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Carson-Newman University

Jefferson City, TN

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

Truth, Beauty, Goodness

1851
Founded
Private university
Type
200 acres
Campus
1,374
Total Students
1,669
Undergrad
1,066
Graduate
$76M
Endowment
(2024)
$35K
Tuition (In-State)
$35K
Tuition (Out-State)
$19K
Avg Net Price
68%
Acceptance Rate
46%
Graduation Rate
6-year
74%
Retention Rate
Doctoral/Professional Universities
Classification
President: Charles Fowler

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

About Carson-Newman University

Carson-Newman: A pioneering coeducational Christian university rooted in Truth, Beauty, Goodness.

Nestled in Jefferson City, Tennessee, Carson-Newman University stands as a vibrant private Christian institution, guided by its enduring motto of "Truth, Beauty, Goodness." With approximately 2,735 students, Carson-Newman fosters a close-knit community dedicated to academic excellence and spiritual growth, preparing graduates to make a meaningful impact on the world.

The university's rich history traces back to 1851, when it was established as the Mossy Creek Missionary Baptist Seminary. It quickly evolved, becoming Carson College in 1880 and, in a landmark move for Southern education, united with Newman College in 1889 to form one of the region's first coeducational institutions. This commitment to inclusive education continued through its official affiliation with the Tennessee Baptist Convention in 1919 and its participation in the V-12 Navy College Training Program during World War II, contributing to national service. The institution officially became Carson-Newman University in 2012, reflecting its expanding academic reach and impact.

Academically, Carson-Newman is recognized for its commitment to quality, evidenced by its accreditation with the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools since 1927. It's nationally ranked, holding the 361st (tie) position among National Universities by U.S. News & World Report and 198th by Washington Monthly, underscoring its academic rigor. Beyond the classroom, students thrive in an engaging campus environment, which includes the revitalized Allen and Phyllis Morgan East Campus with its open-air amphitheater, offering unique spaces for learning and community life. Under the leadership of President Charles Fowler, Carson-Newman continues to inspire and equip students to lead lives of purpose.

Key Highlights

  • Founded in 1851 as Mossy Creek Missionary Baptist Seminary.
  • A trailblazer in Southern education, becoming one of the first coeducational institutions in the South in 1889.
  • Private Christian university guided by the motto: "Truth, Beauty, Goodness."
  • Home to approximately 2,735 students, fostering a close-knit academic community.
  • Nationally recognized, ranked 361st (tie) among National Universities by U.S. News & World Report and 198th by Washington Monthly.
  • Operates with a robust endowment of $0.1 billion, supporting its mission and programs.
  • Officially affiliated with the Tennessee Baptist Convention since 1919.

Timeline

1851
Established and chartered as Mossy Creek Missionary Baptist Seminary.
1880
Named Carson College for James Harvey Carson.
1889
Carson College and Newman College unite, becoming one of the first coeducational institutions in the South.
1919
Became officially affiliated with the Tennessee Baptist Convention.
1927
Admitted to membership in the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
WWII
Participated in the V-12 Navy College Training Program.
2012
Changed name from Carson-Newman College to Carson-Newman University.
2019
Charles A. Fowler appointed 23rd president of the university.
🏛️
175 Years
of Excellence

Leadership

Charles Fowler
President

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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