Southeastern University

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.

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