Stetson University
DeLand, FL
Quick Facts
Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education
About Stetson University
Stetson University: Florida's oldest private college, dedicated to "For God and Truth."
Stetson University stands as a beacon of academic excellence and historical significance in Florida, proudly holding the title of the state's oldest private college. Established in 1883, this vibrant institution was generously supported and eventually renamed in honor of hat maker and philanthropist John B. Stetson. With its picturesque main campus in DeLand spanning 185 acres and additional campuses in Gulfport and Tampa, Stetson offers a diverse and enriching environment.
What began as DeLand Academy, founded by Henry Addison DeLand, swiftly evolved through various names—DeLand College and DeLand University—before becoming John B. Stetson University in 1889. This transformation acknowledged the pivotal financial contributions of John B. Stetson, who, alongside DeLand, served as a founding trustee. This strong legacy of philanthropy and dedication laid the groundwork for a university deeply committed to its motto, "Pro Deo et Veritate" ("For God and Truth").
Stetson fosters intellectual growth across a broad spectrum of disciplines through its College of Arts and Sciences, School of Business Administration, School of Music, and College of Law. The School of Business Administration, founded in 1897, holds prestigious AACSB accreditation in both accounting and business, offering students highly customized fields of study. The School of Music, accredited since 1938, provides exceptional performance opportunities and degree paths in performance, education, theory, and composition, allowing students to seamlessly integrate music with other fields like business or pre-law.
Students at Stetson are part of a close-knit academic community dedicated to comprehensive learning and professional development. Whether pursuing advanced legal studies, engaging in diverse musical ensembles from symphony orchestra to opera, or crafting a unique business curriculum, Stetson encourages a holistic and personalized educational journey. The university's commitment to rigorous academics combined with a supportive campus atmosphere prepares graduates for successful careers and meaningful lives.
Key Highlights
- ✦Florida's oldest private college, established in 1883.
- ✦Endowment of $390.5 million (2024), demonstrating strong financial health.
- ✦Home to 3,670 students, including 2,339 undergraduates and 1,331 postgraduates.
- ✦Main campus spans 185 acres in DeLand, with additional campuses in Gulfport and Tampa.
- ✦Accreditation by SACS, AACSB (Business), and NASM (Music) ensures high academic standards.
- ✦Motto: "Pro Deo et Veritate" ("For God and Truth").
Timeline
Schools & Colleges
4 notable schools within Stetson University
College of Arts and Sciences
Offers undergraduate and graduate programs across a wide range of liberal arts and sciences disciplines.
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), providing students with customized fields of study.
School of Music
Accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music since 1938, offering diverse performance opportunities and degree options in performance, education, theory, and composition.
College of Law
Offers undergraduate, graduate, and professional legal programs for aspiring legal professionals.
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