Southeastern University

About Southeastern University

Southeastern University is a private Christian university in Lakeland, Florida, affiliated with the Assemblies of God denomination. Founded in 1935, the university has grown from a small Bible college to a comprehensive institution serving approximately 10,000 students through campus programs and extensive online offerings. The university's mission integrates Christian faith with academic study, preparing students for professional careers and lives of service. The 90-acre campus features modern facilities including academic buildings, residence halls, athletic facilities, and a chapel central to community life. Southeastern has experienced significant growth in recent years, expanding programs, facilities, and enrollment while maintaining its religious identity. The student body represents various Christian backgrounds, with chapel attendance and community standards reflecting the university's faith heritage. Academic programs span education, business, theology, communications, behavioral sciences, and various professional fields. The university has invested heavily in online education, making its programs accessible to students unable to attend the Lakeland campus. The location in central Florida provides pleasant weather, access to major cities, and proximity to tourism industry employers.

Southeastern University maintains accessible admissions policies aligned with its mission of providing Christian higher education to a broad student population. First-time freshmen submit high school transcripts, standardized test scores (though test-optional policies have become available), and application materials including an essay addressing faith and educational goals. The university reviews academic preparation, character, and fit with institutional values rather than applying highly selective criteria. Most applicants who meet basic preparation standards and demonstrate alignment with university values receive admission. The rolling admissions process allows applications throughout the year, though earlier application improves housing and financial aid options. Transfer students submit college transcripts and may have prior credits evaluated for transfer. The university accepts credits from many institutions, with articulation agreements facilitating transfers from Florida community colleges. Online students follow similar processes with some modifications. International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency and educational credentials. Graduate program admissions have program-specific requirements including undergraduate degrees and sometimes professional experience. Campus visits help prospective students experience the environment and assess fit. Virtual visit options serve those unable to travel to Lakeland. Admissions counselors guide applicants through requirements and answer questions about university life.

Southeastern University organizes academics through colleges covering arts and media, behavioral and social sciences, business and legal studies, Christian ministries and religion, education, and natural and health sciences. Ministry and theological programs maintain the university's heritage, preparing pastors, youth ministers, and church leaders. Education programs produce teachers for schools throughout Florida and beyond, with state certification preparation integrated into curricula. Business programs cover accounting, finance, management, marketing, and specialized areas including sport management. Communications and media programs prepare students for careers in journalism, broadcasting, public relations, and digital media. Psychology and counseling programs train helping professionals, while criminal justice prepares students for law enforcement and related fields. Natural sciences include biology, biochemistry, and pre-professional tracks for students pursuing healthcare careers. Nursing and health-related programs address growing healthcare workforce needs. Music and performing arts programs develop musicians and performers. The university has expanded graduate offerings, including master's programs in education, business, ministry, and counseling. Online programs replicate campus curricula for distance learners. All students complete general education requirements including Bible courses reflecting the university's religious mission.

Key Highlights

• Private non-profit institution with strong academic tradition
• Mid-size city location with balance of urban amenities
• Research-intensive with extensive graduate programs
• Diverse academic programs across multiple disciplines

Student Life & Environment

Campus life at Southeastern University reflects its Christian identity, with chapel services, spiritual formation activities, and community standards shaping the student experience. Chapel attendance is required multiple times weekly, bringing the campus together for worship, teaching, and community building. Student organizations include ministry teams, academic clubs, service organizations, and special interest groups. Athletic programs compete in NAIA Division I, with Fire teams generating school spirit, particularly in football, basketball, and baseball. Intramural sports and recreation programs serve non-varsity athletes. The campus provides residence halls with various living arrangements, and most undergraduate students live on campus at least during their first years. Community standards include behavioral expectations reflecting Christian values, including policies regarding alcohol, relationships, and entertainment. While these standards may feel restrictive to some, many students appreciate the supportive environment they create. Student support services include counseling, academic advising, and career guidance. The university works to create an inclusive community within its religious framework, welcoming students from various backgrounds who respect institutional values. Campus events throughout the year include concerts, speakers, movie nights, and seasonal celebrations.

Location & Surroundings

Southeastern University's campus sits in Lakeland, Florida, a mid-sized city of approximately 115,000 residents located between Tampa and Orlando along the Interstate 4 corridor. Lakeland offers a pleasant small-city environment with lower costs than Florida's major metropolitan areas while remaining within easy reach of urban amenities. The climate brings hot, humid summers with afternoon thunderstorms and mild, dry winters that attract snowbirds from northern states. The landscape is flat, with numerous lakes that give the city its name and provide recreation opportunities. Tampa and Orlando lie approximately 30-45 minutes away depending on traffic, providing access to professional sports, major attractions including theme parks, international airports, and diverse employment markets. The cost of living in Lakeland runs moderate by Florida standards, with affordable housing compared to coastal cities. Local employers include healthcare systems, education, retail, and various industries. The Publix supermarket chain, headquartered in Lakeland, is a major employer. Transportation requires a car for most purposes, as public transit is limited. Florida's tourism industry provides part-time employment opportunities for students. The region's growth brings both opportunities and challenges, with population increase driving development and traffic increases.

Costs & Career Outcomes

Tuition and fees at Southeastern University are set at levels competitive with similar private institutions, with published costs that many students reduce through financial aid. Scholarships recognize academic achievement, ministry calling, athletic ability, and various other criteria. Need-based grants help families with demonstrated financial need. The financial aid office works with families to package awards combining institutional aid, federal aid, and loans. Room and board add to total costs for residential students. Online students pay per-credit-hour rates without room and board costs. Students should also budget for books, supplies, transportation, and personal expenses. Work-study and campus employment provide earning opportunities. Career outcomes vary by program and individual effort. Education graduates become teachers throughout Florida and other states. Ministry graduates serve churches and religious organizations. Business graduates enter companies across various industries. Communications graduates find media and marketing positions. Healthcare-related graduates work in hospitals, clinics, and care facilities. Criminal justice graduates pursue law enforcement and related careers. The career services office provides job listings, employer connections, resume assistance, and interview preparation. Internship and practicum experiences build credentials before graduation. Alumni networks support job searches, particularly in Florida where many graduates settle. The university tracks placement outcomes to assess program effectiveness.