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Bob Jones University

Greenville, SC | Private Nonprofit | University

Bob Jones University is a private nonprofit university in Greenville, SC ranked #590 nationally by EDsmart, earning an overall grade of B+, and enrolling about 2,209 undergraduates. Students most often pursue Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing and Accounting and Related Services.

Academically, students benefit from a 13:1 student-faculty ratio, 81.3% first-year retention, and 69.6% six-year graduation. Peer cohorts and advising networks provide scaffolding that keeps newcomers anchored during demanding semesters.

Families typically invest $17,529, about $531 more than the national median. EDsmart calculates return on investment at -41.7%, roughly 127.0 points below typical outcomes. Six years after enrolling, alumni report median earnings of $40,892. That's about $2,796 below national results. It's a compelling fit for students who appreciate an encouraging campus with room to explore.

B+
Ranking
#590 of 1,971
How We Rank Schools
At a Glance
Ranking
#590 of 1,971 (Top 29.9%)
Tuition
$23,400
Net Price
$17,529
4-Year Tuition
$93,600
Acceptance Rate
Not reported
Transfer Rate
8.3%
Student Population
2,209
Student-Faculty
13:1
Graduation Rate
69.6%
Retention Rate
81.3%
6-Yr Earnings
$40,892
ROI
-41.7%

Who is Bob Jones University Best For?

A quick look at who tends to feel most at home here based on outcomes and campus context.

Learners who value a tight-knit campus
Students valuing supportive learning environments

EDsmart Scores Summary

Overall Ranking
#590 of 1,971
Top 29.9% of all institutions
EDsmart Score
70.1 / 100 (national index)
Curved score (top institution = 100.0)
Value Rating
3.51 / 5
Based on ROI and outcomes
Completion
B+
#440 of 1,971
Affordability
B
#935 of 1,971
Support
B
#685 of 1,971
Career Outcomes
B-
#1,378 of 1,971

Bob Jones University graduates 69.6% of students within six years and keeps 81.3% of first-year students. Affordability earns a B compared with similar schools.

How we calculate this →

Cost & Financial Aid

Quick Answers

Can you afford it?
Depends on income
$14,037-$23,916 annual net price based on family income.
Will you graduate?
Likely
69.6% finish within six years. 59.7% complete in four years.
Will you get a job?
Highly likely
77.6% of alumni are employed within three years of leaving. Median earnings six years after entry are $40,892. Pay varies by major.
Get Your Personalized Cost Estimate

The costs shown are averages. Use Bob Jones University's net price calculator to get an estimate based on your family's financial situation.

Calculate Your Net Price →

Total Degree Cost Summary

4-Year Total Cost (Pay with Cash)
$139,080
$34,770 × 4 years
Average Total Cost (Pay with Financial Aid)
$78,880
$17,529 × 4.5 years average
Time to Degree
Average: 4.5 years | 4-Year Rate: 59.7% | 6-Year Rate: 69.6%
Most students finish in about four to five years. Four-year completion is 59.7% and six-year completion is 69.6%.

Annual Cost Comparison

Pay with Cash
$34,770
Total annual cost including tuition, books and living expenses; excluding any financial aid, grants or scholarships.
Pay with Financial Aid
$17,529
Average annual cost including tuition, books and living expenses after financial aid, grants or scholarships.

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 $23,400
Books and Supplies $1,300
On-Campus Room and Board $9,900
On-Campus Other Expenses $3,650
Total On-Campus Cost $34,770

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

Pell Grant
29.2%
Federal Loan
0.0%

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 Bob Jones 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.

$0 - $30,000
$14,037
Average annual cost for families earning $0-$30K
$30,001 - $48,000
$15,494
Average annual cost for families earning $30K-$48K
$48,001 - $75,000
$16,625
Average annual cost for families earning $48K-$75K
$75,001 - $110,000
$20,194
Average annual cost for families earning $75K-$110K
$110,001+
$23,916
Average annual cost for families earning $110K+

Understanding These Numbers: Net price varies significantly by income level. Net prices range from $14,037 to $23,916 depending on family income. Use Bob Jones University's net price calculator for a personalized estimate.

4-Year Total Cost Estimates:
$0-$30K families
~$63,166
$30K-$48K families
~$69,723
$48K-$75K families
~$74,812
$75K-$110K families
~$90,873
AFFORDABILITY ALERT

If your family earns $75K-$110K: Expect to pay around $20,194/year

If your family earns $110K+: Expect to pay around $23,916/year

See all income brackets →

ROI & Career Outcomes

Return on Investment
-41.7%
Based on 6-year median earnings vs. total degree cost
  • 6-Year Median Earnings $40,892
  • 10-Year Median Earnings $40,892
  • Average Years to Graduate 4.5 years
  • Average Student Debt $12,453
  • Repayment Rate (3yr) 82.6%
  • Employment Rate 77.6%

Graduate Earnings Distribution

Earnings range for Bob Jones University 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.

Graduates earn a median of $40,892 six years after enrollment — roughly 6% below the national median.
Payback Period
1.93 years
Total Degree Cost ÷ Annual Earnings

Bob Jones University vs. National Average

Comparison of key performance metrics showing how Bob Jones University's outcomes compare to the national average across earnings, graduation rates, retention, ROI, and employment. This contextualizes Bob Jones University's performance within the broader higher education landscape.

EDsmart Insight: While Bob Jones University graduates earn $40,892 median, the -41.7% ROI suggests the investment may take longer to pay off. Consider your major choice and career goals when evaluating value.

Acceptance & Selectivity

Getting In

Acceptance Rate
Not reported
Extremely Selective
National Average
69%
Average acceptance rate
  • SAT Evidence-Based Reading Not reported
  • SAT Math Not reported
  • SAT Writing Not reported
  • ACT Composite Not reported
  • SAT & ACTNot required
  • Undergraduate Enrollment 2,209
  • Full-Time Students 95.0%
  • Part-Time Students 5.0%
  • Retention Rate 81.3%
  • Graduation Rate 69.6%
  • Student-Faculty Ratio 13:1

How to Get Into Bob Jones University

1. Meet Academic Requirements: Bob Jones 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 Not reported, Bob Jones University 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 Bob Jones University undergraduates. Business Administration, Management and Operations, Accounting and Related Services, and Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing draw the most students.

  • Business Administration, Management and Operations 12.5%
  • Accounting and Related Services 6.0%
  • Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing 5.2%
  • Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods 5.0%
  • Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods 4.9%
  • Criminal Justice and Corrections 4.1%
See more majors
  • Theological and Ministerial Studies 3.9%
  • Education, General 3.7%

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 $80,294
  • 2. Accounting and Related Services $78,114
  • 3. Criminal Justice and Corrections $58,864
Show additional high-earning majors
  • 4. Business Administration, Management and Operations $50,176
  • 5. Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas $41,008
  • 6. Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods $40,057
  • 7. Health and Physical Education/Fitness $32,481
  • 8. Design and Applied Arts $30,827
  • 9. Education, Other $29,278
  • 10. Theological and Ministerial Studies $28,325

Program Choice Matters: Undergraduate: Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing grads earn $80,294—183% more than Theological and Ministerial Studies ($28,325). Your program and degree level choice significantly impact career earnings.

Online Degrees & Distance Learning

College Scorecard reports fully online programs for Bob Jones 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 – College Scorecard

Most Popular Online Degrees

  • Accounting and Related Services (Bachelor's Degree, 32 graduates)
  • Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas (Bachelor's Degree, 27 graduates)
  • Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods (Bachelor's Degree, 26 graduates)
  • Criminal Justice and Corrections (Bachelor's Degree, 22 graduates)
  • Theological and Ministerial Studies (Bachelor's Degree, 21 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 (66 programs)
  • Accounting and Related Services
  • Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
  • Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods
  • Criminal Justice and Corrections
  • Theological and Ministerial Studies
  • Health and Physical Education/Fitness
  • Education, General
  • Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General
  • Engineering, General
  • Design and Applied Arts
  • Bible/Biblical Studies
  • Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology
  • English Language and Literature, General
  • Communication and Media Studies
  • Biology, General
  • Computer and Information Sciences, General
  • Music
  • History
  • Film/Video and Photographic Arts
  • Communication, Journalism, and Related Programs, Other
  • Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
  • Computer Science
  • Communication Disorders Sciences and Services
  • Health/Medical Preparatory Programs
  • Missions/Missionary Studies and Missiology
  • Religious/Sacred Music
  • Fine and Studio Arts
  • Visual and Performing Arts, General
  • Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
  • Mathematics
  • International Relations and National Security Studies
  • Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
  • Physics
  • Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, General
  • Housing and Human Environments
  • Special Education and Teaching
  • Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods
  • Hospitality Administration/Management
  • Education, Other
  • Chemistry
  • Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies
  • Religious Education
  • Radio, Television, and Digital Communication
  • Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication
  • Political Science and Government
  • Operations Research
  • Non-Professional General Legal Studies (Undergraduate)
  • Marketing
  • Management Information Systems and Services
  • Journalism
  • International Business
  • Human Resources Management and Services
  • Human Development, Family Studies, and Related Services
  • Germanic Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
  • Foods, Nutrition, and Related Services
  • Finance and Financial Management Services
  • Family and Consumer Sciences/Human Sciences, General
  • Engineering Science
  • Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering
  • Computer Engineering Technologies/Technicians
  • Computer Engineering
  • Business/Commerce, General
  • Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services, Other
  • Apparel and Textiles
  • Air Transportation
  • Agriculture/Veterinary Preparatory Programs
Online Master's Degrees (24 programs)
  • Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods
  • Communication and Media Studies
  • Music
  • Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
  • Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
  • Teaching English or French as a Second or Foreign Language
  • Missions/Missionary Studies and Missiology
  • Education, General
  • Business Administration, Management and Operations
  • Visual and Performing Arts, General
  • Student Counseling and Personnel Services
  • Special Education and Teaching
  • Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies
  • Religious/Sacred Music
  • Religious Education
  • Radio, Television, and Digital Communication
  • Journalism
  • History
  • Fine and Studio Arts
  • Film/Video and Photographic Arts
  • English Language and Literature, General
  • Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering
  • Design and Applied Arts
  • Accounting and Related Services
Online Doctoral Degrees (6 programs)
  • Theological and Ministerial Studies
  • Religion/Religious Studies
  • Educational Administration and Supervision
  • Curriculum and Instruction
  • Religious Education
  • Bible/Biblical Studies
Online Graduate/Professional Certificates (7 programs)
  • Educational Administration and Supervision
  • Education, General
  • Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology
  • Bible/Biblical Studies
  • Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods
  • Student Counseling and Personnel Services
  • Religion/Religious Studies
Online Undergraduate Certificates & Diplomas (2 programs)
  • Missions/Missionary Studies and Missiology
  • Carpenters

Student Demographics

Student Population

  • Total Undergraduate Enrollment 2,209
  • Full-Time Students 95.0%
  • Part-Time Students 5.0%
  • Male Students 46.4%
  • Female Students 53.6%
  • Caucasian 74.4%
  • Asian 3.9%
  • Hispanic 8.5%
  • Black 1.6%
  • Pell Grant Recipients 29.2%

Racial & Ethnic Diversity

Undergraduate student body composition by racial and ethnic background. This reflects Bob Jones University's commitment to diversity and inclusion in admissions.

Gender Distribution

Gender breakdown of Bob Jones University's undergraduate population. The university maintains a roughly balanced gender distribution across its student body.

Graduation Rate Equity Analysis

How well does Bob Jones University support students from different economic backgrounds?

Pell Grant Recipients
69.3%
6-year graduation rate
Non-Pell Students
72.0%
6-year graduation rate
Equity Gap
2.7 pts
excellent equity

What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at nearly the same rate as higher-income students, indicating strong 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 Bob Jones University, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.

EDsmart Insight: The student body is 74.4% White, reflecting less racial diversity than the national average.

Graduation Rate Equity Analysis

How well does Bob Jones University support students from different economic backgrounds?

Pell Grant Recipients
69.3%
6-year graduation rate
Non-Pell Students
72.0%
6-year graduation rate
Equity Gap
2.7 pts
excellent equity

What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at nearly the same rate as higher-income students, indicating strong 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 Bob Jones University, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.

Our Take

Bob Jones University offers a private university experience at a regional scale, combining smaller class sizes with -41.7% ROI. Ranked #590 nationally, the institution balances personalized attention against higher costs than public alternatives.

The $17,529 annual net price is moderately higher than state schools, offset somewhat by $40,892 median earnings. With 69.6% graduating within six years and 81.3% returning for sophomore year, outcomes reflect the personalized support typical of smaller private institutions.

Private University Value: Bob Jones University's Positioning

With a B+ grade and #590 ranking, Bob Jones University competes in the crowded regional private university market.

The Private University Premium: At $17,529 annually, Bob Jones University charges more than public alternatives but typically offers smaller classes, more personalized advising, and tighter-knit campus communities. The 81.3% 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 $12,270 achieve particularly strong value.

Cost-Benefit Reality: The -41.7% ROI and $40,892 median earnings don't always justify the premium over public universities. Students paying full price should compare whether the personalized experience warrants $7,529+ in additional annual costs over state flagships.

Competitive Standing: Bob Jones University ranks #590 of 1971 institutions, with 809 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

  • 69.6% six-year graduation rate sits 7.1 points above the national 62.5% benchmark.
  • 81.3% first-year retention is 4.5 points above the national norm of 76.8%.
  • -41.7% return on investment is 127.0 points below the national 85.3% benchmark.
  • Median earnings of $40,892 run about 6% lower than national outcomes six years after enrollment.
  • Average net price of $17,529 is roughly $2,370 lower than the national median of $19,899.

Helpfulness for Students

Green Flags
  • 13:1 student-faculty ratio keeps mentorship close and courses discussion-sized.
  • 81.3% first-year retention shows students stay engaged after the first year.
  • 77.6% employment rate within three years sits 9.4 points above national outcomes.
Red Flags
  • Pell participation at 29.2% trails the national share by 4.2 points, so equity work remains important.
  • 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

Bob Jones University is a private nonprofit university based in Greenville, SC and earns a B+ overall grade. It holds a #590 national ranking Category results include Completion (B+), Support (B), Career Outcomes (B-), 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.

About 81.3% of first-year students return, and roughly 69.6% finish within six years. Return on investment currently measures -41.7% 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 $17,529 on average after aid, compared with a published cost near $34,770.

Institutional and federal aid lower costs by roughly $17,241 per year.

Graduates leave with a median of $12,453 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

Graduates report median earnings of about $40,892 six years after entry. That sits about 6% below the national median.

Roughly 77.6% of graduates are employed three years out.

Plan around an ROI of about -41.7% according to the Scorecard data.

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 Bob Jones 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.

EDsmart Verdict
3.51 / 5
Value Rating - Based on affordability and career outcomes

Your Decision Toolkit

Run the Net Price Calculator
Get your personalized cost estimate
Compare with similar schools
See how Bob Jones University stacks up to alternatives
Check your major's earnings
See ROI for your specific field of study
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Visit Bob Jones University Website →

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Allen University
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B #670 of 1,971
Winthrop University
Rock Hill, SC
B #684 of 1,971
University of South Carolina-Columbia
Columbia, SC
B+ #438 of 1,971

Contact Information

  • AccreditationTransnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools (TRACS)
  • Endowment$18.0M
  • Transfer Enrollment Rate8.3%

Data Source & Methodology