
1 Cumberland Square, Lebanon, TN 37087-3408, USA


Cumberland University is institutionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate, baccalaureate, master's, educational specialist, and doctoral degrees. This regional accreditation is a key indicator of the university's adherence to rigorous academic standards and quality assurance, which is important for students evaluating the credibility and recognition of their degrees.
Additionally, several specific academic programs at Cumberland University hold specialized accreditation from professional bodies. For example, the university's School of Law is accredited by the American Bar Association (ABA), ensuring the law program meets national standards essential for legal education and licensure considerations.
These accreditations affirm that Cumberland University undergoes continuous review and improvement processes, providing prospective students with confidence in the institution's educational offerings and institutional stability.
Cumberland University requires prospective students to have completed a General Educational Development (GED) or hold a high school diploma. Applicants must submit a complete secondary school record along with their secondary school GPA. While there is no open admission policy, the university recommends submission of admission test scores to strengthen the application. The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) is mandatory for applicants whose first language is not English, and other standardized tests are also recommended. Dual credit is not accepted, but the university does grant credit for Advanced Placement (AP) exams. There is no requirement to lease or own a personal computer for admission.
Cumberland University requires a nonrefundable application fee from prospective students as part of their admission process. This fee is a standard procedure to help cover administrative costs associated with processing applications. However, the university may offer fee waivers to certain applicants who demonstrate financial need or meet specific criteria, ensuring that the application fee does not create a barrier for qualified candidates.
The availability of fee waivers typically applies to students who can substantiate their financial hardship or who participate in designated outreach programs. Prospective students interested in fee waivers should consult the admissions office or the university's official application guidelines to determine eligibility and the appropriate process for applying for a waiver.
By providing options for fee waivers, Cumberland University aims to make higher education more accessible while maintaining the integrity of its admissions procedures.
Cumberland University offers an ROTC branch unit on its campus, providing students the opportunity to participate in military training and leadership development while pursuing their academic studies. This presence allows prospective students interested in military careers or leadership roles to engage directly with ROTC programs without needing to attend a separate institution. Details about specific branches or additional ROTC options are not currently available.
Transfer students have several enrollment options at Cumberland University, with the institution accepting transfers for fall, spring, and summer terms. Prospective students will find the transfer process moderately challenging, reflecting a balanced level of selectivity.
The university recognizes certain standardized examinations for transfer credit, including CLEP subject exams and DANTES testing, allowing students to potentially apply these credits toward their degree. Recommendations are also considered as part of the transfer application, which may assist in the admission decision.
Cumberland University offers a variety of study abroad opportunities designed to enhance students' educational experience through international exposure. These programs allow students to immerse themselves in different cultures while earning academic credit toward their degrees. The university collaborates with partner institutions overseas, facilitating semester-long exchanges, summer sessions, and short-term travel courses focused on specific fields of study.
Students interested in study abroad can choose from programs in Europe, Asia, and other regions, providing a broad range of cultural and academic experiences. These options include language immersion, business, history, and global studies, among others, catering to diverse academic interests. The university provides guidance and support throughout the application process, ensuring students meet prerequisites and credit transfer requirements.
In addition to traditional study abroad formats, Cumberland University also occasionally offers faculty-led trips during academic breaks. These trips combine classroom learning with onsite visits, allowing students to explore contemporary issues and historical contexts firsthand.
Percent of students submitting ACT scores
93%High school completions
General Educational Development (GED) requiredComputer required
NoComputer purchase/lease plan is available in the institution
NoSecondary school GPA
RequiredSecondary school rank
Data not availableSecondary school record
RequiredCompletion of college-preparatory program
Data not availableRecommendations
Data not availableFormal demonstration of competencies
Data not availableAdmission test scores
RecommendedTOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language
RequiredOther Test (Wonderlic, WISC-III, etc.)
RecommendedOpen admission policy
NoDual credit
NoCredit for life experiences
YesAdvanced placement (AP) credits
YesOrientation program
YesDisabilities services
YesOff-campus study
NoROTC-Army
ROTC branch unit on campusStudy abroad
YesWeekend/evening college
YesStudent can complete their preparation in certain areas of specialization
YesPreparation at another institution required
NoApproved by the state for initial certification or licensure of teacher
YesEntrance difficulty for transfer students
ModerateGenerally accepts credits
YesAccept ACE recommendation for credit
Data not availablePossible transfer
Fall, Spring, Summer