS) |
4 Years |
$24,600 |
|
Animation (BFA) |
4 Years |
$24,600 |
|
Film Production (BFA) |
4 Years |
$24,600 |
|
Graphic Design (BFA) |
4 Years |
$24,600 |
|
Fine Art (BFA) |
4 Years |
$24,600 |
|
Photography (BFA) |
4 Years |
$24,600 |
|
Nursing (BSN) |
4 Years |
$24,600 |
|
Biology (BS) |
4 Years |
$24,600 |
|
Biomedical Biology (BS) |
4 Years |
$24,600 |
|
Environmental Biology (BS) |
4 Years |
$24,600 |
|
Biochemistry (BS) |
4 Years |
$24,600 |
|
Physics (BS) |
4 Years |
$24,600 |
|
Engineering Studies (AS) |
2 Years |
$24,600 |
|
Mathematics (BS) |
4 Years |
$24,600 |
|
Psychology (BS) |
4 Years |
$24,600 |
|
Social Work (BSW) |
4 Years |
$24,600 |
|
Theology (BA) |
4 Years |
$24,600 |
|
Religious Studies (BA) |
4 Years |
$24,600 |
|
Public Relations (BA) |
4 Years |
$24,600 |
|
Journalism (BA) |
4 Years |
$24,600 |
|
Communication Studies (BA) |
4 Years |
$24,600 |
|
Media Production (BA) |
4 Years |
$24,600 |
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Master of Business Administration (MBA) |
1.5–2 Years |
$24,600 |
|
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) |
2 Years |
$24,600 |
|
Nurse Practitioner (MSN) |
2–3 Years |
$24,600 |
|
Nurse Educator (MSN) |
2–3 Years |
$24,600 |
|
Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (MSN) |
2–3 Years |
$24,600 |
|
Master of Education (MEd) |
1.5–2 Years |
$24,600 |
|
Curriculum and Instruction (MEd) |
1.5–2 Years |
$24,600 |
|
Outdoor Education (MEd) |
1.5–2 Years |
$24,600 |
|
Master of Science in Counseling (MSC) |
2–3 Years |
$24,600 |
|
Clinical Mental Health Counseling (MSC) |
2–3 Years |
$24,600 |
|
School Counseling (MSC) |
2–3 Years |
$24,600 |
|
Master of Arts in Religion (MA) |
2 Years |
$24,600 |
|
Master of Ministry (MMin) |
1.5–2 Years |
$24,600 |
|
Master of Social Work (MSW) |
2 Years (Standard) |
$24,600 |
|
Master of Social Work (MSW Advanced Standing) |
1 Year |
$24,600 |
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) |
2–3 Years |
$24,600 |
Welcoming Campus Community:
SAU has a multicultural environment that values diversity, with students from many countries.
The university provides support systems to help international students adjust to campus life.
Strong Academic Programs:
A wide variety of undergraduate and graduate programs in fields such as nursing, business, sciences, religion, and the arts.
Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
Faith-Based Education:
SAU integrates Christian principles into academics and student life, aligning with the values of the Seventh-day Adventist Church.
Affordable Tuition with Scholarships:
Offers financial aid and scholarships specifically for international students.
Safe and Beautiful Location:
Located near Chattanooga, Tennessee, the campus provides a peaceful environment with access to outdoor activities and urban amenities.
1. Academic Requirements:
Undergraduate Programs:
High school diploma or equivalent with transcripts.
English language proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent).
SAT/ACT scores (may be optional for some programs).
Graduate Programs:
Bachelor’s degree or equivalent with transcripts.
English language proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent).
Some programs may require GRE/GMAT scores.
2. English Language Proficiency:
TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 80.
IELTS: Minimum score of 6.5.
Other equivalent tests or language programs may be accepted.
3. Application Materials:
Completed online application form.
Academic transcripts (translated into English if necessary).
Proof of English proficiency.
SAT/ACT or GRE/GMAT scores (if required).
Financial documentation (bank statements showing the ability to cover tuition and living expenses).
Copy of passport.
4. Application Deadlines:
Fall Semester: June 1
Spring Semester: November 1
The application process is similar for all students, but there are additional requirements for graduate and international applicants.
Visit and review the list of undergraduate, graduate, or professional programs.
Select the program you are interested in and check its admission requirements.
Complete the online application form at: SAU Admissions Application.
Pay the $40 application fee (waivers may be available during special promotions or events).
High School Transcripts or GED Certificate:
Official transcripts showing GPA and completed coursework.
GPA of 2.5 or higher is typically required for regular admission.
Test Scores (Optional for Most Programs):
SAT/ACT scores are optional for most programs but may enhance your application.
SAT: Minimum score of 900.
ACT: Minimum score of 18.
Personal Statement or Essay (Optional):
Some programs may request a statement about your academic goals and personal faith.
Admissions staff will review your application and notify you of the decision within 2–4 weeks.
Once admitted, pay the $200 enrollment deposit to confirm your spot.
Complete the housing application if you plan to live on campus.
Submit immunization and health records to the university's Student Health Center.
Complete the online graduate application form through the same portal: SAU Graduate Admissions Application.
Pay the $50 application fee.
Bachelor’s Degree Transcripts:
Provide official transcripts from all colleges/universities attended.
A minimum GPA of 3.0 is typically required.
Test Scores (If Required):
Some graduate programs may require GRE or GMAT scores. Check the specific program for details.
Letters of Recommendation:
Submit 2–3 letters of recommendation from professors, employers, or mentors.
Personal Statement or Resume:
Provide a written statement outlining your career goals and reasons for pursuing the graduate program.
Some programs also require a professional resume.
Certain programs (like counseling or nursing) may require an interview as part of the application process.
Graduate program admissions decisions typically take 2–6 weeks after all documents are submitted.
Southern Adventist University offers two primary intakes:
Intake |
Application Deadline |
Classes Begin |
|---|---|---|
|
Fall Semester |
June 1 |
Late August |
|
Spring Semester |
November 1 |
January |
Late Applications: Applications submitted after the deadlines may be considered on a case-by-case basis, depending on program availability.
Summer classes are available for certain programs but are typically part of ongoing courses.
The eligibility requirements vary depending on the level of study (undergraduate or graduate) and whether the applicant is a domestic or international student.
High School Diploma or Equivalent:
Applicants must have completed secondary education with strong academic performance.
A minimum GPA of 2.5 (on a 4.0 scale) is typically required.
Standardized Test Scores (Optional for Most Programs):
SAT: Minimum score of 900 (Optional).
ACT: Minimum score of 18 (Optional).
English Language Proficiency (For International Students):
TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 80.
IELTS: Minimum score of 6.5.
Duolingo English Test: Minimum score of 105 (accepted as an alternative).
Submission of official high school transcripts (translated into English, if necessary).
Personal statement or essay (optional but recommended).
Letter(s) of recommendation (optional but may strengthen the application).
Bachelor’s Degree:
Applicants must hold a recognized bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
A minimum GPA of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale) is typically required, though some programs may accept a lower GPA with additional qualifications.
Test Scores (Program-Specific):
Some graduate programs may require standardized test scores, such as:
GRE: Required for certain academic programs.
GMAT: For some MBA programs (may be waived based on work experience or academic performance).
English Language Proficiency (For International Students):
TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 80.
IELTS: Minimum score of 6.5.
Duolingo English Test: Minimum score of 105 (accepted as an alternative).
Letters of Recommendation: Typically 2–3 letters are required.
Personal Statement/Essay: Outline career goals and reasons for pursuing the program.
Resume/CV: Required for some programs, particularly business, nursing, and counseling.
Program-Specific Requirements:
Some graduate programs (e.g., nursing, counseling) may require interviews, portfolio submissions, or additional certifications.
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Award Amount (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Freshman Academic Scholarships |
Based on high school GPA and/or SAT/ACT scores. |
$2,000–$12,000 per year |
|
Leadership Scholarship |
Students with demonstrated leadership experience in school, church, or community. |
Up to $2,000 per year |
|
National Merit Scholarships |
Awarded to National Merit finalists and semifinalists. |
$12,000–Full Tuition |
|
Southern Scholars Honors Program |
For students in the honors program who maintain a high GPA and complete required projects and coursework. |
(Program-Specific) |
|
Southern Adventist Grant |
Need-based financial aid for students who demonstrate financial need. |
Up to $2,000 per year |
|
Church Match Scholarship |
Southern matches a scholarship provided by a student’s home church. |
Up to $1,500 per year |
|
Literature Evangelist Scholarship |
For students who have participated in literature evangelism (canvassing) programs. |
$2,000–$4,000 per year |
|
Summer Camp Scholarship |
For students who have worked at an SDA summer camp. |
$2,000–$4,000 per year |
|
Mission Trip Scholarship |
For students who have participated in mission trips. |
Up to $1,500 per year |
|
Colporteur Scholarship |
For students who have worked as colporteurs (selling Adventist literature). |
Up to $4,000 per year |
|
Transfer Student Scholarship |
For transfer students with strong academic performance (GPA-based). |
$2,000–$6,000 per year |
|
Graduate Scholarships |
For graduate students based on academic performance or program-specific criteria. |
(Program-Specific) |
|
Performance Scholarships |
For students participating in music, drama, or other performance-based activities. |
N/A |
|
Three-Way Scholarship |
Funding split between Southern, the student’s local conference, and their local church. |
Up to $1,900 per year |
|
Employer Tuition Assistance |
For students whose employer or parent’s employer offers tuition reimbursement. |
N/A |
|
International Student Scholarship |
For international students based on academic achievement or financial need. |
Up to $10,000 per year |
|
Out-of-State Aid Grant |
For students attending from outside Tennessee. |
N/A |
|
Legacy Scholarship |
For students whose parent(s) or grandparent(s) attended Southern Adventist University. |
$1,500 per year |
Accommodation Type |
Facility Name |
Features |
Cost Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Residence Halls (Men) |
Talge Hall |
- Traditional dormitory style |
$5,800–$7,200 |
|
Residence Halls (Women) |
Thatcher Hall |
- Traditional dormitory style |
$5,800–$7,200 |
|
|
Thatcher South |
- Similar to Thatcher Hall with additional study spaces and common areas |
$5,800–$7,200 |
|
Apartment Housing (Men) |
Southern Village (Men) |
- Apartment-style housing |
$6,800–$9,200 |
|
Apartment Housing (Women) |
Southern Village (Women) |
- Apartment-style housing |
$6,800–$9,200 |
|
Family Housing |
Southern Village (Family) |
- Apartment housing for married students or students with families |
$7,200–$10,000 per unit |
|
Off-Campus Housing |
N/A |
- Available for upperclassmen or married students |
(Typically $500–$800/month) |
1. Spiritual Life
At Southern Adventist University, spiritual growth is integrated into every aspect of campus life. Students are encouraged to strengthen their relationship with God through various programs and activities:
Worship Services: Weekly vespers, student-led worship sessions, and chapel services are held regularly.
Small Groups: Students can join Bible study groups or prayer meetings.
Campus Ministries: Opportunities are available for students to serve as ministry leaders or participate in local and global outreach.
Missions Program: SAU actively supports student missionaries who want to serve locally or abroad for a semester or a year.
Spiritual Atmosphere: Professors begin classes with prayer or devotional thoughts, creating a faith-filled environment.
2. Academic Life and Resources
Collaborative Environment: Professors are approachable and emphasize collaboration, both in academics and personal growth.
Honors Program: The Southern Scholars Honors Program allows high-achieving students to deepen their academic experience.
Free Tutoring: Students can take advantage of free tutoring and academic support services.
Library Resources: The McKee Library offers digital and print resources, study spaces, and research assistance.
3. Clubs and Organizations
SAU has over 30 student-led clubs and organizations that focus on various interests, including academics, cultural diversity, service, and hobbies:
Cultural Clubs: Organizations like the Black Christian Union, Asian Club, and Latino Student Association celebrate diversity on campus.
Service-Oriented Clubs: Students can join clubs focused on community service and outreach, such as the Enactus team or social work organizations.
Professional and Academic Clubs: Groups like the Biology Club, Business Society, and Nursing Club provide career-related networking and experiences.
Interest-Based Clubs: Students can explore personal interests through clubs like the Outdoor Adventure Club, Cycling Club, or Film Society.
4. Events and Activities
SAU offers a wide range of events that foster community and provide recreation:
Student Association Activities: The Student Association (SA) organizes campus-wide events, such as talent shows, movie nights, and social mixers.
Cultural Celebrations: Events like International Food Night and cultural festivals highlight the university’s diversity.
Service Days: The university organizes days of service where students volunteer for community projects.
Outdoor Adventures: The campus is located near the Smoky Mountains, offering opportunities for hiking, camping, rock climbing, and other outdoor activities.
Athletics Events: Students enjoy participating in or supporting sports games, intramurals, and recreational leagues.
5. Residential Life
Living on campus at SAU is an integral part of the student experience:
Residence Halls: Talge Hall (men) and Thatcher Hall (women) provide comfortable living spaces with opportunities for social interaction and spiritual growth.
Apartment Options: Southern Village apartments offer more independence for upperclassmen and graduate students.
Community Building: Residence life includes events like game nights, worship services, and floor socials, fostering a close-knit community.
6. Dining and Food Options
SAU is known for its vegetarian dining options, reflecting the Adventist focus on health:
The main cafeteria serves a variety of vegetarian and vegan meals.
The Village Market offers health-conscious groceries and grab-and-go options.
Students have meal plan options to fit their needs, with dining facilities promoting a healthy lifestyle.
7. Outdoor and Recreational Activities
SAU’s location near the Smoky Mountains provides access to outdoor adventures:
The campus itself has over 40 miles of hiking and biking trails.
Students can join outdoor programs and trips organized by the university.
The Hulsey Wellness Center includes a gym, climbing wall, swimming pool, and fitness classes.
8. Athletics and Intramurals
While SAU doesn’t have intercollegiate sports teams, it offers an active intramural sports program:
Students participate in basketball, soccer, volleyball, and more.
The university promotes wellness and fitness through recreational sports leagues.
9. Support Services
SAU provides resources to ensure students thrive academically, emotionally, and spiritually:
Counseling Services: Professional counselors are available for students needing emotional or mental health support.
Career Services: Students can access career counseling, resume workshops, job fairs, and internship placement support.
Health Services: The Student Health Center provides basic healthcare, immunizations, and referrals.
10. Diversity and Inclusion
SAU fosters a diverse community that welcomes students from various cultural and religious backgrounds:
The university celebrates cultural diversity through clubs, events, and international student programs.
International students receive personalized support from the International Student Services office.
11. Community Service and Volunteerism
Service is a core value at SAU, with numerous opportunities for students to give back:
Students regularly participate in community outreach programs, including food drives, tutoring programs, and mission trips.
SAU emphasizes the importance of combining education with meaningful service.
12. Career and Alumni Connections
SAU prepares students for success beyond graduation:
Internships: Many programs incorporate hands-on learning opportunities to prepare students for their careers.
Networking: Alumni events and mentorship programs connect students with professionals in their fields.
Graduate Preparation: SAU has high acceptance rates for students applying to graduate schools in fields like medicine, law, and business.
1. Career Services and Support
The Career Services Center at SAU offers a range of resources to help students and graduates achieve their career goals:
Resume and Cover Letter Assistance: Guidance in creating professional resumes and cover letters tailored to specific industries.
Career Counseling: One-on-one counseling to help students explore career paths, assess strengths, and set goals.
Job Search Assistance: Tools and support for job searching, including access to job boards, career fairs, and networking opportunities.
Mock Interviews: Practice sessions to help students prepare for job interviews, including feedback on communication and presentation skills.
Workshops and Seminars: Regular workshops on job hunting, networking, personal branding, and professional development.
Handshake Job Portal: Southern Adventist University uses Handshake, a leading online platform for job and internship postings, where students can connect with employers.
2. Internship Opportunities
Internships play a critical role in helping students gain practical experience and prepare for careers:
Academic Integration: Many programs at SAU include internship opportunities as part of the curriculum, providing hands-on experience in fields such as business, nursing, film production, computing, and social work.
Placement Assistance: Faculty and career services assist students in finding internships with reputable companies and organizations.
Local and Global Opportunities:
Many students secure internships in Chattanooga and nearby cities.
International students and others have the opportunity to intern globally through mission trips and Adventist-affiliated organizations.
Paid Internships: Programs like nursing and business often provide opportunities for paid internships.
3. Industry Connections
SAU has strong ties with various industries, organizations, and Adventist-affiliated networks, creating opportunities for students:
Healthcare: SAU’s nursing program graduates are in high demand, with strong connections to hospitals, clinics, and healthcare systems.
Adventist Organizations: Students in theology, education, and social work often find positions within Adventist institutions, schools, and churches.
Corporate and Tech Partnerships: Students in business and computing programs benefit from connections with companies in Chattanooga and beyond.
Film and Media Industry: The School of Visual Art and Design (SVAD) has partnerships with production studios, providing internships and work opportunities in film production, animation, and graphic design.
4. Graduate Placement Success
Southern Adventist University has a strong track record of preparing students for graduate and professional programs:
Many graduates pursue advanced degrees in fields such as medicine, law, business, theology, and counseling.
The university’s pre-professional programs (e.g., pre-med, pre-law, pre-dental) have high acceptance rates into graduate and professional schools.
Alumni have been admitted to prestigious institutions, including Loma Linda University, Vanderbilt University, and University of Tennessee.
5. Employment Success for Graduates
SAU emphasizes equipping students with both technical and soft skills, resulting in strong employment rates for graduates:
Nursing Graduates: Nearly 100% job placement rate for nursing students due to the high demand for nurses and the reputation of SAU’s nursing program.
Business Graduates: Many secure positions in finance, marketing, and management shortly after graduation.
Computing and Cybersecurity Graduates: High placement rates in tech jobs due to hands-on training and certifications integrated into the program.
Education Graduates: Graduates of the education program often find teaching positions within Adventist schools or public school systems.
Theology Graduates: Students in theology and religion programs often secure roles as pastors, chaplains, or missionaries.
6. Career Fairs and Networking Events
SAU regularly hosts events to connect students with employers and industry professionals:
Career Fairs: Employers from various industries visit campus to recruit for jobs and internships.
Graduate School Fairs: Representatives from graduate and professional schools provide information about their programs and application processes.
Alumni Networking Events: Alumni engage with students, offering mentorship and insights into various career paths.
7. Work-Study and On-Campus Jobs
Students at SAU can gain valuable work experience through on-campus jobs:
Positions are available in areas such as library services, campus dining, academic departments, and student services.
International students on F-1 visas are eligible to work up to 20 hours per week on campus.
8. Alumni Success
SAU alumni have excelled in various industries, reflecting the quality of education and career preparation provided by the university:
Healthcare Professionals: Many alumni serve as nurses, doctors, and healthcare administrators in the U.S. and abroad.
Business Leaders: SAU graduates have gone on to work for top companies and even start their own businesses.
Educators and Pastors: Alumni are serving in Adventist schools, churches, and missions worldwide.
Creative Professionals: Graduates from the School of Visual Art and Design are making a mark in the media and entertainment industry.
9. Placement Statistics
While exact placement rates may vary by program, the following are notable placement trends:
Nursing Program: Nearly 100% job placement rate within 6 months of graduation.
Business Program: Over 90% of graduates secure employment or pursue further education within 12 months.
Graduate School Acceptance: High acceptance rates into medical, law, and professional schools for pre-professional students.
Internships Leading to Jobs: Many students receive full-time job offers from companies where they interned.
The acceptance rate of Southern Adventist University (SAU) is approximately 74%, making it a moderately selective institution. This means that most applicants who meet the university's eligibility requirements and submit a complete application have a good chance of being admitted.
Academic Performance:
A minimum high school GPA of 2.5 is typically required for undergraduate applicants.
Graduate programs generally require a minimum GPA of 3.0 from previous college-level coursework.
Test Scores:
Southern Adventist University has a test-optional policy for most undergraduate programs, meaning SAT or ACT scores are not mandatory but can strengthen the application.
For graduate programs, GRE/GMAT scores may be required for specific programs.
English Proficiency (for International Students):
TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo English Test scores are required for international applicants whose first language is not English.
Additional Factors:
Letters of recommendation, personal essays, and extracurricular activities can enhance an application.
Programs like nursing or visual arts and design may have additional requirements such as portfolios, interviews, or prior experience.
Southern Adventist University is committed to providing quality education to a diverse student body and focuses on helping students succeed academically, spiritually, and socially. The relatively high acceptance rate reflects the university's welcoming environment and support for students from various educational and cultural backgrounds.
Retention Rate: Around 76%, indicating that the majority of first-year students continue to their second year.
Graduation Rate: Approximately 50%, though this varies by program.
These rates suggest that SAU supports its students with resources like academic tutoring, career counseling, and spiritual guidance to help them succeed.
Main Campus:
Southern Adventist University
4881 Taylor Circle
Collegedale, TN 37315
United States
