
Knoxville, TNprivate nonprofitjohnsonu.edu/
Johnson University is a faith-based institution in Knoxville, TN, where every bachelor's program includes a Bible and Theology major alongside traditional arts and sciences. With a 53-65% acceptance rate and a rural campus vibe near the Smoky Mountains, it attracts students seeking a spiritually grounded education with practical majors like Business Administration and Digital Arts. Graduates earn median salaries around $35,649 six years out, reflecting its niche as a affordable Christian college with a 56% four-year graduation rate.
Johnson University is moderately selective, with Acceptance rateThe share of applicants a college admits in a given year. A 10% acceptance rate means it admits about 1 in 10 applicants. ranging from 53.8% to 65% across sources. Admitted students typically have ACT scores between 18–24 or SAT scores of 970–1,170. The university emphasizes accessibility, with 63% of students receiving financial aid. Notably, the Common Data Set (CDS)A standardized report most colleges publish each year with admissions, test-score, and financial-aid figures, making schools easier to compare. highlights its inclusion of transfer students and First-generation (first-gen)A student who would be the first in their immediate family to earn a four-year college degree. Many colleges consider this in context. undergraduates in admissions reporting.
Every bachelor’s degree at Johnson includes a Bible and Theology major paired with an arts and sciences core, reflecting its faith-based mission. Popular majors include Business Administration (60% of graduates in 2024) and Digital Arts (25%). The 2022 addition of a Life Sciences degree caters to pre-professional tracks like physical therapy and zoology. Seven academic schools organize programs, with online options emphasizing affordability and spiritual growth.
Life on Johnson’s rural campus blends dorm camaraderie with proximity to Knoxville’s culture and the Smoky Mountains. Faith is central, with daily chapel and community events highlighted in student testimonials. The university promotes a "transformational education" through small-group Bible studies and service projects. Reviews note a tight-knit atmosphere, though some mention limited nightlife options typical of a religious campus.
Johnson’s four-year graduation rate is 56%, rising to 61% over six years—above average for similar faith-based colleges. Alumni median earnings six years post-graduation are $35,649, reflecting its emphasis on ministry and middle-income professions. The Florida campus lags behind (29% six-year rate), but the Tennessee main campus outperforms peers like Johnson C. Smith (34%).
Net priceWhat a family actually pays after grants and scholarships are subtracted from the sticker price — usually far less than the published cost. averages $20,712–$21,013 after aid, with 63% of students receiving assistance. Institutional scholarships are widely available for full-time students, and the university promotes its affordability in online programs. The aid package average is $12,493, though part-time students only qualify for aid in their final term.
Johnson’s fusion of mandatory theology coursework with practical majors like Computer Science and Business creates a unique niche. Its 56% graduation rate is strong for a small Christian college, and the Smoky Mountains location appeals to outdoorsy students. While earnings lag behind secular universities, its affordability and spiritual focus draw a dedicated cohort—especially those planning ministry careers or faith-integrated professions.