William Carey University
The Vibe Check
William Carey University offers a close-knit, faith-centered community where students feel like family rather than just a number. The campus feels supportive and personal, with small class sizes that encourage strong relationships with professors and peers. It is a place where Southern hospitality meets a commitment to service and leadership.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
ACT Score Range
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
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Academics & Majors
Carey is known for its strong programs in health professions, education, and business, with a focus on practical, career-ready skills. Teaching quality is high, with accessible professors who prioritize student mentorship over large lecture formats. While research opportunities exist, they are more focused on undergraduate involvement rather than large-scale graduate research.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Hattiesburg
Hattiesburg offers a vibrant college town experience with a mix of outdoor activities, local dining, and a growing arts scene. Students enjoy exploring the nearby Longleaf Trace for biking and walking, as well as attending local festivals and live music events downtown. The city’s relaxed Southern vibe provides a balance of fun and affordability for student life.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($43,087):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
The Hattiesburg campus is generally considered safe, with campus security present and a community-oriented atmosphere. While the city has typical urban concerns, the campus itself is a secure and welcoming environment for students.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Affordable private tuition with a flat rate for in-state and out-of-state students.
- ✓ Strong, career-focused programs in high-demand fields like Health Professions and Education.
- ✓ Small class sizes and a supportive, faith-based community.
- ✓ High retention rate (80.3%) indicating student satisfaction.
Cons
- ✗ Low graduation rate (41.3%) may be a concern for some prospective students.
- ✗ Urban setting of Hattiesburg may lack the traditional 'college town' feel of smaller cities.
- ✗ Limited research opportunities for undergraduates compared to larger research universities.
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
William Carey University is known for its strong programs in health professions (especially nursing), education, and business, all within a faith-based, Christian environment. It is also recognized for its affordability as a private institution and its focus on service and leadership development.
No, William Carey University is not highly selective, with an acceptance rate of 57.97%. The average SAT score for admitted students is around 1120, making it accessible for many applicants who meet the academic profile.
Campus life is community-focused and personal, with a variety of student organizations, intramural sports, and events centered on faith and service. The small enrollment of 1,818 students creates a tight-knit atmosphere where it's easy to get involved and build lasting relationships.
Yes, for many students, it is a good value. With an average net price of $17,052 and tuition at $14,685, it is significantly more affordable than many private universities. The 10-year median earnings of $43,087, particularly for graduates in high-demand fields like healthcare, suggest a solid return on investment.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Private
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 4,294
- In-State Tuition $14,685
- Zip Code 39401
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With a net price of $17,052 and tuition at $14,685 for all students, William Carey is a financially accessible option compared to many private universities. The 10-year median earnings of $43,087 suggest a solid return on investment, especially for in-demand fields like nursing and education. For students seeking a private education without overwhelming debt, this is a strong value proposition.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.