Acceptance Rate
88%
Avg. SAT
1200
75th percentile
“Brenau University blends a close-knit liberal arts spirit with professional grit in the heart of Gainesville, Georgia.”
Gainesville, GA
Location
Small City
Campus Setting
Nestled in the historic town of Gainesville, Georgia, Brenau University has been shaping determined students since its founding in 1878 as a women’s college. Originally named the Georgia Baptist Female Seminary, it evolved over time, becoming coeducational in select programs while maintaining a strong Women’s College for undergraduates. This dual identity creates a unique environment where tradition meets forward-thinking ambition, and the small campus of fewer than 2,000 undergraduates fosters a tight community that feels more like family than a sprawling university. Brenau’s personality shines through its emphasis on personal growth, with a motto of 'As Gold Refined by Fire' reflecting a commitment to resilience and transformation.
The surrounding area of Gainesville, often called the 'Poultry Capital of the World' due to its agricultural roots, offers a quieter, small-town vibe about an hour northeast of Atlanta. You’ll find a blend of Southern charm and natural beauty with Lake Lanier nearby for outdoor escapes, though the town itself isn’t a bustling hub of entertainment, which might leave some craving more urban energy. Students who thrive here are often self-motivated, value close connections with peers and professors, and appreciate a slower pace; those seeking a high-energy city scene or a large, diverse student body might feel a bit confined by the limited scale and location.
Photo Gallery
+13
+5
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
Test Policy
Test-optional schools still weigh strong scores. Submitting can help.
Application Fee
Academics
Student-Faculty Ratio
Programs Offered
Full-Time Faculty
Women Faculty
Research Spending
Available Online
Degree Levels Offered
Brenau University carves out its academic niche with a strong focus on health sciences, education, and the arts, blending liberal arts foundations with career-ready skills. You can expect programs like nursing, occupational therapy, and physical therapy to stand out, often drawing students eager to enter healthcare fields, while the theater and dance departments offer a creative outlet with a reputation for passionate, hands-on training. Class sizes tend to be small, letting you build real relationships with faculty who often double as mentors, though this intimacy means fewer course options compared to larger universities.
The academic culture leans practical, with an emphasis on internships and clinical experiences, especially in health-related fields, preparing you for the workforce from day one. However, the smaller scale can limit access to cutting-edge research or a wide array of specialized majors, so students with niche academic interests might need to look elsewhere. If you’re someone who values personalized attention over endless choices, Brenau’s focused approach could be the perfect fit.
Student Body
Total Enrollment
1,273 undergrad • 1,163 grad
Undergraduate
Graduate
International
White
44%
Black / African American
27%
Hispanic / Latino
14%
Asian
4%
Other / Multi-racial
11%
Campus Life
Campus Setting
Gainesville, GA
Varsity Athletics
Campus life at Brenau University feels intimate and grounded, with a strong sense of community woven into daily routines. You’ll likely spend your weeks balancing classes with events like the annual May Day celebration, a cherished tradition where students honor spring with performances and crowning a May Queen, reflecting the school’s historic roots. The social scene is quieter compared to larger schools, centered more on campus activities and small gatherings than a vibrant party culture, which suits students who prefer meaningful connections over constant excitement. Most undergraduates live on campus, especially in the Women’s College, creating a close residential vibe where you’re never far from a familiar face.
That said, the smaller student body and Gainesville’s laid-back setting can feel isolating if you’re used to constant action or diverse social options. The weather in northern Georgia brings hot, humid summers and mild winters, but you’ll need to brace for occasional storms. Cost of living around Gainesville is relatively affordable compared to Atlanta, though entertainment options nearby are limited, often pushing students to seek out weekend road trips for variety.
Housing
On-Campus Housing
Housing Capacity
Meal Plan Available
Average Room & Board
Athletics
Athletic Association
NCAA
ROTC & Veteran Support
Veteran’s Programs Available
Yellow Ribbon Program (Post-9/11 GI Bill)
Yes
Credit for military training
Yes
Dedicated point of contact for veteran support services
Yes
Recognized student veteran organization
Yes
Member of DoD Voluntary Educational Partnership MOU
Yes
Cost & Aid
In-State Tuition
Out-of-State Tuition
Room & Board
Estimated Cost
Financial Aid
Students Receiving Aid
Receiving Pell Grants
Average Grant
Average Federal Loan
Net Annual Cost by Household Income
Household Income
Avg. Net Cost
$0 – $30K
$24,640
$30K – $48K
$21,703
$48K – $75K
$19,287
$75K – $110K
$25,079
$110K+
$19,475
Apply for Financial Aid
Complete the FAFSA to unlock grants, scholarships, and federal loans.
Costs shown are before financial aid. Most students receive some form of aid. Complete the FAFSA to see what you qualify for.
Outcomes & Earnings
Retention Rate
65%
4 Years Graduation Rate
36%
6 Years Graduation Rate
42%
Median 10-Year Earnings
$54,003
65% of first-time, full-time students complete their freshman year at Brenau University and return in the fall. 36% of first-time, full-time students graduate in 4 years, and 42% graduate within 6 years.
Graduation Rate
4-year grads
36%
4-5 years
6%
6-8 years
1%
Non-grad
57%
Let’s find your perfect tutor
Answer a few quick questions. We’ll recommend the right plan and match you with a top 5% tutor.
Key Statistics
Type
Private
Tuition
$31,000
Acceptance
88%
Undergrads
1,273
4-Year Grad Rate
36%
Endowment
$65M
Gainesville, GA 30501-3668
Explore More