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Cumberland University

Lebanon, TN

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

Wikipedia
1842
Founded
Private university
Type
2,053
Total Students
$16M
Endowment
(2021)
$28K
Tuition (In-State)
$28K
Tuition (Out-State)
$18K
Avg Net Price
67%
Acceptance Rate
47%
Graduation Rate
6-year
62%
Retention Rate
Master's Colleges & Universities
Classification
President: Paul C. Stumb IV

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

About Cumberland University

Cumberland University: A historic private institution nurturing leaders since 1842.

Cumberland University, a dynamic private institution established in 1842, stands as a testament to enduring educational legacy and innovation. With a vibrant student body of over 3,000, Cumberland offers a close-knit community feel while providing robust academic programs designed to prepare students for success in a rapidly changing world. It's a place where history meets contemporary learning, fostering an environment of intellectual growth and personal development.

Founded by the Cumberland Presbyterian Church, the university quickly made its mark on the educational landscape. A pivotal moment came in 1847 with the establishment of its renowned law school – the very first in Tennessee and west of the Appalachian Mountains, solidifying its place as a frontier of legal education. This pioneering spirit continued with the addition of a theology school in 1854. Over its long history, Cumberland has adapted and evolved, transitioning to a private, independent corporation in 1956 and reopening its College of Arts and Sciences, which for a time operated as a two-year junior college.

Today, Cumberland University prides itself on a rich academic tradition, offering a diverse range of programs. While its celebrated law school eventually transitioned to Samford University, the spirit of rigorous inquiry and professional preparation remains at the core of Cumberland's mission. Students at Cumberland benefit from a supportive learning environment, engaging faculty, and opportunities that extend beyond the classroom, ensuring a well-rounded and impactful college experience rooted in nearly two centuries of educational excellence.

Key Highlights

  • Founded in 1842, boasting nearly two centuries of educational legacy.
  • Home to 3,072 students, fostering a vibrant and supportive community.
  • Pioneered legal education in the South, establishing the first law school in Tennessee and west of the Appalachian Mountains in 1847.
  • Operates as a private, independent university.
  • Historically housed schools of art, law, and theology in its original William Strickland-designed building.

Timeline

1842
Founded by the Cumberland Presbyterian Church
1843
Received its Tennessee state charter
1847
Established the Cumberland School of Law, the first in Tennessee and west of the Appalachian Mountains
1854
School of theology was begun
1946
Tennessee Baptist Convention assumed control of the school
1951
Tennessee Baptist Convention closed the College of Arts and Sciences, operating only the School of Law
1956
Became a private, independent corporation; College of Arts and Sciences reopened as a two-year junior college
1962
Assets of the School of Law transferred to Howard College (now Samford University)
🏛️
184 Years
of Excellence

Schools & Colleges

2 notable schools within Cumberland University

⚖️

Cumberland School of Law

Established in 1847 as the first law school in Tennessee and the first west of the Appalachian Mountains. Its assets were transferred to Samford University in 1962, where it continues to operate.

✝️

School of Theology

Founded in 1854, it was an integral part of Cumberland University's early academic offerings.

Leadership

via Wikipedia
Paul C. Stumb IV
President
C. William McKee
Provost

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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