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Lipscomb University

Nashville, TN

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

"The Truth Shall Make You Free" – John 8:32

1891
Founded
Private university
Type
3,021
Total Students
2,955
Undergrad
1,749
Graduate
$132M
Endowment
(2025)
$39K
Tuition (In-State)
$39K
Tuition (Out-State)
$26K
Avg Net Price
67%
Acceptance Rate
69%
Graduation Rate
6-year
86%
Retention Rate
Doctoral/Professional Universities
Classification
President: Candice McQueen

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

About Lipscomb University

Lipscomb University: A Christ-centered education shaping students for purposeful lives since 1891.

Lipscomb University stands as a beacon of Christian higher education, committed to nurturing students within a liberal arts tradition while grounding them deeply in biblical principles. Established in 1891 by visionaries David Lipscomb and James A. Harding, the university, initially known as the Nashville Bible School, has evolved into a comprehensive institution deeply affiliated with the Churches of Christ. Its founding mission was to provide an extensive curriculum comparable to any in the nation, paired with thorough instruction in the Bible, preparing individuals for maximum usefulness in life, regardless of their chosen profession.

The university's rich history is marked by a steadfast dedication to its faith-based mission, reflected in its requirement for full-time, undergraduate faculty to be members of a Church of Christ. Over the decades, Lipscomb expanded its academic offerings, graduating its first senior class in 1948 and achieving accreditation in 1954. By 1988, it reached Level III status, granting master's degrees and officially becoming Lipscomb University, signifying its growth and expanded academic reach.

Today, Lipscomb provides a vibrant student experience rooted in its motto, "The Truth Shall Make You Free" – John 8:32. With a student body of 4,704, students benefit from a supportive community environment, engaging academics, and opportunities for spiritual and personal growth. The university continues to uphold its founders' vision of a holistic education that equips students not just with knowledge, but with wisdom and character for meaningful contributions to the world, led by President Candice McQueen.

Key Highlights

  • Founded in 1891, Lipscomb University is a private Christian institution affiliated with the Churches of Christ.
  • Serves a vibrant student body of 4,704 across various programs.
  • Operates with a substantial endowment of $0.1 billion, supporting its educational mission.
  • Achieved initial accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools in 1954.
  • Attained Level III (master's degree-granting) status and officially became Lipscomb University in 1988.
  • Guided by its inspirational motto: "The Truth Shall Make You Free" – John 8:32.
  • Led by President Candice McQueen, who took office in 2021.

Timeline

1891
Founded as the Nashville Bible School by David Lipscomb and James A. Harding.
1948
Graduated its first senior class.
1954
Granted initial accreditation by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
1988
Attained Level III (master's degree-granting) status and officially became Lipscomb University.
2020
Announced merger with Austin Graduate School of Theology (which later folded).
2021
Candice McQueen began her presidency.
🏛️
135 Years
of Excellence

Leadership

Jennifer W. Shewmaker
Provost

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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