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The University of the South

Sewanee, TN 37383-1000 — Private Nonprofit

Value Score: 75/100 | ROI Score: -71 | Affordability Score: 35/100

Tuition (In-State): $56,120 | Out-of-State: $56,120

Acceptance Rate: 56.9% | Graduation Rate: 81.0% | Retention Rate: 88.9%

Median Earnings (10yr): $64,911 | Median Debt: $22,855

SAT Average: 1344 | ACT Midpoint: 29

Student Body Size: 1,607 (small)

Pell Grant Recipients: 15.8% | Federal Loan Rate: 33.6%

Average Faculty Salary: $10,158/month

Tuition & Affordability Analysis

In-state tuition at The University of the South is $56,120 per year, which is 42% above the national average for private institutions.

Out-of-state students pay $56,120/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: $224,480 (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 The University of the South:

  • Families earning $0–$30,000: $10,485/year
  • Families earning $30,001–$48,000: $10,704/year
  • Families earning $48,001–$75,000: $17,746/year
  • Families earning $75,001–$110,000: $22,563/year
  • Families earning $110,000+: $38,762/year

Low-income families receive an average discount of $45,635/year, paying just 19% of the sticker price.

Admissions Snapshot

The University of the South has an acceptance rate of 56.9%, placing it in the Moderately Selective (50–70%) category. This means roughly 706 students apply each year.

The average SAT score of admitted students is 1344, 27% above the national average. This reflects a strong academic student body.

The ACT midpoint is 29, 38% above the national average.

Graduate Outcomes & Return on Investment

81.0% of students at The University of the South complete their degree, 31% above the national average. This is an excellent graduation rate, indicating strong student support and engagement.

First-year retention rate: 88.9% (10% above the national average). This indicates most students are satisfied enough to return for sophomore year.

Graduates of The University of the South earn a median salary of $64,911 ten years after enrollment, 59% above the national average. This represents a $29,911/year earnings premium over the average high school diploma holder, or $897,330 in additional lifetime earnings over a 30-year career.

The median student debt at graduation is $22,855, 6% above the national average. On a standard 10-year repayment plan at 5.5% interest, this translates to approximately $248/month, with a total repayment of $29,760 (including $6,905 in interest).

Debt-to-Earnings Ratio: 0.35x. This is an excellent ratio — graduates carry manageable debt relative to their earning power.

Breakeven Point: Based on the earnings premium over high school graduates, a degree from The University of the South pays for itself in approximately 8 years. This is a reasonable investment timeline.

Financial Aid Profile

15.8% of students at The University of the South receive Pell Grants (federal need-based aid for families earning under ~$60,000), 52% below the national average. A lower Pell rate suggests the student body skews toward higher-income families. Merit aid may be more prevalent than need-based aid.

33.6% of students take federal loans, 29% below the national average. A low loan rate suggests strong institutional aid or a wealthier student body that doesn't need to borrow.

Average faculty salary: $10,158/month, 16% above the national average. Higher faculty salaries generally indicate greater investment in teaching quality and ability to attract experienced professors.

Student Body & Campus Diversity

The University of the South enrolls 1,607 undergraduate students. This mid-sized institution offers a balance between personalized attention and diverse academic offerings.

Diversity Index: 32/100 (higher = more diverse). The student body is less diverse than average.

Student body composition: White 82%, Hispanic 5%, Black 4%, Asian 1%.

The University of the South: A Small Private Institution with Strong Academic Focus and High Earnings Potential

Report Card: Overall Grade C-

The University of the South receives an overall grade of C- based on six dimensions:

  • Academics: B-
  • Value: F
  • Outcomes: B
  • Affordability: C-

College Analysis

The University of the South is a Private Nonprofit institution in Sewanee, TN with approximately 1,607 students. Academics: Strong focus on liberal arts with a low student-to-faculty ratio. Value: High tuition with moderate affordability score, indicating potential financial strain. Outcomes: Graduates have strong earning potential with a median 10-year salary of $64,911.

The Verdict: Is The University of the South Worth It?

The University of the South presents a complex value proposition. With an out-of-state tuition of $56,120 and a median 10-year earning of $64,911, the immediate return on investment appears modest, with a payback period for tuition alone potentially exceeding 8 years, even before accounting for living expenses and interest on median debt of $22,855. The ROI score of -71 further underscores this concern, suggesting that, on average, graduates do not recoup their educational investment quickly. While the median earnings are respectable, they are not significantly higher than those from many public universities with much lower sticker prices. The value is likely derived more from the Sewanee experience—its strong liberal arts foundation, close-knit community, and powerful alumni network—than from purely financial metrics. For students who can leverage the alumni network effectively and secure high-paying positions in fields that value a Sewanee education, the long-term financial benefits might materialize. However, based purely on the provided financial data, it is not a clear financial win. It's a significant investment where the payoff is less about rapid financial return and more about the qualitative aspects of education and career trajectory, making it a potentially good deal for the right student, but overpriced for those solely focused on maximizing immediate financial ROI.

Return on Investment

While the degree from The University of the South is valuable, the high tuition may not be worth it for all students, especially those with limited financial resources.

Debt Reality Check

Median student debt at The University of the South: $22,855. Monthly payment on a standard 10-year plan: $260/month. Total repaid: $31,200 ($8,345 in interest).

Breakeven vs high school diploma: 0.7 years. Debt burden: Low. Salary needed for comfortable repayment: $31,200.

Strengths

  • Strong academic programs and low student-to-faculty ratio.
  • High earning potential for graduates.
  • Selective admissions process.

Weaknesses

  • High tuition and moderate affordability score.
  • Predominantly white student body with low Asian representation.
  • Moderate graduation rate.

Academic Profile

SAT Average: 1344. ACT Midpoint: 29. Retention Rate: 88.9%.

The University of the South, or Sewanee, prides itself on a rigorous liberal arts education, with a strong emphasis on undergraduate teaching and faculty mentorship. Its academic strengths lie in its core departments, particularly English, History, Politics, and Philosophy, which often feed into popular majors like American Studies, Environmental Studies, and International and Global Studies. The student-faculty ratio is intentionally kept low, fostering close relationships and ample opportunities for faculty-student research. While specific faculty salary data isn't provided, the private liberal arts college model generally attracts dedicated scholars committed to undergraduate education. Research opportunities are abundant, especially through faculty-led projects and summer research programs, allowing students to delve deeply into their chosen fields. The Honors Program offers a challenging curriculum for high-achieving students, culminating in a senior thesis. Sewanee also boasts a robust study abroad program, encouraging students to broaden their perspectives through international experiences. Academic support is readily available through the Office of Academic Services, offering tutoring, writing support, and academic advising to ensure students can navigate the demanding curriculum successfully. The curriculum itself is designed to build a strong foundation in critical thinking, communication, and analytical skills across a broad range of disciplines before students specialize.

Financial Aid Guide for The University of the South

Pell Grant recipients: 15.8%. Students taking federal loans: 33.6%.

Navigating financial aid at Sewanee requires understanding its commitment to both merit-based and need-based aid. As a private institution with a sticker price of $56,120 for tuition, room, and board, most students will receive some form of financial assistance. Sewanee offers a range of scholarships, including academic scholarships, leadership awards, and departmental scholarships, which are often merit-based and can significantly reduce the cost of attendance. For students demonstrating financial need, Sewanee provides need-based grants and institutional aid, aiming to make the education accessible. The average financial aid package for students with demonstrated need can be substantial, often covering a significant portion of tuition and fees. Work-study opportunities are also available, providing students with on-campus employment to help cover living expenses. While specific figures for Pell Grant or Federal Loan rates are not provided, it's common for students at private institutions to utilize federal loans as part of their aid package. For families with an annual income below $75,000, Sewanee has historically aimed to provide aid that covers tuition, room, and board, making it more affordable than the sticker price suggests. Scholarship tips include applying early, highlighting leadership and extracurricular achievements, and researching specific departmental scholarships. Negotiating aid at Sewanee is generally not as common or as impactful as at larger, more research-intensive universities, as their aid packages are often carefully constructed based on established institutional policies and demonstrated need.

Hidden Costs at The University of the South

  • Room and Board: While tuition is listed at $56,120, this often does not include the full cost of room and board, which can add an estimated $15,000-$18,000 annually.
  • Textbooks and Supplies: Students should budget approximately $1,000-$1,500 per year for required textbooks, course materials, and other academic supplies.
  • Personal Expenses: This category includes items like laundry, toiletries, snacks, entertainment, and travel, which can easily amount to $2,000-$3,000 per academic year.
  • Technology Fee: A mandatory technology fee, typically around $200-$300 per semester, covers access to campus IT resources and support.
  • Transportation: While Sewanee is somewhat remote, travel to and from campus for breaks and visits home can cost anywhere from $300-$1,000+ annually depending on distance and mode of transport.
  • Health Insurance: If a student is not covered by a parent's plan, Sewanee's student health insurance plan can cost an estimated $2,500-$3,500 per year.
  • Activity Fees: Some student organizations or events may have associated fees or costs for participation, potentially adding a few hundred dollars annually.

Alumni Outcomes & Career Paths

Graduates from The University of the South, often referred to as Sewanee, find themselves entering a diverse range of professional fields, though the school's smaller size and rural location can influence initial recruitment patterns. Major employers that actively recruit Sewanee graduates include consulting firms like Deloitte and Accenture, financial institutions such as J.P. Morgan and Goldman Sachs, and technology companies like IBM and Microsoft. Many alumni also gravitate towards industries such as education, healthcare, and non-profit management. The university reports strong graduate school placement rates, with a significant percentage of students pursuing advanced degrees in law, medicine, and business. Notable alumni include Pulitzer Prize-winning author Cormac McCarthy, former U.S. Senator and Governor of Tennessee Lamar Alexander, and numerous leaders in business and academia. Sewanee's career services are generally well-regarded, focusing on personalized guidance and leveraging its strong alumni network. Internship pipelines are often facilitated through these alumni connections, with opportunities frequently found in major metropolitan areas rather than immediately surrounding Sewanee. Geographic hiring patterns show a tendency for graduates to disperse, with significant clusters in larger cities across the Southeast, such as Atlanta, Nashville, and Charlotte, as well as national hubs like New York City and Washington D.C.

Campus Life & Culture at The University of the South

Sewanee attracts a student body that values intellectual curiosity, a close-knit community, and a connection to the natural world. While diversity is growing, students often come from independent or college-preparatory high schools across the United States, with a notable representation from the South, but also a significant national reach. Students who thrive here are typically independent, enjoy thoughtful discussion, appreciate the outdoors, and are looking for a focused, immersive undergraduate experience away from a large urban setting.

Life at Sewanee, the University of the South, is deeply intertwined with its stunning 13,000-acre mountaintop campus, often referred to as the Domain. This vast natural setting shapes the student experience, fostering a close-knit community where outdoor exploration is as common as hitting the books. The 'Sewanee vibe' is often described as intellectual, collegial, and a bit removed from the hustle of larger cities, which can be a significant draw for students seeking a focused academic environment. Residential life is a cornerstone, with students typically living on campus for all four years. First-year students are usually housed in either Johnson Hall, Spencer Hall, or Wiggins Hall, designed to foster community. As students progress, they might move into more independent living options within the residential colleges or other campus housing. Dining is centered around the main dining hall, McClurg, offering a traditional college meal plan experience. Student organizations are plentiful, ranging from academic clubs and the student government to outdoor adventure groups and the iconic Sewanee Outing Program (SOP), which organizes hikes, camping trips, and other excursions across the Domain. Greek life is present and plays a role in the social scene, with fraternities and sororities offering additional social and leadership opportunities. Athletics are a significant part of campus life, with the Sewanee Tigers competing in NCAA Division III, particularly strong in sports like swimming and diving, lacrosse, and soccer. The social scene is generally characterized by a blend of organized events, house parties, and informal gatherings, often centered around academic departments or student organizations. Traditions run deep, including the annual 'Mountain Goat Games' and the 'Midnight Run' before finals, adding to the unique Sewanee experience.

Campus Highlights

  • The Domain: An expansive 13,000-acre natural preserve offering unparalleled opportunities for outdoor recreation and study.
  • The Quad: The historic heart of campus, surrounded by iconic Gothic architecture, serving as a central gathering place.
  • Sewanee Outing Program (SOP): A student-led organization offering extensive outdoor adventures and fostering a strong connection to nature.
  • Gothic Architecture: The distinctive and beautiful Collegiate Gothic style of many campus buildings.
  • The University Press of the South: A respected academic publisher housed on campus, offering unique research and publishing opportunities.
  • The Mountain Top Location: Providing a unique, somewhat isolated, and intellectually stimulating environment.
  • Strong Sense of Community: Fostered by the small size, residential focus, and shared experiences on the Domain.

Location & Regional Advantages

The University of the South's location in Sewanee, Tennessee, offers a unique, albeit somewhat isolated, collegiate environment. Situated atop the Cumberland Plateau, Sewanee boasts a high quality of life characterized by natural beauty, a strong sense of community, and a relatively low cost of living compared to major urban centers. The immediate local job market is limited, primarily consisting of opportunities within the university itself and small local businesses. However, this rural setting is within a reasonable driving distance of larger economic hubs. Chattanooga is approximately an hour away, offering a growing job market in sectors like advanced manufacturing, healthcare, and logistics. Nashville, a more significant metropolitan area and a burgeoning center for healthcare, music, and technology, is about a two-hour drive. This proximity allows students to access internships and post-graduation employment in these cities while enjoying the serene and focused academic atmosphere of Sewanee. The weather is temperate, with distinct seasons, and the area is known for its safety and low crime rates, contributing to a secure and peaceful student experience. While the immediate region doesn't offer a dense concentration of Fortune 500 companies, its strategic location provides access to broader career opportunities in the Southeast.

How to Get Into The University of the South

Gaining admission to Sewanee, with its 56.9% acceptance rate, requires a strong academic profile and a clear demonstration of fit with the university's unique liberal arts mission. Sewanee offers Early Decision (ED) and Early Action (EA) options, with ED often providing a slight advantage as it signals a strong commitment to the university. The admissions committee highly values academic rigor, looking for students who have challenged themselves with AP, IB, or honors courses. While SAT/ACT scores are not currently a factor, a strong GPA is paramount. Essays are crucial for showcasing personality, intellectual curiosity, and how a student might contribute to the Sewanee community; topics that reflect on personal growth, intellectual exploration, or engagement with the liberal arts tend to resonate. Demonstrated interest is important; engaging with admissions events (virtual or in-person), connecting with admissions counselors, and writing a thoughtful 'why Sewanee' component in the application can make a difference. The ideal timeline involves finalizing your college list by the summer before senior year, beginning applications in the fall, and submitting ED/EA applications by November 15th and Regular Decision by January 15th. Focus on presenting a well-rounded profile that highlights not just academic achievement but also leadership, community involvement, and a genuine interest in Sewanee's distinctive environment.

How The University of the South Compares to Similar Schools

Similar schools: Rhodes College, Centre College, Hampden-Sydney College, Trinity University (TX)

Advantages

  • Stronger emphasis on liberal arts and a more traditional, residential college experience.
  • A more geographically isolated campus fostering a unique, close-knit community and strong alumni bonds.
  • Access to a highly engaged and influential alumni network, particularly in the Southeast.

Disadvantages

  • Higher sticker price compared to some peers, potentially impacting immediate ROI.
  • Limited local job market requiring graduates to actively seek opportunities in larger cities.
  • Smaller overall student body and fewer program offerings compared to larger liberal arts institutions.

Best For

  • Students interested in diverse cultural experiences may find the predominantly white student body limiting.
  • Prospective students should consider the high tuition and potential financial burden.
  • Students seeking a larger campus and more diverse student body may find other options more suitable.

Avoid If

  • Students looking for a lower-cost education may find other options more suitable.
  • Prospective students with a strong preference for large universities may not find The University of the South appealing.

Frequently Asked Questions about The University of the South

How much does it cost to attend The University of the South?

In-state tuition at The University of the South is $56,120 per year, and out-of-state tuition is $56,120 per year. The median student debt at graduation is $22,855.

What is the acceptance rate at The University of the South?

The University of the South has an acceptance rate of 56.9%.

What is the graduation rate at The University of the South?

The University of the South has a graduation rate of 81.0%.

How much do The University of the South graduates earn?

The median earnings for The University of the South graduates 10 years after enrollment is $64,911. With median debt of $22,855, graduates earn roughly 2.8x their debt level annually.

How big is The University of the South?

The University of the South has approximately 1,607 students and is classified as a small institution. It is located in Sewanee, TN and is a Private Nonprofit institution.

Is The University of the South worth the cost?

The University of the South has an ROI score of -71 out of 100. With in-state tuition of $56,120 per year and median post-graduation earnings of $64,911, the data suggests the return on investment may be below average.

Where is The University of the South located?

The University of the South is located in Sewanee, TN. It is a Private Nonprofit institution with approximately 1,607 students.

How much student debt do The University of the South graduates have?

The median student debt for The University of the South graduates is $22,855. With median earnings of $64,911 ten years after enrollment, graduates can expect a debt-to-income ratio of 35%.

Is The University of the South a good college?

The University of the South has a graduation rate of 81.0% and median post-graduation earnings of $64,911. Highly selective with a 56.9% admission rate.

How does The University of the South compare to similar colleges?

Primarily white student body with a low Asian representation. Compared to peer institutions, The University of the South offers a unique blend of high academic standards and strong earning potential, but at a high cost.

What career prospects do The University of the South graduates have?

Graduates are well-positioned for careers in various fields, particularly those requiring strong analytical and communication skills.

What should prospective students know about The University of the South?

The University of the South is well-suited for students seeking a high-quality, small liberal arts education but may not be the best fit for those looking for lower tuition costs.

What makes The University of the South stand out?

Median debt of $22,855 upon graduation.

What are the pros and cons of attending The University of the South?

Strong 10-year earnings potential despite high tuition.

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