South University, Tampa
South University, Tampa is a private nonprofit university in Tampa, FL ranked #1965 nationally by EDsmart, earning an overall grade of D-, and enrolling about 390 undergraduates. Students most often pursue Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing and Information Science/Studies.
Day to day, students benefit from a 14:1 student-faculty ratio, 11.1% first-year retention, and 4.5% six-year graduation. Coaches and faculty advisors weave in frequent check-ins, helping students translate ambition into steady progress.
Families typically invest $24,280, about $7,282 more than the national median. EDsmart calculates return on investment at -64.9%, roughly 150.2 points below typical outcomes. Six years after enrolling, alumni report median earnings of $34,115. That's about $9,573 below national results. It's well-suited to students who appreciate an encouraging campus with room to explore.
Who is South University, Tampa Best For?
A quick look at who tends to feel most at home here based on outcomes and campus context.
EDsmart Scores Summary
South University, Tampa graduates 4.5% of students within six years and keeps 11.1% of first-year students. Affordability earns a B compared with similar schools.
How we calculate this →Cost & Financial Aid
Quick Answers
The costs shown are averages. Use South University, Tampa'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
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 | $18,238 |
| Books and Supplies | $1,500 |
| On-Campus Room and Board | Not reported |
| On-Campus Other Expenses | Not reported |
| Total On-Campus Cost | $33,016 |
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 47.7% of South University, Tampa students receive Pell Grants — above 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 $23,538 to $28,071 depending on family income. Use South University, Tampa's net price calculator for a personalized estimate.
ROI & Career Outcomes
- 6-Year Median Earnings $34,115
- 10-Year Median Earnings $34,115
- Average Years to Graduate 4.5 years
- Average Student Debt $13,000
- Repayment Rate (3yr) 25.5%
- Employment Rate 75.5%
Graduate Earnings Distribution
Earnings range for South University, Tampa graduates 6 years after enrollment, showing the 25th percentile, median, and 75th percentile. This illustrates the variation in outcomes across different majors and career paths.
South University, Tampa vs. National Average
Comparison of key performance metrics showing how South University, Tampa's outcomes compare to the national average across earnings, graduation rates, retention, ROI, and employment. This contextualizes South University, Tampa's performance within the broader higher education landscape.
EDsmart Insight: While South University, Tampa graduates earn $34,115 median, the -64.9% ROI suggests the investment may take longer to pay off. Consider your major choice and career goals when evaluating value.
Acceptance & Selectivity
Getting In
- SAT Evidence-Based Reading Not reported
- SAT Math Not reported
- SAT Writing Not reported
- ACT Composite Not reported
- SAT & ACTNot required
- Undergraduate Enrollment 390
- Full-Time Students 95.0%
- Part-Time Students 5.0%
- Retention Rate 11.1%
- Graduation Rate 4.5%
- Student-Faculty Ratio 14:1
How to Get Into South University, Tampa
1. Meet Academic Requirements: South University, Tampa 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 Not reported, South University, Tampa is selective. 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.
Academic Programs
Undergraduate Program Distribution
Breakdown of the most popular majors and fields of study among South University, Tampa undergraduates. Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing, Psychology, General, and Information Science/Studies draw the most students.
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing 94.9%
- Psychology, General 2.2%
- Information Science/Studies 0.7%
- Health and Medical Administrative Services 0.7%
- Public Health 0.7%
- Business Administration, Management and Operations 0.7%
See more majors
- Criminal Justice and Corrections 0.0%
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. Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing $90,784
- 2. Information Science/Studies $67,229
- 3. Business Administration, Management and Operations $54,466
Show additional high-earning majors
- 4. Allied Health and Medical Assisting Services $47,529
- 5. Criminal Justice and Corrections $47,301
- 6. Health and Medical Administrative Services $45,275
- 7. Psychology, General $38,844
- 8. Health and Medical Administrative Services $36,560
- 9. Public Health $34,789
Graduate Programs (Master's, Doctoral, Professional)
- 1. Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions (Master's Degree) $121,963
- 2. Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing (Graduate/Professional Certificate) $119,946
- 3. Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing (Master's Degree) $118,330
Show additional graduate majors
- 4. Bioethics/Medical Ethics (Master's Degree) $96,443
- 5. Information Science/Studies (Master's Degree) $88,529
- 6. Health and Medical Administrative Services (Master's Degree) $63,788
- 7. Business Administration, Management and Operations (Master's Degree) $60,102
- 8. Human Resources Management and Services (Master's Degree) $59,417
- 9. Criminal Justice and Corrections (Master's Degree) $42,437
Program Choice Matters: Undergraduate: Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing grads earn $90,784—161% more than Public Health ($34,789). Graduate: Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions programs lead with $121,963 median earnings. Your program and degree level choice significantly impact career earnings.
Online Degrees & Distance Learning
College Scorecard reports fully online programs for South University, Tampa. 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 – College Scorecard
Most Popular Online Degrees
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Bachelor's Degree, 129 graduates)
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Master's Degree, 66 graduates)
- Allied Health and Medical Assisting Services (Associate's Degree, 52 graduates)
- Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions (Master's Degree, 47 graduates)
- Health and Medical Administrative Services (Master's Degree, 10 graduates)
What This School Offers Online, at a Glance
College Scorecard 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 (7 programs)▼
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
- Psychology, General
- Public Health
- Information Science/Studies
- Health and Medical Administrative Services
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
- Criminal Justice and Corrections
Online Master's Degrees (8 programs)▼
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
- Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions
- Health and Medical Administrative Services
- Information Science/Studies
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
- Criminal Justice and Corrections
- Human Resources Management and Services
- Bioethics/Medical Ethics
Online Graduate/Professional Certificates (1 program)▼
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
Online First Professional Degrees (1 program)▼
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
Student Demographics
Student Population
- Total Undergraduate Enrollment 390
- Full-Time Students 95.0%
- Part-Time Students 5.0%
- Male Students 17.7%
- Female Students 82.3%
- Caucasian 28.0%
- Asian 2.1%
- Hispanic 31.8%
- Black 32.3%
- Pell Grant Recipients 47.7%
Racial & Ethnic Diversity
Undergraduate student body composition by racial and ethnic background. This reflects South University, Tampa's commitment to diversity and inclusion in admissions.
Gender Distribution
Gender breakdown of South University, Tampa's undergraduate population. Women make up 82.3% of the student body, while men represent 17.7%.
Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity
Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity
Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at South University, Tampa, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
EDsmart Insight: South University, Tampa has a diverse student body, with 28.0% identifying as White. Women make up 82.3% of undergraduates.
Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity
Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity
Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at South University, Tampa, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
Our Take
South University, Tampa offers a private university experience at a regional scale, combining smaller class sizes with -64.9% ROI. Ranked #1965 nationally, the institution balances personalized attention against higher costs than public alternatives.
The $24,280 annual net price is significantly higher than public universities, offset somewhat by $34,115 median earnings. With 4.5% graduating within six years and 11.1% returning for sophomore year, outcomes reflect the personalized support typical of smaller private institutions.
Private University Value: South University, Tampa's Positioning
With a D- grade and #1965 ranking, South University, Tampa competes in the crowded regional private university market.
The Private University Premium: At $24,280 annually, South University, Tampa charges more than public alternatives but typically offers smaller classes, more personalized advising, and tighter-knit campus communities. The 11.1% 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 $16,996 achieve particularly strong value.
Cost-Benefit Reality: The -64.9% ROI and $34,115 median earnings don't always justify the premium over public universities. Students paying full price should compare whether the personalized experience warrants $14,280+ in additional annual costs over state flagships.
Competitive Standing: South University, Tampa ranks #1965 of 6272 institutions, with 1540 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
- 4.5% six-year graduation rate sits 58.0 points below the national 62.5% benchmark.
- 11.1% first-year retention is 65.7 points below the national norm of 76.8%.
- -64.9% return on investment is 150.2 points below the national 85.3% benchmark.
- Median earnings of $34,115 run about 22% lower than national outcomes six years after enrollment.
- Average net price of $24,280 is roughly $7,162 higher than the national median of $17,118.
Helpfulness for Students
- 14:1 student-faculty ratio keeps mentorship close and courses discussion-sized.
- 11.1% first-year retention shows students stay engaged after the first year.
- 75.5% employment rate within three years sits 7.3 points above national outcomes.
- Average net price of $24,280 is about $7,162 higher than comparable schools, so scholarship planning is key.
- Compare aid offers from nearby public universities to weigh the premium for smaller classes.
- Compare aid offers from nearby public universities to weigh the premium for smaller classes.
EDsmart Expert Analysis
Located in Tampa, FL, South University, Tampa operates as a private nonprofit university and receives a D- from EDsmart. It is currently ranked #1965 nationally Grades by category break down as Completion D-, Support D-, Career Outcomes C+, and Affordability B.
Grades are assigned relative to EDsmart's national bachelor's cohort using standardized outcomes (2026 methodology); they reflect how a school compares to peers, not a fixed percentage of a raw point total.
Student momentum is strong: 11.1% retention and 4.5% six-year graduation. Return on investment currently measures -64.9% 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 $24,280 on average after aid, compared with a published cost near $33,016.
Institutional and federal aid lower costs by roughly $8,736 per year.
Graduates leave with a median of $13,000 in federal loans, which lines up with national norms.
About 47.7% 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 $34,115 six years after enrollment. That sits about 22% below the national median.
The three-year employment rate is close to 75.5%.
EDsmart lists the ROI at -64.9%, offering a quick read on value.
Why it matters: pairing median earnings with employment rates gives you a sense of payback time after graduation.
EDsmart Admissions Snapshot
This institution has not reported a current acceptance rate.
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 South University, Tampa 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
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Contact Information
- Address Tampa, FL 33614-7095
- Website www.southuniversity.edu/tampa#location=Tampa, FL
- Net Price Calculator Calculate Your Cost
- Financial AidView Financial Aid Information
- AccreditationSouthern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCC)