Johnson University โ Organization Profile
Johnson University (often called JU) is a private Christian university located in Knoxville, Tennessee, serving students through residential and online degree options. Johnson describes itself as a Christ-centered community where students grow in faith, deepen purpose, and prepare for meaningful service in their careers and in the world. The universityโs mission is to educate and develop students who advance the worldwide mission of Christ through their lives, ministries, and careers.
Founded in 1893 by Ashley and Emma Johnson, the schoolโs history includes earlier names such as the School of Evangelists (1893) and Johnson Bible College (1909), before becoming Johnson University in 2011. Johnsonโs institutional story emphasizes continuity in Christian formation and affordability, while expanding academic scope and degree delivery over time. The university also notes that it acquired Florida Christian College in 2013 and later closed the Kissimmee campus in 2024 due to sustainability challenges.
Johnsonโs academic identity is shaped by its commitment to biblical formation alongside professional preparation. One distinctive Johnson highlights is a dual-major approach, where students complete a major in Bible & Theology along with a major of their choice. The university organizes programs across multiple academic schools, supporting students pursuing church ministry and missions as well as education, leadership, counseling-related pathways, and other career directions.
Campus life is tied closely to Johnsonโs formation goals, combining community rhythms, spiritual development, and student support resources. The Tennessee campus sits along the French Broad River in south Knoxville, positioning students in a rural-style campus environment while remaining within reach of Knoxville and the Smoky Mountains region. Alongside on-campus life, Johnson also offers online programs designed for students who need flexibility due to work, family, or ministry responsibilities.
People can engage Johnson University in several ways. Prospective students can explore admissions resources, request information, and connect with the admissions team by phone or email. Churches and ministry partners often connect with Johnson through student internships, ministry preparation, and pathways that prepare graduates for congregational and mission service. Supporters can participate through giving opportunities that help fund scholarships and student success initiatives aligned with the universityโs mission.
Key Links
- Website: https://johnsonu.edu/
- About: https://johnsonu.edu/about/
- Mission & Values: https://johnsonu.edu/about/mission-values/
- Statement of Faith: https://johnsonu.edu/about/statement-of-faith/
- History: https://johnsonu.edu/about/history/
- Admissions: https://johnsonu.edu/admissions/
- Apply (Application Portal): https://johnsonu.edu/apply
- Academics: https://johnsonu.edu/academics/
- Locations: https://johnsonu.edu/about/locations/
- Donate: https://johnsonu.edu/donate/
Contact Information
- Email: Jo******@******nU.edu
- Email: Ad********@******nU.edu
- Phone: 865-573-4517
- Mailing address: 7900 Johnson Dr, Knoxville, TN 37998
Socials
- https://www.facebook.com/JohnsonUniversity/
- https://www.instagram.com/johnsonunivtn/
- https://x.com/JohnsonUniv
- https://www.youtube.com/johnsonuniversity
Leadership
- Daniel Overdorf โ President
- Cynthia T. Barnard โ Vice President for Finance
- Marvin Elliott โ Vice President for Administration
- Andrew Frazier โ Vice President for Student Life
- Gregory Linton โ Provost / Vice President for Academic Affairs
- Brandon Perry โ Athletic Director
- Wilbur Reid โ Vice President for Advancement
- Lisa Tarwater โ Chief Admissions Officer
