Johnson University logo

Johnson University

Accept Rate
53.77%
Grad Rate
63.8%
Enrollment
703
Avg SAT
1072
Tuition
$20,318
Median Salary
$40,596
Overall Grade
C
C+
Academics
C
Value
C
Admissions
C
Diversity
C+
Campus
C
Aid

The Vibe Check

Johnson University offers a close-knit, faith-based community where students feel known and supported by peers and faculty. The suburban campus along the French Broad River provides a peaceful, retreat-like atmosphere that fosters spiritual growth and personal connection. It feels like a place where everyone shares a common mission, making it easy to build deep relationships.

Admissions

Acceptance Rate

53.77%
Moderately Selective

SAT Score Range

25th Pctlavg 107275th Pctl
8901090
40080012001600

ACT Score Range

25th Pctlavg 2275th Pctl
1924
1122436

Admissions Tips

Submit your FAFSA as early as possible, since 38.3% of students receive Pell Grants and financial aid packages can be a deciding factor. Highlight your involvement in church, ministry, or community service in your application to show alignment with the university’s mission. Emphasize a strong cumulative GPA over standardized test scores, as the average SAT is around 1072.

Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard

🎯

Can I Get In?

Estimate your admission chances

3.5
1.02.03.04.0
1072
40080012001600
School range: 8901090

⚠️ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.

Academics & Majors

Academic strengths lie in theology, psychology, education, and business, with a curriculum that integrates faith and learning. Class sizes are small, ensuring personalized attention from accessible, supportive faculty who prioritize teaching over large lectures. While research opportunities are more limited than at large universities, students can engage in faculty-mentored projects and community-focused applied research.

Popular Majors

Theology
38.5%
Psychology
13.5%
Education
12.2%
Business & Marketing
10.9%
Parks, Recreation & Fitness
7%
Family & Consumer Science
5.1%
Communications
3.2%
English & Literature
2.6%
History
1.9%
Health Professions
1.3%
Visual & Performing Arts
1.3%

Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education

By The Numbers

63.8%
Graduation Rate
74.2%
Retention Rate
703
Total Students

Return on Investment

Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)

Student Diversity

Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body

Financial Aid & Cost

Sticker Price
$20,318
In-state tuition/year
Avg Net Price
$20,303
After financial aid
Total Cost
$30,424
Cost of attendance/year
38.3%
Receive Pell Grants
56.5%
Federal Loan Rate

Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education

Life in Knoxville

Knoxville offers a mix of outdoor recreation, local music, and college-town energy, with quick access to the Smoky Mountains for hiking and weekend adventures. Students enjoy exploring Downtown Knoxville’s markets and festivals, cheering on the University of Tennessee’s sports, and discovering local coffee shops and restaurants. The city’s affordable cost of living makes it easier to enjoy experiences beyond campus.

Local Rent Check

$1,000 / month
Avg 1-Bedroom in Knoxville
Explore Knoxville

Reality Check

Can you afford this degree? Adjust the sliders to fit your actual situation (scholarships, savings, etc).

$81,272
$0Est. 4 Years: $81,272

Post-Grad Monthly Payment

$0/mo

Impact on Est. Salary ($40,596):

0.0% of net income

Safe Zone

Safety Check

The campus is generally safe with a close community that looks out for one another, and the suburban location offers a quieter environment. Knoxville’s broader area has typical city crime considerations, so students should practice standard urban safety habits.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Highly affordable private tuition with predictable pricing for all students
  • Strong, faith-integrated programs in theology, education, and psychology
  • Small class sizes and accessible, mission-driven faculty
  • Peaceful riverside campus that fosters close community and spiritual growth

Cons

  • Limited research infrastructure compared to larger universities
  • Smaller campus may offer fewer extracurriculars and specialized electives
  • Graduation and retention rates are moderate, suggesting some students transfer or take longer to finish

Notable Alumni

David Lipscomb
Influential religious educator and namesake of Lipscomb University; key figure in the Stone-Campbell Restoration Movement.
R. J. Stevens
Worship leader and songwriter known in churches of Christ; contributed significantly to contemporary Christian worship.
Jimmy Stewart
Longtime educator and leader within the churches of Christ; recognized for mentoring ministry students and church leadership.

Frequently Asked Questions

Johnson University is known for its Christ-centered education and strong programs in theology, psychology, education, and business. It emphasizes practical ministry, service, and character development within a close-knit, faith-based community. The university’s scenic suburban campus along the French Broad River supports a mission-focused learning environment.

Admissions are moderately selective with an acceptance rate of 53.77%. The average SAT is around 1072, and the university values GPA, involvement, and alignment with its mission over test scores. Applicants with a solid academic record and clear commitment to the school’s faith orientation have strong chances of admission.

Campus life is community-oriented and faith-centered, with students engaging in chapel, ministry opportunities, and service activities. The small enrollment of around 703 creates a family-like atmosphere where students know one another and faculty well. Recreation near the river, outdoor activities, and local Knoxville events supplement campus programming.

For students pursuing theology, education, counseling, or related fields, Johnson can be worth the cost due to its affordable private tuition and mission-driven education. With a 10-year median earnings of $40,596, ROI is moderate and aligned with careers that prioritize service and calling. Net price and financial aid make it accessible for many families, particularly those with demonstrated need.

Similar Universities

Top Employers

Knoxville Area Churches and Ministries Knox County Schools Christian non-profits and mission organizations Local healthcare and counseling centers Small business and entrepreneurial ventures in Knoxville
Smart Start Score
52

Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.

University Facts

  • Founded N/A
  • Type Private
  • Setting Suburban
  • Undergrad 776
  • In-State Tuition $20,318
  • Zip Code 37998

Gender Ratio

♂ 45.7% ♀ 54.3%

The Money Talk

With tuition at $20,318 for both in- and out-of-state students and an average net price of $20,303, the cost is relatively low compared to many private universities. The 10-year median earnings of $40,596 suggest a moderate return on investment, which is typical for careers in theology, education, and human services. For students pursuing these fields and valuing the faith-centered environment, the degree can be a solid value—especially with minimal debt.

*Based on Dept of Education data

⚖️ Compare Schools

See how this school stacks up

Compare with Chamberlain University-California

📍 Campus Location

📅 Typical Deadlines

Early Decision Nov 1
Early Action Nov 1–15
Regular Decision Jan 1–15
Transfer Mar 15
FAFSA Opens Oct 1
Check official deadlines →

Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.

🧮 Estimated Annual Budget

Tuition $20,318
Housing (12 mo) $12,000
Books & Supplies ~$1,200
Living Expenses ~$6,000
Estimated Total $39,518
With avg financial aid:
$20,303/yr
Data sourced from US Dept of Education College Scorecard, IPEDS, and Bureau of Labor Statistics. Last updated: Feb 2026.