Brenau University
Brenau University has an acceptance rate of 87.8%, an average net price of $17,968, and an overall rank of #1364 (Grade B-). About 33.7% of students graduate within 150% of normal time, and median earnings are $56,714 five years after graduation. Data from the U.S. Department of Education and EDsmart's 2026 rankings.
Brenau University is a private nonprofit university in Gainesville, GA. Students most often pursue Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing and Business/Commerce.
Academically, students benefit from a 11:1 student-faculty ratio, and 65.0% first-year retention. Peer cohorts and advising networks provide scaffolding that keeps newcomers anchored during demanding semesters.
EDsmart calculates return on investment at 70.6%, roughly 20.7 points higher than typical outcomes. It's a compelling fit for students who appreciate an encouraging campus with room to explore.
Who is Brenau University Best For?
A quick look at who tends to feel most at home here based on outcomes and campus context.
EDsmart Scores Summary
Brenau University graduates 33.7% of students within 150% of normal time (the completion rate used in EDsmart rankings), with an 8-year award rate of 34.5% and keeps 65.0% 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 Brenau 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: $28,525 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 | $35,520 |
| Books and Supplies | $1,290 |
| On-Campus Room and Board | $13,170 |
| On-Campus Other Expenses | $3,100 |
| Total On-Campus Cost | $46,493 |
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 50.2% of Brenau University students receive Pell Grants — well 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 $17,441 to $21,752 depending on family income. Use Brenau University's net price calculator for a personalized estimate.
If your family earns $75K-$110K: Expect to pay around $19,636/year
If your family earns $110K+: Expect to pay around $21,752/year
See all income brackets →ROI & Career Outcomes
- Median Earnings (5 Years After Graduation) $56,714
- 10-Year Median Earnings $54,638
- Average Years to Graduate 4.5 years
- Average Student Debt $28,000
- Debt-to-Earnings ~49.4%
- Repayment Rate (3yr) 45.4%
- Employment Rate 91.7%
Graduate Earnings Distribution
Earnings range for Brenau University graduates about 10 years after enrollment (25th percentile, median, and 75th percentile). Different horizon than median earnings five years after graduation above.
Brenau University vs. National Average
Comparison of key performance metrics showing how Brenau University's outcomes compare to the national average across earnings, graduation rates, retention, ROI, and employment. This contextualizes Brenau University's performance within the broader higher education landscape.
Acceptance & Selectivity
Getting In
- SAT Evidence-Based Reading 500-620
- SAT Math 430-580
- SAT Writing Not reported
- ACT Composite 18-22
- SAT & ACT Required
- Undergraduate Enrollment 1,029
- Full-Time Students 84.8%
- Part-Time Students 15.2%
- Retention Rate 65.0%
- Grad Rate (150% time) 33.7%
- Grad Rate (8-year) 34.5%
- Student-Faculty Ratio 11:1
How to Get Into Brenau University
1. Meet Academic Requirements: Brenau 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 87.8%, Brenau 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 87.8% acceptance rate, Brenau 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 930 and 1200 on the SAT.
Academic Programs
Undergraduate Program Distribution
Breakdown of the most popular majors and fields of study among Brenau University undergraduates. Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing, Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods, and English Language and Literature, General draw the most students.
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing 26.0%
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods 16.6%
- English Language and Literature, General 8.8%
- Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft 7.5%
- Psychology, General 5.5%
- Business/Commerce, General 5.5%
See more majors
- Health and Medical Administrative Services 4.9%
- Accounting and Related Services 4.2%
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 $106,944
- 2. Business/Commerce, General $43,193
- 3. Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods $40,980
Show additional high-earning majors
- 4. Psychology, General $36,497
Graduate Programs (Master's, Doctoral, Professional)
- 1. Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing (Master's Degree) $101,548
- 2. Health and Medical Administrative Services (Master's Degree) $99,589
- 3. Business Administration, Management and Operations (Master's Degree) $81,252
Show additional graduate majors
- 4. Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions (Doctoral Degree) $71,971
- 5. Human Resources Management and Services (Master's Degree) $71,447
- 6. Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions (First Professional Degree) $70,714
- 7. Accounting and Related Services (Master's Degree) $69,038
- 8. Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions (Master's Degree) $66,094
- 9. Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods (Master's Degree) $60,671
- 10. Gerontology (Master's Degree) $55,265
Program Choice Matters: Undergraduate: Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing grads earn $106,944—193% more than Psychology, General ($36,497). Graduate: Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing programs lead with $101,548 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 Brenau 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
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Master's Degree, 81 graduates)
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Bachelor's Degree, 70 graduates)
- Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions (Master's Degree, 64 graduates)
- Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions (First Professional Degree, 38 graduates)
- Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology (Master's Degree, 35 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 (15 programs)â–Ľ
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
- Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
- Health and Medical Administrative Services
- Design and Applied Arts
- Dance
- Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness
- Communication and Media Studies
- Biology, General
- English Language and Literature, General
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
- Fine and Studio Arts
- Music
- Legal Professions and Studies, Other
- International Relations and National Security Studies
- History
Online Master's Degrees (7 programs)â–Ľ
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
- Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions
- Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology
- Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions
- Health Professions and Related Clinical Sciences, Other
- Psychology, General
- Management Information Systems and Services
Online Doctoral Degrees (1 program)â–Ľ
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
Online Graduate/Professional Certificates (2 programs)â–Ľ
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
- Management Information Systems and Services
Online Undergraduate Certificates & Diplomas (1 program)â–Ľ
- Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies
Online First Professional Degrees (1 program)â–Ľ
- Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions
Student Demographics
Student Population
- Total Undergraduate Enrollment 1,029
- Full-Time Students 84.8%
- Part-Time Students 15.2%
- Male Students 9.3%
- Female Students 90.7%
- Caucasian 41.9%
- Asian 1.8%
- Hispanic 21.1%
- Black 24.0%
- Pell Grant Recipients 50.2%
Racial & Ethnic Diversity
Undergraduate student body composition by racial and ethnic background. This reflects Brenau University's commitment to diversity and inclusion in admissions.
Gender Distribution
Gender breakdown of Brenau University's undergraduate population. Women make up 90.7% of the student body, while men represent 9.3%.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does Brenau 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 Brenau University, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
EDsmart Insight: Brenau University has a diverse student body, with 41.9% identifying as White. Women make up 90.7% of undergraduates. 50.2% of students receive Pell Grants, well above the national average, indicating strong support for low-income students.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does Brenau 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 Brenau University, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
Our Take
Brenau University offers a private university experience at a regional scale, combining smaller class sizes with 0.0% ROI. Ranked #1364 overall, the institution balances personalized attention against higher costs than public alternatives.
The $17,968 annual net price is moderately higher than state schools, offset somewhat by $56,714 median earnings. With 33.7% graduating within 150% of normal time and 65.0% returning for sophomore year, outcomes reflect the personalized support typical of smaller private institutions.
Private University Value: Brenau University's Positioning
With a B- grade and #1364 ranking, Brenau University competes in the crowded regional private university market.
The Private University Premium: At $17,968 annually, Brenau University charges more than public alternatives but typically offers smaller classes, more personalized advising, and tighter-knit campus communities. The 65.0% 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 $12,578 achieve particularly strong value.
Cost-Benefit Reality: The 0.0% ROI and $56,714 median earnings don't always justify the premium over public universities. Students paying full price should compare whether the personalized experience warrants $7,968+ in additional annual costs over state flagships.
Competitive Standing: Brenau University ranks #1364 of 1934 institutions, with 0 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
- 33.7% graduation rate sits 28.8 points below the national 62.5% benchmark.
- 65.0% first-year retention is 11.8 points below the national norm of 76.8%.
- Median earnings of $56,714 run about 8% lower than national outcomes five years after graduation.
- Average net price of $17,968 is roughly $1,940 lower than the national median of $19,908.
- 91.7% employment rate within three years is 23.5 points above the national 68.2%.
Helpfulness for Students
- 11:1 student-faculty ratio keeps mentorship close and courses discussion-sized.
- 65.0% first-year retention shows students stay engaged after the first year.
- 91.7% employment rate within three years sits 23.5 points above national outcomes.
- 70.6% of students borrow federal loans, outpacing typical campuses and raising repayment stakes.
- 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
EDsmart rates Brenau University—a private nonprofit university in Gainesville, GA—at B- overall. It holds a #1364 overall ranking Grades by category break down as Completion C, 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 65.0% of first-year students return; 33.7% graduate within 150% of normal time, with an 8-year award rate of 34.5%. Review the cost and aid tables for a full picture of value.
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 $17,968 on average after aid, compared with a published cost near $46,493.
Institutional and federal aid lower costs by roughly $28,525 per year.
Graduates leave with a median of $28,000 in federal loans, which lines up with national norms.
About 50.2% 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
Five years after graduation, alumni earn roughly $56,714 at the median. That sits about 8% below the national median.
Employment outcomes report about 91.7% of alumni working within three years.
Use the ROI table above to estimate how long it may take to recoup your degree costs.
Why it matters: pairing median earnings with employment rates gives you a sense of payback time after graduation.
EDsmart Admissions Snapshot
87.8% 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 Brenau 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). Brenau University: Tuition, Outcomes & Rankings. https://www.edsmart.org/schools/brenau-university/
MLA (9th): “Brenau University: Tuition, Outcomes & Rankings.” EDsmart, 2026, www.edsmart.org/schools/brenau-university/.
Chicago: EDsmart. “Brenau University: Tuition, Outcomes & Rankings.” https://www.edsmart.org/schools/brenau-university/.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Brenau University's acceptance rate?
Brenau University's acceptance rate is 87.8%, based on U.S. Department of Education admissions data.
How much does Brenau University cost?
At Brenau University, listed tuition and fees are $35,520 per year, and the average net price after aid is $17,968. Use the net price calculator on this page for a personalized estimate.
What is Brenau University's ranking?
Brenau University ranks #1364 overall in EDsmart's 2026 college rankings with an overall grade of B-, based on completion, affordability, support, and career outcomes.
What is Brenau University's graduation rate?
At Brenau University, the graduation rate within 150% of normal time is 33.7% (the rate used in EDsmart rankings), the federal 8-year award rate is 34.5%, and first-year retention is 65.0%.
What are Brenau University's job outcomes?
Graduates of Brenau University report median earnings of $56,714 five years after graduation, according to U.S. Department of Education outcome data. Outcomes vary by major.
What is Brenau University's student population?
Brenau University enrolls about 1,029 undergraduate students, per U.S. Department of Education enrollment data.
Contact Information
- Address 500 Washington Street SE, Gainesville, GA 30501-3668
- Website www.brenau.edu
- Net Price Calculator Calculate Your Cost
- Financial AidView Financial Aid Information
- AccreditationSouthern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCC)
- Endowment$55.0M
- Transfer Enrollment Rate37.8%