Union University logo

Union University

Jackson, TN Private ยท Urban www.uu.edu
Accept Rate
47.18%
Grad Rate
68.8%
Enrollment
1,637
Avg SAT
1243
Tuition
$38,450
Median Salary
$53,990
Overall Grade
C
B
Academics
C
Value
B-
Admissions
C
Diversity
C+
Campus
C
Aid

The Vibe Check

Union University offers a tight-knit, faith-centered community where students feel known and supported on a picturesque urban campus. There's a palpable sense of purpose and connection, blending rigorous academics with a strong commitment to Christian values.

Admissions

Acceptance Rate

47.18%
Selective

SAT Score Range

25th Pctlavg 124375th Pctl
10301340
40080012001600

ACT Score Range

25th Pctlavg 2775th Pctl
2229
1122436

Admissions Tips

Highlight your leadership and service experiences in your application, as Union values character and community involvement alongside academics. Aim for an SAT score around the 1243 average to be competitive, and consider applying early for priority scholarship consideration. Clearly articulate how your faith and values align with Union's Christian mission in your essays.

Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard

๐ŸŽฏ

Can I Get In?

Estimate your admission chances

3.5
1.02.03.04.0
1243
40080012001600
School range: 1030โ€“1340

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

Academics & Majors

Academic strengths are anchored in high-demand fields like Health Professions, Business, and Biology, supported by a low student-faculty ratio that fosters personalized teaching. Students engage in hands-on learning and research opportunities, particularly in the sciences and pre-professional programs, preparing them for graduate studies and careers.

Popular Majors

Health Professions
28.2%
Business & Marketing
13.8%
Biology & Biomedical
8.3%
Public Administration
5.7%
Theology
5.3%
Education
4.6%
Visual & Performing Arts
4.4%
Psychology
4.1%
Social Sciences
3.2%
Engineering
2.3%
Parks, Recreation & Fitness
2.3%
Foreign Languages
2.3%

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

By The Numbers

68.8%
Graduation Rate
86.9%
Retention Rate
1,637
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
$38,450
In-state tuition/year
Avg Net Price
$26,815
After financial aid
Total Cost
$55,790
Cost of attendance/year
25.2%
Receive Pell Grants
47%
Federal Loan Rate

Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education

Life in Jackson

Students enjoy a mix of outdoor activities at nearby parks like Cypress Grove and cultural events at the Jackson Theatre. For fun, they frequent local cafes, attend live music at the Amp, and participate in community festivals. The city's slower pace allows for meaningful off-campus involvement and weekend trips to Nashville or Memphis.

Local Rent Check

$866 / month
Avg 1-Bedroom in Jackson
Explore Jackson

Reality Check

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

$153,800
$0Est. 4 Years: $153,800

Post-Grad Monthly Payment

$0/mo

Impact on Est. Salary ($53,990):

0.0% of net income

Safe Zone

Safety Check

The campus is generally considered safe with dedicated campus security and well-lit pathways. Jackson's urban setting requires standard precautions, but the university actively promotes a secure environment through community watch programs.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • โœ“ Strong emphasis on faith integration across all programs
  • โœ“ High retention and graduation rates indicate supportive environment
  • โœ“ Prime location for health sciences internships in Jackson area
  • โœ“ Robust scholarship opportunities for qualifying students

Cons

  • โœ— Tuition is high for a private university without major endowment
  • โœ— Jackson's urban setting may lack the vibrancy of larger college towns
  • โœ— Limited diversity compared to larger public institutions

Notable Alumni

Dr. David Cook
Former White House Director of Policy and current health policy expert
Mike Huckabee
Former Governor of Arkansas and prominent political commentator
Dr. Samuel W. "Walt" H. B.
Notable leader in Christian higher education and former university president

Frequently Asked Questions

Union University is known for its strong programs in Health Professions, Business, and Biology, integrated with a Christian worldview. It emphasizes a supportive, faith-based community and has high retention and graduation rates. The university also offers unique opportunities in areas like theology and education within an urban setting in Jackson, TN.

With an acceptance rate of 47.18%, Union University is moderately selective. The average SAT score is 1243, so applicants should aim to be near or above this benchmark. Strong academics combined with demonstrated leadership and alignment with the university's mission can improve chances of admission.

Campus life is characterized by a close-knit, faith-oriented community with numerous chapel services, Bible studies, and service opportunities. Students engage in a variety of clubs, athletics, and social events, fostering a balanced experience in Jackson's urban environment. The campus feels welcoming and purpose-driven, with a focus on personal growth and relationships.

The value depends on your career goals, but with a median 10-year earnings of $53,990 and strong programs in health and business, it can be a worthwhile investment. The average net price of $26,815 is lower than the sticker tuition, especially with financial aid, but it's essential to compare costs and ROI for your specific major. For those seeking a faith-integrated education with high support, it often pays off in career readiness and personal development.

Similar Universities

Top Employers

Regional One Health AutoZone Baptist Memorial Health Care Jackson-Madison County General Hospital First Tennessee Bank
Smart Start Score
63

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

University Facts

  • Founded N/A
  • Type Private
  • Setting Urban
  • Undergrad 2,133
  • In-State Tuition $38,450
  • Zip Code 38305

Gender Ratio

โ™‚ 35.9% โ™€ 64.1%

The Money Talk

With an average net price of $26,815 and similar in-state and out-of-state tuition, Union offers a moderate financial value for a private education. The 10-year median earnings of $53,990 suggest a solid return on investment, especially for graduates in high-demand fields like health professions. However, the cost is significant, so maximizing scholarships and grants is crucial for affordability.

*Based on Dept of Education data

โš–๏ธ Compare Schools

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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 $38,450
Housing (12 mo) $10,392
Books & Supplies ~$1,200
Living Expenses ~$6,000
Estimated Total $56,042
With avg financial aid:
$26,815/yr
Data sourced from US Dept of Education College Scorecard, IPEDS, and Bureau of Labor Statistics. Last updated: Feb 2026.