Hardin-Simmons University
The Vibe Check
Hardin-Simmons University offers a close-knit, faith-based community where students are known by name and supported personally. The campus feels like a traditional, welcoming family, with a strong emphasis on character development and spiritual growth alongside academics. It's a place where you'll find a balance of spirited school pride and a calm, manageable urban setting.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
ACT Score Range
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
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Academics & Majors
Academic life at HSU is centered on small class sizes and accessible, dedicated faculty who prioritize teaching over research. The university has strong programs in business, health professions, and education, often integrating practical experience and faith-based perspectives. While research opportunities exist, they are typically undergraduate-focused and faculty-led.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Abilene
Located in Abilene, student life is a mix of campus activities and exploring the city's growing arts and music scene. Students often enjoy local restaurants in the historic downtown, outdoor activities at nearby Abilene State Park, and major events like the West Texas Fair & Rodeo. The city offers a manageable size with the amenities of a larger town, including concerts, museums, and local shops.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($54,771):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
HSU maintains a safe campus environment with its own campus police force and a supportive community watch culture. Abilene is generally considered a safe city with a low violent crime rate, though standard urban precautions are still wise.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ High acceptance rate (96.53%) makes it an accessible private school option.
- ✓ Same tuition for in-state and out-of-state students ($31,686), simplifying costs.
- ✓ Strong sense of community with small class sizes and personalized attention.
- ✓ Solid programs in high-demand fields like Health Professions, Business, and Education.
Cons
- ✗ Graduation rate of 53.4% is lower than the national average, which may be a concern for student persistence.
- ✗ Retention rate of 65.3% suggests some students transfer or leave after their first year.
- ✗ The urban setting of Abilene may feel isolated for students seeking a major metropolitan experience.
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
Hardin-Simmons University is known for its strong Baptist heritage and commitment to faith-based education. It has notable strengths in business, health professions (including nursing), education, and the celebrated Moo School of Music. The university is also recognized for its close-knit community and personalized student-faculty relationships.
No, Hardin-Simmons University is not highly selective. With an acceptance rate of 96.53%, it is considered a less competitive institution. The average SAT score for admitted students is around 1064, but the school is test-optional, meaning you can be a strong applicant with a good GPA even without submitting test scores.
Campus life is centered around a strong sense of community and Christian values. With a small enrollment of around 1,275 students, you'll find a tight-knit atmosphere where it's easy to get involved in organizations, intramural sports, and chapel services. Life in Abilene is relaxed, with students enjoying campus events, local coffee shops, and outdoor activities in the West Texas landscape.
For many students, Hardin-Simmons can be a worthwhile investment. The average net price of $21,031 is significantly lower than the sticker price, and the 10-year median graduate earnings of $54,771 provide a reasonable return. Given the accessible admissions and strong programs in practical fields like health and business, it offers good value for a private university education, especially for those who benefit from its aid packages.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Private
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 1,440
- In-State Tuition $31,686
- Zip Code 79698
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With an average net price of $21,031 and tuition rates that are the same for in-state and out-of-state students, HSU presents a more affordable private university option. The 10-year median earnings of $54,771 for graduates offer a solid return on investment, especially when weighed against the lower net cost compared to many private institutions. For students utilizing the 38.4% Pell Grant rate and other aid, the value proposition is strong for a private degree in Texas.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.