Palm Beach Atlantic University has reported its largest incoming class for the fourth year in a row. This fall, 1,054 traditional undergraduate first-year and transfer students enrolled at the university, marking a 10% increase from last year’s 958 new students. Overall enrollment at the institution now stands at 4,271, up 3% from last year’s total of 4,147.
The student body now includes individuals from all 50 states and represents 80 countries. Dr. Debra A. Schwinn, president of Palm Beach Atlantic University (PBA), commented on the milestone: “We remain grateful to our faculty, staff, and supporters; their dedication to our mission of equipping students to grow in wisdom, lead with conviction, and serve God boldly enables PBA to be a leading Christian university in Florida. This growth mirrors our continued focus on providing a Christ-first education to the next generation of leaders. We cannot wait to see how they grow at PBA, deepen their faith, and serve their communities.”
Dr. Nancy Brainard, executive vice president of enrollment management and student life at PBA, highlighted the increasingly competitive admissions landscape: “The growth we’re seeing at PBA reflects the desire for a university that offers a rigorous, Christ-first educational experience. With an expanding, highly qualified applicant pool, our acceptance rate for fall 2025 shifted to 67.4%, underscoring an increasingly competitive environment for future students.”
The increase in enrollment is consistent with broader trends in South Florida’s population growth and demand for higher education institutions that offer specialized programs linked to career opportunities in areas such as international business and health care.
To address this growth and improve campus facilities, PBA launched its God-Sized Dreams campaign in 2022. The initiative aims to expand academic offerings and enhance campus infrastructure. The first project under this campaign is the Marshall and Vera Lea Rinker Business Hall, which is scheduled for completion in spring 2026. Additionally, construction will soon begin on a new 25-story residence hall featuring modern apartment-style living spaces and amenities; groundbreaking is set for October 8, 2025.
Palm Beach Atlantic University offers over 100 different programs across various fields including nursing, biology, psychology, exercise science, marketing, elementary education, finance, pre-law and communication. Its Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business accreditation places it among the top six percent of global business schools.
For more information about Palm Beach Atlantic University’s programs or initiatives visit pba.edu.
