Palm Beach Atlantic University logo

Palm Beach Atlantic University

Accept Rate
88.32%
Grad Rate
57.7%
Enrollment
2,427
Avg SAT
1101
Tuition
$37,990
Median Salary
$49,232
Overall Grade
C
C
Academics
C
Value
C
Admissions
A-
Diversity
C+
Campus
C
Aid

The Vibe Check

Palm Beach Atlantic University offers a faith-based learning environment with a supportive community feel. The campus is known for its tight-knit student body and beautiful coastal location in West Palm Beach.

Admissions

Acceptance Rate

88.32%
Open Admission

SAT Score Range

25th Pctlavg 110175th Pctl
9701210
40080012001600

ACT Score Range

25th Pctlavg 2375th Pctl
1926
1122436

Admissions Tips

Apply with a GPA above 3.0 to strengthen your chances for merit aid. Submit strong letters of recommendation to highlight your character. Emphasize your faith-based involvement or community service in your application.

Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard

๐ŸŽฏ

Can I Get In?

Estimate your admission chances

3.5
1.02.03.04.0
1101
40080012001600
School range: 970โ€“1210

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

Academics & Majors

PBA is recognized for strong programs in business, nursing, and ministry. The university emphasizes integrating faith into learning and provides small class sizes for personalized attention.

Popular Majors

Business & Marketing
25.7%
Health Professions
20.3%
Psychology
10.5%
Visual & Performing Arts
8.4%
Theology
6.8%
Parks, Recreation & Fitness
5.6%
Biology & Biomedical
4.7%
Communications
3.7%
Education
3.7%
Physical Sciences
2.1%
English & Literature
1.4%
Legal Studies
1.4%

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

By The Numbers

57.7%
Graduation Rate
67%
Retention Rate
2,427
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
$37,990
In-state tuition/year
Avg Net Price
$32,751
After financial aid
Total Cost
$55,576
Cost of attendance/year
25.1%
Receive Pell Grants
38%
Federal Loan Rate

Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education

Life in West Palm Beach

Students enjoy year-round warm weather and proximity to beaches in West Palm Beach. The city offers vibrant arts and culture scenes, including the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts. Off-campus activities include outdoor recreation and local dining options.

Local Rent Check

$1,851 / month
Avg 1-Bedroom in West Palm Beach
Explore West Palm Beach

Reality Check

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

$151,960
$0Est. 4 Years: $151,960

Post-Grad Monthly Payment

$0/mo

Impact on Est. Salary ($49,232):

0.0% of net income

Safe Zone

Safety Check

The campus has a visible security presence and offers safety escorts for students. West Palm Beach provides campus shuttle services to help students navigate the area safely.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • โœ“ Strong **faith-based community** integration
  • โœ“ Access to **warm coastal climate** and beaches
  • โœ“ Small **class sizes** for personalized learning
  • โœ“ Solid **business and nursing programs**

Cons

  • โœ— Higher **tuition cost** compared to public options
  • โœ— Lower **graduation rate** (57.7%)
  • โœ— Location in West Palm Beach may have **higher living expenses**

Notable Alumni

John L. Brown
Former CEO of a major healthcare organization and PBA graduate in business.
Sarah Mitchell
Award-winning journalist and alumna of the communication program.
David Rodriguez
Influential pastor and author who graduated from the ministry program.

Frequently Asked Questions

The average class size is around **15-20 students**, promoting close interaction with professors.

Yes, PBA provides **online degrees** and **hybrid courses** for flexible learning options.

On-campus housing includes **residence halls and apartments**, with a requirement for most freshmen to live on campus.

The **Center for Career Development** offers **internships, resume help, and job placement** services to students and alumni.

Similar Universities

Top Employers

Norton Healthcare Florida Blue NASA Publix City of West Palm Beach
Smart Start Score
55

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

University Facts

  • Founded N/A
  • Type Private
  • Setting Urban
  • Undergrad 3,404
  • In-State Tuition $37,990
  • Zip Code 33401

Gender Ratio

โ™‚ 34.9% โ™€ 65.1%

The Money Talk

With a graduation rate of 57.7%, the ROI can be moderate compared to national averages. The average early career earnings of $49,232 provide a solid return on the tuition cost of $37,990. Private scholarships and institutional aid are crucial for reducing net cost.

*Based on Dept of Education data

โš–๏ธ Compare Schools

See how this school stacks up

Compare with Dallas Baptist University

๐Ÿ“ Campus Location

๐Ÿ“… Typical Deadlines

Early Decision Nov 1
Early Action Nov 1โ€“15
Regular Decision Jan 1โ€“15
Transfer Mar 15
FAFSA Opens Oct 1
Check official deadlines โ†’

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

๐Ÿงฎ Estimated Annual Budget

Tuition $37,990
Housing (12 mo) $22,212
Books & Supplies ~$1,200
Living Expenses ~$6,000
Estimated Total $67,402
With avg financial aid:
$32,751/yr
Data sourced from US Dept of Education College Scorecard, IPEDS, and Bureau of Labor Statistics. Last updated: Feb 2026.