South University?Savannah Online
Tuition per year
$17,895
$27,334 with room and board
Peer median $42,296
Undergraduates
6,439
Student-faculty ratio 30:1
Peer median 12 : 1
Graduation rate
4.5%
4-year; 6-year rate 5.6%
Peer median 55.4%
“Peers” are all 233 private doctoral universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
South University-Savannah Online is a prominent institution known for its commitment to providing quality education through flexible online programs. The university offers a variety of degree options, including undergraduate and graduate programs in fields such as business administration, healthcare, information technology, and criminal justice. This diversity in academic offerings allows students to tailor their education to meet their personal and professional goals. One of the key features of South University is its strong emphasis on practical, hands-on learning, which is integrated into its online curriculum, ensuring that students not only gain theoretical knowledge but also develop applicable skills for the workplace.
The university prides itself on fostering a supportive and inclusive learning environment. With a dedicated faculty who are experienced professionals in their respective fields, students receive personalized attention and guidance throughout their academic journey. Additionally, South University-Savannah Online promotes a vibrant online community where students can engage with peers and faculty through discussion forums and collaborative projects, enhancing their overall educational experience. The university's commitment to student success is reflected in its robust career services, which assist students in finding internships and job opportunities, ultimately leading to positive employment outcomes for graduates.
Analysis of Key Trends at South University-Savannah Online
The data from South University-Savannah Online reveals significant trends in tuition costs, student enrollment, graduation rates, and retention rates, which are critical indicators of the institution's performance and student experience.
Firstly, tuition expenses have seen a notable increase over the years. For instance, the in-state undergraduate tuition rose from $13,420 in 2017 to $16,560 in 2023, marking a drastic increase of approximately 23%. This trend in rising tuition can create barriers for potential students, especially in an era where student debt is a growing concern nationwide.
Secondly, student enrollment has fluctuated drastically. From a high of 11,470 undergraduates in 2013, enrollment dropped to just 3,488 in 2020 before showing signs of recovery to 5,738 in 2023. This decline could be attributed to various factors, including financial constraints due to rising tuition and perhaps the COVID-19 pandemic's impact on higher education. A fluctuating student base can also affect the institution's financial stability and resource allocation.
Graduation rates present another area of concern. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduates has remained alarmingly low, with figures dropping as low as 0.15% in 2019 and only slightly improving to 0.77% in 2023. Such low graduation rates signal potential issues in academic support and student engagement, which could lead to decreased institutional reputation and further affect enrollment.
Finally, retention rates, which indicate how well the university maintains its student body, have shown variability but improved from a low of 17.9% in 2017 to 32.9% in 2023. While this increase is positive, it still indicates that nearly two-thirds of students are not returning, which can adversely impact the university’s long-term viability.
In conclusion, South University-Savannah Online faces challenges that require strategic interventions to stabilize tuition growth, enhance student support systems, and improve graduation and retention rates. Addressing these issues is essential for fostering a more supportive educational environment that can attract and maintain students in the future.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Midsize city
- Nearest major city
- Charleston, about 90 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Savannah Hilton Head International Airport (SAV), about 10 mi
- Academic calendar
- Other
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Matthew Gavlik (Senior AVC for Student Success & Online Ops)
- Phone
- 8884443404
- Address
- 709 Mall Blvd, Savannah, GA 31406
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Family Practice Nurse/Nursing · Master's697 (0% international)
- Adult Health Nurse/Nursing · Master's86 (1% international)
- Health/Health Care Administration/Management · Master's72 (0% international)
- Nursing Practice · Doctoral45 (0% international)
- Business Administration and Management, General · Master's35 (0% international)
- Human Resources Management/Personnel Administration, General · Master's28 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data from South University-Savannah Online
The graduation data from South University-Savannah Online reveals significant insights into the distribution of degrees awarded across various fields in 2023. Notably, the medical and health-related programs demonstrate a strong emphasis, particularly in the master's degree category. For instance, the Family Practice Nurse/Nursing program awarded 503 master's degrees, showcasing the university's commitment to healthcare education amid growing demand in this sector.
Moreover, the presence of international students pursuing advanced degrees is notable, with two master's degrees conferred to international students in Nursing. This reflects the institution's global appeal and the increasing trend of international students seeking education in such critical fields.
In contrast, the data indicates a low number of bachelor's degrees awarded in fields like Criminal Justice and Psychology, with only 130 and 52 degrees, respectively. This could suggest a more competitive environment or a shift in student interest towards master's programs.
Additionally, the business and legal fields show a modest output in degrees, with nine doctoral graduates in Business Administration, indicating a niche yet growing interest in higher-level business education.
Overall, the data illustrates a robust focus on health-related education, which aligns with national trends emphasizing the need for healthcare professionals, particularly in the wake of recent global health challenges. The university's ability to attract both domestic and international students in these programs positions it favorably in the evolving educational landscape.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Health/Health Care Administration/Management. | $32,908-$53,376 | ||||
| Medical Administrative/Executive Assistant and Medical Secretary. | $32,908-$53,376 | ||||
| Medical/Clinical Assistant. | $42,087 | ||||
| Public Health, General. | $45,579 | ||||
| Nursing Education. | $90,102 | ||||
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $79,957-$108,337 | ||||
| Nursing Administration. | $79,957-$108,337 | ||||
| Adult Health Nurse/Nursing. | $79,957-$108,337 | ||||
| Family Practice Nurse/Nursing. | $79,957-$108,337 | ||||
| Nursing Practice. | $79,957-$108,337 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $47,785-$80,174 | ||||
| Organizational Leadership. | $47,785-$80,174 | ||||
| Accounting. | - | ||||
| Human Resources Management/Personnel Administration, General. | $52,776 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $37,532 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration. | $37,864-$41,959 | ||||
| Criminal Justice/Police Science. | $37,864-$41,959 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Legal Assistant/Paralegal. | $42,024 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Information Science/Studies. | $49,812-$58,114 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Public Administration. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Divinity/Ministry. | - |
Students
8,803 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 27:73 · Freshman retention 33.9%
- Continuing undergraduates 4,806
- First-year undergraduates 772
- Graduate students 2,364
- Transfers and others 861
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (6,439)
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at South University-Savannah Online in 2023
In 2023, South University-Savannah Online showcases a diverse student body, with a notable distribution among different categories of students. The largest group consists of undergraduate freshmen, totaling 711 students, with a significant female representation at 69.3%. This trend continues across the undergraduate upperclassmen and transfer students, where females constitute 79.7% and 74.4%, respectively. Such high enrollment of female students may reflect broader societal shifts towards increased female participation in higher education, aligning with national trends where women have outnumbered men in college enrollment for several years.
The graduate student population, comprising 1,969 individuals, also demonstrates a significant female majority at 80.3%. This indicates a growing trend of women pursuing advanced degrees, which is crucial for closing the gender gap in higher education and professional fields.
Examining the racial composition within these categories reveals a predominance of white students, particularly among undergraduates. White students constitute 31.4% of freshmen, 18.2% of upperclassmen, 23.8% of transfer students, and 13.0% of graduate students. The presence of diverse racial groups, including Asian, Latino, and African American students, is crucial for fostering a multicultural environment, enhancing the educational experience for all students.
Overall, the data suggests that South University-Savannah Online is not only attracting a diverse group of students but is also witnessing a significant trend of female students pursuing higher education, particularly in graduate programs. This evolving demographic landscape reflects both the university's efforts to promote inclusivity and the changing dynamics of higher education in the United States.
Analysis of Student Age Distribution at South University-Savannah Online
The age distribution of students at South University-Savannah Online reveals a diverse demographic, with a significant concentration of students in the 25-29 and 30-34 age brackets. In particular, the 25-29 age group represents the largest cohort, comprising approximately 31% of the total enrollment, followed closely by the 30-34 age group at around 25%. This trend aligns with the broader pattern observed in online education, where adult learners often seek flexible options to balance education with work and family commitments.
Interestingly, the enrollment of younger students, specifically those under 21, is relatively low, indicating a preference among older age groups for online education. The data shows that students aged 22-24 and 25-29 make up a substantial portion of the undergraduate population, suggesting that many are pursuing their degrees later in life after gaining work experience.
Moreover, the gender distribution also presents noteworthy insights. Female students dominate in most age categories, particularly among undergraduates aged 20-21 and 22-24, where they outnumber their male counterparts significantly. This trend emphasizes the increasing participation of women in higher education, reflecting broader societal changes and the push for gender equality in academia.
As the landscape of education continues to evolve, understanding the age and gender dynamics within student populations remains crucial. This data not only highlights the current composition of South University-Savannah Online but also serves as a reminder of the ongoing shift towards accommodating non-traditional students in higher education.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 233 private doctoral universities in the U.S.
6 in 2025 · 0.3% in 2016
10 in 2025 · 1.8% in 2016
Data insights
Declining International Student Enrollment at South University-Savannah Online
The data reveals a concerning trend regarding the enrollment of international students at South University-Savannah Online over the years. Starting with a respectable count of 278 undergraduate international students in 2012, the numbers have nosedived dramatically in subsequent years. By 2023, only three international students were enrolled in the undergraduate program, reflecting a significant decline in their proportion from 1.31% to a mere 0.05%.
The graduate program also shows a downward trajectory. From 33 international graduate students in 2012, the number has dwindled to just 11 in 2023, with a drop in the percentage of international students from 2.53% to 0.56%. This decline raises important questions about the university's attractiveness to international students, especially given the increasing global competition for higher education.
Several factors could be influencing this trend. The COVID-19 pandemic has undoubtedly affected international travel and student mobility, resulting in fewer international enrollments across many institutions. Additionally, changes in visa policies and the increasing costs of education in the United States could deter prospective students from applying.
At a time when many universities are striving to enhance their global presence and diversity, South University-Savannah Online must evaluate its strategies to attract and retain international students. A proactive approach focusing on support services, scholarship opportunities, and outreach programs could help reverse this troubling trend and reinstate the university as a favorable destination for international students.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$27,334
- Undergraduate tuition
- $17,895
- Room and board
- $9,439
- Graduate tuition
- $16,611
Peer median tuition + room and board $56,962 · all 233 private doctoral universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 23% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 12%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$137M
Expenses$96.2M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 233 private doctoral universities in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · EADA
No athlete data available for 2025.
No athlete data available for 2024.
No athlete data available for 2023.
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
University of North FloridaJacksonville · 121.7 mi
U.S. News #236
-
University of South Carolina-ColumbiaColumbia · 138.1 mi
U.S. News #121
-
Mercer UniversityMacon · 159.1 mi
U.S. News #148
-
University of FloridaGainesville · 178.5 mi
U.S. News #34
-
University of GeorgiaAthens · 188.6 mi
U.S. News #52
-
Wofford CollegeSpartanburg · 210.0 mi
Liberal Arts #68
-
Clemson UniversityClemson · 210.4 mi
U.S. News #80
-
Furman UniversityGreenville · 216.3 mi
Liberal Arts #57
-
Florida State UniversityTallahassee · 217.0 mi
U.S. News #59
Data insights
Here are some notable universities around South University-Savannah Online:
-
University of Florida - Ranked 28th in the 2024 US News rankings, this comprehensive university is known for its strong research programs and diverse academic offerings.
-
University of Georgia - With a ranking of 47, this comprehensive university is recognized for its vibrant campus life and commitment to research and public service.
-
Clemson University - Ranked 86th, Clemson is celebrated for its emphasis on engineering and technology alongside a commitment to student success.
-
Florida State University - This comprehensive university is ranked 53rd and is known for its strong programs in the arts and sciences, as well as its vibrant campus culture.
-
Emory University - A prestigious institution ranked 24th, Emory is renowned for its rigorous academic standards and a strong emphasis on research and community engagement.
-
Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus - Ranked 33rd, Georgia Tech is highly regarded for its engineering and technology programs, attracting students from around the globe.
These institutions provide a rich landscape of educational opportunities in various fields and are well-respected in the region.
Data insights
Analysis of Campus Crime Data at South University-Savannah Online
The crime data for South University-Savannah Online from 2013 to 2023 shows a consistent record with no reported incidents of crime or disciplinary actions across the years. This is a particularly noteworthy observation, as many institutions experience varying degrees of crime on campus. The absence of reported incidents suggests a potentially safe environment for students, which can be a significant draw for prospective enrollees.
Zero incidents in categories such as gun arrests, drug-related arrests, and alcohol-related arrests indicate effective safety protocols and possibly a strong community culture that discourages such behaviors. This could reflect well on the university’s efforts in maintaining a secure and supportive campus atmosphere. It is also essential to consider that while the figures are promising, they may require further investigation to ensure comprehensive reporting, as some institutions may have underreported incidents.
In comparison, many universities across the United States have faced challenges related to campus crime, with issues such as sexual assault and drug offenses frequently making headlines. The stark contrast in crime statistics can be indicative of the university's proactive measures in promoting student safety and well-being. Nevertheless, ongoing vigilance and engagement in crime prevention strategies remain crucial to uphold this status.
For those interested in understanding how crime rates are calculated, more information can be found at 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.