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Southwestern Adventist University

Keene, TX 76059 — Private Nonprofit

Value Score: 65/100 | ROI Score: -48 | Affordability Score: 75/100

Tuition (In-State): $25,380 | Out-of-State: $25,380

Acceptance Rate: 78.4% | Graduation Rate: 46.7% | Retention Rate: 72.7%

Median Earnings (10yr): $52,946 | Median Debt: $26,998

SAT Average: 1031 | ACT Midpoint: 21

Student Body Size: 570 (small)

Pell Grant Recipients: 42.1% | Federal Loan Rate: 53.0%

Average Faculty Salary: $6,313/month

Tuition & Affordability Analysis

In-state tuition at Southwestern Adventist University is $25,380 per year, which is 36% below the national average for private institutions.

Out-of-state students pay $25,380/year — a premium of $0 over in-state rates. Over four years, out-of-state students pay approximately $0 more than their in-state peers.

Estimated four-year tuition cost: $101,520 (tuition only, not including room, board, and fees).

What You Actually Pay: Net Price by Family Income

The sticker price rarely reflects what families actually pay. After grants and scholarships, here is the average net price by family income bracket at Southwestern Adventist University:

  • Families earning $0–$30,000: $16,725/year
  • Families earning $30,001–$48,000: $21,462/year
  • Families earning $48,001–$75,000: $15,441/year
  • Families earning $75,001–$110,000: $27,439/year
  • Families earning $110,000+: $31,475/year

Low-income families receive an average discount of $8,655/year, paying just 66% of the sticker price.

Admissions Snapshot

Southwestern Adventist University has an acceptance rate of 78.4%, placing it in the Less Selective (70–85%) category. This means roughly 182 students apply each year.

The average SAT score of admitted students is 1031, near the national average. This is within the mid-range nationally.

The ACT midpoint is 21, near the national average.

Graduate Outcomes & Return on Investment

46.7% of students at Southwestern Adventist University complete their degree, 25% below the national average. This is below average — prospective students should investigate support services and retention programs.

First-year retention rate: 72.7% (10% below the national average). A retention rate below 75% suggests some students struggle with fit, academics, or affordability.

Graduates of Southwestern Adventist University earn a median salary of $52,946 ten years after enrollment, 29% above the national average. This represents a $17,946/year earnings premium over the average high school diploma holder, or $538,380 in additional lifetime earnings over a 30-year career.

The median student debt at graduation is $26,998, 26% above the national average. On a standard 10-year repayment plan at 5.5% interest, this translates to approximately $293/month, with a total repayment of $35,160 (including $8,162 in interest).

Debt-to-Earnings Ratio: 0.51x. This is a healthy ratio, suggesting debt is manageable for most graduates.

Breakeven Point: Based on the earnings premium over high school graduates, a degree from Southwestern Adventist University pays for itself in approximately 6 years. This is a reasonable investment timeline.

Financial Aid Profile

42.1% of students at Southwestern Adventist University receive Pell Grants (federal need-based aid for families earning under ~$60,000), 28% above the national average. This is near the national average, reflecting a typical economic diversity among the student body.

53.0% of students take federal loans, 13% above the national average. This is a moderate borrowing rate.

Average faculty salary: $6,313/month, 28% below the national average. Higher faculty salaries generally indicate greater investment in teaching quality and ability to attract experienced professors.

Student Body & Campus Diversity

Southwestern Adventist University enrolls 570 undergraduate students. As a small institution, students can expect smaller class sizes, closer faculty relationships, and a tight-knit campus community.

Diversity Index: 69/100 (higher = more diverse). The campus has moderate diversity.

Student body composition: White 19%, Hispanic 50%, Black 12%, Asian 6%.

Southwestern Adventist University: Faith-Based Education with Moderate Value and Outcomes

Report Card: Overall Grade D+

Southwestern Adventist University receives an overall grade of D+ based on six dimensions:

  • Academics: D
  • Value: F
  • Outcomes: C+
  • Affordability: A

College Analysis

Southwestern Adventist University is a Private Nonprofit institution in Keene, TX with approximately 570 students. Academics: Offers a strong focus on faith-based education with a variety of majors. Value: Moderate tuition with a relatively high affordability score, but graduates face significant debt. Outcomes: Graduates have a decent earning potential but lower-than-average graduation rates.

The Verdict: Is Southwestern Adventist University Worth It?

Southwestern Adventist University presents a complex value proposition. With an in-state and out-of-state tuition of $25,380 and a median 10-year earnings of $52,946, the immediate return on investment appears modest, especially when considering the median debt of $26,998. The ROI score of -48 strongly suggests that, on average, graduates do not recoup their educational investment quickly or significantly compared to national benchmarks. The tuition cost is moderate, but the median earnings are on the lower side, leading to a prolonged debt payoff timeline. If a student graduates with the median debt, it would take approximately 5-6 years of dedicating their entire median salary to debt repayment, which is unrealistic given living expenses. While the university offers a specialized education within a faith-based environment, the financial metrics indicate that it may be overpriced relative to the typical post-graduation earning potential. Students considering SWAU should carefully evaluate their chosen major's earning potential and explore all available financial aid options. For students prioritizing a faith-based education and community, it might hold value, but from a purely financial standpoint, it is not a strong deal. It is not a hidden gem, and the data suggests it is overpriced for the average graduate.

Return on Investment

While the degree offers a strong faith-based education, the significant debt and lower-than-average graduation rates may make it less cost-effective compared to other institutions.

Debt Reality Check

Median student debt at Southwestern Adventist University: $26,998. Monthly payment on a standard 10-year plan: $307/month. Total repaid: $36,840 ($9,842 in interest).

Breakeven vs high school diploma: 1.2 years. Debt burden: Manageable. Salary needed for comfortable repayment: $36,840.

Strengths

  • Strong faith-based education
  • Diverse student body
  • Moderate tuition
  • Variety of majors

Weaknesses

  • Lower-than-average graduation rates
  • Significant student debt
  • Moderate earning potential

Academic Profile

SAT Average: 1031. ACT Midpoint: 21. Retention Rate: 72.7%.

Southwestern Adventist University's academic offerings are designed to integrate faith with learning. While the university is not large, it provides a focused educational experience. Key strengths often lie in its health sciences programs, such as nursing and pre-professional health tracks, aligning with the broader Adventist emphasis on holistic well-being. Other notable departments include education and business, which prepare students for service-oriented careers. Research opportunities for undergraduates are available, particularly within faculty-led projects, allowing students to gain hands-on experience. The faculty, though not detailed by salary, are generally committed to the university's mission and often engage closely with students due to the small class sizes. SAU offers an Honors Program for academically gifted students, providing enriched coursework and a more challenging academic path. Study abroad opportunities are often integrated with mission trips and service-learning experiences, allowing students to broaden their horizons while engaging with different cultures and communities. Academic support resources include tutoring services and academic advising, ensuring students have the guidance needed to succeed in their chosen fields.

Financial Aid Guide for Southwestern Adventist University

Pell Grant recipients: 42.1%. Students taking federal loans: 53.0%.

Navigating financial aid at Southwestern Adventist University (SAU) involves understanding both institutional aid and federal programs. Given the tuition of $25,380, financial aid is crucial for most students. SAU likely offers a combination of merit-based scholarships, which are awarded based on academic achievement (GPA, high school coursework), and need-based aid, determined by the FAFSA. While specific dollar figures for typical aid packages are not provided, students from lower-income backgrounds may receive a significant portion of their tuition covered through a mix of grants, scholarships, and federal loans. Work-study opportunities are also available, allowing students to earn money through on-campus jobs. It's important for prospective students to complete the FAFSA early to maximize their eligibility for federal Pell Grants and state aid. SAU also offers institutional scholarships, so reviewing the university's scholarship page for specific departmental or achievement-based awards is highly recommended. Given the university's mission-driven nature and smaller size, direct negotiation of aid packages might be less common than at larger institutions, but presenting a strong case for financial need or exceptional merit can sometimes lead to adjustments. Families should aim to complete all financial aid applications by the priority deadlines to ensure the best possible aid outcome.

Hidden Costs at Southwestern Adventist University

  • Room and board can range from $8,000 to $10,000 annually, depending on the chosen meal plan and housing option.
  • Textbooks and course materials can add an estimated $1,000 to $1,500 per academic year.
  • Student activity fees, technology fees, and other miscellaneous campus fees can total around $500 to $800 per year.
  • Transportation costs, including personal vehicle expenses or public transport, can vary significantly but budget at least $500-$1,000 annually.
  • Personal expenses such as toiletries, laundry, entertainment, and snacks might amount to $1,500 to $2,500 per year.
  • Health insurance, if not covered by a parent's plan, can cost upwards of $2,000-$3,000 annually.
  • Parking permits for students with vehicles on campus can cost between $100 and $300 per year.

Alumni Outcomes & Career Paths

Southwestern Adventist University (SWAU) graduates enter a diverse job market, with alumni often finding roles within healthcare, education, and business sectors, reflecting the university's program strengths. While specific major employer data for SWAU is not publicly detailed, institutions of its size and type often see graduates placed in regional healthcare systems like Texas Health Huguley Hospital, Adventist Health System facilities, and local school districts. The broader Seventh-day Adventist Church network also provides a significant employment pipeline, with graduates potentially finding positions in Adventist-run hospitals, schools, and administrative offices across the country. Industries where alumni cluster tend to be those aligned with SWAU's core offerings: nursing and allied health fields are prominent, as are education roles in K-12 settings and higher education. Business and technology graduates may find opportunities in local and regional companies. Graduate school placement rates are not explicitly published, but SWAU's emphasis on a strong academic foundation suggests many graduates pursue advanced degrees in fields like medicine, physical therapy, and education. Notable alumni are not widely publicized, which is common for smaller institutions. Career services at SWAU likely focus on personalized guidance, resume building, and interview preparation, leveraging connections within the Adventist community and the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. Internship pipelines are often cultivated through partnerships with local healthcare providers and educational institutions, providing practical experience before graduation. Geographic hiring patterns show a strong tendency for graduates to remain in Texas, particularly within the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, but also extend to other states with significant Adventist communities.

Campus Life & Culture at Southwestern Adventist University

The student body at Southwestern Adventist University is relatively small and cohesive, with a strong representation of students from Seventh-day Adventist backgrounds, fostering a shared value system. The university attracts students seeking a faith-integrated education, and those who thrive here are typically community-oriented, spiritually motivated, and appreciate a close-knit campus environment.

Southwestern Adventist University (SAU) in Keene, TX, offers a close-knit campus community deeply rooted in its Seventh-day Adventist faith. With an enrollment of around 570 students, the 'vibe' is distinctly personal and community-focused. Social life often revolves around campus events, church activities, and smaller group gatherings. While there's no Greek life, student organizations play a significant role, ranging from academic clubs to service-oriented groups like the Student Missions program, which is a hallmark of the SAU experience, offering opportunities for global service. The university encourages spiritual growth, with regular church services and Vespers programs being central to student life. Housing is primarily on-campus, with residence halls fostering a communal living environment. Dining services are provided through the campus cafeteria, offering a communal space for students to connect. Athletics, while not a major focus for recruitment at this size, offers opportunities for students to participate in intramural sports and some intercollegiate teams, often referred to as the 'Saints.' The overall atmosphere is one of shared values, academic pursuit, and spiritual development, creating a supportive environment for students seeking a faith-based education.

Campus Highlights

  • Strong emphasis on spiritual development and a faith-based community.
  • Opportunities for global service through Student Missions programs.
  • Close-knit campus environment with a personal touch.
  • Focus on health sciences and service-oriented career preparation.
  • Integration of academic learning with Adventist values.
  • Supportive faculty-student relationships due to small class sizes.
  • Active student organizations fostering community and leadership.

Location & Regional Advantages

Southwestern Adventist University's location in Keene, Texas, offers a unique blend of small-town charm and proximity to major metropolitan advantages. Keene itself provides a quiet, community-focused environment, which can be appealing for students seeking a less distracting academic setting. The cost of living in Keene and the surrounding Johnson County is generally lower than in major urban centers, making student life more affordable. However, the primary geographic advantage lies in its proximity to the Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) metroplex, approximately 50 miles away. This proximity grants SWAU students access to a vast and dynamic job market, offering numerous internship and post-graduation employment opportunities across a wide array of industries, including healthcare, technology, finance, and logistics. Major corporations and healthcare systems like Texas Health Resources, Baylor Scott & White Health, and numerous tech companies have a significant presence in the DFW area. The quality of life in the DFW region is high, with diverse cultural attractions, entertainment options, and a robust economy. While Texas generally experiences hot summers, the climate is otherwise temperate. Safety in Keene is typically good, reflecting its small-town character, and the DFW metroplex offers varied living environments to suit different preferences. This strategic location allows SWAU to offer the benefits of a close-knit campus community while providing a gateway to extensive career prospects in one of the nation's largest and fastest-growing economic regions.

How to Get Into Southwestern Adventist University

Southwestern Adventist University (SAU) has an admission rate of 78.4%, indicating a moderately selective admissions process. While there isn't a strong emphasis on Early Decision (ED) or Early Action (EA) due to its selectivity level, applying earlier in the cycle is always advisable to ensure full consideration for both admission and scholarships. The admissions committee likely values applicants who demonstrate a commitment to the university's Seventh-day Adventist mission and values, alongside academic preparedness. While specific GPA and test score ranges are not provided (SAT/ACT averages are N/A), applicants should aim for strong high school grades and a challenging course load. Essays are an important component; focus on how your personal experiences, values, and aspirations align with SAU's mission and community. Demonstrated interest can be shown through campus visits, attending virtual information sessions, and engaging with admissions counselors. The timeline should involve submitting your application and all supporting documents (transcripts, recommendations) well before the priority deadlines, typically in the late winter or early spring, to maximize your chances.

How Southwestern Adventist University Compares to Similar Schools

Similar schools: Union College (Nebraska), Andrews University (Michigan), Loma Linda University (California), Oakwood University (Alabama)

Advantages

  • Stronger ties to the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex job market compared to more geographically isolated Adventist institutions.
  • Potentially lower cost of living in Keene, TX, compared to areas surrounding some other Adventist universities.
  • Smaller class sizes and more personalized attention due to its smaller student body.

Disadvantages

  • Lower median earnings and ROI compared to many peer institutions, particularly larger or more specialized Adventist universities like Loma Linda.
  • Less extensive alumni network and fewer widely recognized notable alumni.
  • Limited program diversity and fewer graduate school placement statistics readily available compared to larger universities.

Best For

  • Students seeking a purely secular education may find the faith-based curriculum limiting.
  • Prospective students should be prepared for the challenges of a lower-than-average graduation rate.

Avoid If

  • Students with a strong commitment to faith and a desire for a faith-based education may find the high debt burden less of an issue.
  • Students prioritizing high graduation rates and lower debt levels may want to consider other options.

Frequently Asked Questions about Southwestern Adventist University

How much does it cost to attend Southwestern Adventist University?

In-state tuition at Southwestern Adventist University is $25,380 per year, and out-of-state tuition is $25,380 per year. The median student debt at graduation is $26,998.

What is the acceptance rate at Southwestern Adventist University?

Southwestern Adventist University has an acceptance rate of 78.4%.

What is the graduation rate at Southwestern Adventist University?

Southwestern Adventist University has a graduation rate of 46.7%.

How much do Southwestern Adventist University graduates earn?

The median earnings for Southwestern Adventist University graduates 10 years after enrollment is $52,946. With median debt of $26,998, graduates earn roughly 2.0x their debt level annually.

How big is Southwestern Adventist University?

Southwestern Adventist University has approximately 570 students and is classified as a small institution. It is located in Keene, TX and is a Private Nonprofit institution.

Is Southwestern Adventist University worth the cost?

Southwestern Adventist University has an ROI score of -48 out of 100. With in-state tuition of $25,380 per year and median post-graduation earnings of $52,946, the data suggests the return on investment may be below average.

Where is Southwestern Adventist University located?

Southwestern Adventist University is located in Keene, TX. It is a Private Nonprofit institution with approximately 570 students.

How much student debt do Southwestern Adventist University graduates have?

The median student debt for Southwestern Adventist University graduates is $26,998. With median earnings of $52,946 ten years after enrollment, graduates can expect a debt-to-income ratio of 51%.

Is Southwestern Adventist University a good college?

Southwestern Adventist University has a graduation rate of 46.7% and median post-graduation earnings of $52,946. Highly diverse student body with a significant Hispanic population.

How does Southwestern Adventist University compare to similar colleges?

Strong focus on faith-based education with a variety of majors. Compared to peer institutions, Southwestern Adventist University offers a strong faith-based education but graduates face higher debt and lower graduation rates.

What career prospects do Southwestern Adventist University graduates have?

Graduates are well-prepared for careers in ministry, education, and related fields with a strong faith-based foundation.

What should prospective students know about Southwestern Adventist University?

The university holds a niche position in the market, catering to students seeking a faith-based education with moderate tuition.

What makes Southwestern Adventist University stand out?

Moderate tuition but graduates face significant debt.

What are the pros and cons of attending Southwestern Adventist University?

Graduation rates are below the national average.

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Analysis based on U.S. Department of Education data. Not enrollment advice. Verify information with the institution directly.