
Nashville, TNprivate nonprofittrevecca.edu
Trevecca Nazarene University is a small, faith-based liberal arts college in Nashville that combines Christian community with practical career preparation. With a 69% acceptance rate and a focus on hands-on learning, Trevecca attracts students who want a personalized education grounded in Nazarene values—evident in its popular business and theology programs, tight-knit campus life, and graduation rates that have climbed steadily to 54-56%.
Trevecca Nazarene University maintains a moderately selective admissions process with a 69% acceptance rate, admitting roughly 1,700 of its 2,448 applicants annually. The middle 50% of admitted students score between 18-24 on the ACT or 988-1193 on the SAT, with 33.9% holding GPAs of 3.75 or higher. Notably, Trevecca has no application fee and offers rolling admissions, with a regular decision deadline of August 1. The university emphasizes accessibility, with 71% of female applicants and 66% of male applicants typically accepted.
Trevecca offers over 100 undergraduate programs with a 19:1 student-faculty ratio, and 94% of faculty hold the highest degree in their field. The most popular majors reflect its dual focus on career readiness and faith: 33% of 2024 graduates studied business, management, or marketing, while 12% pursued psychology and a significant cohort entered theology and religious vocations. The university is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools and emphasizes experiential learning, including moot courts for pre-law students. One Quora reviewer notes Trevecca’s strength in blending 'academic excellence, character development, and practical skills.'
Life at Trevecca revolves around its Christian community, with students from 44 states and 22 countries creating a small but globally aware campus. The university fosters involvement through student organizations, service opportunities, and leadership development programs. As its Facebook page declares, living on campus means joining 'an exciting Christian community' at the heart of Nashville—a unique blend of spiritual focus and urban access. The university’s mission since 1901 has been to walk alongside students in 'embracing their callings,' with chapel services and faith-based activities central to the experience.
Trevecca’s 6-year graduation rate has risen from 51% in 2015 to 54-56% recently, though its 4-year rate lags at 49%. Alumni earn a median salary of $36,427 one year post-graduation, aligning with national averages for small private colleges. The university openly acknowledges its graduation rates are 'in the lower half of national rankings' but highlights steady improvement toward its 61% goal. These figures reflect its mission to serve a broad range of students, including those balancing work and family commitments.
After aid, Trevecca’s average net price is $16,222, with students receiving an average financial aid package of $16,584. The university offers a Net priceWhat a family actually pays after grants and scholarships are subtracted from the sticker price — usually far less than the published cost. calculator and matches up to $500 in church-affiliated scholarships, underscoring its Nazarene ties. Financial aid applications are due January 1, and the school actively promotes its affordability compared to similar private institutions. One key selling point: Nashville’s booming job market provides ample part-time work opportunities for students offsetting costs.
Trevecca carves a niche as Nashville’s only Nazarene university, offering a rare mix of denominational identity and urban opportunity. Its growth in graduation rates—while still modest—signals improving student support, and its 19:1 ratio ensures personalized attention. The campus thrives on intentional community, where faith integration goes beyond chapel to shape dorm life, service projects, and even business classes. For students seeking a small-college feel with access to Music City’s internships and culture, Trevecca delivers—provided they’re all-in on its Christian ethos.