Personalized support for career planning
Regent University Overview
Founded in 1978, Regent University is a private Christian institution located in Virginia Beach, Virginia. With a mission to nurture “Christian Leadership to Change the World,” the university is committed to shaping students who are prepared to lead with both skill and integrity on a global scale.
Spanning 70 acres in a suburban area, the campus is just 16 miles from the Atlantic coastline and situated in a vibrant metropolitan area of over 1.6 million people. As of Fall 2022, Regent enrolls over 4,500 undergraduate students and follows a semester-based academic calendar. In the 2024 U.S. News & World Report rankings, Regent is placed #369 among National Universities. The current annual tuition and fees are approximately $20,685, offering a more affordable alternative compared to many private institutions nationwide.
Pros
Cons
Academic Programs and Degrees Offered
Regent University provides a wide variety of programs spanning undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels. The school emphasizes flexibility and innovation in its academic offerings, with the following credentials available:
- Certificates
- Associate Degrees
- Bachelor’s Degrees
- Master’s Degrees
- Doctoral Degrees
Several dual-degree pathways are also offered, combining undergraduate and graduate studies in areas such as:
- B.A. in Government & M.A. in Government
- B.S. in Business & MBA
- B.A. in Leadership Studies & M.A. in Organizational Leadership
- B.A. in Law & J.D.
Among the most popular programs in 2022 were:
- General Psychology
- Biblical Studies
- Speech Communication and Rhetoric
- Business Administration
- English Language and Literature
Cost of Attendance
At $20,685 for tuition and fees, Regent remains more affordable than the national average of over $43,000 for private colleges. This figure includes basic educational services like library access, technology use, and campus facilities.
The total cost of attendance, which includes housing, meals, books, transportation, and personal expenses, is estimated at $30,856 annually. After financial aid is applied, the average net cost drops to around $25,409 for students receiving need-based aid.
Here’s a quick look at student debt trends:
- Median federal loan debt for graduates: $24,534
- Estimated monthly loan repayment (10-year term at 5.05%): $260
- About 13% of graduates use private loans, averaging $14,033 in debt
Admission Information
Regent University follows a selective admissions process with an acceptance rate of 32%. Applicants typically score between 1030–1250 on the SAT or 19–25 on the ACT. A quarter of applicants surpass these ranges, while another quarter fall below.
The application deadline for prospective students is August 1st. Most programs operate on a rolling admissions basis, meaning applications are accepted throughout the year. Many degrees offer eight-week start cycles, providing students with multiple entry points annually.
Application requirements vary by program, but nearly all include a written statement. Applicants should take care to submit thoughtful, well-crafted essays that reflect their personal goals and values.
Once all materials are received, the university typically delivers an admission decision within 24 to 48 hours—a notably efficient process.
Recognitions and Accreditation
Regent is fully accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), enabling it to offer degrees from the associate through the doctoral level.
Its academic excellence has earned it multiple accolades, including:
- Ranked #1 for Best Accredited Online School by Study.com
- Recognized by U.S. News & World Report as having the top online bachelor’s programs in Virginia
- Honored as a Top Military Friendly School by MilitaryFriendly.com
- Named a Tier 1 Homeschool-Friendly University by the HSLDA
- One of only 23 universities nationwide to earn an “A” rating for its core curriculum from the American Council of Trustees and Alumni (ACTA)
Support for Students
Regent provides an excellent support network from the start. Every applicant is connected with an admissions counselor who helps guide them through the application and program selection process. These counselors focus on learning about each student’s goals and aspirations to recommend the most suitable academic path.
The university also places a strong emphasis on student wellness and safety. On-campus services include:
- Health clinics and insurance plans
- 24/7 campus security patrols
- Late-night escort services
- Emergency call boxes across campus
Beyond physical safety, student success and happiness are core priorities. The Center for Student Happiness offers:
- Orientation sessions for new students
- Personalized academic and life coaching
- Career planning support
- Small group workshops and webinars
Whether on campus or online, Regent’s student services are designed to foster both personal and academic growth in a supportive, faith-driven environment.
Low tuition rates and flexible class schedule
Final Thoughts
Regent University stands out not just for its academic offerings and affordability but also for its distinctive mission of cultivating Christian leaders who aim to make a global impact. With top rankings in online education, a wide variety of degree programs, and dedicated support services, the university remains a compelling option for students pursuing education grounded in faith and purpose.
Its flexible admissions model, competitive costs, and strong community values make it especially appealing for adult learners, working professionals, homeschool graduates, and military families alike. If you’re seeking a university experience that integrates academic rigor with spiritual development, Regent University is well worth your consideration.
