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King University

Bristol, TN

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

Ecclesiae et Litteris (Latin)(For the Church and For Learning)

Private university
Type
975
Total Students
$40M
Endowment
(2025)
$35K
Tuition (In-State)
$35K
Tuition (Out-State)
$24K
Avg Net Price
54%
Acceptance Rate
46%
Graduation Rate
6-year
60%
Retention Rate
Master's Colleges & Universities
Classification
President: W. Andrew Tooley

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

About King University

King University: Where Christian Heritage Meets Advanced Academic Growth.

King University stands as a testament to enduring educational values, rooted in its founding as a Christian college by the Holston Presbytery in 1866. Named in honor of Reverend James King, who generously donated the land for its original campus, King has a rich history of providing a distinctive learning environment. For generations, it has been a place where students are nurtured academically and spiritually, preparing them for impactful lives.

In a significant evolution of its mission, King College officially transitioned to King University in June 2013. This name change wasn't merely cosmetic; it reflected a strategic and comprehensive expansion of its academic offerings. The university had grown to achieve a master's-level benchmark, broadening its mix of programs to meet the demands of a changing world and providing more advanced opportunities for its students.

This commitment to academic excellence culminated in December 2013, when King University was granted a prestigious Level V designation by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). This critical recognition paved the way for King to introduce its first doctoral program, a Doctorate of Nursing Practice, in the Fall of 2014. Prospective students and their families can be confident in King University's dedication to robust, high-quality education, blending its historical faith-based foundation with forward-thinking academic innovation.

Key Highlights

  • A private, Christian university founded in 1866 by the Holston Presbytery.
  • Serves 1,357 students, fostering a close-knit and supportive academic community.
  • Motto: "Ecclesiae et Litteris" (For the Church and for Letters), reflecting its dual commitment.
  • Officially transformed from King College to King University on June 1, 2013, signifying expanded academic programs.
  • Achieved SACSCOC Level V designation in December 2013, authorizing doctoral-level education.
  • Launched its first doctoral program, a Doctorate of Nursing Practice, in Fall 2014, showcasing advanced academic offerings.

Timeline

1866
Holston Presbytery established a Christian college, named after Reverend James King.
1867
First classes were offered to students.
1917
The college moved to its present 25-acre campus on a hillside east of Bristol.
2013
January: King College announced its intention to change its name to King University.
2013
June 1: King College officially became King University.
2013
December: King University was granted a Level V designation by SACSCOC.
2014
Fall: Began its first doctoral program, a Doctorate of Nursing Practice.

Leadership

W. Andrew Tooley
President

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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