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Thomas University

Thomasville, GA

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

Wikipedia
1950
Founded
Private university
Type
813
Total Students
$12K
Tuition (In-State)
$12K
Tuition (Out-State)
$19K
Avg Net Price
43%
Acceptance Rate
28%
Graduation Rate
6-year
64%
Retention Rate
Master's Colleges & Universities
Classification
President: Dr. John Meis

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About Thomas University

Thomas University: From historic plantation origins to a thriving institution offering graduate degrees.

Nestled on the historic grounds of Birdwood Plantation, Thomas University offers a unique educational journey, evolving from its roots as a junior college into a private, non-sectarian university providing a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. This rich history sets a distinctive backdrop for a vibrant academic experience.

Thomas University is known for its remarkable transformation and commitment to accessible higher education. What began in 1950 as Birdwood Junior College, offering classes to a handful of students, has grown into a comprehensive institution. Since becoming independent and non-sectarian in 1979, the university has steadily expanded its offerings, notably introducing its first four-year degree in 1988 and gaining approval to offer graduate degrees in 1998. This progressive growth underscores its dedication to meeting the evolving needs of its students.

Academically, Thomas University is strengthened by its modern facilities and diverse programs. The addition of Smith-Bonvillian Hall, a 19,000 square-foot academic building, provides state-of-the-art classrooms and faculty offices. The student experience is further enhanced by the Magnolia Campus, home to the university's gymnasium and a new Student Life Center, complete with a fitness center and athletic training room. Prospective students and families will find a supportive and engaging environment designed to foster both academic and personal growth.

Key Highlights

  • Originally established on the historic Birdwood Plantation, once the winter home of U.S. Ambassador W. Cameron Forbes.
  • Evolved from Birdwood Junior College (1950) to Thomas University (2000), becoming a private, non-sectarian institution.
  • Began offering its first four-year degrees in 1988, expanding academic opportunities for students.
  • Received approval to offer graduate degrees in 1998, elevating its academic standing.
  • Features state-of-the-art learning spaces in the 19,000 square-foot Smith-Bonvillian Hall, opened in 2013.
  • Offers a dedicated Magnolia Campus, which includes a gymnasium and a modern Student Life Center with a fitness center and athletic training room.

Timeline

1949
Primitive Baptist Church purchased the Birdwood Plantation property.
1950
Birdwood Junior College was chartered.
1954
Classes began with nine students.
1976
Primitive Baptists relinquished control; name changed to Thomas County Community College.
1979
The college became non-sectarian, private, and independent.
1986
Name changed to Thomas College.
1988
First four-year degree was offered.
1998
Received approval from SACS to offer graduate degrees.
2000
Name changed to Thomas University.
2012
Thomas University opened its Magnolia Campus, including a gymnasium and Student Life Center.
2013
Smith-Bonvillian Hall, a new 19,000 square-foot academic building, opened on the Forbes Campus.
2016
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSOC) placed Thomas University under Warning Status.
🏛️
76 Years
of Excellence

Leadership

via Wikipedia
Dr. John Meis
President

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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