West Palm Beach, Fla., USA (Jan 27, 2025) — A new study by SmartAsset, an online destination for consumer-focused financial information and advice, ranked Palm Beach Atlantic University (PBA) among the best value colleges and universities in Florida. The study identified schools across five categories: tuition, student living costs, scholarship and grant offerings, student retention rate and starting salary for new graduates. PBA ranked number 10 out of 453 schools in Florida and 580 out of 7,520 schools nationally.
“We are honored to be recognized as one of the best value universities in Florida,” said Dr. Debra A. Schwinn, president of PBA. “This ranking affirms PBA’s commitment to providing an exceptional, Christ-centered education that equips our students for success, both academically and professionally, while remaining mindful of affordability and value.”
According to the report, tuition, student living costs such as room and board, books, supplies, transportation and other personal expenses were used to capture the general costs associated with attending each school. There was then an analysis of the factors that illustrate a student’s return on investment, such as student retention rate and the average starting salary, which shows the potential financial earnings of new graduates when they enter the workforce.
On average, PBA students receive $20,990 in scholarships and grants annually, and the median starting salary of PBA graduates is $58,400, according to the report. Additionally, PBA’s student retention rate is 76 percent.
Dr. Nancy Brainard, the executive vice president of Enrollment and Student Experience, highlighted that the ranking reflects the University’s commitment to enhancing support for students.
“We are committed to serving students well and ensuring they receive a strong return on their investment,” Dr. Brainard explained. “This recognition underscores the dedication of our faculty and staff to providing a top-tier education that delivers exceptional value. We are committed to helping them succeed and thrive academically, socially and spiritually.”
PBA continues to grow, and its top tier programs are attracting students both locally and globally. In June 2024, the university was recognized by Numerade for their increasing application growth. The international student population at PBA represents 83 nations, including India, Venezuela, Germany, Canada and the United Kingdom. PBA offers 100 different programs and pathways, including undergraduate degrees, graduate degrees and professional degrees.
To learn more about PBA and the different programs offered, visit www.pba.edu.
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About Palm Beach Atlantic University
Palm Beach Atlantic University, founded in 1968, is a private, Christian university, offering 100 different programs and pathways, including undergraduate degrees, graduate degrees and professional degrees. The university has a 19-acre campus in West Palm Beach and an Orlando campus, and the 78-acre Marshall and Vera Lea Rinker Athletic Campus provides facilities for training and hosting intercollegiate sports. Sailfish athletes compete in 18 NCAA Division II and Sunshine State Conference varsity sports. PBA affirms the values that have built American society, including religious liberty and the free enterprise system. The university is dedicated to the integration of biblical principles to prepare students for learning, leadership, and service. Learn more at www.pba.edu.