Southwestern Adventist University
Acceptance rate
78.4%
2025
Peer median 69.4%
Tuition per year
$25,380
$34,780 with room and board
Peer median $33,770
Undergraduates
758
Student-faculty ratio 12:1
Peer median 11 : 1
Graduation rate
27.9%
4-year; 6-year rate 50.0%
Peer median 45.1%
“Peers” are all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Southwestern Adventist University (SWAU) is a prestigious institution located in Keene, Texas, known for its commitment to holistic education grounded in Christian values. Established in 1893 by the Seventh-day Adventist Church, the university emphasizes the importance of integrating faith with academic pursuits. This philosophy is encapsulated in its motto, "Education for Eternity," which reflects the institution's mission to nurture not only intellectual growth but also spiritual development among its students.
SWAU boasts a vibrant campus culture that fosters community engagement and collaboration. The university offers a range of programs across various disciplines, including business, education, nursing, and theology, preparing graduates for meaningful careers and service-oriented lives. The dedicated faculty members, many of whom hold advanced degrees and have extensive professional experience, are committed to providing personalized attention to students, ensuring a supportive learning environment. In addition to academic excellence, Southwestern Adventist University promotes a healthy lifestyle through various sports and recreational activities, encouraging students to maintain physical well-being alongside their studies. With a strong focus on character development and community service, SWAU continues to produce graduates who are well-prepared to make a positive impact in their professions and communities worldwide.
Analysis of Key Metrics at Southwestern Adventist University
Southwestern Adventist University, a private institution, has shown notable trends in several key areas over the past decade. One of the most significant observations is the rising tuition costs. From 2014 to 2024, in-state undergraduate tuition has increased from approximately $18,640 to $24,588, marking a rise of over 32%. This increase can pose a financial burden on students and may influence enrollment numbers in the coming years.
Another critical metric is the graduation rate, which has experienced fluctuations. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduates dropped to about 25% in 2023, a concerning decline from approximately 39% in 2018. This decline may reflect challenges that students face during their studies, potentially linked to rising tuition costs and other financial pressures.
Retention rates, however, present a more positive picture. The retention rate for undergraduates has improved significantly, reaching around 79.2% in 2023, up from approximately 60.6% in 2013. This upward trend suggests that students are becoming more satisfied with their educational experience, which may mitigate the impact of rising costs on overall enrollment.
Additionally, the student-to-faculty ratio has remained consistent at around 12:1 over the years. A favorable student-to-faculty ratio is often associated with personalized attention and support for students, which can enhance the overall academic experience.
In summary, while rising tuition and fluctuating graduation rates present challenges for Southwestern Adventist University, the improved retention rates and stable student-to-faculty ratio may indicate a commitment to student support and success. Balancing these factors will be essential for the university as it navigates future challenges and opportunities in higher education.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Town near a city
- Nearest major city
- Dallas, about 45 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), about 40 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Seventh Day Adventist
- President
- Ana Patterson (President)
- Phone
- 8176453921
- Address
- 100 W Hillcrest, Keene, TX 76059
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 69.4% · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 56.4%, women 58.4%.
Data insights
Analysis of Admissions and Enrollment Trends at Southwestern Adventist University
The admission statistics for Southwestern Adventist University over the years reveal significant trends in both acceptance rates and enrollment figures. From 2009 to 2023, the data shows fluctuating acceptance rates for both male and female applicants, with male acceptance rates ranging from approximately 49.7% to over 98%. The most notable spike in male acceptance occurred in 2011, where the rate soared to about 98.3%, suggesting a possible shift in admission strategies or a reduction in the applicant pool that year.
Conversely, female acceptance rates have remained relatively stable, with a peak of around 66.5% in 2018, indicating a more consistent, albeit competitive, admission environment for women. Over the years, the total enrollment numbers have seen variability, with the highest being 172 students in 2014. However, the number of denied applicants has consistently outnumbered those admitted, peaking at 776 denials in 2017, which could reflect a growing interest in the university amidst limited capacity.
The overall trend indicates that while the university has experienced years of high rejection rates, it also demonstrates an ability to attract a diverse student body, evidenced by the relatively steady enrollment figures despite fluctuating acceptance rates. This data suggests that Southwestern Adventist University is navigating the complexities of higher education admissions effectively, maintaining its appeal while managing a competitive applicant pool. As the educational landscape continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how these trends develop in the coming years.
School and Program Rankings
U.S. News school and program rankings · Click a school to see its programs, and a program for its full ranking
Undergraduate Rankings · 2027 edition
Ranks in blue are top 10 · ▲▼ change from the previous edition · “—” means no overall ranking for that school · Medical schools are ranked in tiers since the 2025 edition
Test Scores
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 98% submitted SAT, 31% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Analysis of Southwestern Adventist University's Admission Scores
The admission data from Southwestern Adventist University over the years reveals interesting trends in student performance on standardized tests. The SAT reading and math scores have shown fluctuations, with the 25th percentile scores demonstrating a slight decline from 440 in 2007 to a more recent 460. The upper 75th percentile scores have also varied, reaching a peak of 610 in 2018, suggesting an increasing competitiveness among applicants during that period.
The percentage of students submitting SAT scores has varied significantly, peaking at 100% in 2007 and dropping to as low as 43% in 2022. This decline might indicate a shift in admissions strategies or a growing acceptance of alternative assessment methods, such as the ACT. Interestingly, the number of students submitting ACT scores has remained relatively stable, with participation hovering around 50% in recent years.
The overall competitiveness in admissions appears to be on the rise, as seen in the gradual increase of upper percentile scores and the consistent number of applicants. The institution’s ability to attract students with higher standardized test scores could be indicative of its growing reputation and the evolving landscape of higher education, where students are increasingly seeking institutions that align with their academic aspirations and career goals.
This data reflects broader trends in the higher education sector, where standardized test scores not only serve as metrics for admissions but also as indicators of institutional quality and student preparedness. As universities adapt to changing educational paradigms, it will be crucial for Southwestern Adventist University to continue evaluating its admissions processes to foster an inclusive and academically robust student body.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 8 in 10
758 applicants in 2025, 78.4% admitted
594 admitted 164 not admitted Yield 20.7%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Education, General · Master's6 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data from Southwestern Adventist University
The graduation data from Southwestern Adventist University for 2023 reveals several notable trends in various fields of study. Registered Nursing stands out as the leading program, with a total of 71 graduates, including 2 international students. This significant number highlights the growing demand for healthcare professionals, especially in nursing, which has been emphasized in recent times amid global health crises.
In the realm of business administration and management, there are multiple programs with a total of 10 graduates combined across three specializations. The presence of international students in these programs suggests that the university is attracting a diverse student body, likely due to its reputable business curriculum.
Interestingly, the psychology field shows a smaller number of graduates, with only 6 completing their bachelor's degree. This may indicate a competitive job market or a shift in student interest towards more lucrative fields such as healthcare and business. The absence of master's and doctorate graduates in psychology may also reflect the challenges faced by students pursuing advanced degrees in this area.
Another noteworthy point is the presence of international students, particularly in fields like business and nursing, suggesting that these areas are perceived as valuable for global career opportunities. The overall data indicates that while some traditional programs like education and the arts have fewer graduates, the university is effectively meeting the demands of the job market with its healthcare and business programs. This trend aligns with broader societal shifts towards prioritizing careers that promise stability and growth.
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 | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $76,786 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | - | ||
| Operations Management and Supervision. | - | ||
| Accounting. | - | ||
| Finance, General. | - | ||
| Marketing/Marketing Management, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Education, General. | - | ||
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | - | ||
| Music Teacher Education. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - | ||
| Biomedical Sciences, General. | - | ||
| Biochemistry. | - | ||
| Ecology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Theology/Theological Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | - | ||
| School Psychology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, General. | - | ||
| Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Radio and Television. | - | ||
| Digital Communication and Media/Multimedia. | - | ||
| Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Religion/Religious Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
Students
764 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 43:57 · Freshman retention 72.7%
- Continuing undergraduates 402
- First-year undergraduates 118
- Graduate students 6
- Transfers and others 238
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (758)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at Southwestern Adventist University in 2023
In 2023, Southwestern Adventist University showcases a diverse student body with notable gender and ethnic representation. Among the undergraduate freshmen, there are 125 students, with a gender distribution of approximately 44.8% male and 55.2% female, indicating a slight female majority. For the undergraduate upperclassmen, the numbers are more pronounced, with 501 students and a male representation of 39.9% compared to 60.1% female, emphasizing the trend of higher female enrollment in higher education institutions.
The undergraduate transfer students consist of 33 individuals, maintaining a similar gender balance as the freshmen, with 45.5% male and 54.5% female. The graduate student demographic appears to be smaller, with only 7 enrolled, and a gender distribution of 42.9% male to 57.1% female. This data suggests a consistent pattern of female students outnumbering their male counterparts across all levels of undergraduate and graduate studies.
Ethnic diversity also plays a significant role in the student composition. The majority of undergraduate freshmen identify as White, with a notable number of Latinx and Asian students. This reflects a broader trend in U.S. universities striving for inclusivity and representation among different racial and ethnic groups.
The overall statistics may also correlate with national higher education trends, where female students have been increasingly outpacing male students in college enrollment. As institutions adapt to these demographic shifts, it becomes essential to foster an inclusive environment that supports all students, regardless of gender or ethnicity, to ensure their academic success and personal growth.
Analysis of Student Age Composition at Southwestern Adventist University
The age composition data of students at Southwestern Adventist University reveals interesting trends that reflect broader societal changes in higher education. A significant portion of students falls under the age of 18 and between 18-19, with 59 male and 96 female students under 18, and 103 male and 132 female students aged 18-19. This indicates a robust influx of traditional college-age students, which aligns with national trends where younger students are increasingly enrolling in undergraduate programs.
As we progress through the age brackets, we observe a decline in the number of students, particularly among those aged 22-24 and older. The number of male students in the 22-24 age group drops to 39, while female students remain slightly higher at 80. This suggests that many students are completing their undergraduate degrees before entering the graduate programs, which may explain the absence of graduate students in the younger categories.
The data also highlights a notable gender disparity, with male students predominantly represented only in the under 18 and 18-19 categories, while female students maintain higher numbers across most age groups. This could reflect a growing trend of women pursuing higher education, as reported in various studies showing that women are now more likely to earn college degrees than men.
Moreover, the presence of older students is minimal, indicating that higher education institutions are still primarily attracting younger demographics. As the landscape of education continues to evolve, it will be crucial for universities to address the needs of non-traditional students, particularly in graduate programs, to ensure inclusivity and diversity in their academic environments.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
34 in 2025 · 13.5% in 2016
0 in 2025 · 27.3% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at Southwestern Adventist University
The data on international student enrollment at Southwestern Adventist University reveals significant fluctuations over nearly two decades. Between 2004 and 2023, the percentage of international undergraduates saw a peak in 2009 at 18.15%, while the lowest was recorded in 2019 with a mere 0.35%. This notable decline raises questions about the factors influencing enrollment, particularly in the context of global events such as the COVID-19 pandemic, which drastically affected international travel and education.
For graduate students, the proportion of international learners also exhibited variability, achieving its highest percentage of 54.55% in 2009. However, the data indicates a troubling trend from 2019 onward, with substantial drops in both enrollment and representation, culminating in 2022 where only 5.88% of graduate students were international.
These statistics suggest that Southwestern Adventist University may need to reassess its recruitment strategies and support systems for international students to reverse the downward trend. Given the increasing competition among universities to attract global talent, maintaining a robust international student body is crucial not only for cultural diversity but also for enhancing the overall educational experience.
Moreover, the shifting dynamics in international student enrollment reflect broader societal and economic trends, including immigration policies and the increasing preference for online education. As institutions navigate these challenges, adapting to the needs and concerns of prospective students will be essential for sustaining enrollment levels and fostering an inclusive academic environment.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$34,780
- Undergraduate tuition
- $25,380
- Room and board
- $9,400
- Graduate tuition
- $25,380
Peer median tuition + room and board $46,780 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose 24% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 27%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$28.7M
Expenses$23.9M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCCAA
| NCCAA Division II | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 25 | 21 |
| Basketball | 15 | 13 |
| Volleyball | - | 16 |
| NCCAA Division II | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 23 | 14 |
| Basketball | 13 | 9 |
| Volleyball | - | 14 |
| NCCAA Division II | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 17 | 14 |
| Basketball | 13 | 10 |
| Volleyball | - | 14 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Texas Christian UniversityFort Worth · 21.7 mi
U.S. News #90
-
University of Texas-ArlingtonArlington · 26.1 mi
U.S. News #236
-
Southern Methodist UniversityDallas · 44.2 mi
U.S. News #85
-
The University of Texas at DallasRichardson · 52.7 mi
U.S. News #121
-
University of North TexasDenton · 57.2 mi
U.S. News #208
-
Baylor UniversityWaco · 60.0 mi
U.S. News #90
-
Southwestern UniversityGeorgetown · 123.5 mi
Liberal Arts #91
-
Texas A & M University-College StationCollege Station · 136.1 mi
U.S. News #59
-
The University of Texas at AustinAustin · 148.1 mi
U.S. News #34
Data insights
Here are some notable universities near Southwestern Adventist University:
-
Texas Christian University - Ranked 98, TCU is a private university located in Fort Worth, Texas, known for its strong emphasis on liberal arts education and a commitment to academic excellence.
-
Southern Methodist University - With a rank of 89, SMU is a private research university in Dallas, Texas, recognized for its prestigious programs in business, law, and the arts.
-
The University of Texas at Arlington - Ranked 236, this public research university offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs in various fields.
-
Baylor University - Ranked 93, Baylor is a private Christian university in Waco, Texas, known for its strong academic programs and vibrant campus life.
-
The University of Texas at Austin - One of the top public universities in the nation, UT Austin is ranked 32 and offers a wide array of programs and research opportunities across various disciplines.
-
Rice University - A prestigious private university ranked 17, Rice is known for its strong emphasis on research and its excellent programs in science, engineering, and humanities.
These institutions offer a variety of academic programs and research opportunities, making them prominent choices for students in the region.
Peer median 8.9 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges 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 Southwestern Adventist University
The crime statistics from Southwestern Adventist University over the years present a mixed picture of campus safety. Notably, the data indicates a significant spike in crime rates in 2021, with an average of 11.94 incidents per 1,000 students. This is a stark contrast to previous years, where the crime rates were much lower. For instance, in 2014, the average was just 1.24 per 1,000 students, and in 2016, it was 1.27.
This upward trend in 2021 could be attributed to several factors, including the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which may have influenced student behavior and campus dynamics. The rise in crimes such as assault and domestic violence, which are critical issues on college campuses nationwide, raises concerns about the safety and well-being of students.
Interestingly, 2022 saw a decrease in crime rates, dropping to 5.87 per 1,000 students, suggesting that the university may have taken effective measures to address safety concerns. However, the data reveals fluctuations, with a notable increase again in 2019, indicating that ongoing efforts are needed to maintain a safe campus environment.
Overall, while the university shows commitment to ensuring student safety, the variations in crime rates highlight the need for continuous monitoring and proactive strategies to prevent crime and foster a secure community for all students. For further insights on crime rate calculations, please refer to this link: crime rate calculation method.
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.