Southwest Baptist University
Bolivar, MO
Bolivar, MO
Unapologetically Christ-Centered
Southwest Baptist University is a Christ-centered liberal arts University located in Bolivar, Missouri. It offers a tight-knit, caring community where undergraduate students can grow spiritually, academically, and socially while preparing for a meaningful career.
Exceptional academics
With more than 100 areas of academic study, you will easily find a path that fits your goals. The University boasts a 12:1 student-to-faculty ratio and an average class size of 20, meaning professors will know you by name and support you every step of the way. Notably, the University is the only school in Missouri to receive a rare "A" rating from the American Council of Trustees and Alumni for its rigorous general education curriculum.
Vibrant student life
Life at the University goes far beyond the classroom. The 158-acre campus is buzzing with opportunities to get involved and build lifelong friendships. You can cheer on the Bearcats in 22 NCAA Division II varsity sports, stay active at the wellness center, or deepen your faith through chapel services and small group Bible studies.
Prepared for the future
At SBU, you are equipped not just for a job, but for a life of servant leadership. The University Success Center ensures your transition to college is seamless, providing seminar courses and one-on-one advising tailored specifically to incoming freshmen.
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One of 25 nationwide institutions to receive an “A” rating for general education curriculum | American Council of Trustees and Alumni |
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Named one of “America’s 100 Best College Buys” every year since 1996 |
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Named one of “America’s Best Christian Colleges” every year since 1997 |
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Named one of the nation’s “Best Private Colleges for Minimizing Student Debt” | LendEDU |
A major highlight of the University is the Center for Global Connections. This unique program coordinates up to 30 short-term domestic and international service projects every year. Students have the incredible opportunity to travel, experience diverse cultures, and share their faith. Whether you are serving locally or across the world, you will develop essential cross-cultural leadership skills and gain a broader perspective on the global society while making a tangible difference in the lives of others.
“SBU accepted all of my outside scholarships and offered me many SBU-specific grants and scholarships, which quickly made it a great option financially. The high level of education I received and lifelong support I have at SBU is priceless!”
“SBU’s culture of Christ-centeredness was prevalent in all of my classes. I knew at some point in every class that what I was doing would be related back to Christ. This is truly unique over other universities.”
“The support at SBU and the things I learned by being a college athlete really helped prepare me for what the mission says, ‘to be a servant leader in a global society.’”
“Southwest Baptist not only prepared me for the rigors of medical school academically but also helped equip me to be a faithful servant of Christ as a medical student—and one day, in my career as a physician.”