Dr. Charles Smith Officially Inaugurated as 6th President of University of Mobile, Reaffirms Vision ‘For Christ & His Kingdom’

MOBILE, Ala. – Dr. Charles W. Smith Jr. was formally inaugurated as the 6th president of the University of Mobile in a faith-focused ceremony that reaffirmed the university’s foundation in Christ and cast a bold vision for the future. 

“Since 1961, the foundation and fuel of the University of Mobile has been none other than our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. As we renew our commitment to build our foundation upon His Word – as we commit to existing ‘For Christ & His Kingdom’ – we can expect the Lord’s faithfulness to continue,” Smith said in his presidential address at the Inaugural Celebration held May 1 at Redemption Church in Saraland, Alabama. 

Dr. Jason Allen, president of Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, delivered the keynote address. Distinguished guests from across the Southern Baptist Convention; dignitaries from colleges and universities; civic, community and business leaders; and the university’s Board of Trustees, faculty, staff, students and supporters filled the sanctuary for the time-honored academic tradition marking the formal investiture of a university president.

Allen spoke on Proverbs 9:10, the foundational scripture for the University of Mobile: “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.” The first half of the scripture is on the university’s official seal, along with the phrase “For Christ & His Kingdom.”

Dr. Jason Allen keynote address.

Allen said, “The temptation for every institution, large or small, old or young, is to drift from the founding convictions and mission that the institution once held so dear. In the Southern Baptist world there are 53 Baptist colleges historically associated with the Southern Baptist Convention. The majority of those these days in the 21st century really maintain no true affiliation or connection with, nor oversight of, the Baptist bodies at large. 

“But this institution, praise God, continues to be serious about its commitment to serving the churches of the Alabama Baptist Convention, serious about its Christian identity, serious about its Christian convictions, serious about the Bible as the Word of God, and the Great Commission as the urgent task for churches and for Christian believers.”

Watch the full inauguration ceremony at umobile.edu/inauguration.

A Charge Rooted in Christ

Smith formally accepted the charge of the presidency during the investiture portion of the ceremony. Trustee Terry Harbin presented the Presidential Medallion, a symbol of leadership and responsibility, while Board Chair Ron Moore presented the Presidential Bible, underscoring the university’s foundation in Scripture.

“In 1963, a Bible was placed in the cornerstone of Weaver Hall as an enduring reminder of the source of truth,” Moore said. “Today, as we present this Bible, we affirm once again that the University of Mobile is founded upon and anchored in God’s Word.”

Smith was asked to affirm his faith in Christ, commitment to the university’s Statement of Christian Affirmation, and his willingness to serve with integrity, excellence, and a Kingdom mindset.

“I do,” he replied, before being formally invested into office.

Smith has served as president of the University of Mobile since May 6, 2024, following his unanimous election by the UM Board of Trustees on March 24, 2024. Previously, he served with Allen in a variety of senior leadership roles at Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and Spurgeon College.

He and his wife, Ashley, are natives of Montgomery, Alabama, and they have three daughters: Ellie, Annie and Susie.

A Renewed Vision and Mission

In his presidential address based on John 6, Smith warned of the dangers facing Christian institutions that drift from their spiritual foundations. 

“There is no shortage of once-faithful Christian universities who have lost their way,” he said, noting that the University of Mobile remains firmly committed to Jesus Christ as the foundation of all true knowledge and the hope of every generation.

Under Smith’s leadership, the renewed vision of the University of Mobile, expressed by the phrase “For Christ & His Kingdom,” is to multiply Kingdom leaders who embrace their callings and live out the Great Commission for the glory of God and the good of the world.

“Our prayers and plans for the future are bold,” Smith said, pointing to a growing list of initiatives aimed at strengthening the university – expanding academic programs, enhancing student life, increasing online offerings, investing in campus facilities, launching workforce development, and many other strategies designed to broaden the university’s impact in the region and beyond.

While these initiatives are important and inspiring, they are not the university’s identity, he said. Rather, they are the result of the university’s identity in Christ.

Dr. Ed Litton prays for Smith family.

Student Voices of Hope and Vision

Two students, Kenneth Brandon and Courtney Sides, represented the student body and expressed hope and confidence in the university’s new chapter under Smith’s leadership.

Sides, a sophomore majoring in nursing, said, “Here at UM, we are more than a campus — we are a family. We believe God is doing something powerful on this campus, and we are so excited to welcome a president who sees that — and who is ready to build upon it.”

Brandon, a graduating senior majoring in worship leadership and music, prayed for the University of Mobile “to continue to shine as a beacon of truth and hope, a place where lives are transformed, where servant leaders are not only equipped for careers, but empowered to fulfill their God-given call.”

The university choir and orchestra led the audience in powerful hymns and songs of praise throughout a two-hour program that included words of encouragement and support for the new president and the University of Mobile family.

The university’s third president Dr. Mark R. Foley and former first lady Marilyn Foley, and UM’s fifth president Dr. Lonnie A. Burnett and former first lady Lynne Burnett, were honored during the ceremony. Nathan Harris, UM vice president for institutional relations, welcomed guests. Dr. Samuel W. “Dub” Oliver, president of Union University, a sister Baptist institution, gave the invocation. Dr. Rick Lance, executive director of the Alabama Baptist State Board of Missions, offered a prayer and Scripture reading of Colossians 1:15-18, affirming the strong partnership between the university and Alabama Baptists. Fred Wilson, chair of the Presidential Search Committee, outlined the search committee process and its focus on following God’s lead. Dr. Ben Stubblefield, pastor of Spring Hill Baptist Church, introduced keynote speaker Dr. Jason Allen. Dr. Ed Litton, pastor of Redemption Church, and Kathy Litton, a UM trustee, prayed over the Smith family.

Bringing greetings to the president were Mobile Mayor Sandy Stimpson; Dr. Jamie Dew, president of New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary; and Dr. Alan Floyd, pastor of Cottage Hill Baptist Church and a UM alumnus. Delegates included Dr. Mary Van Brunt, president of Spring Hill College, and Dr. Charles Guest, vice provost of the University of South Alabama.

Dr. Ed Litton, pastor of Redemption Church and a past president of the Southern Baptist Convention, and his wife Kathy, a UM trustee, prayed over the Smith family.

Benediction and Celebration

The service concluded with a benediction and blessing from Dr. Roger Breland, retiring executive director of the university’s Alabama School of the Arts and founder of TRUTH, one of the first successful contemporary Christian touring and recording groups. 

“Bless this university – every student, every faculty and staff member, every alumnus, and every friend of the Ram Family. May this campus always be a place where truth is pursued, lives are transformed and Christ is glorified,” Breland prayed.

The celebration concluded later in the evening with fireworks and Spring Spectacular, an outdoor concert held on the university’s Great Commission Lawn.

Spring Spectacular 2025.

About the University of Mobile

The University of Mobile is a Christ-centered university pursuing excellence “For Christ & His Kingdom.” With a vision to “Multiply Kingdom Leaders for the Glory of God and the Good of the World,” the university honors God by equipping students for their future professions in an environment where they are known.

The university was founded in 1961 and is affiliated with the Alabama Baptist State Convention. Located 10 miles north of Mobile, Alabama, on a campus of over 880 acres, UM offers associate, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in over 75 academic programs. Learn more at umobile.edu/um-info and connect with UM on social media @univofmobile, or call Enrollment Services at 1.800.WIN.RAMS or 251.442.2222.

University of Mobile Announces Spring Day of Giving on May 14 to Support The Great Commission Fund

MOBILE, Ala. – The University of Mobile invites alumni, friends and supporters to make an eternal impact in students’ lives and make a tax-deductible donation during UM’s Spring Day of Giving on Wednesday, May 14.

This online fundraising event supports The Great Commission Fund at the Christian university and provides critical resources to equip students to boldly live out their faith and pursue their calling through Christ-centered higher education.

UM President Charles Smith said The Great Commission Fund directly supports the university’s mission of multiplying Kingdom leaders by preparing students for missional leadership in their chosen careers and communities.

“Every vocation is a calling from the Lord, whether it’s mathematics or ministry, accounting or healthcare, education or evangelism. We equip students to pursue their vocations with excellence, disciple them to be missional leaders with a passion for the Lord, then send them out to make a difference in the world for Christ and His Kingdom. Your gifts to The Great Commission Fund make this happen,” Smith said.

Tax-deductible gifts:

  • Provide Scholarships, helping students afford a Christ-centered education and pursue their callings without financial barriers.
  • Expand Spiritual Formation, supporting programs that deepen students’ faith and commitment to the Great Commission.
  • Equip Christ-centered leaders, by investing in the next generation of leaders who will serve, influence, and share the gospel worldwide.

How to Give

Throughout the day on May 14, the university will share student stories on social media and invite supporters to make gifts of any size. Supporters can also amplify their impact by sharing social media posts and encouraging others to participate.

Messages from students and Spring Day of Giving updates will be posted on University of Mobile social media (@univofmobile) throughout the day.

Gifts are tax-deductible and can be made online at umobile.edu/dayofgiving or by calling the Office for Institutional Relations at 251.442.2913.

About the University of Mobile

Since 1961, the University of Mobile has existed to train God-called men and women to leverage their gifts for the glory of God and the good of the world. The Great Commission Fund fuels that mission, helping equip students to know, love and serve the Lord for the rest of their lives.

For more information about the University of Mobile, visit umobile.edu/um-info.

                                                      

University of Mobile Invites Community to Free Spring Spectacular Concert, Fireworks and Inauguration Celebration May 1

MOBILE, Ala. – The University of Mobile invites the community to campus May 1 for its annual Spring Spectacular outdoor concert and fireworks show. This is a free event, and guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets to enjoy the show on the Great Commission Lawn.

A pre-show featuring the Saraland Elementary Show Choir will begin at 7 p.m. 

Spring Spectacular, featuring students from UM’s Alabama School of the Arts, will start at 7:30 p.m. The evening will conclude with an impressive fireworks show lighting the sky above the university’s iconic Weaver Hall. 

Spring Spectacular is the Baptist university’s end-of-year concert showcasing a wide variety of ensembles in the Alabama School of the Arts, from Voices of Mobile to RamCorps. The university is located off I-65 at Exit 13, 5735 College Pkwy., Mobile, Alabama, 36613.

For more information about Spring Spectacular, go to umobile.edu/asotaseason.

Inauguration Day Festivities

Spring Spectacular is the concluding event of the university’s day-long celebration of the inauguration of its 6th president, Dr. Charles W. Smith Jr. 

The inaugural celebration will begin at 2:30 p.m. at Redemption Church in Saraland, Alabama, with special guests from across the Southern Baptist Convention, delegates from colleges and universities across the nation, local and state leaders, and the university community. Dr. Jason Allen, president of Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, will deliver the keynote address, followed by a presidential response from Dr. Smith.

Both Spring Spectacular and the Inaugural Celebration are open to the public.

For Christ & His Kingdom

Dr. Smith was unanimously elected as the sixth president of the University of Mobile on March 21, 2024. Under his leadership, the renewed vision of the University of Mobile is to focus on advancing the mission “For Christ & His Kingdom” by multiplying Kingdom leaders who embrace their callings and live out the Great Commission for the glory of God and the good of the world.

A native of Montgomery, Alabama, Dr. Smith holds a PhD from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary and Master of Divinity from The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. Over the years, he has served in a variety of leadership roles in theological education, most recently as senior vice president for institutional relations at Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and Spurgeon College.

He is married to Ashley, his high school sweetheart, and together they have three daughters: Ellie, Annie and Susie.

For more information about President Smith and the inaugural celebration, go to umobile.edu/inauguration.

Learn more about the University of Mobile at umobile.edu/um-info. Plan a campus visit or register for a UM Day at umobile.edu/umday-info or call Enrollment Services at 251.442.2222.


About the University of Mobile

The University of Mobile is a Christ-centered university pursuing excellence “For Christ & His Kingdom.” With a vision to “Multiply Kingdom Leaders for the Glory of God and the Good of the World,” the university honors God by equipping students for their future professions in an environment where they are known.

The university was founded in 1961 and is affiliated with the Alabama Baptist State Convention. Located 10 miles north of Mobile, Alabama, on a campus of over 880 acres, UM offers associate, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in over 75 academic programs. Learn more at umobile.edu/um-info and connect with UM on social media @univofmobile, or call Enrollment Services at 1.800.WIN.RAMS or 251.442.2222.

University of Mobile to Inaugurate Dr. Charles W. Smith as 6th President on May 1

president

MOBILE, Ala. – The University of Mobile will formally inaugurate Dr. Charles W. Smith Jr. as its 6th president during a special ceremony on Thursday, May 1, 2025. 

The inaugural celebration will begin at 2:30 p.m. at Redemption Church in Saraland, Alabama, with special guests from across the Southern Baptist Convention, delegates from colleges and universities across the nation, local and state leaders, and the university community. Dr. Jason Allen, president of Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, will deliver the keynote address, followed by a presidential response from Dr. Smith.

Inaugural festivities will continue on the university campus with UM’s Spring Spectacular outdoor concert and fireworks show. A pre-show featuring the Saraland Elementary Show Choir will begin at 7 p.m. and Spring Spectacular, featuring students from UM’s Alabama School of the Arts, will start at 7:30 p.m. The evening will conclude with a fireworks display behind William K. Weaver Hall.

Both the inauguration ceremony and the Spring Spectacular concert and fireworks event are open to the public. Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs to campus to enjoy the concert and fireworks show at the Dr. Fred & Sue Lackey Great Commission Lawn. 

invitation

For Christ & His Kingdom

Dr. Smith was unanimously elected as the sixth president of the University of Mobile on March 21, 2024. Under his leadership, the renewed vision of the University of Mobile is to focus on advancing the mission “For Christ & His Kingdom” by multiplying Kingdom leaders who embrace their callings and live out the Great Commission for the glory of God and the good of the world.

A native of Montgomery, Alabama, Dr. Smith holds a PhD from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary and Master of Divinity from The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. Over the years, he has served in a variety of leadership roles in theological education, most recently as senior vice president for institutional relations at Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and Spurgeon College.

He is married to Ashley, his high school sweetheart, and together they have three daughters: Ellie, Annie and Susie.

For more information about President Smith and the inaugural celebration, go to umobile.edu/inauguration.


About the University of Mobile

The University of Mobile is a Christ-centered university pursuing excellence “For Christ & His Kingdom.” With a vision to “Multiply Kingdom Leaders for the Glory of God and the Good of the World,” the university honors God by equipping students for their future professions in an environment where they are known.

The university was founded in 1961 and is affiliated with the Alabama Baptist State Convention. Located 10 miles north of Mobile, Alabama, on a campus of over 880 acres, UM offers associate, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in over 75 academic programs. Learn more at umobile.edu/um-info and connect with UM on social media @univofmobile, or call Enrollment Services at 1.800.WIN.RAMS or 251.442.2222.

University of Mobile Launches Great Commission Fund to Multiply Kingdom Leaders

MOBILE, Ala. –The University of Mobile announces The Great Commission Fund, a bold initiative that reaffirms the Baptist university’s Christ-centered mission and equips students to impact the world for the gospel.

Launched April 10, 2025, The Great Commission Funds serves as a vital resource to provide scholarships, strengthen academic and spiritual programs, and empower students to follow God’s call in every profession, community and nation.

For Christ and His Kingdom

“For Christ and His Kingdom — this is the heartbeat of everything we do at the University of Mobile,” said UM President Charles Smith. 

“The Great Commission Fund is more than a rebranding of our annual fund; it is a declaration of our mission. Through this initiative, we are calling on believers to join us in raising up a generation of Christ-centered leaders.”

Watch the launch video HERE.

The Great Commission Tradition

Rooted in the university’s long-standing Great Commission Tradition, The Great Commission Fund reflects the commitment of UM students to pursue their education as a calling from God. 

From the moment they step onto campus, new students participate in this tradition by touching the Great Commission Globe during the President’s Commissioning ceremony, symbolizing their commitment to the intellectual and spiritual transformation they will experience in the college journey ahead. 

A few years later at commencement, they return to The Great Commission Globe as new graduates – men and women grounded in God’s Word and armed with the knowledge and skills to pursue their professional callings with excellence. They touch the Great Commission Globe again, making a public commitment to pursue God’s calling for their lives – to go out from the University of Mobile as missional leaders making an impact for Christ.

The UM Mission

“We believe transforming lives for Christ is not just an academic pursuit — it’s a mission,” said Dr. Nathan Harris, vice president for institutional relations. 

“The Great Commission Fund makes that mission possible by ensuring that financial barriers do not hinder students from receiving a Christ-centered education that prepares them to lead with excellence.”

To learn more or to contribute to The Great Commission Fund, visit umobile.edu/give and follow UM social media @univofmobile.

Pray. Tell. Invest.

The university invites Southern Baptist leaders and believers everywhere to partner in this Kingdom work through three powerful actions:

Pray for UM students and faculty as they prepare to impact the world for Christ.

Tell others the University of Mobile and its Great Commission mission

Invest in The Great Commission Fund to provide scholarships and resources that equip students to live out the gospel in every sphere of influence.

“When you give to The Great Commission Fund, you are practicing God’s call to generosity,” said Harris. “You are investing in a Christ-centered college community where students are known, discipled and sent out to transform the world for the glory of God and the good of the world.”


About the University of Mobile

The University of Mobile is a Christ-centered university pursuing excellence “For Christ and His Kingdom.” With a vision to “Multiply Kingdom Leaders for the Glory of God and the Good of the World,” the university honors God by equipping students for their future professions in an environment where they are known.

The university was founded in 1961 and is affiliated with the Alabama Baptist State Convention. Located 10 miles north of Mobile, Alabama, on a campus of over 880 acres, UM offers associate, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in over 75 academic programs. Learn more at umobile.edu/um-info and connect with UM on social media @univofmobile, or call Enrollment Services at 1.800.WIN.RAMS or 251.442.2222.

A Journey of Faith: The Great Commission Tradition at the University of Mobile 

MOBILE, Ala. – A single hand reaches out and rests on the smooth granite surface of The Great Commission Globe. Then another. And another. One by one, students place their hands on the globe — not just in tradition, but in commitment. In calling.

Each August, this moment unfolds at President’s Commissioning on the University of Mobile’s Great Commission Lawn. New students gather, place their hands on the globe and dedicate their college years to Christ’s calling. 

Four years later, at commencement in May, those same students return as new graduates to touch the globe again – ready to take their next step into the world as Kingdom leaders.

The Great Commission Tradition

This two-part ceremony is The Great Commission Tradition, one of the University of Mobile’s most cherished traditions. Established in 2017, it embodies the Christian university’s mission since its founding in 1961: to multiply Kingdom leaders for the glory of God and the good of the world.

University of Mobile President Charles Smith describes it as a full-circle moment. 

“We are sending University of Mobile graduates out into the world to live out their calling, for Christ and His Kingdom,” Smith said. “The Great Commission Tradition is a visual representation of that mission.”

(Click here to watch a video about The Great Commission Tradition.)

President’s Commissioning

For incoming students, the first touch at President’s Commissioning represents the beginning of a journey — a commitment to seek knowledge, deepen faith and grow in their calling. The ceremony is a moment of reflection and anticipation, a reminder that their time at UM is not just about earning a degree but about preparing to make an impact for Christ.

“I remember what it was like when I touched the globe for the first time at the beginning of my freshman year,” said recent graduate Molly Grace Watkins. “I was full of uncertainty as far as what the next four years would hold for me, but I knew that the Lord would direct my steps and bless this next season of my life.”

Over the next four years, students experience academic growth, spiritual formation and deep community. They serve on mission trips, lead worship, disciple others and prepare for careers where faith and vocation intertwine.

Equipped to Go

Then, at graduation, they return. One by one, they step forward once more, hands pressed to the globe — this time, as equipped and empowered leaders. The second touch signifies readiness, a sending out to fulfill Christ’s Great Commission command to go into the world, share the Gospel, and make disciples of all nations.

For many, the act of touching the globe as graduates is emotional. It marks the end of a transformative chapter and the beginning of a new one. But the mission remains the same: to go into the world and make a difference for Christ and His Kingdom.

“From the time I touched the globe for the first time up until the last time, I was constantly reminded that every opportunity and experience I was able to be a part of would further my future and my impact for the Kingdom,” said Watkins.

“The last time I touched the globe at graduation was truly an emotional experience. The culmination of the last four years all came to a close, and I was about to head out into the world. The Great Commission Tradition was the perfect bookends to my college life – the best beginning and impactful ending to my UM experience.”

Living the Mission

As hands meet the surface of the globe year after year, the tradition continues — each touch a testimony to the university’s unwavering commitment to Christ’s command to go and make disciples of all nations. 

And with each graduating class, the University of Mobile sends out another generation of leaders, ready to change the world for the glory of God and the good of the world.


About the University of Mobile

The University of Mobile is a Christ-centered university pursuing excellence “For Christ and His Kingdom.” With a vision to “Multiply Kingdom Leaders for the Glory of God and the Good of the World,” the university honors God by equipping students for their future professions in an environment where they are known.

The university was founded in 1961 and is affiliated with the Alabama Baptist State Convention. Located 10 miles north of Mobile, Alabama, on a campus of over 880 acres, UM offers associate, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in over 75 academic programs. Learn more at umobile.edu/um-info and connect with UM on social media @univofmobile, or call Enrollment Services at 1.800.WIN.RAMS or 251.442.2222.

University of Mobile Announces NEW Fully Online MBA Program

MOBILE, Ala. – The University of Mobile’s popular Master of Business Administration program is now available fully online, giving students more options and flexibility to earn an affordable degree that broadens their career opportunities.

Taught from a Christian worldview, the MBA program provides graduates with practical business knowledge and skills essential for a successful career as a leader in business, industry, non-profits, government and more.

Who Can Benefit?

The fully online MBA program is ideal for students with undergraduate degrees in any field who want to expand their career opportunities. 

Dr. Kathy Dunning, dean of the Grace Pilot School of Business, said, “The MBA curriculum seeks to strengthen the traits effective leaders need to be equipped with in today’s business: problem-solving skills, analytical reasoning, critical-thinking skills and ethical decision-making.”

Students also have the option of taking courses on campus, or in a hybrid online/on campus format.

New Cybersecurity Certificate

A new cybersecurity certificate will be an option for MBA students looking for the knowledge and skills to manage this fast-growing area of need in businesses worldwide. The low-coding curriculum equips students with expertise in risk management, data protection and cyber threat mitigation.

Respected, Accredited MBA Program

The Grace Pilot School of Business at the University of Mobile is internationally accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs.

University of Mobile MBA graduates have used the knowledge, leadership skills and networking connections they gained at the Christian university in organizations ranging from accounting, sales and management firms to the FBI, manufacturing companies and as entrepreneurs.

Applications Are Being Accepted Now

Students can start the online MBA program at any time, with classes offered summer, fall and spring semesters. Students interested in the on-campus or hybrid option should also apply to start their journey toward earning a Master of Business Administration from the University of Mobile.

Applications are being accepted now. Learn more and apply at umobile.edu/learn-more-business or call Enrollment Services at 251.442.2222.


About the University of Mobile

The University of Mobile is a Christ-centered university pursuing excellence “For Christ and His Kingdom.” With a vision to “Multiply Kingdom Leaders for the Glory of God and the Good of the World,” the university honors God by equipping students for their future professions in an environment where they are known.

The university was founded in 1961 and is affiliated with the Alabama Baptist State Convention. Located 10 miles north of Mobile, Alabama, on a campus of over 880 acres, UM offers associate, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in over 75 academic programs. Learn more at umobile.edu/um-info and connect with UM on social media @univofmobile, or call Enrollment Services at 1.800.WIN.RAMS or 251.442.2222.

New Lower Tuition Makes University of Mobile’s Online RN to BSN Program Even More Affordable 

MOBILE, Ala. – The University of Mobile’s fully online RN to BSN program just got even more affordable, with new lower tuition pricing beginning Summer 2025.

The Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN) program enables registered nurses to continue their careers and work fulltime while earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing online. Notably, clinical hours can be completed on the job, providing flexibility and building on practical experiences at the student’s workplace.

Earning a BSN is a next step for RNs who are looking for increased earning potential and expanded career opportunities.

New Lower Tuition

“At the University of Mobile, we are dedicated to providing accessible, high-quality nursing education at a competitive tuition rate. Our new tuition price reflects our commitment to supporting nurses in their educational and professional journeys,” said Dr. Sarah Witherspoon, dean of the School of Nursing in the Celia Wallace College of Health Professions.

“Our fully online RN to BSN program is structured to offer flexibility for working professionals while maintaining the rigorous academic quality that prepares our graduates for advanced practice and leadership roles in nursing.”

The new lower tuition rate is $375 per credit hour. Plus, graduates of UM’s Associate Degree in Nursing program are eligible for a special scholarship that brings tuition down to $325 per credit hour.

Apply Now for Summer 2025

The University of Mobile School of Nursing is accepting applications for classes that begin Summer 2025. Prospective students are encouraged to apply now to take advantage of the reduced tuition rates and join a program renowned for its quality and student support.

Learn more and apply at umobile.edu/learn-more-nursing. Or call Enrollment Services at 251.442.2222

#1 BSN Program in Alabama

The University of Mobile’s BSN program has posted 100% NCLEX pass rates for three consecutive years, earning it the ranking of #1 BSN Program in Alabama by NursingEducation.org.

As a Christian university, UM is focused on preparing graduates to serve for the glory of God and the good of the world. The School of Nursing is known for producing graduates who stand out from the crowd, demonstrating a Christian commitment to loving and serving people with deep compassion and excellence.

Why Earn a BSN?

The benefits of earning a BSN are well-documented, including enhanced career opportunities, increased earning potential and improved patient outcomes. BSN-level nurses can earn higher salaries with increased employment opportunities. Plus, BSN graduates are prepared to pursue master’s and doctoral degrees.

According to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing, hospitals staffed with a higher percentage of BSN-prepared nurses have better patient survival rates and lower odds of inpatient mortality.


About the University of Mobile

The University of Mobile is a Christ-centered university with a vision of “Higher Education for a Higher Purpose,” founded to honor God by equipping students for their future professions in an environment where they are known. Located 10 miles north of Mobile, Alabama, on a campus of over 880 acres, the university offers associate, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in over 75 academic programs.The University of Mobile was founded in 1961 and is affiliated with the Alabama Baptist State Convention.

For information about the University of Mobile, areas of study, admissions and more, visit umobile.edu/um-info, connect with UM on social media @univofmobile, or call Enrollment Services at 1.800.WIN.RAMS or 251.442.2222.

University of Mobile Announces New Online MBA & Lower Tuition for Online RN to BSN Program

MOBILE, Ala. – The University of Mobile is making higher education more accessible and flexible than ever with the launch of a new fully online Master of Business Administration (MBA) program and a new lower tuition rate for its online RN to BSN program. 

These initiatives provide working professionals with affordable and high-quality educational opportunities at a Christian university to advance their careers.

“These programs reflect the University of Mobile’s commitment to equipping students with the knowledge, skills and values they need to excel in their fields,” said UM President Charles Smith. “Our graduates stand out as leaders who serve with excellence and integrity.”

New Lower Tuition for RN to BSN Online Program

The University of Mobile’s fully online RN to BSN program is now even more affordable, with a new lower tuition rate of $375 per credit hour starting in Summer 2025. 

Graduates of UM’s Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program are eligible for a special scholarship that lowers tuition even more to $325 per credit hour.

Designed for working registered nurses, the RN to BSN program allows students to complete clinical hours on the job, ensuring flexibility and real-world application.

“At the University of Mobile, we are committed to providing high-quality, accessible nursing education,” said Dr. Sarah Witherspoon, dean of the School of Nursing in the Celia Wallace College of Health Professions. “Our new tuition structure makes it even easier for nurses to advance in their careers while continuing to serve their communities.”

Applications for classes beginning Summer 2025 are open now. Learn more at umobile.edu/learn-more-nursing or call Enrollment Services at 251.442.2222.

New Fully Online MBA Program

The University of Mobile’s Master of Business Administration (MBA) program is now fully online, offering students maximum flexibility to earn an accredited, Christ-centered business degree from anywhere.

Ideal for professionals with undergraduate degrees in any field, the MBA program strengthens leadership, critical thinking and ethical decision-making skills. Students can also choose on-campus or hybrid options.

“The MBA curriculum is designed to equip students with problem-solving, analytical reasoning and leadership skills essential for success in today’s business world,” said Dr. Kathy Dunning, dean of the Grace Pilot School of Business.

MBA students can now specialize in cybersecurity through a new cybersecurity certificate that prepares graduates to manage risk, protect data and mitigate cyber threats in an increasingly digital world.

The University of Mobile’s MBA program is internationally accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP), ensuring that graduates receive a respected and career-enhancing degree.

Students can start the online MBA program or the hybrid/on-campus program any semester – summer, fall or spring. Classes are enrolling now for summer and fall semesters. Learn more and apply at umobile.edu/learn-more-business or call Enrollment Services at 251.442.2222.

Why Choose the University of Mobile?

The University of Mobile is ranked the #1 BSN Program in Alabama by NursingEducation.org and has posted 100% NCLEX pass rates for three consecutive years. 

UM’s business graduates have gone on to careers with organizations such as the FBI, Fortune 500 companies and entrepreneurial ventures.

As a Christ-centered university, UM prepares students to serve with excellence “For Christ and His Kingdom.” Learn more at umobile.edu/um-info or follow @univofmobile on social media.


About the University of Mobile

The University of Mobile is a Christ-centered university pursuing excellence “For Christ and His Kingdom.” With a vision to “Multiply Kingdom Leaders for the Glory of God and the Good of the World,” the university honors God by equipping students for their future professions in an environment where they are known.

The university was founded in 1961 and is affiliated with the Alabama Baptist State Convention. Located 10 miles north of Mobile, Alabama, on a campus of over 880 acres, UM offers associate, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in over 75 academic programs. Learn more at umobile.edu/um-info and connect with UM on social media @univofmobile, or call Enrollment Services at 1.800.WIN.RAMS or 251.442.2222.

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