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Southwestern University

Accept Rate
39.07%
Grad Rate
70.5%
Enrollment
1,454
Avg SAT
1269
Tuition
$51,058
Median Salary
$56,878
Overall Grade
C+
B
Academics
C
Value
B-
Admissions
A-
Diversity
C+
Campus
C
Aid

The Vibe Check

Southwestern University feels like a close-knit liberal arts community where students know their professors by name and collaboration is the norm. Set in a charming small town, the campus buzzes with creative energy and a strong sense of belonging. It’s a place where curiosity is encouraged and every student can find their niche.

Admissions

Acceptance Rate

39.07%
Selective

SAT Score Range

25th Pctlavg 126975th Pctl
11701340
40080012001600

ACT Score Range

25th Pctlavg 2875th Pctl
2430
1122436

Admissions Tips

Highlight your leadership and community involvement in your application, as Southwestern values engaged, well-rounded students. Consider optional interviews or alumni connections to show your genuine interest. Tailor your essay to how you’ll contribute to Southwestern’s collaborative culture and small-classroom environment.

Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard

🎯

Can I Get In?

Estimate your admission chances

3.5
1.02.03.04.0
1269
40080012001600
School range: 11701340

⚠️ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.

Academics & Majors

Southwestern shines in hands-on learning with standout programs in Business & Marketing, Social Sciences, and Visual & Performing Arts. Undergraduate research is woven into the curriculum, giving students real-world experience alongside supportive faculty mentors. The academic environment is rigorous yet accessible, emphasizing critical thinking and interdisciplinary projects.

Popular Majors

Business & Marketing
21.4%
Social Sciences
13.8%
Psychology
10.5%
Parks, Recreation & Fitness
9.8%
Biology & Biomedical
8.8%
Visual & Performing Arts
5.8%
Education
5.5%
Communications
5.3%
Physical Sciences
3.5%
Mathematics & Statistics
3%
Natural Resources
2.8%
English & Literature
2.5%

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

By The Numbers

70.5%
Graduation Rate
83%
Retention Rate
1,454
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
$51,058
In-state tuition/year
Avg Net Price
$27,468
After financial aid
Total Cost
$63,645
Cost of attendance/year
23.1%
Receive Pell Grants
43%
Federal Loan Rate

Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education

Life in Georgetown

Students enjoy Georgetown’s historic downtown with local cafes, live music, and weekend farmers markets. Outdoor activities abound at nearby Lake Georgetown and the San Gabriel River trails. Proximity to Austin means easy day trips for concerts, festivals, and internships.

Local Rent Check

$1,220 / month
Avg 1-Bedroom in Georgetown
Explore Georgetown

Reality Check

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

$204,232
$0Est. 4 Years: $204,232

Post-Grad Monthly Payment

$0/mo

Impact on Est. Salary ($56,878):

0.0% of net income

Safe Zone

Safety Check

Campus safety is a priority with 24/7 patrols, emergency call boxes, and a well-lit, compact campus. Georgetown is a low-crime, friendly city that adds an extra layer of security for students.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • High retention (83%) and strong graduation (70%) rates signal satisfied students and effective support.
  • No price difference for in-state vs. out-of-state tuition.
  • Robust undergraduate research and internship opportunities in business, arts, and sciences.
  • Personalized attention with small classes and accessible faculty.

Cons

  • High sticker tuition price before aid.
  • Smaller enrollment limits breadth of course offerings and niche majors.
  • Location in Georgetown may feel remote compared to larger college towns.

Notable Alumni

James F. Hood
Civil rights pioneer and attorney known for his role in integrating the University of Mississippi.
Bobby Collins
Former NFL player and successful businessman after his sports career.
Rebecca Bell
Notable leader in Texas nonprofit and education sectors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Southwestern is known for its strong liberal arts curriculum, emphasis on undergraduate research, and standout programs in Business & Marketing, Social Sciences, Psychology, Parks & Recreation, Biology, and Visual & Performing Arts. The university fosters close faculty mentorship and interdisciplinary collaboration. It’s also recognized for a vibrant arts scene and community engagement.

Admissions are selective with an acceptance rate of 39.07%. Typical admitted students have strong academics, with an average SAT around 1269. A well-rounded application that shows leadership, community involvement, and fit with Southwestern’s collaborative culture improves your chances.

Campus life is intimate and active, with 1,454 students fostering tight-knit communities and easy access to faculty. Students enjoy arts events, NCAA Division III athletics, outdoor activities near Lake Georgetown, and weekend trips to Austin. The residential campus culture encourages involvement in clubs, service, and undergraduate research.

With a sticker price of $51,058 but an average net price of $27,468 after aid, the cost can be manageable for many families. The 70% graduation rate and 10-year median earnings of $56,878 suggest a solid return on investment, particularly for students who leverage internships and alumni networks. The value is strongest for those who engage fully in research, leadership, and career development opportunities.

Similar Universities

Top Employers

Dell Technologies Samsung Austin Semiconductor Austin Independent School District St. David's HealthCare Texas State Government
Smart Start Score
70

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

University Facts

  • Founded N/A
  • Type Private
  • Setting Urban
  • Undergrad 1,524
  • In-State Tuition $51,058
  • Zip Code 78626

Gender Ratio

♂ 45.1% ♀ 54.9%

The Money Talk

At about $51K per year, Southwestern is a significant investment but the average net price of $27K reflects strong aid packages. With median 10-year earnings near $57K and a 70% graduation rate, the ROI is solid for a private liberal arts degree. Out-of-state students pay the same as in-state, adding value for families outside Texas.

*Based on Dept of Education data

⚖️ Compare Schools

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Compare with Illinois Wesleyan University

📍 Campus Location

📅 Typical Deadlines

Early Decision Nov 1
Early Action Nov 1–15
Regular Decision Jan 1–15
Transfer Mar 15
FAFSA Opens Oct 1
Check official deadlines →

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

🧮 Estimated Annual Budget

Tuition $51,058
Housing (12 mo) $14,640
Books & Supplies ~$1,200
Living Expenses ~$6,000
Estimated Total $72,898
With avg financial aid:
$27,468/yr
Data sourced from US Dept of Education College Scorecard, IPEDS, and Bureau of Labor Statistics. Last updated: Feb 2026.