King University

King University stands as a vibrant private Christian institution rooted in a rich history of faith and intellectual pursuit. Evolving beyond its origins as a college, it has transformed into a comprehensive university, notably recognized for its master's-level offerings and pioneering doctoral programs. This dedication to advanced scholarship is underscored by its motto, "Ecclesiae et Litteris," signifying a commitment to both spiritual growth and academic excellence.

The university's journey began in April 1866 when the Holston Presbytery founded a Christian college in Bristol, Tennessee. Named in honor of the benevolent Reverend James King, who donated the initial 25 acres, it welcomed its first students in August 1867. As the institution flourished, a significant move to its current expansive hillside campus occurred in 1917, made possible by Reverend King's grandson, Isaac Anderson. This relocation marked an early chapter in its continuous growth.

A pivotal moment arrived in January 2013 with the announcement of its name change from King College to King University, officially taking effect on June 1, 2013. This transformation wasn't merely cosmetic; it reflected King's strategic evolution to a master's-level, comprehensive institution. The university's academic prowess was further affirmed in December 2013 when it received a Level V designation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), paving the way for its inaugural doctoral program—a Doctorate of Nursing Practice—which commenced in Fall 2014. This progression highlights King's commitment to providing advanced, career-focused education for its 1357 students.