Tour Tuesday: Jacksonville University
Riverside Views, Active Minds, Big‑Dolphin Energy
Overview
Welcome to the sunny, waterfront campus of Jacksonville University (JU) in Jacksonville, Florida! This school may fly under the radar for some, but it's one of those hidden gems that leaves a big impression. JU offers an engaging academic experience, a strong sense of community, and all the perks of a Florida location. From the moment you step onto campus it feels inviting, and a place where students are encouraged to dream big with university support.
Quick Look:
Private, liberal arts university located in Jacksonville, Florida
Founded in 1934
Approximately 4,200 total students (~3,000 undergrads)
Campus sits along the St. Johns River
Takes about 15 minutes to walk across campus
11:1 student-to-faculty ratio
50+ undergraduate majors and programs
17 NCAA Division I sports teams
Popular majors: business, healthcare, aviation, marine science
Location
Jacksonville University's campus offers a perfect mix of nature and city. Nestled along the St. Johns River, JU provides stunning water views and outdoor recreational opportunities, all within reach of Jacksonville's urban energy. Students benefit from the proximity to beaches, internships, and a diverse cultural scene so it's an ideal backdrop for both learning and living.
Location Highlights:
Located in Jacksonville, Florida, with a scenic, fenced-in campus along the St. Johns River
20 minutes from Jacksonville Beaches and close to downtown
Urban access with waterfront peace and green space
Students enjoy warm weather and outdoor living nearly year-round
Admissions Information
Admissions at JU aim to be accessible, friendly, and student-focused. With rolling admissions and a fast turnaround time, the process is designed to be straightforward. JU takes a holistic approach, valuing students for more than just numbers and encouraging first-generation and diverse applicants.
Admissions Details:
Rolling admissions with 3-4 week turnaround
Average GPA: 3.7 (recalculated with AP/IB/honors weighted positively)
Test scores (mid-range): 1100-1230 SAT, 23-27 ACT
Nursing program: direct entry available with 3.5 GPA, B or higher in science prereqs, 1180 SAT or 24 ACT
Application fee waiver code: Welcome2Jax or jointhepod
Strong emphasis on fit and personalization rather than numbers alone
Academic / Major Information
At JU, academics are immersive and hands-on. Whether you're studying marine science on the river, flying planes in the aviation program, or launching your own startup in the business school, you're encouraged to learn by doing. The small class sizes and dedicated faculty make this a place where your ideas matter.
Academic Highlights:
Over 50 majors/minors with experiential learning emphasis
Strong programs in:
Marine science: dolphin monitoring, river research, shark/manatee studies, field offices on campus
Aviation: pilot training (Avio), air traffic control, aviation management, FAA partnership
Nursing: direct-entry, pre-nursing available, 100% employment rate, hospital rotation opportunities
Health sciences: exercise science, applied health science
Business: includes sport business and early MBA start option
Engineering & tech: cybersecurity, computer science, 3D modeling, animation studio
Arts & sciences: biology, marine science, psychology
Thrive program and academic advisors help undecided students find a path
Honors College: auto-admit 1250 SAT, 27 ACT, 4.3 GPA (weighted), ~450 students, all majors eligible, community meals every other week
Internships are highly encouraged and widely available
Most students double major or minor, often outside their college
Housing and Student Life
Student life at JU is full of variety, tradition, and comfort. From dorms with personality to clubs that welcome everyone, JU offers a residential experience where students feel at home. You'll find tight-knit communities in residence halls, a lively Greek scene, and signature events like Chicken Nugget Thursdays that bring everyone together.
Housing & Campus Life Highlights:
Three-year residency requirement
Housing options include:
Traditional residence halls
Suite-style rooms
Apartments
Greek life halls (no houses, just themed halls with customizations)
Food options:
Food hall style dining recently renovated
Chick-fil-A, Starbucks, Haymaker Coffee (JU alum-owned) on campus
Allergen-friendly station and farmers market inside dining hall
Chicken Nugget Thursdays are a campus favorite
12 Greek organizations
100+ clubs including club sports and esports
Student enrichment center supports academic, athletic, and honors advising
Thrive mentorship program for all students
Starfish policy enables early intervention and holistic student support
Athletics
Athletics at JU are woven into the fabric of campus life. As a Division I school, JU provides student-athletes with competitive play, strong academic support, and a realistic approach to balancing school and sport. Even if you aren't on a team, the athletic spirit adds energy to campus life.
Athletics Overview:
17 NCAA Division I teams (ASUN Conference)
~20% of student body are athletes
Unique varsity sports: Men’s lacrosse, Men’s and Women’s rowing, sport shooting
New club sports: men’s hockey, women’s flag football, coed weightlifting, men’s lacrosse
Required study hall for student-athletes below a certain GPA
Athletics GPA: 3.52
Strong integration between athletics and academics
Cost and Scholarships
JU stands out for its affordability among private universities. The merit-based aid structure is generous, and additional scholarships and grants help make a high-quality education more accessible. The recalculated GPA system works in students' favor, especially those who challenge themselves academically.
Cost & Aid Details:
Tuition: ~$48,500
Room & Board: $17,210
Merit scholarships: $12,000 to $33,000
Additional scholarships: athletics, honors college, first-time visit grants
Recalculated GPA favors AP/IB/Honors for better awards
FAFSA strongly recommended for all families
Considered very affordable for a private university due to generous merit aid
Fun Facts / Traditions
Jacksonville University has a lot of personality packed into its riverside campus. Whether it's quirky traditions, biweekly community meals, or research partnerships that bring marine science to life, JU students take pride in what makes their campus one of a kind.
Campus Culture & Traditions:
Riverfront campus provides natural lab for marine science
Home to the third largest NROTC battalion in the U.S.
Tuesday Night Table: biweekly community meal in honors dorm multipurpose room
The River House: former president’s home turned student event space
Chicken Nugget Thursdays are beloved by the student body
JU students come from 49 states and 58 countries
Final Thoughts: Who Would Thrive at JU?
Jacksonville University is a perfect fit for students who want more than a cookie-cutter college experience. It's great for students who want to get involved, take initiative, and be known by name in and out of the classroom. Whether you’re drawn to coastal science, aviation dreams, or DI sports, JU has something to offer.
Ideal Student Profile:
Want a medium-sized campus with a personalized, close-knit community
Are interested in active, hands-on learning and field-based research
Prefer sunny, scenic surroundings with access to both nature and city life
Are drawn to health sciences, business, aviation, or marine biology
Thrive in environments where professors know your name and support your goals
Want strong athletic and academic integration
Appreciate support programs like Thrive and personalized advising
