Lipscomb University
Lipscomb University has an acceptance rate of 67.7%, an average net price of $23,178, and an overall rank of #536 (Grade B+). About 70.9% of students graduate within 150% of normal time, and median earnings are $63,728 five years after graduation. Data from the U.S. Department of Education and EDsmart's 2027 rankings.
Lipscomb University is a private nonprofit university in Nashville, TN. Students most often pursue Business Administration, Management and Operations and Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing.
Academically, students benefit from a 13:1 student-faculty ratio, and 83.6% first-year retention. Peer cohorts and advising networks provide scaffolding that keeps newcomers anchored during demanding semesters.
EDsmart calculates return on investment at 64.5%, roughly 14.6 points higher than typical outcomes. It's a compelling fit for students who appreciate an encouraging campus with room to explore.
Who is Lipscomb University Best For?
A quick look at who tends to feel most at home here based on outcomes and campus context.
EDsmart Scores Summary
Lipscomb University graduates 70.9% of students within 150% of normal time (the completion rate used in EDsmart rankings), with an 8-year award rate of 68.3% and keeps 83.6% of first-year students. Affordability earns a C+ compared with similar schools.
How we calculate this →Cost & Financial Aid
Quick Answers
The costs shown are averages. Use Lipscomb University's net price calculator to get an estimate based on your family's financial situation.
Calculate Your Net Price →Total Degree Cost Summary
Annual Cost Comparison
Est. annual aid gap: $33,170 Cash cost of attendance minus average net price after aid.
Cost of Undergraduate Attendance
Costs based on full-time, first-time degree- or certificate-seeking undergraduates.
View cost of attendance line items
| Costs to Consider | Price |
|---|---|
| Tuition and Fees | $42,596 |
| Books and Supplies | $1,750 |
| On-Campus Room and Board | $15,772 |
| On-Campus Other Expenses | $4,710 |
| Total On-Campus Cost | $56,348 |
Tip: focus on the rows that match your living plan—commuters can swap in off-campus estimates while residential students should budget for housing, meals, and incidental fees.
Students Receiving Aid
Use these bars to gauge how many classmates rely on need-based dollars—lower Pell or loan shares may signal a wealthier student body or generous institutional grants.
EDsmart Insight: About 29.2% of Lipscomb University students receive Pell Grants — slightly below the national average, highlighting ongoing affordability priorities.
Net Price by Family Income
Average annual net price after financial aid, based on family income. Your actual cost may vary depending on your specific financial situation.
Understanding These Numbers: Net price varies significantly by income level. Net prices range from $19,303 to $29,950 depending on family income. Use Lipscomb University's net price calculator for a personalized estimate.
If your family earns $75K-$110K: Expect to pay around $23,834/year
If your family earns $110K+: Expect to pay around $29,950/year
See all income brackets →ROI & Career Outcomes
- Median Earnings (5 Years After Graduation) $63,728
- 10-Year Median Earnings $62,332
- Average Years to Graduate 4.3 years
- Average Student Debt $18,750
- Debt-to-Earnings ~29.4%
- Repayment Rate (3yr) 69.0%
- Employment Rate 91.0%
Graduate Earnings Distribution
Earnings range for Lipscomb University graduates about 10 years after enrollment (25th percentile, median, and 75th percentile). Different horizon than median earnings five years after graduation above.
Lipscomb University vs. National Average
Comparison of key performance metrics showing how Lipscomb University's outcomes compare to the national average across earnings, graduation rates, retention, ROI, and employment. This contextualizes Lipscomb University's performance within the broader higher education landscape.
EDsmart Insight: Lipscomb University graduates earn $63,728 median five years after graduation, 3% above the national average. Earnings vary significantly by major—research your field's outcomes.
Acceptance & Selectivity
Getting In
- SAT Evidence-Based Reading 590-700
- SAT Math 570-680
- SAT Writing Not reported
- ACT Composite 23-30
- SAT & ACT Required
- Undergraduate Enrollment 2,997
- Full-Time Students 95.7%
- Part-Time Students 4.3%
- Retention Rate 83.6%
- Grad Rate (150% time) 70.9%
- Grad Rate (8-year) 68.3%
- Student-Faculty Ratio 13:1
How to Get Into Lipscomb University
1. Meet Academic Requirements: Lipscomb University requires strong academic performance. Aim for test scores within the reported ranges and maintain a competitive GPA. Most admitted students rank in the top 10% of their high school class.
2. Build a Strong Application: Beyond test scores, focus on crafting compelling essays, securing strong letters of recommendation, and highlighting extracurricular activities that demonstrate leadership and commitment.
3. Understand Selectivity: With an acceptance rate of 67.7%, Lipscomb University is relatively open. Consider applying early decision if available, as early applicants often have higher acceptance rates.
4. Financial Planning: Review the net price calculator and financial aid options early. Many students receive significant aid, making the actual cost lower than the sticker price.
Tip: Contact the admissions office directly for the most current application requirements, deadlines, and any special programs (like early decision or early action) that might improve your chances.
EDsmart Insight: With a 67.7% acceptance rate, Lipscomb University is more accessible than highly selective schools. Meeting the test score ranges and maintaining a solid GPA significantly improves admission chances. The middle 50% of admitted students score between 1160 and 1380 on the SAT.
Academic Programs
Undergraduate Program Distribution
Breakdown of the most popular majors and fields of study among Lipscomb University undergraduates. Business Administration, Management and Operations, Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing, and Psychology, General draw the most students.
- Business Administration, Management and Operations 8.7%
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing 7.3%
- Psychology, General 6.7%
- Biology, General 6.2%
- Marketing 4.9%
- Finance and Financial Management Services 3.4%
See more majors
- Visual and Performing Arts, General 3.3%
- Design and Applied Arts 3.3%
Highest Earning Programs
Median earnings five years after graduation for each program. These figures help illustrate ROI by field of study and degree level.
Undergraduate Programs (Bachelor's Degrees)
- 1. Business Administration, Management and Operations $85,933
- 2. Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing $81,785
- 3. Accounting and Related Services $79,607
Show additional high-earning majors
- 4. Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness $71,902
- 5. Biology, General $70,649
- 6. Human Resources Management and Services $68,129
- 7. Social Work $63,013
- 8. Bible/Biblical Studies $62,921
- 9. Marketing $62,657
- 10. Dietetics and Clinical Nutrition Services $59,796
Graduate Programs (Master's, Doctoral, Professional)
- 1. Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Administration (First Professional Degree) $135,270
- 2. Educational Administration and Supervision (Doctoral Degree) $91,664
- 3. Business Administration, Management and Operations (Master's Degree) $88,243
Show additional graduate majors
- 4. Educational Administration and Supervision (Master's Degree) $84,566
- 5. Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other (Master's Degree) $67,903
- 6. Curriculum and Instruction (Master's Degree) $64,880
- 7. Theological and Ministerial Studies (Master's Degree) $64,783
- 8. Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas (Master's Degree) $62,566
- 9. Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods (Master's Degree) $61,183
- 10. Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology (Master's Degree) $56,820
Program Choice Matters: Undergraduate: Business Administration, Management and Operations grads earn $85,933—44% more than Dietetics and Clinical Nutrition Services ($59,796). Graduate: Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Administration programs lead with $135,270 median earnings. Your program and degree level choice significantly impact career earnings.
Online Degrees & Distance Learning
U.S. Department of Education data reports fully online programs for Lipscomb University. Below are the most popular options based on the number of recent graduates, followed by a quick look at the breadth of online offerings by degree level.
Source: U.S. Department of Education
Most Popular Online Degrees
- Teaching English or French as a Second or Foreign Language (Graduate/Professional Certificate, 143 graduates)
- Curriculum and Instruction (Master's Degree, 121 graduates)
- Business Administration, Management and Operations (Master's Degree, 85 graduates)
- Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions (Master's Degree, 70 graduates)
- Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Administration (First Professional Degree, 66 graduates)
What This School Offers Online, at a Glance
U.S. Department of Education data flags the following online degree and certificate programs for this institution. Expand each credential level to view the complete list of available subjects.
Online Bachelor's Degrees (67 programs)â–Ľ
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
- Biology, General
- Marketing
- Finance and Financial Management Services
- Visual and Performing Arts, General
- Design and Applied Arts
- Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness
- Accounting and Related Services
- English Language and Literature, General
- Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
- Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication
- Non-Professional Legal Studies
- Music
- Mechanical Engineering
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods
- Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
- Human Development, Family Studies, and Related Services
- Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Civil Engineering
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
- Social Work
- Film/Video and Photographic Arts
- Political Science and Government
- Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering
- Applied Mathematics
- Natural Resources Conservation and Research
- Mathematics
- Bible/Biblical Studies
- Specialized Sales, Merchandising and Marketing Operations
- Computer Engineering
- Neurobiology and Neurosciences
- History
- Dietetics and Clinical Nutrition Services
- Computer Software and Media Applications
- Philosophy
- Computer Science
- Theology and Religious Vocations, Other
- Management Information Systems and Services
- Health/Medical Preparatory Programs
- Chemistry
- Special Education and Teaching
- Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions
- Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
- Journalism
- International Relations and National Security Studies
- Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General
- Germanic Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Fine and Studio Arts
- Education, General
- Criminal Justice and Corrections
- Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management
- Arts, Entertainment, and Media Management
- Area Studies
- Religion/Religious Studies
- Mathematics and Computer Science
- Foods, Nutrition, and Related Services
- Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies
- Entrepreneurial and Small Business Operations
- Biomathematics, Bioinformatics, and Computational Biology
- Urban Studies/Affairs
- Sustainability Studies
- Physics
- Pastoral Counseling and Specialized Ministries
- Family and Consumer Sciences/Human Sciences, General
- Communication and Media Studies
- Theological and Ministerial Studies
Online Master's Degrees (31 programs)â–Ľ
- Curriculum and Instruction
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
- Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions
- Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions
- Educational Administration and Supervision
- Theological and Ministerial Studies
- Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
- Special Education and Teaching
- Public Administration
- Accounting and Related Services
- Student Counseling and Personnel Services
- Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Administration
- Environmental/Natural Resources Management and Policy
- Teaching English or French as a Second or Foreign Language
- Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other
- Health and Medical Administrative Services
- Peace Studies and Conflict Resolution
- Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology
- Medical Illustration and Informatics
- Film/Video and Photographic Arts
- Psychology, General
- Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication
- Archeology
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
- Educational/Instructional Media Design
- Computer and Information Sciences, General
- Computer and Information Sciences and Support Services, Other
- Computer Engineering
- Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness
- Foods, Nutrition, and Related Services
Online Doctoral Degrees (3 programs)â–Ľ
- Educational Administration and Supervision
- Theological and Ministerial Studies
- Archeology
Online Graduate/Professional Certificates (14 programs)â–Ľ
- Teaching English or French as a Second or Foreign Language
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods
- Educational Administration and Supervision
- Special Education and Teaching
- Peace Studies and Conflict Resolution
- Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology
- Medical Illustration and Informatics
- Dietetics and Clinical Nutrition Services
- Curriculum and Instruction
- Theological and Ministerial Studies
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
- Student Counseling and Personnel Services
- Accounting and Related Services
- Religious Education
Online First Professional Degrees (1 program)â–Ľ
- Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Administration
Student Demographics
Student Population
- Total Undergraduate Enrollment 2,997
- Full-Time Students 95.7%
- Part-Time Students 4.3%
- Male Students 39.3%
- Female Students 60.7%
- Caucasian 65.7%
- Asian 3.1%
- Hispanic 13.5%
- Black 7.2%
- Pell Grant Recipients 29.2%
Racial & Ethnic Diversity
Undergraduate student body composition by racial and ethnic background. This reflects Lipscomb University's commitment to diversity and inclusion in admissions.
Gender Distribution
Gender breakdown of Lipscomb University's undergraduate population. The university maintains a roughly balanced gender distribution across its student body.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does Lipscomb University support students from different economic backgrounds?
What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at a different rate as higher-income students, indicating varying levels of institutional support for all economic backgrounds.
Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity
Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity
Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at Lipscomb University, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
EDsmart Insight: Women make up 60.7% of undergraduates.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does Lipscomb University support students from different economic backgrounds?
What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at a different rate as higher-income students, indicating varying levels of institutional support for all economic backgrounds.
Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity
Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity
Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at Lipscomb University, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
Our Take
Lipscomb University offers a private university experience at a regional scale, combining smaller class sizes with 64.5% ROI. Ranked #536 overall, the institution balances personalized attention against higher costs than public alternatives.
The $23,178 annual net price is significantly higher than public universities, offset somewhat by $63,728 median earnings. With 70.9% graduating within 150% of normal time and 83.6% returning for sophomore year, outcomes reflect the personalized support typical of smaller private institutions.
Private University Value: Lipscomb University's Positioning
With a B+ grade and #536 ranking, Lipscomb University competes in the crowded regional private university market.
The Private University Premium: At $23,178 annually, Lipscomb University charges more than public alternatives but typically offers smaller classes, more personalized advising, and tighter-knit campus communities. The 83.6% retention rate suggests students value this environment.
Who Benefits Most: Students who thrive in smaller, more intimate academic settings. Those seeking specific programs or values-based education aligned with the institution's mission. Students who receive merit scholarships that bring costs below $16,225 achieve particularly strong value.
Cost-Benefit Reality: The 64.5% ROI and $63,728 median earnings don't always justify the premium over public universities. Students paying full price should compare whether the personalized experience warrants $13,178+ in additional annual costs over state flagships.
Competitive Standing: Lipscomb University ranks #536 of 1955 institutions, with 944 schools achieving higher ROI. For students offered substantial merit aid or seeking specific programs unavailable at public universities, the value proposition strengthens significantly.
Key Takeaways
- 70.9% graduation rate sits 8.4 points above the national 62.5% benchmark.
- 83.6% first-year retention is 6.8 points above the national norm of 76.8%.
- 64.5% return on investment is 14.6 points above the national 49.9% benchmark.
- Median earnings of $63,728 run about 3% higher than national outcomes five years after graduation.
- Average net price of $23,178 is roughly $3,297 higher than the national median of $19,881.
Helpfulness for Students
- 13:1 student-faculty ratio keeps mentorship close and courses discussion-sized.
- 83.6% first-year retention shows students stay engaged after the first year.
- 91.0% employment rate within three years sits 22.8 points above national outcomes.
- Average net price of $23,178 is about $3,297 higher than comparable schools, so scholarship planning is key.
- Pell participation at 29.2% trails the national share by 9.3 points, so equity work remains important.
- Compare aid offers from nearby public universities to weigh the premium for smaller classes.
EDsmart Expert Analysis
Lipscomb University is a private nonprofit university based in Nashville, TN and earns a B+ overall grade. It appears at #536 in EDsmart's rankings Category results include Completion (A-), Support (B+), Career Outcomes (B), and Affordability (C+).
Grades are assigned relative to EDsmart's national bachelor's cohort using standardized outcomes (2027 rankings methodology); they reflect how a school compares to peers, not a fixed percentage of a raw point total.
About 83.6% of first-year students return; 70.9% graduate within 150% of normal time, with an 8-year award rate of 68.3%. Return on investment currently measures 64.5% for this program.
Why it matters: this snapshot shows how likely you are to stay on track academically and whether the outcomes justify the price tag. Letter grades summarize cohort-relative performance—not a single exam-style score.
EDsmart Financial Snapshot
Families pay about $23,178 on average after aid, compared with a published cost near $56,348.
Institutional and federal aid lower costs by roughly $33,170 per year.
Graduates leave with a median of $18,750 in federal loans, which lines up with national norms.
About 29.2% of students receive Pell Grants, giving a snapshot of the campus income mix.
Why it matters: lining up sticker price, aid, and typical debt helps you stress-test the budget before you commit.
EDsmart Career Snapshot
Median earnings come in near $63,728 five years after graduation. That sits about 3% above the national median.
Employment outcomes report about 91.0% of alumni working within three years.
The ROI comes in near 64.5%, which you can cross-check against your financial plan.
Why it matters: pairing median earnings with employment rates gives you a sense of payback time after graduation.
EDsmart Admissions Snapshot
67.7% of applicants receive offers, so preparation and fit matter.
The admissions team encourages students to highlight academic strengths through transcripts, essays, and recommendations.
Prospective students can apply early for priority review and lean on the Lipscomb University admissions site for deadlines, visit options, and counselor contacts.
Why it matters: knowing the admit rate and application expectations lets you map out testing, essays, and deadlines with less stress.
Your Decision Toolkit
Cite this profile
Add your access date when you publish.
APA (7th): EDsmart. (2026). Lipscomb University: Tuition, Outcomes & Rankings. https://www.edsmart.org/schools/lipscomb-university/
MLA (9th): “Lipscomb University: Tuition, Outcomes & Rankings.” EDsmart, 2026, www.edsmart.org/schools/lipscomb-university/.
Chicago: EDsmart. “Lipscomb University: Tuition, Outcomes & Rankings.” https://www.edsmart.org/schools/lipscomb-university/.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Lipscomb University's acceptance rate?
Lipscomb University's acceptance rate is 67.7%, based on U.S. Department of Education admissions data.
How much does Lipscomb University cost?
At Lipscomb University, the average net price after grants and scholarships is $23,178 per year. That covers tuition, books, and living costs, which total $56,348 a year before aid. Tuition and fees alone are $42,596. Use the net price calculator on this page for a personalized estimate.
What is Lipscomb University's ranking?
Lipscomb University ranks #536 overall in EDsmart's 2027 college rankings with an overall grade of B+, based on completion, affordability, support, and career outcomes.
What is Lipscomb University's graduation rate?
At Lipscomb University, the graduation rate within 150% of normal time is 70.9% (the rate used in EDsmart rankings), the federal 8-year award rate is 68.3%, and first-year retention is 83.6%.
What are Lipscomb University's job outcomes?
Graduates of Lipscomb University report median earnings of $63,728 five years after graduation, according to U.S. Department of Education outcome data. Outcomes vary by major.
What is Lipscomb University's student population?
Lipscomb University enrolls about 2,997 undergraduate students, per U.S. Department of Education enrollment data.
Contact Information
- Address One University Park Drive, Nashville, TN 37204-3951
- Website www.lipscomb.edu
- Net Price Calculator Calculate Your Cost
- Financial AidView Financial Aid Information
- AccreditationSouthern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCC)
- Endowment$100.6M