Acceptance Rate
90%
Avg. SAT
1215
75th percentile
“A small Christian university in Tennessee where faith shapes learning and community runs deep.”
Jefferson City, TN
Location
Small Suburb
Campus Setting
Nestled in the rolling hills of Jefferson City, Tennessee, Carson-Newman University stands as a private Christian institution with a history stretching back to 1851. Founded by Baptist leaders with a mission to educate and inspire through faith, it has grown from a small academy into a university that still holds tight to its spiritual roots. The campus, surrounded by the beauty of the Smoky Mountains, offers a quiet, reflective setting that feels worlds away from urban bustle, yet it’s just a short drive from Knoxville’s energy and amenities.
This is a place for students who crave a close-knit community and value a blend of faith and academics. You’ll find a supportive environment where professors know your name and classmates feel like family, but it’s not for everyone. Those seeking a large, diverse campus or a secular atmosphere might feel out of place among the university’s strong religious focus and smaller student body of under 2,000 undergraduates.
Jefferson City itself is a small, historic town with a tight community feel, offering a slower pace that complements the university’s vibe. Outdoor enthusiasts will love the proximity to hiking trails and lakes, though entertainment options beyond campus are limited. Carson-Newman’s personality shines through its commitment to service and spiritual growth, making it a haven for students who want their education to mean something deeper.
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Admissions
Acceptance Rate
Test Policy
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Average GPA
Application Fee
Academics
Student-Faculty Ratio
Programs Offered
Full-Time Faculty
Women Faculty
Research Spending
Degree Levels Offered
Carson-Newman University emphasizes a liberal arts education rooted in Christian values, with standout programs in nursing, education, and business. The nursing school, in particular, earns praise for preparing students with hands-on clinical experience in a region hungry for healthcare professionals, while the education department trains future teachers with a focus on community impact. You can expect smaller class sizes that foster discussion and personal attention, allowing you to build real connections with faculty who are invested in your growth.
Research opportunities are more limited compared to larger universities, and the academic rigor might not match the intensity of more selective schools. Some students find the curriculum heavily tied to faith-based perspectives, which can feel restrictive if you’re looking for a broader, more secular intellectual environment. Still, the university’s focus on practical skills and ethical grounding equips graduates to serve in meaningful ways, especially in fields tied to community and care.
Student Body
Total Enrollment
1,596 undergrad • 1,073 grad
Undergraduate
Graduate
International
White
74%
Black / African American
10%
Hispanic / Latino
5%
Asian
2%
Other / Multi-racial
9%
Campus Life
Campus Setting
Jefferson City, TN
Varsity Athletics
NCAA Athletics
Campus life at Carson-Newman revolves around community, faith, and tradition, creating a warm, family-like atmosphere. You’ll likely spend your weeks balancing classes with chapel services, student-led ministries, and events like the annual Homecoming celebration, where alumni and students come together for parades and games. The social scene is quieter, with fewer parties and more emphasis on wholesome activities like movie nights, service projects, and athletic events—think cheering on the Eagles at a football game under crisp fall skies.
Most students live on campus in residence halls, fostering tight bonds but sometimes leaving little privacy or variety in housing options. The surrounding area’s small-town feel means you might need to drive to Knoxville for bigger entertainment, and the rural setting can feel isolating if you’re used to city life. Winters here are mild compared to northern states, though the hilly terrain and occasional rain can make getting around campus a bit of a trek.
Housing
On-Campus Housing
Housing Capacity
Meal Plan Available
Average Room & Board
Athletics
Athletic Association
South Atlantic Conference
ROTC & Veteran Support
Army
Yes
Navy
No
Air Force
No
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
$16,063
$30K – $48K
$12,947
$48K – $75K
$16,993
$75K – $110K
$21,083
$110K+
$22,450
Apply for Financial Aid
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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
74%
4 Years Graduation Rate
57%
6 Years Graduation Rate
62%
Median 10-Year Earnings
$48,382
74% of first-time, full-time students complete their freshman year at Carson-Newman University and return in the fall. 57% of first-time, full-time students graduate in 4 years, and 62% graduate within 6 years.
Graduation Rate
4-year grads
57%
4-6 years
5%
Non-grad
38%
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Key Statistics
Type
Private
Tuition
$31,300
Acceptance
90%
Undergrads
1,596
4-Year Grad Rate
57%
Endowment
$88M
Jefferson City, TN 37760