About Union University
Students pay an average net price of $26,815 after financial aid, less than the $38,450 sticker price. Graduates earn a median of $53,990 ten years after graduation, making their typical debt load of $20,714 manageable with monthly payments around $220. The investment pays off well for most students, with a 97.5% employment rate demonstrating strong job market outcomes.
The 8:1 student-faculty ratio creates an intimate learning environment where professors know students personally. Women make up 64% of the student body, reflecting the university's strength in traditionally female-dominated fields like nursing and education. With 86.85% of freshmen returning for sophomore year, students clearly find the close-knit Christian community they're seeking. The Bulldogs compete in 11 NCAA Division II sports, offering athletic opportunities beyond the classroom.
Academics & Faculty
Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- 8:1
- Full-Time Faculty
- 100.0%
- Graduation Rate (4-year)
- 68.8%
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 70.9%
- Retention Rate
- 86.9%
- Median Earnings (10 years)
- $53,990
- Carnegie Classification
- Doctoral/Professional University
Popular Programs by Earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings |
|---|---|---|
| Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Administration. | Doctoral | $120,955 |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Master | $90,412 |
| Educational Administration and Supervision. | Doctoral | $70,680 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Master | $70,456 |
| Educational Administration and Supervision. | Doctoral | $61,516 |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Bachelor | $58,673 |
| Theology and Religious Vocations, Other. | Master | $47,260 |
| Educational Administration and Supervision. | Master | $47,191 |
| Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other. | Bachelor | $44,590 |
| Education, General. | Master | $43,674 |
Campus Life
The Southern Baptist foundation shapes daily life through required chapel services and a campus-wide commitment to Christian values. Students gather for Bulldogs athletic events, with 198 student-athletes competing across 11 NCAA Division II sports in the Gulf South Conference. Weekend activities center around campus traditions, small group Bible studies, and trips to nearby Reelfoot Lake or historic downtown Jackson. The 86.85% retention rate reflects how students connect with Union's emphasis on faith integration and academic rigor. Most social life happens on campus, creating lasting friendships within the close community of 1,637 students.
- Setting
- City-Small
- Housing Capacity
- 1,286 beds
- Calendar System
- Semester
- Study Abroad
- Available
- Founded
- 1873
Campus Safety (2023)
21 total reported incidents. Source: Clery Act / U.S. Department of Education
| Offense | On Campus | Residential | Noncampus | Public Property |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stalking | 12 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Burglary | 5 | 2 | 1 | 0 |
| Aggravated Assault | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Climate & Weather
- January Avg
- 26°–47°F
- July Avg
- 69°–90°F
- Annual Precipitation
- 53.6"
- Annual Snowfall
- 0.0"
Student Demographics
- Men
- 35.9%
- Women
- 64.1%
- White
- 69.5%
- Black
- 14.1%
- Hispanic
- 2.2%
- Asian
- 2.2%
- In-State Students
- 62.2%
- Pell Grant Recipients
- 25.2%
Location
- Address
- Jackson, Tennessee 38305-3697
After College
Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education
- Median Earnings (10 years)
- $53,990
- Median Earnings (5 years)
- $52,946
- Mean Earnings (6 years after entry)
- $40,900
- Loan Repayment Rate
- 66.2%
- Monthly Loan Payment
- $220/mo
- Median Debt at Graduation
- $20,714
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the acceptance rate at Union University?
Union University accepts 52.55% of applicants, making it moderately selective. The middle 50% of admitted students score between 1100-1370 on the SAT or average 27 on the ACT. This Southern Baptist institution in Jackson, Tennessee values both academic preparation and Christian character in its admissions process.
How much does Union University cost after financial aid?
The average net price at Union University is $26,815, lower than the full tuition of $38,450. Students from families earning under $48,000 pay even less, with net prices around $21,812-$24,793. Graduates leave with a median debt of $20,714, which is manageable given the strong career outcomes.
What are the academics like at Union University?
Union University maintains an intimate 8:1 student-faculty ratio with just 1,637 total students. The Christian liberal arts university is particularly known for its nursing, education, and business programs. With an 86.85% retention rate, students clearly connect with the faith-integrated academic approach.
What career outcomes can graduates expect from Union University?
Union University graduates earn a median salary of $53,990 ten years after graduation with a strong 97.5% employment rate. The 70.90% six-year graduation rate reflects the supportive environment that helps students complete their degrees. Monthly loan payments average $220, making the investment quite manageable for most graduates.
Where is Union University located and what is campus life like?
Union University sits in Jackson, Tennessee, a small city setting that provides both community feel and urban amenities. The campus houses 1,286 students in residence halls, creating a close-knit community where 64.08% of students are women. The Bulldogs compete in NCAA Division II with 11 varsity sports and 198 total athletes.
Does Union University offer good financial aid for low-income students?
Union University serves a significant population of Pell Grant recipients at 25.21% of students, showing commitment to economic diversity. The university awards institutional grants averaging $28,520 to 21.20% of students. Students from lower-income families often pay net prices well below the sticker price, with some paying as little as $21,812 annually.
