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American Baptist College

Grad Rate
27.3%
Enrollment
48
Tuition
$12,474
Median Salary
$41,216
Overall Grade
C
C
Academics
B
Value
C
Admissions
C
Diversity
C+
Campus
C
Aid

The Vibe Check

American Baptist College offers an intimate, close-knit community experience due to its extremely small enrollment of just 48 students. The campus feels like a supportive family where students receive personalized attention and spiritual guidance. It is a place of deep reflection and community, set within the bustling city of Nashville.

Academics & Majors

The college is nationally recognized for its strong programs in Theology and Public Administration, integrating faith with social action. With a tiny student body, the teaching quality is highly personalized, featuring seminar-style classes and direct mentorship from faculty. Research and experiential learning opportunities are deeply integrated into the curriculum, often focused on community service and ministry.

Popular Majors

Theology
66.7%
Public Administration
22.2%

Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education

By The Numbers

27.3%
Graduation Rate
80%
Retention Rate
48
Total Students

Return on Investment

Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)

Student Diversity

Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body

Financial Aid & Cost

Sticker Price
$12,474
In-state tuition/year
Avg Net Price
$19,294
After financial aid
Total Cost
$27,241
Cost of attendance/year
67.9%
Receive Pell Grants
66%
Federal Loan Rate

Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education

Life in Nashville-Davidson

Nashville offers a dynamic backdrop with its world-famous live music scene, diverse culinary options, and rich cultural history. Students can explore downtown attractions, visit museums, and enjoy the city's parks and recreational activities. The city provides endless opportunities for internships, volunteering, and entertainment.

Local Rent Check

$1,442 / month
Avg 1-Bedroom in Nashville-Davidson
Explore Nashville-Davidson

Reality Check

Can you afford this degree? Adjust the sliders to fit your actual situation (scholarships, savings, etc).

$49,896
$0Est. 4 Years: $49,896

Post-Grad Monthly Payment

$0/mo

Impact on Est. Salary ($41,216):

0.0% of net income

Safe Zone

Safety Check

The campus is located in a vibrant urban area of Nashville, and the college community maintains a supportive and watchful environment. Students should practice standard city safety precautions, such as being aware of their surroundings, especially at night.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • โœ“ Extremely low student-to-faculty ratio for personalized learning.
  • โœ“ Strong, focused programs in Theology and Public Administration.
  • โœ“ Affordable tuition for a private college education.
  • โœ“ Integration of faith and learning in a supportive community.

Cons

  • โœ— Very limited program offerings outside of theology and public administration.
  • โœ— Extremely small size may not suit students seeking a large, traditional college experience.
  • โœ— Graduation rate of 27.3% is significantly below the national average.

Notable Alumni

Dr. James A. Dunn
A prominent minister and professor known for his work in theological education and social justice.
Dr. Harold S. Truitt
An influential leader in the National Baptist Convention and a dedicated community advocate.
Dr. Frank A. Thomas
A nationally recognized preacher, author, and professor who has contributed significantly to homiletics.

Frequently Asked Questions

American Baptist College is known for its specialized, faith-based education focusing on Theology and Public Administration. It is a historically Black college with a mission to prepare students for ministry, social justice work, and community leadership. The college is recognized for its intimate learning environment and commitment to spiritual and personal development.

American Baptist College is not highly selective in terms of traditional metrics, with an open admissions policy that considers a high school diploma or equivalent. However, with an enrollment of only 48 students, spots are limited and the process is holistic. Applicants should demonstrate a strong alignment with the college's mission and values, as this is a key factor in the admissions decision.

Campus life is intimate and community-focused due to the very small student body, fostering close relationships among students and faculty. The urban setting in Nashville allows students to easily access the city's cultural and entertainment offerings. Spiritual growth is central, with regular chapel services, bible studies, and community service activities.

The value of a degree from American Baptist College depends heavily on the student's career goals. For those pursuing ministry or public service, the affordable tuition and specialized training provide a solid foundation. However, with a 10-year median earnings of $41,216, the financial return may be modest compared to the investment, so it is best suited for students driven by passion and mission over high income potential.

Similar Universities

Top Employers

Local Churches and Religious Organizations Non-Profit and Community Service Agencies Nashville Public Schools Metro Nashville Government Hospitals and Healthcare Chaplaincy Programs
Smart Start Score
52

Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.

University Facts

  • Founded N/A
  • Type Private
  • Setting Urban
  • Undergrad 51
  • In-State Tuition $12,474
  • Zip Code 37207

Gender Ratio

โ™‚ 62.5% โ™€ 37.5%

The Money Talk

With an average net price of $19,294 and tuition under $12,500, the college is relatively affordable compared to many private institutions. However, the 10-year median earnings of $41,216 are below the national average for college graduates, which suggests that the return on investment is more aligned with a career in ministry or public service than high-paying corporate fields. Prospective students should weigh the lower cost against potential earnings in their chosen field.

*Based on Dept of Education data

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๐Ÿ“ Campus Location

๐Ÿ“… Typical Deadlines

Early Decision Nov 1
Early Action Nov 1โ€“15
Regular Decision Jan 1โ€“15
Transfer Mar 15
FAFSA Opens Oct 1
Check official deadlines โ†’

Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.

๐Ÿงฎ Estimated Annual Budget

Tuition $12,474
Housing (12 mo) $17,304
Books & Supplies ~$1,200
Living Expenses ~$6,000
Estimated Total $36,978
With avg financial aid:
$19,294/yr
Data sourced from US Dept of Education College Scorecard, IPEDS, and Bureau of Labor Statistics. Last updated: Feb 2026.