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Stetson University

DeLand, FL

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

2,292
Total Students
$55K
Tuition (In-State)
$55K
Tuition (Out-State)
$21K
Avg Net Price
86%
Acceptance Rate
63%
Graduation Rate
6-year
73%
Retention Rate
Master's Colleges & Universities
Classification

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

About Stetson University

Florida's oldest private college, blending rich history with innovative academics.

Stetson University stands as a beacon of academic excellence and Florida's oldest private college, established in 1883. Renamed to honor the generous hat maker and philanthropist John B. Stetson, this historic institution offers a vibrant and comprehensive educational experience. With a motto "Pro Deo et Veritate" ("For God and Truth"), Stetson fosters an environment where intellectual curiosity and personal growth thrive, attracting students seeking a distinguished and engaging academic journey.

Stetson's academic landscape is robust, featuring the College of Arts and Sciences, a highly regarded School of Business Administration, a dynamic School of Music, and a prestigious College of Law. The School of Business Administration, founded in 1897, holds the esteemed AACSB accreditation in both accounting and business, allowing students to tailor their studies with customized fields. Meanwhile, the School of Music, accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music since 1938, offers extensive performance opportunities from orchestra to opera, alongside diverse degree paths.

Tracing its roots back to DeLand Academy, Stetson's evolution reflects a rich legacy of philanthropy and academic dedication. The university's main campus spans a picturesque 175 acres in DeLand, Florida, complemented by additional campuses in Gulfport and Tampa. This intimate "small city" campus environment fosters a close-knit community while providing access to broader regional opportunities, ensuring a well-rounded student experience for its 3,670 students, including over 2,300 undergraduates.

Key Highlights

  • Florida's oldest private college, established in 1883.
  • Endowed with $390.5 million (2024), demonstrating strong financial health.
  • Home to 3,670 students (2,339 undergraduates), fostering a personalized learning environment.
  • Main campus spans 175 acres in DeLand, with additional campuses in Gulfport and Tampa.
  • School of Business Administration holds prestigious AACSB accreditation in both accounting and business.
  • School of Music has been accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music since 1938, offering diverse performance and study options.
  • Named after hat maker and philanthropist John B. Stetson, a founding benefactor.

Timeline

1883
Established as DeLand Academy.
1885
Renamed DeLand College.
1886
Renamed DeLand University.
1887
Incorporated as DeLand University.
1889
Name changed to John B. Stetson University to honor John B. Stetson.
1904
Lincoln Hulley began his presidency.
1938
School of Music achieved accreditation from the National Association of Schools of Music.
1994
John B. Stetson University officially became Stetson University.
1995
Ended its affiliation with the Florida Baptist Convention.

Schools & Colleges

4 notable schools within Stetson University

🎭

College of Arts and Sciences

Offers undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs as a core academic division within the university.

💼

School of Business Administration

Founded in 1897, it is accredited in both accounting and business by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) and offers customized fields of study.

🏫

School of Music

An accredited member of the National Association of Schools of Music since 1938, providing extensive performance opportunities (symphony orchestra, opera, jazz) and degree options in performance, education, theory, and composition.

⚖️

College of Law

Offers professional programs as part of the university's comprehensive academic structure, with additional campuses in Gulfport and Tampa.

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