Carson-Newman University logo

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

A pioneering Christian university fostering truth, beauty, and goodness since 1851.

Carson-Newman University, a vibrant private Christian institution nestled in East Tennessee, has been a beacon of higher education since its founding in 1851. Guided by its motto of "Truth, Beauty, Goodness," the university provides a comprehensive academic experience for its 2,735 students, fostering an environment where faith and learning intertwine. As one of the South's first coeducational institutions, Carson-Newman holds a unique place in history, dedicated to preparing students for lives of service and leadership.

The university's journey began as the Mossy Creek Missionary Baptist Seminary, growing from a local church classroom to a sprawling campus over a mile wide. Its transformation into Carson-Newman in 1889, through the union of Carson College and the women's Newman College, marked a progressive step towards inclusive education. Today, its commitment to academic excellence is reflected in its national rankings, including recognition by U.S. News & World Report and Washington Monthly, underscoring its robust educational programs.

Students at Carson-Newman benefit from a close-knit community and a campus that embraces both tradition and innovation. The university's strong affiliation with the Tennessee Baptist Convention shapes its identity, offering an education rooted in Christian values. Beyond academics, students can enjoy the scenic Allen and Phyllis Morgan East Campus, a revitalized wooded area along Mossy Creek, featuring a modern open-air amphitheater – spaces designed for community, reflection, and engagement. Under the leadership of President Charles Fowler, Carson-Newman continues its legacy of academic rigor and spiritual growth.

Key Highlights

  • Founded in 1851 as Mossy Creek Missionary Baptist Seminary, making it one of the oldest institutions in Tennessee.
  • Pioneering coeducational model, uniting Carson College and Newman College in 1889 as one of the first in the South.
  • A dedicated private Christian university, officially affiliated with the Tennessee Baptist Convention since 1919.
  • Recognized nationally with a U.S. News & World Report ranking and a Washington Monthly ranking.
  • A vibrant community serving 2,735 students, guided by the motto "Truth, Beauty, Goodness."
  • Campus enhancements include the Allen and Phyllis Morgan East Campus along Mossy Creek, featuring a 250-seat open-air amphitheater.

Timeline

1851
Established and chartered as Mossy Creek Missionary Baptist Seminary
1880
The institution was named Carson College
1889
Carson College and Newman College unite as Carson and Newman College, becoming one of the first coeducational institutions in the South
1919
Becomes officially affiliated with the Tennessee Baptist Convention
1927
Admitted to membership in the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
1941
The institution officially operates as Carson-Newman College
2012
Board of trustees votes to change the name to Carson-Newman University
2015
Receives a Title IX exemption to maintain its status as a private Christian institution
2019
Completes construction on a 250-seat open-air amphitheater on the East Campus
2019
Charles A. Fowler appointed as the 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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