Palm Beach Atlantic University
Palm Beach, United States
Palm Beach Atlantic University
West Palm Beach, United States
Founded
1968
Institution Type
Private
Total Students
4,100+
Acceptance Rate
82%
Discover Palm Beach Atlantic University
Discover Palm Beach Atlantic University
Palm Beach Atlantic University (PBA) is a private, nondenominational Christian university located in downtown West Palm Beach, Florida. Founded in 1968 by Jess C. Moody, then pastor of First Baptist Church of West Palm Beach, PBA was established as a coeducational Christian liberal arts institution committed to integrating faith with academic rigor.
PBA offers more than 100 programs and pathways, including undergraduate, graduate, and professional degrees across nine schools. The university is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges and maintains a student-faculty ratio of 13:1, ensuring personalized attention in the classroom.
With its main campus situated on the Intracoastal Waterway and a 78-acre athletic campus nearby, PBA provides a unique blend of academic excellence and coastal living. The international student population represents 83 nations, reflecting the university's growing global reach and commitment to diversity.
Key Milestones
- 1968: Palm Beach Atlantic College founded; first classes held in the former facilities of First Baptist Church in downtown West Palm Beach.
- 1972: PBA held its first graduation ceremony and received initial accreditation from the regional accrediting association.
- 2002: Expanded with a new campus in Orlando and opened Vera Lea Rinker Hall for the School of Music and Fine Arts.
- 2024: Broke ground on the Marshall and Vera Lea Rinker Business Hall as part of the God-Sized Dreams capital campaign.
Academic Structure & Programs
Academic Structure & Programs
Palm Beach Atlantic University is organized into nine distinct schools, offering more than 100 programs and pathways at the undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels. PBA emphasizes a Christian liberal arts foundation integrated with professional studies, preparing students for meaningful careers and service.
Rinker School of Business
The Rinker School of Business provides a comprehensive business education grounded in ethical leadership and free enterprise principles. Students gain real-world experience through internships and entrepreneurial opportunities in the South Florida business community.
- Bachelor of Science in Business Administration
- Master of Business Administration (MBA)
- Bachelor of Science in Marketing
School of Arts and Sciences
The School of Arts and Sciences serves as the academic core of PBA, offering a wide range of liberal arts and science programs. Students develop critical thinking and analytical skills through rigorous coursework and faculty mentorship.
- Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
- Bachelor of Science in Biology
- Bachelor of Arts in English
School of Nursing
The School of Nursing prepares compassionate healthcare professionals through hands-on clinical training and faith-integrated education. Nursing is one of PBA's most popular majors, with graduates entering the workforce with strong clinical competencies.
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
- RN to BSN Program
- Master of Science in Nursing
Gregory School of Pharmacy
The Lloyd L. Gregory School of Pharmacy offers a Doctor of Pharmacy program housed in a state-of-the-art facility with over 40,000 square feet of research and educational space. Students benefit from clinical rotations and community health outreach.
- Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.)
- Pre-Pharmacy Track
- Pharmacy Residency Programs
School of Music and Fine Arts
Located in the historic Vera Lea Rinker Hall and the Fern Street Theatre, the School of Music and Fine Arts nurtures creative talent through performance, studio work, and academic study. Students have access to dedicated practice rooms, performance venues, and gallery spaces.
- Bachelor of Arts in Theatre
- Bachelor of Music
- Bachelor of Arts in Dance
School of Education and Behavioral Studies
The School of Education and Behavioral Studies prepares future educators and counselors through field-based learning and research-driven curricula. Graduates are equipped to serve in schools, clinical settings, and community organizations.
- Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education
- Master of Education (M.Ed.)
- Master of Science in Counseling Psychology
Admission Requirements
Admission Requirements
Undergraduate Admissions
- ApplicationCommon Application or PBA online application (no application fee)
- TranscriptsOfficial high school transcript required
- Standardized TestsTest-optional; SAT/ACT scores may be submitted for scholarship consideration
- GPAAverage admitted GPA of approximately 3.37 on a 4.0 scale
- English ProficiencyTOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo required for international applicants
Graduate Admissions
- ApplicationOnline application through PBA or Common App
- TranscriptsOfficial transcripts from all colleges and universities attended
- Bachelor's DegreeCompleted bachelor's degree from an accredited institution
- RecommendationsLetters of recommendation may be required depending on program
- English ProficiencyTOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo for non-native English speakers
PBA uses rolling admissions. Admission decisions are typically made within 72 hours of receiving all application documents.
Graduate program deadlines vary by school and program. Check with the specific school for exact dates.
Admitted undergraduate students are encouraged to submit their enrollment deposit by May 1 to secure their spot.
Students are encouraged to complete the FAFSA as early as possible for maximum financial aid consideration.
Tuition & Scholarships
Tuition & Scholarships
As a private university, Palm Beach Atlantic University charges the same tuition rate for in-state and out-of-state students. Approximately 76% of enrolled students receive grants or scholarships, making PBA accessible to a broad range of students.
| Cost Category | Undergraduate (Annual) | Graduate (Annual) |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition & Fees | USD 40,650 | USD 12,305 |
| Room & Board | USD 11,128 | N/A |
| Books & Supplies | USD 1,200 (est.) | USD 1,200 (est.) |
| Other Expenses | USD 9,364 (est.) | Varies |
| Total | USD 62,342 | Contact university for details |
Academic Merit Scholarships
PBA awards merit-based scholarships to incoming freshmen based on high school GPA and optional SAT/ACT scores. These scholarships are renewable for up to nine semesters and can significantly reduce tuition costs.
- Eligibility: Incoming freshmen with strong academic records
- Award Range: Varies; top awards can cover close to half of tuition
- Renewal: Renewable for up to 9 semesters with satisfactory academic progress
Talent-Based Scholarships
PBA offers scholarships recognizing talents in athletics, dance, music, and theatre. Athletic scholarships are available across all 18 NCAA Division II varsity sports.
- Eligibility: Students with demonstrated talent in athletics, music, dance, or theatre
- Application: Audition or portfolio required; contact the relevant school or coach
- Additional Aid: May be combined with academic and need-based financial aid
Campus & Facilities
Campus & Facilities
PBA's main campus spans approximately 19 acres in the heart of downtown West Palm Beach, with stunning views of the Intracoastal Waterway. The university also operates the 78-acre Marshall and Vera Lea Rinker Athletic Campus, providing extensive facilities for varsity, intramural, and club sports.
PBA's downtown campus sits along Flagler Drive with views of the Intracoastal Waterway and Palm Beach Island.
The Warren Library serves as a central academic hub, combining a modern facility with the historic octagonal building that was PBA's original structure.
The 78-acre Rinker Athletic Campus is home to PBA's outdoor sports programs, including soccer, baseball, tennis, and lacrosse.
Housing & Dining
On-Campus Housing
PBA offers a variety of residence halls and apartment-style housing options for students, creating a close-knit residential community in downtown West Palm Beach.
- Baxter Hall and Pembroke Hall residence halls
- Coastal Towers Apartments for upperclassmen
- Weyenberg Hall and Watson Hall options
Dining Options
Students can choose from on-campus dining facilities as well as numerous restaurants and cafes within walking distance in downtown West Palm Beach.
- On-campus meal plan available (approximately USD 5,256 per year)
- Multiple dining venues on campus
- Easy access to downtown West Palm Beach restaurants
Student Life at PBA
Student Life at PBA
Student life at Palm Beach Atlantic University is shaped by a vibrant Christian community, coastal location, and a wide range of extracurricular opportunities. With small class sizes, a strong sense of belonging, and proximity to the beach, PBA offers a unique student experience.
Location & City: West Palm Beach
Location & City: West Palm Beach
Life in West Palm Beach
West Palm Beach is a dynamic coastal city in South Florida known for its cultural attractions, beautiful beaches, and thriving economy. PBA's downtown campus places students at the center of the action, just steps from the Intracoastal Waterway and minutes from Palm Beach Island.
Arts & Culture
Explore the Norton Museum of Art, the Raymond F. Kravis Center for the Performing Arts, and the vibrant arts district along Clematis Street.
Beaches & Outdoors
Palm Beach's pristine Atlantic coastline is just minutes away, offering surfing, swimming, and waterfront recreation year-round.
Convenient Transportation
Palm Beach International Airport is only 10 minutes from campus, and the Tri-Rail commuter train connects to Fort Lauderdale and Miami.
Growing Economy
South Florida's booming economy provides internship and career opportunities in healthcare, finance, hospitality, and technology sectors.
Career Outcomes & Alumni
Career Outcomes & Alumni
Where PBA Graduates Work
Practical Information
Practical Information
For International Students
PBA's International Student Services office assists with visa guidance, cultural adjustment, and academic support. A personal admissions counselor is assigned to help at every step of the process.
International applicants must submit official TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo English Test scores. Transcript evaluations from a NACES member are required for non-U.S. school credentials.
International students are eligible for many PBA scholarships and financial aid packages. Merit-based awards and talent scholarships in athletics, music, dance, and theatre are available.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
Worldwide University Rankings
Worldwide University Rankings
Palm Beach Atlantic University is a nationally recognized institution with growing academic programs and increasing application numbers. While PBA is not yet featured in major international ranking systems such as QS or Times Higher Education, it holds a position in U.S. News & World Report's national rankings.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Social Mobility | U.S. News & World Report | #308 |
| Theology | College Factual | Top Ranked Major |
| Best Value in Florida | SmartAsset | #10 in Florida |
| Nursing | Niche | Popular Program |
Features
Palm Beach Atlantic University (PBA) is a private, Christian university located in West Palm Beach, Florida, known for integrating faith, service, and rigorous academics within a vibrant, coastal urban setting.\nOver 50 undergraduate majors and multiple graduate & professional programs, including nursing, pharmacy, business, and ministry.
Featured Programmes
Average Time To Receive Acceptance Letter
March - October
Location
901 S Flagler Dr, West Palm Beach, FL 33401, United States
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