Acceptance Rate
60%
Avg. SAT
1390
75th percentile
“Christ-centered education blending rigorous academics with daily faith practices in small-town Tennessee.”
Jackson, TN
Location
Small City
Campus Setting
Union University, founded in 1823 and now based in Jackson, Tennessee, carries a legacy as the oldest institution affiliated with the Tennessee Baptist Convention, emphasizing the integration of Christian faith into every aspect of learning. Students who thrive here embrace a committed spiritual life, value close-knit communities, and seek personal mentorship from faculty who share their beliefs. The campus personality revolves around service, worship, and accountability, fostering lifelong friendships in a supportive environment.
Jackson offers a quiet, affordable Southern setting with a population under 70,000, convenient drives to Memphis and Nashville for bigger-city escapes. Families appreciate the lower cost of living compared to urban colleges, though the small-town pace means fewer entertainment options on weekends. This tradeoff suits students content with campus-focused life over bustling nightlife.
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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
Classrooms buzz with discussion in small settings where professors, many with pastoral experience, weave biblical principles into subjects like nursing, education, and business. The nursing program stands out for its hands-on clinical training and high licensure pass rates, while education majors benefit from extensive student-teaching placements in local schools. You'll encounter a teaching-oriented culture rather than heavy research, with opportunities for undergrads to assist in faculty projects.
Popular majors like pharmacy and physical therapy draw competitive applicants, sometimes limiting spots after admission. Introductory courses stay intimate, avoiding massive lectures common at larger schools, but specialized resources lag behind big research universities.
Student Body
Total Enrollment
1,934 undergrad • 779 grad
Undergraduate
Graduate
International
White
62%
Black / African American
20%
Hispanic / Latino
2%
Asian
2%
Other / Multi-racial
15%
Campus Life
Campus Setting
Jackson, TN
Varsity Athletics
NCAA Athletics
A typical week includes three chapel services, intramural sports, and Bible studies alongside classes, creating a rhythm of faith and fellowship. Residential halls mix freshmen with upperclassmen for built-in accountability, and traditions like fall service weekends strengthen bonds. The vibe feels wholesome and purposeful, with events from coffeehouse talent nights to mission trips.
As a dry campus in humid Tennessee, summers challenge outdoor plans, and the social scene prioritizes group activities over parties. The compact campus keeps everything walkable, but off-campus fun requires a car in this car-dependent area.
Housing
On-Campus Housing
Housing Capacity
Meal Plan Available
Average Room & Board
Athletics
Athletic Association
Gulf South Conference
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
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
$27,239
$30K – $48K
$24,363
$48K – $75K
$26,368
$75K – $110K
$27,229
$110K+
$30,413
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
89%
4 Years Graduation Rate
61%
6 Years Graduation Rate
67%
Median 10-Year Earnings
$53,990
89% of first-time, full-time students complete their freshman year at Union University and return in the fall. 61% of first-time, full-time students graduate in 4 years, and 67% graduate within 6 years.
Graduation Rate
4-year grads
61%
4-6 years
6%
Non-grad
33%
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Key Statistics
Type
Private
Tuition
$18,313
Acceptance
60%
Undergrads
1,934
4-Year Grad Rate
61%
Endowment
$90M
Jackson, TN 38305-3697
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