About Southwest Baptist University
Southwest Baptist University first opened in 1878 in Lebanon, MO, as Southwest Baptist College. In 1879 the college was chartered by the state of Missouri and moved to Bolivar. The University has maintained its Baptist heritage through its affiliation with the Missouri Baptist Convention, which provides financial support for the University and elects the board of trustees which governs the institution. The Missouri Baptist Convention approved plans in 1964 for the college to become a senior liberal arts college. The first baccalaureate degrees were awarded in 1967. Another milestone occurred in 1981 when the college name was changed to Southwest Baptist University.
SBU offers undergraduate and graduate degrees, online education opportunities and dual credit courses. Over one hundred academic programs are offered, with average class size being 20 students. The Gordon and Judy Dutile Honors Program challenges and supports gifted students by fostering curiosity, academic excellence, growth and development.
SBU Worldwide is 100% online, and programs are offered in eight week classes. Associate, Bachelor’s, and Master’s degrees are offered.
Accreditation & Licensing
Southwest Baptist University is accredited by:
Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Type:
4-year, Private not-for-profitHighest Level Offered:
Doctor's degreeReligious Affiliation:
Southern BaptistEnrollment:
Undergraduate: 2,063 ; Graduate: 671Percent of Fully Online Students:
Undergraduate: 7% ; Graduate: 35%Graduation Rate:
51%Median Earnings, 10-Years After Degree Completion:
$43,112Median Debt After Graduation (4-Year Degree):
$20,957Average Undergraduates Receiving Aid:
73%Per Undergraduate Average Aid Award:
$16,550Yellow Ribbon Program:
YesCredit for Military Training:
YesFeatured Ranking Reports
Southwest Baptist University is featured in 4 of our ranking reports!
GetEducated continually compiles custom ranking reports to give you a complete snapshot of schools, degrees, tuition, and a detailed report on thousands of job categories throughout the entire education industry.
We provide these comprehensive ranking reports to you, for free. Click on any report below to learn more about how we ranked this school.
Geographic and Educational Overview
Southwest Baptist University is located in Missouri
Missouri at a Glance:
Top Majors in Missouri:
Top Incentives in Missouri:
- Access Missouri Financial Assistance Program: Up to $2,850 annually
Top Career Pathways in Missouri:
- Entry Level: Clinic Manager ($58,000)
- Mid Level: Healthcare Administrator ($88,000)
- Senior Level: Hospital Director ($135,000+)
- Required Education: BS Healthcare Administration
- Certifications: ACHE, RHIA