Southwest Baptist University
Bolivar, Missouri 65613-2596
Data last updated: August 29, 2026
Known for health sciences — close-knit campus
Southwest Baptist University is a private institution in Bolivar with particular strength in health sciences and business. With an average SAT of 1084, the school attracts a broad applicant pool.
A small campus of 1.3K undergraduates with a 10:1 student-faculty ratio. The town location creates a classic college-town feel.
51% of students graduate within four years, and graduates earn a median of $43,112 a decade after enrollment. Net price after aid averages $21,082.
More About This School
History & Fun Facts
- •Maupin founded Southwest Baptist College in 1878 in Lebanon, Missouri.
- •In 1879, the state of Missouri chartered the school and it moved to Bolivar.
- •Southwest Baptist University was granted an exception to Title IX in 2015, allowing it to legally discriminate against LGBT students for religious reasons.
Source: Wikipedia
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Admissions
SAT Score Ranges
Average: 1084
ACT Score Range
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard / IPEDS.
Typical Application Requirements
Cost & Financial Aid
Sticker Price
Net Price by Family Income
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Net price reflects most recent cohort of federally-aided undergraduates.
Debt & Aid Detail
Net Price Trend
Tuition Trend
Graduate w/ Zero Debt
53.0%
Avg Tuition Increase
4.7%/yr
Median Debt at Grad
$14,000
Programs (63)
Outcomes
Median Earnings After Graduation
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Earnings reflect federally-aided students 6 and 10 years after entry.
Student Life
Student Satisfaction
Retention Rate
66%
Student Body
Race & Ethnicity
Campus Safety
Total Incidents (2024)
9
Peer Average
13
3-Year Trend
Emergency System
Campus security, emergency notification system
Incident Breakdown (2024)
Burglary
Aggravated Assault
Robbery
Motor Vehicle Theft
Sex Offenses
Arson
Drug Arrests
Liquor Arrests
Source: U.S. Department of Education Campus Safety & Security data (Clery Act, 2024 reporting year).
Location & Lifestyle
Cost of Living
Estimated from MO state average