Johnson University
Acceptance rate
65.1%
2025
Peer median 77.9%
Tuition per year
$21,122
$31,022 with room and board
Peer median $34,392
Undergraduates
746
Student-faculty ratio 12:1
Peer median 13 : 1
Graduation rate
50.4%
4-year; 6-year rate 61.8%
Peer median 44.6%
“Peers” are all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Johnson University, located in Knoxville, Tennessee, is a private Christian university that emphasizes a holistic approach to education. Established in 1893, the university is known for its commitment to integrating faith and learning, which is reflected in its mission to equip students for Christian leadership and service in various fields. The university's motto, “Preparing Christian Leaders,” underscores its dedication to fostering a community where spiritual growth and academic excellence go hand-in-hand.
The campus is characterized by a supportive and vibrant community that encourages student involvement in various extracurricular activities. Johnson University offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs across multiple disciplines, including education, business, and ministry. The university's facilities are modern and well-equipped, providing students with access to state-of-the-art resources for their academic pursuits. Additionally, Johnson University has a strong focus on student life, offering numerous opportunities for involvement in sports, clubs, and community service initiatives. With a commitment to developing well-rounded individuals who are prepared for both their professional careers and their roles as compassionate leaders, Johnson University continues to produce graduates who excel in their respective fields and make meaningful contributions to society.
Trends in Tuition Fees and Graduation Rates
The data from Johnson University highlights significant trends in tuition fees, student retention, and graduation rates over the years. Tuition fees for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students have shown a consistent upward trajectory, rising from $10,800 in 2014 to $20,318 in 2024. This represents an increase of nearly 88% over a decade, which is reflective of the broader trend in higher education where college costs continue to escalate, often outpacing inflation. Such increases can pose barriers for prospective students and their families, potentially limiting access to higher education.
In terms of student retention, there has been some fluctuation over the years, with a notable retention rate of 75% in 2013, peaking at 80.4% in 2014 before experiencing dips in subsequent years. However, recent retention rates show improvement, with a rate of approximately 76.6% recorded in 2023. This positive trend suggests that the university may be implementing effective strategies to enhance student satisfaction and support, leading to higher retention.
Graduation rates also present a mixed picture. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduates was 37.2% in 2013, showing a gradual improvement to 53.6% by 2023. This increase is encouraging, as it indicates that a greater proportion of students are completing their degrees in a timely manner. However, the significant rise in tuition costs amid these graduation rate improvements suggests that while the university is making strides in student success, the financial burden on students continues to grow.
Overall, while Johnson University appears to be making progress in retention and graduation rates, the increasing tuition fees raise concerns about the affordability and accessibility of higher education for future students. Balancing these factors will be crucial for the university to remain competitive and supportive of its student body.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Rural, near a city
- Nearest major city
- Knoxville, about 10 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), about 160 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Christian Churches and Churches of Christ
- President
- Dr. Daniel Overdorf (President)
- Phone
- 8655734517
- Address
- 7900 Johnson Dr, Knoxville, TN 37998
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 77.9% · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 55.1%, women 51.5%.
Data insights
Analysis of Johnson University's Admission Trends
The admission data for Johnson University over the years reveals a fluctuating trend in acceptance rates and enrollment figures. Notably, the male acceptance rate has varied significantly, peaking at approximately 96% in 2010 and dropping to around 50% in 2014, showcasing a highly competitive environment. This volatility in male admission rates suggests changing applicant pools or shifts in university policies regarding gender diversity.
Conversely, the female acceptance rate remained consistently high, reaching 100% in 2010 and showing a slight decrease over the years, yet it generally stayed above 50%. This indicates that the university may prioritize female enrollment or may have more qualified female applicants, which aligns with broader trends seen in higher education where female students often outpace their male counterparts in academic preparedness.
The enrollment figures also tell an interesting story. For instance, in 2011, the university faced a challenging situation with 158 applicants denied admission, which matches the number of enrollments, hinting at a possible capacity issue. In recent years, however, the university seems to have stabilized its enrollment numbers while managing denial rates more effectively.
The data indicates a shift towards a more selective admission strategy, particularly following 2014, as the institution appears to balance its student demographics while maintaining a robust application pool. Overall, Johnson University's admission trends reflect broader trends in higher education, where selectivity and strategic enrollment management play crucial roles in shaping the academic community.
Test Scores
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 25% submitted SAT, 78% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Test Scores at Johnson University (2007-2023)
The data from Johnson University over the years reveals interesting trends in the submission and performance of standardized test scores. Notably, the percentage of admitted students submitting SAT scores has seen fluctuations, starting from 45% in 2007 and decreasing to just 18% in 2023. This decline may reflect a broader trend in higher education, where some institutions are moving towards test-optional policies, potentially reducing the emphasis on standardized testing in admissions decisions.
Moreover, the SAT Reading and Math scores of admitted students have shown variability, with the 25th percentile and 75th percentile scores demonstrating a range that fluctuates but generally indicates a rise in the upper thresholds of these scores by 2023. This suggests that while fewer students are submitting their scores, those who do tend to be more competitive.
The ACT scores also exhibit a similar trend, revealing a steady performance range among those who submitted their scores. The consistent performance in ACT scores indicates that the quality of applicants may still be strong, even as submission rates decline.
Overall, the data suggests that Johnson University is adapting to changing norms in college admissions while maintaining a focus on attracting capable students. This balance between inclusivity and maintaining high academic standards is crucial in today's educational landscape, especially in light of the ongoing discussions about the role of standardized testing in college admissions.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 7 in 10
794 applicants in 2025, 65.1% admitted
517 admitted 277 not admitted Yield 32.3%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Applied and Professional Ethics · Master's27 (0% international)
- Teacher Education, Multiple Levels · Master's11 (0% international)
- Business Administration and Management, General · Master's9 (0% international)
- Bible/Biblical Studies · Master's9 (11% international)
- Organizational Leadership · Doctoral9 (0% international)
- Mental Health Counseling/Counselor · Master's8 (13% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at Johnson University 2023
The graduation data from Johnson University in 2023 reveals noteworthy trends across various fields of study. A significant observation is the predominance of master's degree graduates in applied and professional ethics, totaling 25 graduates. This suggests a growing interest in ethical considerations and professional standards, potentially driven by increasing societal demands for accountability in various professions.
In the realm of psychology, there were 20 bachelor's degree graduates, indicating a solid foundation in mental health education. This aligns with the broader societal focus on mental health awareness and the importance of psychological support, especially in the wake of the pandemic, which has heightened the need for mental health professionals.
Interestingly, the fields of education, specifically teacher education, witnessed several graduates across different levels, albeit with modest numbers. This trend reflects an ongoing need for qualified educators, particularly as many schools continue to face teacher shortages. The inclusion of international students in master's programs in educational technology also signifies a global interest in innovative teaching methods.
The data also highlights the absence of graduates in specific areas, such as public health and various educational programs, which may point to shifts in student preferences or perhaps a lack of robust programs in those fields at the university.
Overall, this data provides a snapshot of emerging trends in education and societal needs, emphasizing the critical role that institutions like Johnson University play in preparing graduates to meet these challenges. As the landscape of higher education evolves, it will be vital for universities to adapt their offerings to better align with market demands and student interests.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bible/Biblical Studies. | $35,095 | ||||
| Missions/Missionary Studies. | - | ||||
| Religious/Sacred Music. | - | ||||
| Divinity/Ministry. | $33,278 | ||||
| Pre-Theology/Pre-Ministerial Studies. | $33,278 | ||||
| Pastoral Studies/Counseling. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $48,499 | ||||
| Organizational Leadership. | $48,499 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Applied and Professional Ethics. | $71,658 | ||||
| Religion/Religious Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Educational/Instructional Technology. | - | ||||
| Special Education and Teaching, General. | - | ||||
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | $47,020 | ||||
| Secondary Education and Teaching. | $47,020 | ||||
| Teacher Education, Multiple Levels. | $47,020 | ||||
| Early Childhood Education and Teaching. | $47,020 | ||||
| Physical Education Teaching and Coaching. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $36,620 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pre-Nursing Studies. | - | ||||
| Mental Health Counseling/Counselor. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Family and Community Services. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Recording Arts Technology/Technician. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biological and Physical Sciences. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Applied Linguistics. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Digital Arts. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Broadcast Journalism. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| General Studies. | - |
Students
978 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 50:50 · Freshman retention 69.4%
- Continuing undergraduates 499
- First-year undergraduates 162
- Graduate students 232
- Transfers and others 85
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (746)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at Johnson University in 2023
The student demographics at Johnson University in 2023 reveal a diverse and balanced community. The total number of undergraduate freshmen is 163, with a gender distribution of approximately 49.7% male and 50.3% female, indicating a near-equal representation. This trend of gender balance continues among the undergraduate seniors, where females constitute about 52.9% of the population, suggesting a growing trend of female enrollment in higher education.
However, the undergraduate transfer students show a different picture, with only 38.2% being male and a notable 61.8% female. This disparity could signal a specific interest among female students in transferring, possibly driven by various factors such as career aspirations or academic opportunities.
The graduate student body, comprising 270 individuals, is predominantly male at 53.7%, which may reflect the traditional trends in certain graduate programs that attract more men.
Looking at the racial composition, the majority of students are white, followed by other ethnic minorities. This points to a more significant need for universities to enhance diversity and inclusion initiatives, ensuring that all racial and ethnic groups are well represented. The presence of only one student categorized as "other" highlights the importance of continuous efforts in attracting a more varied student population.
Overall, the demographic data from Johnson University suggests a strong commitment to gender balance, yet it also highlights areas for improvement in racial diversity among both undergraduate and graduate populations.
Age Composition of Students at Johnson University in 2023
The age distribution of students at Johnson University in 2023 reveals a diverse demographic landscape. A significant portion of the undergraduate male students is concentrated in the 18-21 age bracket, with 96 males aged 18-19 and 110 males aged 20-21. This trend reflects the traditional college-age population, where students typically enroll right after high school. Meanwhile, female representation in these age groups is also strong, with 133 females aged 18-19 and 143 aged 20-21, indicating a healthy gender balance among younger undergraduates.
As we move to the 22-24 age group, we see a notable drop in undergraduate males to 68, while graduate males increase to 27. This shift may suggest that many students are transitioning from undergraduate studies to graduate programs during this period. Conversely, the number of females in the same age bracket also decreases, highlighting potential challenges in retaining female students as they progress in their academic careers.
The data illustrates a gradual decline in student numbers in older age brackets, particularly among undergraduates. For example, in the 25-29 age range, there are only 10 male undergraduates, indicating that older students may be less represented in the undergraduate pool, possibly due to various personal or professional commitments. This trend continues into older age groups, where the numbers continue to dwindle.
Overall, the student age composition at Johnson University reflects a demographic that skews younger, which is typical for many institutions. However, the presence of graduate students in the older age brackets emphasizes the university's commitment to lifelong learning and the inclusion of diverse age groups in higher education.
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.
67 in 2025 · 3.3% in 2016
20 in 2025 · 8.2% in 2016
Data insights
Analysis of International Student Enrollment at Johnson University
The data on international student enrollment at Johnson University reveals a fluctuating trend over the years. Notably, the percentage of international undergraduate students has seen significant variations, peaking at 3.35% in 2017 before experiencing a decline to 1.64% in 2023. This decline is concerning, as it suggests that the university may not be attracting as many international students as it once did, which could impact its global reputation and cultural diversity.
On the graduate level, the proportion of international students has shown more fluctuation, with a remarkable high of 34.46% in 2013, only to drop to 5.96% in 2021. This inconsistency could indicate shifts in the university's international outreach strategies or changes in global educational trends. The sharp increase in the number of international graduate students in 2012, where the percentage reached 20.83%, hints at a potential strong interest in graduate programs during that time, possibly spurred by specific program offerings or institutional reputation.
The overall enrollment data suggests that while there have been years of growth, the recent trends indicate a need for Johnson University to reassess its marketing and recruitment strategies for international students. In an increasingly competitive higher education landscape, particularly post-pandemic, universities must actively promote their unique attributes and resources to attract a diverse student body. Maintaining a robust international enrollment is not only crucial for the cultural exchange it fosters but also beneficial for the university's financial health, as international students often pay higher tuition fees.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$31,022
- Undergraduate tuition
- $21,122
- Room and board
- $9,900
- Graduate tuition
- $8,305
Peer median tuition + room and board $47,329 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 67% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 40%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$58.1M
Expenses$28.5M
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 NAIA · Appalachian Athletic Conference
Appalachian Athletic Conference: basketball, baseball
| NAIA Division II | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 36 | 24 |
| Basketball | 29 | 29 |
| Baseball | 42 | - |
| Volleyball | - | 27 |
| Softball | - | 26 |
| Tennis | 11 | 11 |
| Golf | 7 | - |
| NAIA Division II | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 30 | 28 |
| Basketball | 30 | 26 |
| Baseball | 55 | - |
| Volleyball | - | 26 |
| Softball | - | 25 |
| Tennis | 12 | 11 |
| NAIA Division II | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 28 | 25 |
| Baseball | 48 | - |
| Basketball | 24 | 15 |
| Softball | - | 23 |
| Volleyball | - | 21 |
| Tennis | 11 | 8 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
The University of Tennessee-KnoxvilleKnoxville · 9.9 mi
U.S. News #109
-
Tennessee Technological UniversityCookeville · 99.3 mi
U.S. News #299
-
Clemson UniversityClemson · 101.1 mi
U.S. News #80
-
Furman UniversityGreenville · 101.6 mi
Liberal Arts #57
-
Berea CollegeBerea · 116.9 mi
Liberal Arts #62
-
Wofford CollegeSpartanburg · 122.6 mi
Liberal Arts #68
-
Centre CollegeDanville · 131.1 mi
Liberal Arts #54
-
The University of the SouthSewanee · 132.0 mi
Liberal Arts #49
-
University of GeorgiaAthens · 138.5 mi
U.S. News #52
Data insights
Here are some notable schools near Johnson University:
-
The University of Tennessee-Knoxville - Ranked 105 in the 2024 US News, this comprehensive university is known for its strong research programs and vibrant campus life.
-
Emory University - With a rank of 24, Emory is a prestigious comprehensive university located in Atlanta, offering a range of undergraduate and graduate programs with a strong emphasis on research and community service.
-
Clemson University - Ranked 86, Clemson is a comprehensive university in South Carolina, recognized for its engineering, business, and agricultural programs.
-
Berea College - With a rank of 30, Berea College is a liberal arts college that provides a unique tuition-free education model, emphasizing work-study and community service.
-
Davidson College - Ranked 16, Davidson is a highly respected liberal arts college, known for its rigorous academic programs and strong commitment to the liberal arts education.
-
University of Georgia - This comprehensive university is ranked 47 and is known for its vibrant student life and diverse academic offerings.
These institutions represent a mix of comprehensive universities and liberal arts colleges, providing a range of educational opportunities 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 Rates at Johnson University
The crime statistics at Johnson University from 2013 to 2023 reveal significant fluctuations in the average number of incidents per 1,000 students. The data shows a peak in 2013 with an average of 9.43 incidents per 1,000 students, which dramatically dropped to just 0.97 in 2014. This sharp decline could indicate effective crime prevention measures or a change in reporting practices.
Over the following years, the crime rates remained relatively low, with averages below 3.00 for most of the period until 2022, when the university experienced another spike with an average of 9.98 incidents per 1,000 students. This resurgence raises concerns and warrants further investigation into the factors contributing to the increase, such as potential changes in campus culture, external influences, or variations in crime reporting.
The most recent data for 2023 indicates a crime rate of 6.18 per 1,000 students, suggesting that while the situation has not returned to the highs of 2013 or 2022, it remains above the average levels seen in the mid-2010s. Notably, incidents of gun-related arrests and drug-related offenses should be closely monitored, as they can significantly impact campus safety and community perceptions.
In conclusion, while Johnson University has experienced periods of both low and high crime rates, ongoing vigilance and effective crime prevention strategies will be essential to maintain a safe environment for students. Regular assessments and adjustments to campus safety policies may help address any emerging trends in criminal behavior. For further insights on calculating crime rates, you can refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation.
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.