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Bob Jones University

Greenville, SC

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

Wikipedia
Private university
Type
2,209
Total Students
2,477
Undergrad
416
Graduate
$21M
Endowment
(2024)
$23K
Tuition (In-State)
$23K
Tuition (Out-State)
$18K
Avg Net Price
70%
Graduation Rate
6-year
81%
Retention Rate
Master's Colleges & Universities
Classification
President: Bruce McAllister

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About Bob Jones University

A pioneering Christian university dedicated to faith-infused education since 1927.

Bob Jones University (BJU) stands as a testament to a unique vision for higher education, founded on a commitment to Christian principles. Established in 1927 by evangelist Bob Jones Sr., the university emerged from a deep concern over the secularization of learning, aiming to provide a rigorous academic experience firmly rooted in faith. Today, BJU continues its legacy as a private university in Greenville, South Carolina, known for its distinctive approach to education and spiritual development, attracting students seeking a comprehensive education aligned with conservative Christian values.

BJU's journey began with just 88 students in Florida, evolving through significant challenges, including a move to Tennessee amidst the Depression. Its relocation to Greenville, South Carolina, after World War II, marked a pivotal moment of expansion, transforming into a prominent institution. This period saw rapid growth, the establishment of its own radio stations, a film department, and an art gallery that houses one of the largest collections of religious art in the Western Hemisphere, showcasing its dedication to cultural enrichment alongside academics.

The university prides itself on fostering an environment where academic pursuit is interwoven with a strong spiritual foundation. Despite historical challenges and numerous leadership transitions, including the recent appointment of President Bruce McAllister, BJU has consistently adapted. Notable achievements include the reinstatement of intercollegiate athletics in 2011 and achieving significant accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools in 2017, affirming its academic rigor. With a student body of nearly 2,900, BJU offers an engaging and values-driven college experience for prospective students and families.

Key Highlights

  • Founded in 1927 by evangelist Bob Jones Sr., born from a vision for faith-based higher education.
  • Grew from an initial 88 students to a robust enrollment of nearly 2,900.
  • Home to one of the largest collections of religious art in the Western Hemisphere.
  • Reinstated intercollegiate athletics in 2011, enhancing student life and competitive spirit.
  • Achieved accreditation by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools in 2017, affirming its academic quality.
  • Operates its own AM (since 1949) and FM (since 1960) radio stations, WMUU.
  • Currently led by President Bruce McAllister, the seventh president in the university's history.

Timeline

1924
Bob Jones Sr. inspired to found a college amidst concerns about secularization of higher education.
1927
Bob Jones College opens in Lynn Haven, Florida, with 88 students.
1933
College moves to Cleveland, Tennessee, and ends participation in intercollegiate sports.
1947
Bob Jones Jr. becomes president; college moves to Greenville, South Carolina, and becomes Bob Jones University.
1949
University starts its AM radio station, WMUU.
1971
Bob Jones III becomes president at age 32.
2011
Reinstates intercollegiate athletics and becomes a member of TRACS.
2017
Regains federal tax exemption and granted accreditation by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
2024
Joshua Crockett elected the university's sixth president.
2025
Bruce McAllister named the seventh president of the university.

Leadership

via Wikipedia
David Fisher
Provost

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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