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Private nonprofit, 4-year

Southwestern Assemblies of God University

Waxahachie, Texas · www.nelson.edu

中文

Acceptance rate

89.0%

2025

Peer median 77.9%

Tuition per year

$25,064

$34,662 with room and board

Peer median $34,392

Undergraduates

1,479

Student-faculty ratio 15:1

Peer median 13 : 1

Graduation rate

18.6%

4-year; 6-year rate 59.8%

Peer median 44.6%

“Peers” are all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).

About

Southwestern Assemblies of God University (SAGU) is a private Christian university located in Waxahachie, Texas. Established in 1943, SAGU has a rich heritage rooted in the Assemblies of God tradition, focusing on a holistic approach to education that integrates academic excellence with spiritual development. The university’s mission is to equip students for a life of service in the church and society, making it particularly appealing for those pursuing careers in ministry and related fields. The campus fosters a vibrant community where faith and learning intersect, providing a nurturing environment for personal and spiritual growth.

SAGU offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines, including theology, business, education, and the arts. The faculty is composed of experienced educators and leaders in their respective fields, dedicated to mentoring students and providing quality education. The university emphasizes practical experience alongside academic learning, with opportunities for internships and community service. The campus is equipped with modern facilities, including state-of-the-art classrooms, a library, and recreational areas that support a well-rounded student life. Additionally, SAGU boasts a strong athletic program, with numerous sports teams that encourage teamwork and physical fitness among students. Overall, Southwestern Assemblies of God University stands out for its commitment to academic rigor, spiritual growth, and community service, preparing graduates to make a meaningful impact in their professions and communities.

Analysis of Key Metrics at Southwestern Assemblies of God University

At Southwestern Assemblies of God University, several important metrics reveal trends that warrant discussion. Firstly, the graduation rates have shown a significant upward trajectory over the years. The on-time graduation rate has increased from approximately 22.9% in 2013 to 43.4% in 2023, indicating that the university has made notable improvements in helping students complete their degrees on schedule. This increase is encouraging, as it suggests enhanced academic support and effective retention strategies that may contribute to student success.

In terms of student retention, the university has also shown progress. The retention rate for undergraduates rose from 65.1% in 2013 to 76.6% in 2023. This increase reflects the institution's commitment to fostering a supportive environment that encourages students to remain enrolled and persist in their studies, which is vital for both academic performance and institutional reputation.

Another critical aspect is the fluctuation in student enrollment numbers. From a peak of 1,790 undergraduates in 2018, the numbers have steadily decreased to 1,491 by 2023. This decline could raise concerns about the university's appeal and competitive positioning in the higher education landscape, especially amid rising tuition costs. The tuition for in-state undergraduates has increased from $17,830 in 2014 to $17,782 in 2023, which, while showing some fluctuations, indicates a relatively stable fee structure amid a broader trend in rising educational costs.

Lastly, the student-to-faculty ratio has remained relatively stable, hovering around 16 to 21 students per faculty member over the years. Maintaining a low student-to-faculty ratio is essential for ensuring personalized attention and mentorship, which can be crucial for improving both retention and graduation rates.

In summary, while the university has demonstrated notable advancements in graduation and retention rates, the declining enrollment figures merit further investigation and strategic planning to enhance its attractiveness to prospective students.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Suburb of a large city
Nearest major city
Dallas, about 25 mi
Nearest international airport
Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), about 35 mi
Waxahachie, Texas
Also known as
SAGU
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Assemblies of God Church
President
Kermit Bridges (President)
Phone
8889377248
City
Waxahachie, Texas
Address
1200 Sycamore, Waxahachie, TX 75165

Rankings & Admission

Acceptance rate (%)

Peer median 77.9% · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Acceptance rate by gender, 2025

Men
86.9%
Women
92.3%

In 2020: men 84.5%, women 90.4%.

Data insights

Trends in Admission Rates and Enrollment at Southwestern Assemblies of God University

The admission data for Southwestern Assemblies of God University reveals significant fluctuations in acceptance rates and enrollment over the years. Notably, the acceptance rates for males and females have varied considerably, showcasing a trend that reflects broader shifts in higher education dynamics. In 2009, acceptance rates were exceptionally high, with nearly 97% for males and about 99% for females. However, as the years progressed, these rates dropped dramatically, reaching lows of approximately 29% for males and 21% for females by 2016 and 2017, respectively.
This decline corresponds with an increase in denial rates, which peaked in 2014 with over 1,340 rejections. Interestingly, the university seems to have rebounded in the recent years, with acceptance rates showing an upward trend again, reaching about 82% for males and 90% for females in 2023. The number of students enrolled has also fluctuated, reflecting the university's changing capacity to accommodate applicants.
This data indicates that Southwestern Assemblies of God University is experiencing a dynamic shift in its admission strategies, potentially influenced by external factors such as changing demographics, increased competition among institutions, and shifts in the job market that affect student choices. As the university continues to adapt, it will be crucial to monitor these trends to understand their implications for future enrollment and academic diversity.

Test Scores

2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 99% submitted SAT, 1% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT scores required for admission

SAT total890–1090Peer median 1158
SAT Reading
460–550
600700800
SAT Math
430–540
600700800

Data insights

Analysis of Admission Test Scores at Southwestern Assemblies of God University

The data from Southwestern Assemblies of God University reveals interesting trends in standardized test scores and submission rates over the years. Notably, from 2016 onward, there has been a gradual increase in both SAT and ACT submission rates, with the highest recorded submission rate reaching 58% in 2020. This trend suggests a growing awareness among prospective students of the importance of standardized tests in the admissions process.

The SAT reading and math scores have shown variability, with the 25th percentile scores fluctuating over the years. For instance, the 25th percentile for reading shifted from 400 in 2016 to 463 in 2023, indicating a possible increase in the academic caliber of admitted students. Similarly, the math scores followed an upward trajectory, reflecting enhanced performance among applicants.

Moreover, the data indicates that the percentage of students submitting SAT scores has remained relatively stable around the mid-40s to 50s. This consistency might reflect the university's outreach and recruitment strategies, which could be effectively encouraging students to submit their scores.

In the broader context of higher education, institutions are increasingly adopting test-optional policies, leading to a reconsideration of the role standardized tests play in admissions decisions. Southwestern Assemblies of God University appears to be maintaining its focus on these tests, potentially making it an appealing option for students who excel in them. Overall, the data underscores the importance of standardized test scores in shaping the admissions landscape at this institution, while also reflecting broader shifts in higher education admissions practices.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 9 in 10

656 applicants in 2025, 89.0% admitted

584 admitted 72 not admitted Yield 56.8%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Associate1722 international (1.2%)
Bachelor's2553 international (1.2%)
Master's800 international (0.0%)
Doctoral20 international (0.0%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Pastoral Counseling and Specialized Ministries, Other
52
General Studies
34
Business Administration and Management, General
31
Education, General
20
Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration
12
Sport and Fitness Administration/Management
12
Marketing/Marketing Management, General
10
Social Work
10
Cinematography and Film/Video Production
10
Human Services, General
10

U.S. studentsInternational

Popular graduate programs

  • Business Administration and Management, General · Master's15 (0% international)
  • Theological and Ministerial Studies, Other · Master's14 (0% international)
  • Counseling Psychology · Master's13 (0% international)
  • Organizational Leadership · Master's8 (0% international)
  • Divinity/Ministry · Master's8 (0% international)
  • Clinical Psychology · Master's6 (0% international)

Data insights

Analysis of Graduation Data from Southwestern Assemblies of God University

The graduation data for Southwestern Assemblies of God University reveals several noteworthy trends across various fields of study. Notably, the largest number of bachelor's degrees was awarded in Christian Studies, with 111 graduates. This trend underscores the university's strong emphasis on theological education, which is a hallmark of many religiously affiliated institutions. Additionally, the presence of a significant number of graduates in fields such as Pastoral Counseling and Organizational Leadership suggests a robust preparation for leadership roles within faith-based organizations.

On the other hand, the data indicates a minimal representation of international students, particularly in undergraduate programs, as none were reported for bachelor's degrees. This scarcity highlights potential barriers for international students in accessing theological education, which could be an area for the university to explore for future enrollment strategies.

Interestingly, the master's programs also show a focused output, with Counseling Psychology and Business Administration each producing a small but significant number of graduates. This reflects a growing demand for advanced degrees in applied fields, perhaps driven by the increasing complexity of societal needs in mental health and business management.

Moreover, while traditional fields like Education and Psychology continue to attract students, the graduation numbers suggest a potential saturation in these areas, prompting a need for the university to innovate and diversify its offerings. Overall, this data not only reflects the university’s mission to prepare leaders in ministry but also points to opportunities for growth and improvement in attracting a more diverse student body and expanding program offerings.

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

Theology has 148 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Bible/Biblical Studies.$34,733
Missions/Missionary Studies.-
Worship Ministry.-
Divinity/Ministry.$54,747
Theological and Ministerial Studies, Other.$54,747
Lay Ministry.$32,680
Pastoral Counseling and Specialized Ministries, Other.$32,680
Philosophy has 85 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Christian Studies.$40,078
Businesshas 71 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Business Administration and Management, General.$41,195-$51,260
Organizational Leadership.$41,195-$51,260
Accounting.-
Marketing/Marketing Management, General.-
Liberal arts has 44 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
General Studies.$46,711
Educationhas 33 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Education, General.$43,232-$45,828
Educational Administration and Supervision, Other.-
Counselor Education/School Counseling and Guidance Services.-
Early Childhood Education and Teaching.-
Teaching English as a Second or Foreign Language/ESL Language Instructor.-
Psychology has 29 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Psychology, General.-
Clinical Psychology.-
Counseling Psychology.-
Public administrationhas 23 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Human Services, General.$28,826
Community Organization and Advocacy.-
Social Work.-
English has 15 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
English Language and Literature, General.-
Parks, recreation, leisure has 12 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Sport and Fitness Administration/Management.-
Homeland security has 12 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration.-
Visual and Performing artshas 11 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Cinematography and Film/Video Production.-
Music, General.-
Health professionshas 8 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General.-
Mental Health Counseling/Counselor.-
Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions, Other.-
History has 7 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
History, General.-
Human science has 7 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Family and Community Services.-
Multi/inerdisciplinary studies has 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Ancient Studies/Civilization.-
Communication has 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Mass Communication/Media Studies.-

Students

1,794 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 51:49 · Freshman retention 75.2%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,479)

White
724 · 49.0%
Hispanic
428 · 28.9%
Black
171 · 11.6%
Two or more races
75 · 5.1%
Asian
16 · 1.1%
Unknown
16 · 1.1%
International
11 · 0.7%

Data insights

Demographic Insights at Southwestern Assemblies of God University

The student body at Southwestern Assemblies of God University for the year 2023 reflects a diverse and dynamic community. Among undergraduate freshmen, there are 300 students, with a notable male representation of 54% compared to 46% female. This slight male majority is consistent with trends seen in many institutions where male students often slightly outnumber female students in freshman classes.

In the undergraduate junior category, the total enrollment rises significantly to 990 students, with a balanced gender ratio. This suggests a healthy retention rate, as the number of juniors is substantially higher than that of freshmen. The gender distribution in this group is particularly interesting, with females making up 52.8%, indicating a shift towards greater female representation as students progress through their academic journey.

The undergraduate transfer students number 145, again showing a male majority at 57.9%. This could reflect broader societal trends where male students often take advantage of transfer opportunities at higher rates than females.

Graduate students, totaling 303, present a gender distribution that favors females at 54.8%. This shift towards female predominance in graduate studies mirrors national trends, where women have increasingly outperformed men in higher education enrollment and achievement.

Overall, the data reveals a university environment striving for inclusivity and balance, with variations in gender representation across different student categories. Such insights are crucial for understanding the educational landscape and can inform future initiatives aimed at enhancing student engagement and retention across diverse demographics.

Analysis of Student Age Demographics at Southwestern Assemblies of God University

The age distribution of students at Southwestern Assemblies of God University reveals significant insights into the demographics of its student body. The majority of students fall within the 18-24 age range, accounting for a substantial portion of the undergraduate population. Specifically, 243 male undergraduates and 230 female undergraduates belong to the 18-19 age group, while the 20-21 age group shows a slightly lower count with 197 male and 227 female undergraduates. This trend reflects a typical university demographic where younger students form the core of the population, likely due to the traditional pathway of entering university directly after high school.

Interestingly, the data shows a gradual decline in student numbers as age increases. For instance, only 144 males and 114 females are in the 22-24 age bracket, and the numbers continue to dwindle for older groups. This may suggest that fewer students are returning to education later in life, which could be influenced by various factors including career commitments or family responsibilities.

Moreover, the presence of mature students aged 30 and above, though limited, indicates a diverse learning environment where older students can engage with traditional-age peers. The gender distribution across age categories also suggests that while the university has a relatively balanced male-to-female ratio in younger cohorts, there is a noticeable increase in female representation among graduate students in older age categories, particularly in the 40-49 group.

Overall, the age dynamics at Southwestern Assemblies of God University illustrate a predominantly young student body, with noteworthy representation from mature students, enriching the academic experience through varied perspectives.

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.

Undergraduates0.7%

11 in 2025 · 0.3% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 0.3%2017: 0.6%2018: 0.6%2019: 1.1%2020: 1.2%2021: 0.9%2022: 0.9%2023: 0.9%2024: 1.2%2025: 0.7%
2016Peer median 2.6%2025
Graduate students0.0%

0 in 2025 · 0.6% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 0.6%2017: 1.0%2018: 0.5%2019: 0.7%2020: 0.3%2021: 0.3%2022: 0.3%2023: 0.0%2024: 0.0%2025: 0.0%
2016Peer median 2.2%2025

Data insights

Trends in International Student Enrollment at Southwestern Assemblies of God University

The data on international student enrollment at Southwestern Assemblies of God University reveals a fluctuating trend over the years, particularly within undergraduate and graduate programs. From 2004 to 2023, the percentage of international students among undergraduates has seen a gradual decline, from 0.94% in 2004 to 0.94% in 2023, with notable dips in the years 2014, 2015, and beyond. This downward trend could reflect various factors, including increased competition from other institutions, changes in immigration policies, and the global impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which significantly affected international travel and education.

In contrast, the graduate program's international student representation has also experienced variability, with a peak of 4.39% in 2006 to a troubling low of 0.27% in 2020. This drastic drop in 2020 may highlight the pandemic's impact, as many prospective students faced travel restrictions and safety concerns. The subsequent years show a continued struggle to attract graduate international students, as indicated by the low percentages recorded in 2021 and 2022.

Overall, the data suggests that Southwestern Assemblies of God University may need to reassess its recruitment strategies and support systems for international students to bolster enrollment. Given the increasing globalization of education, enhancing the university's appeal to international students could be crucial for its diversity and academic richness in the coming years.

Cost

2025 cost per year

$34,662

Undergraduate tuition
$25,064
Room and board
$9,598
Graduate tuition
$9,602
Tuition and room and board over time

Peer median tuition + room and board $47,329 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Tuition rose 22% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 38%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$31.8M

Tuition and fees
$14.8M46.6%
Auxiliary enterprises
$7.1M22.3%
Gifts and private grants
$6.6M20.8%
Investment return
$2.1M6.6%
Other
$1.1M3.6%

Expenses$35.2M

Instruction
$13.0M37.1%
Institutional support
$7.1M20.3%
Auxiliary enterprises
$5.2M14.9%
Student services
$5.1M14.4%
Academic support
$3.3M9.5%
Other
$1.4M3.9%

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.

All faculty
$59,191peers $68,006
Professor
$63,908peers $78,041
Associate professor
$65,248peers $70,202
Assistant professor
$57,794peers $63,827
Instructor
$48,689peers $55,171

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NAIA · NCCAA · Sooner Athletic Conference

Sooner Athletic Conference: football, basketball, baseball, cross country

2025
NAIA Division I MENWOMEN
Football114-
Soccer6235
Baseball91-
Basketball4929
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)1723
Softball-31
Volleyball-25
2024
NAIA Division IMENWOMEN
Football103-
Baseball81-
Basketball4624
Soccer4128
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)3826
Volleyball-26
Softball-25
2023
NAIA Division IMENWOMEN
Football132-
Baseball79-
Basketball4730
Soccer2632
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)3720
Softball-30
Volleyball-22

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable universities nearby Southwestern Assemblies of God University:

  1. The University of Texas at Arlington - Ranked 236 in the 2024 US News, this comprehensive university offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs.

  2. Southern Methodist University - With a ranking of 89, SMU is a private university known for its strong emphasis on research and academics.

  3. Texas Christian University - Ranked 98, TCU is a private university that offers a liberal arts education with a Christian perspective.

  4. The University of Texas at Dallas - This university is ranked 115 and is known for its focus on science, engineering, and business programs.

  5. Texas A & M University-College Station - A highly regarded institution ranked 47, Texas A&M offers a wide array of degree programs and is known for its research contributions.

  6. Rice University - As one of the top universities in the nation, ranked 17, Rice is a private university known for its rigorous academics and small class sizes.

  7. University of Houston - Ranked 133, UH is a comprehensive public research university with a diverse student body and extensive academic offerings.

These institutions represent a mix of public and private universities, each contributing to a vibrant academic environment in Texas.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

Peer median 4.0 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Incidents, 2023–2025

Liquor referrals
19
Drug referrals
17
Motor vehicle theft
2
Residence hall fires
1

From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.

Data insights

Analysis of Crime Rates at Southwestern Assemblies of God University

The data on crime rates at Southwestern Assemblies of God University over the years reveals some interesting trends. Beginning in 2013, the average number of incidents per 1,000 students has fluctuated significantly. Notably, 2017 recorded the highest crime rate at 7.12 per 1,000 students, which raises concerns about campus safety during that year. Conversely, the year 2023 saw a drop to 1.56, indicating a substantial improvement in campus security and student safety.

The predominant types of offenses reported include drug arrests and alcohol-related incidents, which are common in many university settings. The consistent presence of these issues highlights the ongoing challenges universities face in addressing substance use among students. While the number of gun-related arrests remained low, the absence of incidents related to violent crimes such as murder and rape is a positive sign for campus safety.

It is essential for university administrations to continue developing effective prevention programs and support systems to further reduce these rates. The fluctuations in crime rates could be attributed to various factors, including changes in campus policies, increased awareness, and reporting practices.

Overall, while the data shows a trend towards improvement in recent years, it remains crucial for the university community to remain vigilant and proactive in maintaining a safe environment for all students. For more details on crime rate calculations, 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.