Southern Nazarene University
Tuition per year
$31,190
$40,664 with room and board
Peer median $34,392
Undergraduates
1,456
Student-faculty ratio 15:1
Peer median 13 : 1
Graduation rate
43.8%
4-year; 6-year rate 54.7%
Peer median 44.6%
“Peers” are all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Southern Nazarene University (SNU) is a private Christian university located in Bethany, Oklahoma. Founded in 1899, the university is affiliated with the Church of the Nazarene and has a strong commitment to providing a faith-based education. The university's mission is to prepare students for a life of service and leadership, rooted in the teachings of Jesus Christ. This emphasis on faith and service is encapsulated in its motto, "To Know Him and Make Him Known," which reflects the institution's dedication to fostering spiritual growth alongside academic excellence.
SNU offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various fields of study, including business, education, and the liberal arts. The university is known for its supportive and vibrant community, where students are encouraged to engage in various extracurricular activities and service projects. The campus features modern facilities, including state-of-the-art classrooms, laboratories, and recreational centers, which enhance the student experience. Additionally, SNU emphasizes a holistic approach to education, integrating spiritual development, academic rigor, and community engagement. The school also has a strong athletic program, competing in the NCAA Division II, which provides students with opportunities to excel in sports while fostering teamwork and discipline. Overall, Southern Nazarene University stands out as a nurturing environment for students seeking both academic and personal growth.
Trends in Tuition, Graduation Rates, and Retention at Southern Nazarene University
The financial landscape for students at Southern Nazarene University has shown a significant upward trend in tuition fees over recent years. The undergraduate tuition for both in-state and out-of-state students has increased from around $22,038 in 2014 to approximately $29,600 in 2024. This represents a rise of around 34% in just a decade, which is a concerning trend given the current economic climate and increasing student loan debt levels nationwide.
In terms of academic success, the graduation rates for undergraduate students have fluctuated, with the on-time graduation rate peaking at 54.5% in 2022, a notable improvement from 27.8% in 2015. However, this rate dropped to 39.0% in 2023, indicating potential challenges in student retention or academic performance. The 150% graduation rate, which reflects students graduating within six years, has also seen a more stable upward trend, reaching 51.4% in 2023.
Retention rates, which indicate how well a university keeps its students from their first year to the next, have shown an encouraging increase. From a retention rate of 58.4% in 2013, the figure rose to 88.9% in 2023, suggesting improved student satisfaction and support systems. This increase could be attributed to enhanced academic advising and student services, which are crucial for fostering a supportive learning environment.
Additionally, the gender ratio among undergraduates has been relatively balanced, with a slight predominance of women, reflecting broader trends in higher education where female enrollment has outpaced male enrollment in many institutions. With women constituting around 50% of the undergraduate population in 2023, this demographic balance may contribute to a more inclusive campus culture.
In summary, while tuition costs continue to rise, the university has made strides in improving graduation and retention rates, which are critical for student success and institutional reputation. Balancing financial pressures with academic support will be essential for sustaining these positive trends.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Suburb of a large city
- Nearest major city
- Oklahoma City, about 7 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Tulsa International Airport (TUL), about 110 mi
- Also known as
- SNU
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Church of the Nazarene
- President
- Keith Newman (President)
- Phone
- 4057896400
- Address
- 6729 NW 39th Expy, Bethany, OK 73008
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Educational Leadership and Administration, General · Master's103 (0% international)
- Business Administration and Management, General · Master's41 (5% international)
- Educational Leadership and Administration, General · Doctoral30 (0% international)
- Counseling Psychology · Master's22 (5% international)
- Sport and Fitness Administration/Management · Master's17 (12% international)
- Health/Health Care Administration/Management · Master's16 (6% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data from Southern Nazarene University
The graduation data from Southern Nazarene University reveals some intriguing insights into the distribution of degrees awarded across various fields. Notably, the Educational Leadership and Administration program stands out with a significant number of master's degree graduates, totaling 73. This highlights the growing demand for qualified leaders in educational settings, particularly as schools navigate the complexities of modern education systems.
In contrast, several programs, such as Business Administration and Organizational Behavior Studies, reported no bachelor's graduates. This raises questions about the engagement and enrollment in these programs, suggesting potential barriers or shifts in student interests. The absence of international students graduating in these fields may also indicate a need for more robust recruitment strategies to attract a diverse student body.
Interestingly, the General Studies program awarded 24 bachelor's degrees and 5 associate degrees, reflecting its role as a flexible option for students who may be undecided or exploring various academic interests. This aligns with national trends where general studies programs are increasingly popular among students seeking broad educational experiences.
Furthermore, the absence of doctoral graduates in many programs suggests a potential gap in advanced academic pursuits, which could affect the university's long-term research capabilities and academic prestige. As higher education institutions face evolving job markets and global challenges, Southern Nazarene University may need to reassess its program offerings and support for advanced degrees to better meet the needs of its students and society.
All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business/Commerce, General. | - | ||||
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $57,573-$71,312 | ||||
| Business Administration, Management and Operations, Other. | $57,573-$71,312 | ||||
| Accounting. | - | ||||
| Finance, General. | - | ||||
| Organizational Behavior Studies. | $72,585 | ||||
| Marketing/Marketing Management, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Curriculum and Instruction. | - | ||||
| Educational Leadership and Administration, General. | $58,084 | ||||
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | $45,076 | ||||
| Teacher Education, Multiple Levels. | $45,076 | ||||
| Early Childhood Education and Teaching. | $45,076 | ||||
| Music Teacher Education. | - | ||||
| Physical Education Teaching and Coaching. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, General. | $33,003-$51,688 | ||||
| Sport and Fitness Administration/Management. | $33,003-$51,688 | ||||
| Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | $33,003-$51,688 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Health and Wellness, General. | - | ||||
| Health/Health Care Administration/Management. | $62,993 | ||||
| Physical Therapy Assistant. | - | ||||
| Pre-Occupational Therapy Studies. | - | ||||
| Pre-Physical Therapy Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | - | ||||
| Research and Experimental Psychology, Other. | - | ||||
| Counseling Psychology. | $51,178 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| General Studies. | $44,294 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Human Development and Family Studies, General. | $44,549 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - | ||||
| Biochemistry. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | - | ||||
| Network and System Administration/Administrator. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Music, General. | - | ||||
| Music Performance, General. | - | ||||
| Music Management. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Graphic Communications, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Theology/Theological Studies. | - | ||||
| Pastoral Studies/Counseling. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| American Government and Politics (United States). | - | ||||
| Sociology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Safety Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mass Communication/Media Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
Students
2,198 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 45:55 · Freshman retention 72.9%
- Continuing undergraduates 1,090
- First-year undergraduates 299
- Graduate students 742
- Transfers and others 67
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,456)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Student Demographics at Southern Nazarene University in 2023
The student composition at Southern Nazarene University reflects a diverse and balanced community in the academic year 2023. The total enrollment shows a notable distribution across different categories of students, including undergraduate freshmen, upperclassmen, transfer students, and graduate students.
Undergraduate freshmen, numbering 264, show a slight male majority, with 50.4% identifying as male and 49.6% as female. This indicates a relatively equal gender representation among new entrants. In contrast, upperclassmen exhibit a similar balance with 49.7% male and 50.3% female, demonstrating that the university maintains a consistent gender ratio as students progress through their studies.
Transfer students, however, present a different picture, with a higher percentage of males at 54.5%, which could suggest a trend in the demographics of transferring students. Graduate students, on the other hand, show a significant female majority at 61.3%, highlighting a growing trend of women pursuing advanced degrees, which aligns with national statistics indicating that women are increasingly dominating graduate programs across various fields.
The ethnic diversity among these groups is also noteworthy, particularly among the graduate student population. The presence of a variety of ethnic backgrounds, although not detailed in the provided data, suggests that the university fosters an inclusive environment, catering to a wide range of cultural experiences.
Overall, these statistics reflect Southern Nazarene University's commitment to diversity and gender equity in its student body, contributing to a rich educational environment that prepares students for a global society.
Analysis of Student Age Composition at Southern Nazarene University in 2023
The age composition of students at Southern Nazarene University reveals a diverse demographic landscape, with a notable concentration of younger students. The largest group is represented by those aged 18-19, accounting for approximately 41% of the total student body, with 145 male undergraduates and 172 female undergraduates. This trend aligns with national statistics that indicate a significant influx of traditional-age students entering higher education.
As we progress through the age brackets, it is evident that participation gradually declines among younger adults in their early twenties, with students aged 20-21 constituting about 20% of the student population. Interestingly, while there is a drop in male undergraduates, the number of female undergraduates remains relatively stable in this age group.
The data also illustrates a marked increase in graduate students in their late twenties and thirties, particularly among female students, who outnumber their male counterparts in several brackets. This could reflect broader societal trends where women are increasingly pursuing advanced degrees. The 25-29 age group shows a striking female majority, with a ratio that emphasizes the growing presence of women in graduate programs.
Moreover, the data indicates a consistent representation of non-traditional students, particularly those aged 30 and above, which is a positive indicator of inclusivity in higher education. The presence of students aged 40-49 and even those above 65 highlights the university's commitment to lifelong learning.
In conclusion, Southern Nazarene University's student body presents a vibrant mix of ages, indicating a healthy academic environment that attracts both traditional and non-traditional students. This diversity not only enriches the learning experience but also reflects the university's role in adapting to the educational needs of a broad demographic.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
37 in 2025 · 3.7% in 2016
16 in 2025 · 1.5% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at Southern Nazarene University
The data reflecting international student enrollment at Southern Nazarene University over the years paints an interesting picture of the changing dynamics within the institution's student body. From 2004 to 2023, the proportion of international undergraduate students has seen a notable increase, climbing from just 0.50% to 3.51%. This growth indicates a growing appeal of the university to students from abroad, which could be attributed to various factors such as enhanced academic programs, a more diverse campus culture, or increased recruitment efforts targeting international markets.
On the graduate level, however, the numbers present a mixed narrative. While the proportion of international graduate students has fluctuated, it reached a peak of 3.09% in 2019 before witnessing a decline in subsequent years. This variability may reflect broader trends in international education, especially in light of recent global events, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, which significantly impacted student mobility and preferences for studying abroad.
It is also worth noting that the overall number of students at Southern Nazarene University has decreased over the years, from a high of 1801 in 2004 to just 912 in 2023. Such a decline could pose challenges for sustaining and further increasing the international student population, as a shrinking overall student body may limit the resources and support available for these students.
In conclusion, while Southern Nazarene University has made strides in attracting international undergraduate students, the fluctuating numbers at the graduate level and the overall decline in student enrollment suggest that the institution must strategically address these challenges to maintain and enhance its global presence in higher education.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$40,664
- Undergraduate tuition
- $31,190
- Room and board
- $9,474
- Graduate tuition
- $14,390
Peer median tuition + room and board $47,329 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 34% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 17%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$57.0M
Expenses$55.0M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · NCCAA · Great American Conference
Great American Conference: football, basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 167 | - |
| Soccer | 51 | 31 |
| Other Sports | 31 | 36 |
| Basketball | 30 | 33 |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 35 | 26 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 35 | 26 |
| Baseball | 47 | - |
| Softball | - | 36 |
| Golf | 16 | 9 |
| Volleyball | - | 20 |
| Cross Country | 9 | 8 |
| Bowling | 9 | 7 |
| Equestrian | - | - |
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 146 | - |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 86 | 52 |
| Soccer | 52 | 32 |
| Other Sports | 38 | 34 |
| Basketball | 27 | 31 |
| Baseball | 44 | - |
| Softball | - | 32 |
| Golf | 13 | 8 |
| Volleyball | - | 21 |
| Bowling | 12 | 5 |
| Equestrian | - | - |
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 138 | - |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 64 | 55 |
| Soccer | 53 | 39 |
| Basketball | 23 | 24 |
| Other Sports | 23 | 21 |
| Baseball | 42 | - |
| Softball | - | 28 |
| Golf | 14 | 8 |
| Volleyball | - | 21 |
| Equestrian | - | - |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
University of Oklahoma-Norman CampusNorman · 23.4 mi
U.S. News #116
-
Oklahoma State University-Main CampusStillwater · 52.5 mi
U.S. News #191
-
University of TulsaTulsa · 104.1 mi
U.S. News #148
-
Wichita State UniversityWichita · 153.5 mi
U.S. News #288
-
University of North TexasDenton · 161.4 mi
U.S. News #208
-
The University of Texas at DallasRichardson · 181.8 mi
U.S. News #121
-
Southern Methodist UniversityDallas · 190.7 mi
U.S. News #85
-
Texas Christian UniversityFort Worth · 194.3 mi
U.S. News #90
-
University of Texas-ArlingtonArlington · 194.6 mi
U.S. News #236
Data insights
Here are some notable universities around Southern Nazarene University:
-
University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus - Ranked 124 in the 2024 US News, this university is known for its strong research programs and vibrant campus life.
-
Oklahoma State University-Main Campus - With a ranking of 185, OSU offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, emphasizing agriculture, engineering, and business.
-
University of Tulsa - This university is ranked 195 and is recognized for its excellent programs in law, business, and engineering.
-
The University of Texas at Dallas - Ranked 115, UT Dallas is known for its strong emphasis on research and innovation, particularly in STEM fields.
-
Southern Methodist University - With a ranking of 89, SMU offers a diverse array of programs and is known for its commitment to community service and leadership.
-
Texas A & M University-College Station - Ranked 47, this university is one of the largest and most prestigious in Texas, known for its engineering and business programs.
These institutions provide a range of opportunities for students in various fields and are a testament to the rich educational landscape in the region.
Peer median 4.0 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Incidents, 2023–2025
From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.
Data insights
Analysis of Crime Data at Southern Nazarene University
The crime statistics from Southern Nazarene University over the past decade reflect a notable trend in campus safety and student behavior. The average crime rate per 1,000 students has shown a significant decline from 2013, where it peaked at 14.70 incidents, to a low of just 2.11 incidents in 2019. This downward trajectory suggests effective measures taken by the university to enhance campus security and foster a safer environment for students.
Specifically, the years 2016 and 2018 exhibited the lowest crime rates, with 6.04 and 2.68 incidents per 1,000 students, respectively. This period could correlate with initiatives focused on student awareness and community-building efforts aimed at reducing crime. However, it is noteworthy that there was a slight uptick in crime rates in 2022, with a rate of 6.86 incidents per 1,000 students. This increase may warrant further investigation into the factors contributing to this resurgence, as maintaining a low crime rate is crucial for the university's reputation and student retention.
Moreover, the data indicates that specific types of offenses, such as drug-related arrests and alcohol-related incidents, have been consistently monitored, highlighting the institution's commitment to addressing substance abuse on campus.
Overall, the trend in crime rates at Southern Nazarene University reflects a positive outlook on campus safety, although continued vigilance and proactive strategies will be essential to sustain this progress. For further understanding of crime rate calculations, you can refer to the following link: Crime Rate Calculation.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Southern Nazarene University include Gary Hart (Politician who sought the Democratic presidential nomination), Kenny Marchant (Former US Representative from Texas) and John Aaron (Former NASA flight controller who saved Apollo 12).
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Gary Hart 1936–
Politician who sought the Democratic presidential nomination
-
Kenny Marchant 1951–
Former US Representative from Texas
-
John Aaron 1943–
Former NASA flight controller who saved Apollo 12
-
Bia Vaz 1985–
Brazilian footballer and coach
-
Vince Snowbarger 1949–
Former U.S. Representative from Kansas
-
Astou Ndiaye-Diatta 1973–
Senegalese women's basketball player and coach
-
Jackie Acevedo 1987–
American-born Mexican former women's soccer forward
-
Oumoul Thiam 1990–
Senegalese basketball player at the 2016 Olympics
-
Ndèye Ndiaye 1979–
Senegalese women's basketball player
More alumni (7, by field)
Politics and law
-
Gary Richardson 1941–
Lawyer and former US Attorney in Oklahoma
-
Howard Hendrick 1954–
Former Oklahoma Secretary of Human Services
Sports
-
Georgie Torres 1957–
Puerto Rican former professional basketball player
-
Omar Quintero 1981–
Mexican basketball coach and former player
-
Terry Woodberry 1963–
Former indoor soccer midfielder and US futsal player
-
Aminata Fall 1991–
Senegalese basketball player
-
Manuel Narvaez 1981–
Puerto Rican professional basketball player
From Wikidata “educated at” records (including people who attended without graduating), ordered by the number of Wikipedia language editions. Degrees and years follow Wikidata and are left out where it has none.
References and Data Sources
Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.