Southeastern University is a private Christian university located in Lakeland, Florida. Affiliated with the Assemblies of God, it offers associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degree programs across fields such as business, education, ministry, nursing, behavioral sciences, and the arts. The university began as a Bible institute and has developed into a comprehensive institution with a residential campus and extension sites in various locations. Southeastern University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. Students who are drawn to faith-based education, ministry preparation, leadership studies, and community-oriented campus life often consider Southeastern University for its Christian mission and liberal arts foundation.
With a 52.98% acceptance rate, Southeastern University is moderately selective. Applicants are expected to show good academic performance and readiness for college-level coursework. Students with consistent grades, extracurricular involvement, and a well-prepared application are typically competitive for admission.
Southeastern University was founded in 1935 in New Brockton, Alabama, as the Alabama Shield of Faith Institute by leaders of the Assemblies of God. Renamed South-Eastern Bible Institute in 1936, the school initially focused on two-year ministry training programs. Guy Shields served as the first president. After operating in Alabama and later Atlanta, the institution relocated permanently to Lakeland, Florida, in 1946. In 1956 it became South-Eastern Bible College and began offering four-year bachelor’s degrees. The name changed to Southeastern College of the Assemblies of God in 1977, reflecting program growth and broader academic offerings. Following regional accreditation in 1986, Southeastern University continued expanding its curriculum. In 2005, Southeastern University officially adopted its current name and launched graduate programs, marking its transition into a comprehensive university in Lakeland.
Southeastern University has a 19:1 student-to-faculty ratio, meaning classes may be larger, especially in introductory courses. While lecture-based learning may be more common, students still have opportunities to connect with professors through office hours, discussion sections, and academic advising.
Applying to Southeastern University involves submitting an online application, academic transcripts, and other materials depending on the program of interest. As a private Christian institution in Lakeland, Florida, Southeastern University considers both academic preparation and alignment with its faith-based mission during the admissions process. Undergraduate and graduate applicants should review specific program requirements and deadlines to ensure a complete application.
Southeastern University offers a range of financial aid options, including institutional scholarships, grants, federal aid programs, and need-based assistance. Because Southeastern University is accredited, eligible students can complete the FAFSA to access federal loans and grants. The university also provides merit-based scholarships and ministry-related awards to help reduce overall tuition costs.
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