Berry College vs Shorter University

Berry College and Shorter University, both esteemed institutions of higher learning in Georgia, offer unique educational experiences tailored to diverse student aspirations. Berry College, nestled in the scenic foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, boasts a sprawling campus with a rich history and a strong emphasis on experiential learning. Shorter University, located in the vibrant city of Rome, prides itself on its Christ-centered education and a commitment to academic excellence. While both universities share a dedication to student success, they differ in several key aspects, including acceptance rates, popular majors, student body demographics, and graduation rates. Explore the comprehensive comparison table below to discover which institution aligns best with your academic goals and personal preferences, ensuring a fulfilling and transformative college journey.
Berry College logo

Berry College

Shorter University logo

Shorter University

Overview

Location Mount Berry, Georgia Rome, Georgia
Campus setting Suburb: Small City: Small
College type 4 year 4 year
Control/business model Private (Non Profit) Private (Non Profit)
Calendar system Semester Semester
Degrees offered Undergraduate and Graduate Undergraduate and Graduate
Students retention rate 85.0% 68.0%
Common app member Yes No
Religious affiliation Baptist

Admission

Acceptance rate 69.9% 81.2%
Application fees
Undergraduate: $25

Graduate: $25
SAT range 1120 - 1316 960 - 1190
ACT range 24 - 30 17 - 24
Students submitting SAT score 12.0% 12.0%
Students submitting ACT score 34.0% 17.0%
Total number of applicants 5,249 1,149
Total number of admissions given out 3,669 933
Admitted students who chose to enroll 729 309
Yield rate 19.9% 33.1%
Test scores (SAT/ACT) N/A N/A
High school GPA Required Required
Recommendation letters Not required Not required
High school transcript Not required Not required
English proficiency test (e.g. TOEFL) Required Not required

Tuition and Fees

Sticker price $54,520 $40,961
Average net price $24,741 $16,438
Tuition $38,430 $22,380
Room & board
Room/dormitory: $7,640

Meal plan: $5,980
Room/dormitory: $5,000

Meal plan: $4,400
Available payment plans
  • Tuition payment plan
  • Tuition payment plan

Financial Aid

Students receiving financial aid

(Grants & scholarships)

100.0%
Average amount $29,624
99.0%
Average amount $18,107
Students receiving federal student loan 47.0%
Average amount $5,295
64.0%
Average amount $5,550
Students taking out private loans 10.0%
Average amount $11,567
6.0%
Average amount $9,447

Students and Campus

Undergraduate students 2,172
Men 36.3% Women 63.7%
1,332
Men 44.3% Women 55.7%
Graduate students 131
Men 27.5% Women 72.5%
128
Men 53.1% Women 46.9%
Racial/ethnic diversity
Low
Low
Out-of-state students 26.6% 15.2%
International students 0.4% 2.0%
Campus local/setting Suburb: Small City: Small
Dormitory capacity 1,991 760
First year students are required to live on campus? No No
Top 5 states where most U.S. students come from Georgia Tennessee Alabama Florida North Carolina Georgia Alabama Florida Tennessee Arizona

Academics

Popular study areas
  • Education
  • Biological and Biomedical Sciences
  • Health Professions
  • Kinesiology & Leisure Studies
  • Business
  • Business
  • Liberal Arts
  • Health Professions
  • Education
  • Kinesiology & Leisure Studies
Students to faculty ratio 12:1 15:1
Institutional accreditation Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Outcome

Graduation rate 72.4% 37.2%
Dropout rate 27.6% 62.4%
Transferred out N/A N/A
Alumni salary by major (Top 10)
Educational Administration and Supervision (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $69,436
  • Year 2: $70,176
  • Year 3: $74,888
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $60,369
  • Year 2: $51,482
  • Year 3: $59,936
Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $35,028
  • Year 2: $40,747
  • Year 3: $41,989
Business Administration, Management and Operations (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $40,025
  • Year 2: $35,416
  • Year 3: $40,959
Psychology, General (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $25,920
  • Year 2: $25,967
  • Year 3: $40,716
Communication, Journalism, and Related Programs, Other (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $27,089
  • Year 2: $35,810
  • Year 3: $37,329
Marketing (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $40,034
  • Year 2: $38,289
  • Year 3: $36,933
Animal Sciences (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: N/A
  • Year 2: $24,421
  • Year 3: $29,783
Biology, General (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: N/A
  • Year 2: N/A
  • Year 3: $27,332
Zoology/Animal Biology (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $23,886
  • Year 2: N/A
  • Year 3: N/A
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $58,578
  • Year 2: $55,512
  • Year 3: $60,645
Business Administration, Management and Operations (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $43,806
  • Year 2: $48,823
  • Year 3: $52,744
Business Administration, Management and Operations (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $50,621
  • Year 2: $45,249
  • Year 3: $46,956
Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $36,642
  • Year 2: $36,992
  • Year 3: $38,254
Criminal Justice and Corrections (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $36,165
  • Year 2: $33,281
  • Year 3: $36,577
Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities (Associate's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $34,686
  • Year 2: $39,585
  • Year 3: $33,718
Human Services, General (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $32,710
  • Year 2: $31,133
  • Year 3: $30,793
Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: N/A
  • Year 2: $41,937
  • Year 3: N/A
Communication and Media Studies (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: N/A
  • Year 2: $24,035
  • Year 3: N/A
Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: N/A
  • Year 2: $40,402
  • Year 3: N/A

Frequently Asked Questions


  • What are the main differences between Berry College and Shorter University?

    Berry College is a private, independent, comprehensive liberal arts college known for its stunning 27,000-acre campus and strong emphasis on experiential learning. Shorter University, affiliated with the Georgia Baptist Convention, offers a Christian-centered education with a focus on professional programs alongside liberal arts. Key differences lie in their religious affiliation, campus size, and program emphasis.

  • How do Berry College and Shorter University differ in their academic focus?

    Berry College emphasizes a broad liberal arts education with a strong focus on undergraduate research, internships, and study abroad opportunities. While Shorter University also offers liberal arts programs, it places a greater emphasis on career-oriented programs and integrates a Christian worldview into its curriculum.

  • What is the religious affiliation of each college?

    Berry College is an independent institution and is not religiously affiliated. Shorter University is affiliated with the Georgia Baptist Convention and integrates Christian values and principles into its academic and campus life.

  • How do the campuses of Berry College and Shorter University compare?

    Berry College boasts the world's largest contiguous college campus, spanning 27,000 acres with diverse landscapes including forests, fields, and mountains. Shorter University has a smaller, more traditional campus located in Rome, Georgia.

  • What types of programs are offered at Berry College and Shorter University?

    Berry College offers a wide range of undergraduate programs in the arts, sciences, and professional fields, with notable programs in business, education, and pre-health. Shorter University offers undergraduate and graduate programs, with strengths in business, education, music, and Christian studies.

  • How do the student bodies at Berry College and Shorter University compare in size?

    Berry College typically has a larger student body compared to Shorter University. Berry College enrolls around 2,200 undergraduate students, while Shorter University's undergraduate enrollment is generally smaller, around 1,000 students.

  • What is the student-faculty ratio at Berry College and Shorter University?

    Berry College generally maintains a lower student-faculty ratio, typically around 12:1, allowing for more personalized attention. Shorter University's student-faculty ratio is also relatively low, usually around 13:1, providing students with access to their professors.

  • What is campus life like at Berry College and Shorter University?

    Berry College offers a vibrant campus life with numerous student organizations, clubs, and activities, including outdoor recreation opportunities due to its large campus. Shorter University provides a close-knit community with a focus on faith-based activities, student ministries, and traditional campus events.

  • How do the athletic programs at Berry College and Shorter University compare?

    Both Berry College and Shorter University offer a variety of intercollegiate athletic programs. Berry College competes in NCAA Division III, while Shorter University competes in NCAA Division II. Shorter University's athletic programs are known as the Hawks, and Berry College's are known as the Vikings.

  • What are the tuition costs like at Berry College and Shorter University?

    Tuition costs can vary, so it's best to check the official websites of Berry College and Shorter University for the most up-to-date information. Generally, private institutions like Berry College and Shorter University have similar tuition ranges, but financial aid and scholarships can significantly impact the net cost for students.

  • What kind of financial aid opportunities are available at Berry College and Shorter University?

    Both Berry College and Shorter University offer a range of financial aid options, including merit-based scholarships, need-based grants, and student loans. Students are encouraged to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine their eligibility for financial assistance at both institutions.

  • What are the admission requirements for Berry College and Shorter University?

    Admission requirements vary, but generally include a completed application, high school transcripts, standardized test scores (SAT/ACT), and letters of recommendation. It's best to check the admissions websites of both Berry College and Shorter University for specific requirements and deadlines.

  • What are the career services like at Berry College and Shorter University?

    Both Berry College and Shorter University offer career services to help students with career exploration, resume writing, interview skills, and job placement. Berry College's focus on experiential learning provides students with practical experience that enhances their career prospects. Shorter University also provides career counseling and resources to help students find employment after graduation.

  • Where are Berry College and Shorter University located?

    Both Berry College and Shorter University are located in Rome, Georgia. Berry College's expansive campus is located just outside the city, while Shorter University's campus is within the city limits.

Compare Similar Colleges

The list of suggested college comparisons provided below is generated automatically by our system, utilizing statistics gathered from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and various online sources. If you don't find the colleges you wish to compare, please visit our comparison page. There, you can search for the specific colleges and initiate your comparison.
Berry College Berry College vs Hendrix College Hendrix College
Berry College Berry College vs Pomona College Pomona College
Berry College Berry College vs Lynn University Lynn University
Berry College Berry College vs Florida Southern College Florida Southern College
Berry College Berry College vs Brewton-Parker College Brewton-Parker College
Berry College Berry College vs Covenant College Covenant College
Berry College Berry College vs Fort Valley State University Fort Valley State University
Berry College Berry College vs Piedmont University Piedmont University
Berry College Berry College vs Shorter University Shorter University
Berry College Berry College vs DePauw University DePauw University
Berry College Berry College vs Earlham College Earlham College
Berry College Berry College vs Williams College Williams College
Berry College Berry College vs Macalester College Macalester College
Berry College Berry College vs Hamilton College Hamilton College
Berry College Berry College vs Vassar College Vassar College
Berry College Berry College vs Davidson College Davidson College
Berry College Berry College vs Elon University Elon University
Berry College Berry College vs University of Mount Olive University of Mount Olive
Berry College Berry College vs Wingate University Wingate University
Berry College Berry College vs Kenyon College Kenyon College
Berry College Berry College vs Reed College Reed College
Berry College Berry College vs Dickinson College Dickinson College
Berry College Berry College vs Franklin and Marshall College Franklin and Marshall College
Berry College Berry College vs Haverford College Haverford College
Berry College Berry College vs Lafayette College Lafayette College
Berry College Berry College vs Swarthmore College Swarthmore College
Berry College Berry College vs Claflin University Claflin University
Berry College Berry College vs Presbyterian College Presbyterian College
Berry College Berry College vs Brigham Young University-Hawaii Brigham Young University-Hawaii
Berry College Berry College vs Middlebury College Middlebury College
Berry College Berry College vs Christopher Newport University Christopher Newport University
Berry College Berry College vs Longwood University Longwood University
Berry College Berry College vs Whitworth University Whitworth University
Shorter University Shorter University vs Lynn University Lynn University
Shorter University Shorter University vs Point University Point University
Shorter University Shorter University vs Brewton-Parker College Brewton-Parker College
Shorter University Shorter University vs Emmanuel College Emmanuel College
Shorter University Shorter University vs LaGrange College LaGrange College
Shorter University Shorter University vs Mercer University Mercer University
Shorter University Shorter University vs Oglethorpe University Oglethorpe University
Shorter University Shorter University vs Piedmont University Piedmont University
Shorter University Shorter University vs Reinhardt University Reinhardt University
Shorter University Shorter University vs Toccoa Falls College Toccoa Falls College
Shorter University Shorter University vs University of Dubuque University of Dubuque
Shorter University Shorter University vs University of Holy Cross University of Holy Cross
Shorter University Shorter University vs Johnson C Smith University Johnson C Smith University
Shorter University Shorter University vs Lenoir-Rhyne University Lenoir-Rhyne University
Shorter University Shorter University vs Warren Wilson College Warren Wilson College
Shorter University Shorter University vs Wingate University Wingate University
Shorter University Shorter University vs Malone University Malone University
Shorter University Shorter University vs Anderson University Anderson University
Shorter University Shorter University vs Bob Jones University Bob Jones University
Shorter University Shorter University vs Southern Wesleyan University Southern Wesleyan University
Shorter University Shorter University vs Claflin University Claflin University
Shorter University Shorter University vs Coker University Coker University
Shorter University Shorter University vs Erskine College Erskine College
Shorter University Shorter University vs Francis Marion University Francis Marion University
Shorter University Shorter University vs Limestone University Limestone University
Shorter University Shorter University vs Voorhees College Voorhees College
Shorter University Shorter University vs Trevecca Nazarene University Trevecca Nazarene University
Shorter University Shorter University vs Bluefield University Bluefield University
Shorter University Shorter University vs The King's College The King's College
Shorter University Shorter University vs University of North Georgia University of North Georgia