The University of the South

Sewanee, TN

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

“Ecce quam bonum et quam iucundum habitare fratres in unum.”(Behold how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!)

1857

Founded

Private

Type

1,598

Total Students

1,695

Undergrad

Graduate

$518M

Endowment

(2025)

$54K

Tuition (In-State)

$54K

Tuition (Out-State)

$27K

Avg Net Price

51%

Acceptance Rate

82%

Graduation Rate

6-year

88%

Retention Rate

Baccalaureate Colleges

Classification

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

About The University of the South

A historic Episcopal university nestled in the South, blending rich tradition with robust liberal arts.

The University of the South, affectionately known as Sewanee, stands as a unique institution rooted deeply in Southern history and the Episcopal tradition. Founded in 1857 by a consortium of Southern Episcopal dioceses, its original vision was to establish a leading university free from Northern influences, set atop the picturesque Monteagle Mountain. While facing significant disruptions during the Civil War—including the destruction of its cornerstone—the university was passionately revitalized and has maintained continuous operations since 1866, with Bishop Charles Todd Quintard celebrated as its "Re-Founder."

Today, Sewanee is renowned for its strong liberal arts college and a distinguished School of Theology, upholding a commitment to academic excellence within a close-knit community. The university expanded its graduate offerings in 2006 with the establishment of its School of Letters, providing advanced studies in American Literature and Creative Writing. This rich academic environment is complemented by a vibrant campus life, fostering intellectual growth and spiritual development.

Beyond academics, Sewanee's identity is inextricably linked to its heritage. Its motto, "Ecce quam bonum et quam iucundum habitare fratres in unum" ("Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!"), reflects the strong sense of belonging and camaraderie that defines the student experience. With a substantial endowment of $0.5 billion, the university continues to honor its past while preparing students for future challenges, embodying a blend of tradition and forward-thinking education amidst its stunning natural setting. The university officially returned to "The University of the South" in 2016 after a period of using "Sewanee: The University of the South," affirming its enduring legacy.

Key Highlights

✦Founded in 1857 by ten Southern Episcopal dioceses.
✦Boasts an endowment of $0.5 billion, supporting its academic mission.
✦Home to a distinguished College, School of Theology, and School of Letters (offering MA in American Literature and MFA in Creative Writing).
✦Participated in the V-12 Navy College Training Program during World War II.
✦Located on Monteagle Mountain, chosen for its strategic railway access in the 19th century.
✦Embraces its motto: "Ecce quam bonum et quam iucundum habitare fratres in unum" (Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!).
✦Officially known as The University of the South, reflecting its unique historical identity.

Timeline

1830

Bishop James Otey of Tennessee leads effort to found an Episcopal seminary in the Deep South.

1857

Delegates from ten Southern Episcopal dioceses gather on Monteagle Mountain for the university's founding.

1858

The "Mountain Goat" railway spur to the mountain begins operation.

1860

Six-ton marble cornerstone consecrated by Bishop Leonidas Polk.

1863

Union soldiers blow up the cornerstone during the Civil War.

1866

Building resumes, marking the beginning of continuous operations; Bishop Charles Todd Quintard leads rebuilding efforts.

1868

First convocation held with nine students and four faculty members.

WWII

Participates in the V-12 Navy College Training Program.

2004

Institution begins styling itself as "Sewanee: The University of the South."

2006

Opens its School of Letters, offering graduate degrees in American Literature and Creative Writing.

2016

Reverts to using "The University of the South" as its official name on all correspondence.

🏛️

169 Years

of Excellence

Schools & Colleges

2 notable schools within The University of the South

✝️

School of Theology

A distinguished professional school within the Episcopal tradition.

🏫

School of Letters

Offers a Master of Arts in American Literature and a Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing, established in 2006.

Find Scholarships at The University of the South

Start Your Free Search