Overview
Founded in 1971 by Baptist minister Jerry Falwell Sr. as Lynchburg Baptist College, Liberty University has grown into one of the largest private nonprofit universities in the United States. Rooted in evangelical Christian values, it emphasizes a biblical worldview integrated across its curriculum while offering a broad range of professional, liberal arts, and STEM programs. Liberty is particularly renowned for pioneering large-scale online higher education, which has driven its enrollment growth and financial resources far beyond typical private institutions of comparable age.
At a Glance
| Type | Private |
| Location | Lynchburg, Virginia |
| Founded | 1971 |
| Total students | 94,000 |
| Student–faculty ratio | 17:1 |
| Acceptance rate | 50% |
| Graduation rate | 51% |
| Average starting salary | $48,000 |
Tuition & Costs (estimates)
| In-state tuition | $23,800 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $23,800 |
| Room & board | $11,900 |
| Average financial aid | $18,000 |
| Students receiving aid | 85% |
Admissions
| SAT range | 990-1200 |
| ACT range | 19-26 |
| Average GPA | 3.45 |
| Regular deadline | Rolling |
Top Programs
- Business Administration
- Nursing
- Education
- Criminal Justice
- Divinity/Theology
Figures are estimates for exploration — verify current costs, deadlines, and requirements on the university's official website.