South University-Savannah
South University-Savannah is a private for-profit institution in Savannah, GA ranked #1781 nationally by EDsmart, earning an overall grade of C, and enrolling about 246 undergraduates. Students most often pursue Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing and Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management.
Inside the classroom, students benefit from a 11:1 student-faculty ratio, 50.0% first-year retention, and 22.7% six-year graduation. Faculty pair challenging syllabi with intentional mentoring so learners keep momentum even as expectations rise.
Families typically invest $24,116, about $7,118 more than the national median. EDsmart calculates return on investment at -64.6%, roughly 149.9 points below typical outcomes. Six years after enrolling, alumni report median earnings of $34,115. That's about $9,573 below national results. Expect the strongest outcomes for students who appreciate an encouraging campus with room to explore.
Who is South University-Savannah 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-Savannah graduates 22.7% of students within six years and keeps 50.0% 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 South University-Savannah'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 | $31,163 |
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 72.3% of South University-Savannah students receive Pell Grants — well above the national average, highlighting ongoing affordability priorities.
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-Savannah 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-Savannah vs. National Average
Comparison of key performance metrics showing how South University-Savannah's outcomes compare to the national average across earnings, graduation rates, retention, ROI, and employment. This contextualizes South University-Savannah's performance within the broader higher education landscape.
EDsmart Insight: While South University-Savannah graduates earn $34,115 median, the -64.6% 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 246
- Full-Time Students 95.0%
- Part-Time Students 5.0%
- Retention Rate 50.0%
- Graduation Rate 22.7%
- Student-Faculty Ratio 11:1
How to Get Into South University-Savannah
1. Meet Academic Requirements: South University-Savannah 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-Savannah 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-Savannah undergraduates. Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing, Business Administration, Management and Operations, and Information Science/Studies draw the most students.
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing 31.5%
- Business Administration, Management and Operations 29.6%
- Information Science/Studies 11.1%
- Health and Medical Administrative Services 11.1%
- Psychology, General 9.3%
- Criminal Justice and Corrections 5.6%
See more majors
- Legal Support Services 1.9%
- Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communi 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. Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management $71,178
- 3. Information Science/Studies $67,229
Show additional high-earning majors
- 4. Business Administration, Management and Operations $54,466
- 5. Health/Medical Preparatory Programs $52,746
- 6. Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General $47,545
- 7. Allied Health and Medical Assisting Services $47,529
- 8. Criminal Justice and Corrections $47,301
- 9. Legal Support Services $46,159
- 10. Health and Medical Administrative Services $45,275
Graduate Programs (Master's, Doctoral, Professional)
- 1. Allied Health and Medical Assisting Services (Master's Degree) $196,934
- 2. Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Administration (Doctoral Degree) $137,621
- 3. Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing (Doctoral Degree) $125,929
Show additional graduate majors
- 4. Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions (Master's Degree) $121,963
- 5. Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing (Graduate/Professional Certificate) $119,946
- 6. Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing (Master's Degree) $118,330
- 7. Bioethics/Medical Ethics (Master's Degree) $96,443
- 8. Information Science/Studies (Master's Degree) $88,529
- 9. Health and Medical Administrative Services (Master's Degree) $63,788
- 10. Business Administration, Management and Operations (Master's Degree) $60,102
Program Choice Matters: Undergraduate: Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing grads earn $90,784—101% more than Health and Medical Administrative Services ($45,275). Graduate: Allied Health and Medical Assisting Services programs lead with $196,934 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-Savannah. 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
- Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions (Master's Degree, 69 graduates)
- Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Administration (First Professional Degree, 67 graduates)
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Master's Degree, 58 graduates)
- Allied Health and Medical Assisting Services (Associate's Degree, 38 graduates)
- Allied Health and Medical Assisting Services (Master's Degree, 24 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 (8 programs)â–¼
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
- Information Science/Studies
- Health and Medical Administrative Services
- Psychology, General
- Criminal Justice and Corrections
- Legal Support Services
- Public Health
Online Master's Degrees (9 programs)â–¼
- Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
- Allied Health and Medical Assisting Services
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
- Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions
- Health and Medical Administrative Services
- Public Health
- Public Administration
- Criminal Justice and Corrections
Online Doctoral Degrees (1 program)â–¼
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
Online Graduate/Professional Certificates (1 program)â–¼
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
Online First Professional Degrees (2 programs)â–¼
- Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Administration
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
Student Demographics
Student Population
- Total Undergraduate Enrollment 246
- Full-Time Students 95.0%
- Part-Time Students 5.0%
- Male Students 14.2%
- Female Students 85.8%
- Caucasian 25.6%
- Asian 1.6%
- Hispanic 8.5%
- Black 56.9%
- Pell Grant Recipients 72.3%
Racial & Ethnic Diversity
Undergraduate student body composition by racial and ethnic background. This reflects South University-Savannah's commitment to diversity and inclusion in admissions.
Gender Distribution
Gender breakdown of South University-Savannah's undergraduate population. Women make up 85.8% of the student body, while men represent 14.2%.
Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity
Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity
Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at South University-Savannah, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
EDsmart Insight: South University-Savannah has a diverse student body, with 25.6% identifying as White. Women make up 85.8% of undergraduates. 72.3% of students receive Pell Grants, well above the national average, indicating strong support for low-income students.
Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity
Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity
Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at South University-Savannah, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
Our Take
South University-Savannah ranks #1781 of 1966 institutions in our comprehensive analysis, achieving a C overall grade with -64.6% ROI.
At $24,116 annually, the institution serves students seeking accessible higher education. Career outcomes and value metrics should be carefully compared against alternative institutions before enrolling.
EDsmart Assessment: South University-Savannah
C grade | #1781 of 1966 | 9.5/100 on EDsmart's national index (0–100 vs. all ranked schools; not a raw point total)
Performance Overview: South University-Savannah's -64.6% return on investment and #1781 ranking reflect the institution's competitive position in the higher education landscape. The $24,116 annual cost should be carefully weighed against expected career outcomes.
Value Considerations: Prospective students should compare South University-Savannah's specific programs against alternatives, as institutional averages may not reflect individual program quality. Financial aid packages, program-specific outcomes, and career services vary significantly.
Decision Framework: Use South University-Savannah's C grade and #1781 ranking as starting points, not final answers. Evaluate program-specific outcomes, campus visit impressions, financial aid offers, and career placement rates in your intended field before making enrollment decisions.
Key Takeaways
- 22.7% six-year graduation rate sits 39.8 points below the national 62.5% benchmark.
- 50.0% first-year retention is 26.8 points below the national norm of 76.8%.
- -64.6% return on investment is 149.9 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 $24,116 is roughly $4,206 higher than the national median of $19,910.
Helpfulness for Students
- 11:1 student-faculty ratio keeps mentorship close and courses discussion-sized.
- 50.0% 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 $24,116 is about $4,206 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 Savannah, GA, South University-Savannah operates as a private for-profit institution and receives a C from EDsmart. It stands at #1781 among 1966 schools Category results include Completion (C-), Support (C+), 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.
About 50.0% of first-year students return, and roughly 22.7% finish within six years. Return on investment currently measures -64.6% 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 $24,116 on average after aid, compared with a published cost near $31,163.
Institutional and federal aid lower costs by roughly $7,047 per year.
Graduates leave with a median of $13,000 in federal loans, which lines up with national norms.
About 72.3% 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. Compared with the national median, that's 22% lower.
Roughly 75.5% of graduates are employed three years out.
The ROI comes in near -64.6%, 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
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-Savannah 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 Savannah, GA 31406
- Website www.southuniversity.edu/savannah#location=Savannah, GA
- Net Price Calculator Calculate Your Cost
- Financial AidView Financial Aid Information
- AccreditationSouthern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCC)
- Transfer Enrollment Rate4.5%