Southeastern University

What is the history of Southeastern University?

Southeastern University is a private Christian university in Lakeland, Florida, with roots in a Bible-training institute founded in 1935. Its history helps explain why ministry education and Christian practices remain part of an institution that now offers programs across many fields.

The school began as the Alabama Shield of Faith Institute, later moved to Lakeland, and operated under names including Southeastern Bible College and Southeastern College of the Assemblies of God. It adopted the name Southeastern University in 2005, reflecting its expansion beyond its original Bible-college curriculum. Today, students can pursue undergraduate and graduate study in subjects ranging from theology and education to business and nursing.

What are the faculties and departments at Southeastern University?

Southeastern University offers associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral study across ministry and other professional and liberal-arts fields. Its academic organization includes the Barnett College of Ministry & Theology and schools or colleges devoted to areas such as education, business, arts and media, behavioral and social sciences, and natural and health sciences.

Representative undergraduate options include biblical studies, business administration, communication, criminal justice, education, psychology, and nursing. Graduate options include programs in education, business, counseling-related fields, and ministry. Availability, delivery format, admission standards, and required fieldwork differ by program; students should use the current academic catalog for the requirements of a specific degree.

SEU also teaches students through online programs and partner locations. A program offered through a partner site may have a different course schedule or student experience from the residential Lakeland program, even when the degree is awarded by Southeastern University.

What is the location of Southeastern University?

Southeastern University's main campus is in Lakeland, in Central Florida between Tampa and Orlando. Lakeland is a mid-sized city rather than a dense urban college district, so transportation needs depend considerably on whether a student lives on campus.

The Lakeland campus is the relevant setting for its residence halls, in-person student activities, and Fire athletic events. Students considering an online program or a partner location should check where required classes, advising, and other services actually take place. For commuters, the practical questions include travel time, parking arrangements, and whether a class or placement requires trips beyond campus.

What is the mission and vision of Southeastern University?

Southeastern University describes its mission in explicitly Christian terms: preparing students to serve in their careers, communities, and churches. Its educational approach combines academic study with faith formation and practical service.

The university is affiliated with the Assemblies of God. Chapel, ministry opportunities, and Christian commitments are consequently more central to its identity than they would be at a nonreligious university. Applicants should read the current mission, community standards, and any applicable chapel or religious-course requirements to understand how those commitments shape their particular program.