Palm Beach Atlantic University: A Comprehensive Profile
Palm Beach Atlantic University (PBA) is a private Christian university located in West Palm Beach, Florida. Founded in 1968, PBA offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs, emphasizing a whole-person education that integrates study, service, and worship. This profile delves into various aspects of PBA, including its academics, admissions, costs, student life, and outcomes.
Academics and Accreditation
Palm Beach Atlantic University awarded 706 degrees in 2023 across its undergraduate and graduate programs. A significant majority, 67.1%, of these degrees were awarded to women, while 32.9% were awarded to men. The university's degree programs are accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). Additionally, several programs hold specialized accreditations, such as AACSB accreditation for the Rinker School of Business and National Association of Schools of Music accreditation for its music programs.
The most common race/ethnicity group of degree recipients was white (380 degrees), 2.77 times more than the next closest race/ethnicity group, hispanic or latino (137 degrees). In 2023, the most common bachelors degree concentration at Palm Beach Atlantic University was Registered Nursing with 87 degrees awarded.
Admissions and Enrollment
Palm Beach Atlantic University's admissions process is moderately selective. In 2023, the university received 7,657 undergraduate applications, with 6,763 students being accepted, resulting in an acceptance rate of 88.3%. This acceptance rate is lower than the 94.7% recorded in 2022. The university has a test-optional admissions policy.
In 2023, Palm Beach Atlantic University had a total enrollment of 3,875 students. Full-time enrollment stood at 2,842 students, while part-time enrollment was 1,033, indicating that 73.3% of students are enrolled full-time. The university also has an overall enrollment yield of 10.1%, reflecting the percentage of admitted students who choose to enroll.
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The enrolled student population at Palm Beach Atlantic University is diverse, with the following breakdown:
- 48.8% White
- 17.7% Hispanic or Latino
- 10.2% Black or African American
- 7.46% Two or More Races
- 2.3% Asian
- 0.31% American Indian or Alaska Native
- 0.103% Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islanders.
Costs and Financial Aid
The cost of attending Palm Beach Atlantic University is a significant factor for prospective students. In 2023, the median undergraduate tuition was $36,990, which is $12,415 more than the national average for Masters Colleges and Universities ($24,575). The cost of tuition at Palm Beach Atlantic University is $12,415 more than than the overall (public and private) national average for Masters Colleges and Universities ($24,575).
After factoring in grants and loans, the average net price for students is $31,103. Notably, 76% of undergraduate students received financial aid through grants, while 38% received financial aid through loans in 2023.
Additional expenses include room and board, which averaged $11,136 in 2023, and books and supplies, which cost around $1,117.
Student Life and Campus
Palm Beach Atlantic University offers a vibrant student life, characterized by a strong Christian community and a location near the beach. Students describe the campus as "laid back" with "intense classes." The university's location in downtown West Palm Beach provides students with easy access to various amenities and activities.
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Many students participate in worship and Bible study, and there is a sense of community where students support each other academically, socially, and spiritually. While some students feel there could be more emphasis on athletics, there are various ways for students to spend their free time, including going to the beach, watching movies, going out to eat, bowling, and participating in church activities.
Outcomes and Graduation Rates
Palm Beach Atlantic University strives to equip students for success after graduation. The university's graduation rate, defined as the percentage of full-time, first-time students who received a degree or award within 150% of "normal time" to completion, is an important metric.
In 2023, 50% of students graduating from Palm Beach Atlantic University completed their program within 100% "normal time". Comparatively, 61% completed their degrees within 150% of the normal time, and 61% within 200%.
According to available data, six years after graduation, the median salary for graduates is $42,366. Furthermore, a significant 80% of graduates report working in a position related to their college major.
Campus and Location
Palm Beach Atlantic University is located in the heart of West Palm Beach, Florida. The campus spans 101 acres, providing a city setting for its students. The university's location offers convenient access to various transportation options, including Palm Beach International Airport (10 minutes away) and the Tri-Rail commuter train system. The Ft. Lauderdale and Miami airports are approx. an hour away.
Read also: Comprehensive Learning in Palm Beach Gardens
Additional Information
Palm Beach Atlantic University is ranked No. #377 in National Universities. It's also ranked No. #306 in Top Performers on Social Mobility. The student-faculty ratio at Palm Beach Atlantic University is 9:1, and it utilizes a semester-based academic calendar. Palm Beach Atlantic University does not accept the Common Application.
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