Palm Beach Atlantic University
West Palm Beach, FL, USA

Reviews

Palm Beach Atlantic University

Brittany from Saint Cloud, FL

a current student here
33 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
The teachers are great! they are very willing to help you succeed in class. My first semester teachers were lively and wanted to teach! I cannot wait to see what I get second semester.
Am enjoying being here
I love the people I live with and the friends that I have made. Its a great campus, not to big or small and everything you need is in a 3 mile radius. the School always offers lots of fun activities on campus as well... their great events to win free stuff, get to know people and have fun.
Bang for the buck
I absolutely feel I'm getting my moneys worth. i would not trade this school for any other one. PBA prepares you to be a strong christian in a none christian world! they give you everything that you need to be successful in the world.
Tips for prospective students
Don't be scared, everyone is EXTREMELY nice and EXTREMELY helpful, ask every question you need and make sure you apply online.. it's free and simple. once accepted make sure you get the deposit in to secure your spot, i got in early and i received housing information sooner! :)
Great for these types of students
Christian, strong-willed students who don't mind learning about the bible and a mile walk to the beach. it is in the city so it's a small campus.

Kristina from Ocala, FL

a current student here
8 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
The classes are great, they're set up in a way that is easy for you to learn and get the full hands-on experience. I'm learning more than I did in high school and every teacher is out to help. Don't be afraid to ask any questions!
Am enjoying being here
The atmosphere here is unlike any other. There are so many activities to participate in and volunteer opportunities. Not only is the school great, there are plenty of fun areas around West Palm Beach that are right next to the school!
Bang for the buck
The teachers and there willingness to help makes PBAU worth it, you couldn't find a better school.
Tips for prospective students
Go into this school with an open mind and heart, people are so nice and helpful. You'll have a great time!
Great for these types of students
Whether your walk with Christ is strong or you're working your way along this is the right college for you! The Bible studies, chapels, workship (community service), and other Christian based activities help students with their faith and understanding.

Aleia-Lauren from Goose Creek, SC

a current student here
6 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
When you come to PBA, the teachers honestly do genuinely care for your education. Being a Christian and Faith based school, they strive on our success. If a class is a little difficult, the writing workshop in the library is there to help you with English and essays for all classes, and there are plenty tutors (teachers and fellow students alike) to help you get a better understanding of your anticipated major.
Am enjoying being here
The rules may be strict at time, but when you do the right thing it is completely invisible. There are ALWAYS things to do on campus, the Anchor is a band that plays every Thursday at 8 and we sing and hang out. The gym has many classes like Zumba, Core Crunch, Latin Cardio; all for free! Downtown West Palm Beach is only 1 minute and 45 seconds away, so being bored rarely happens to the best of us.
Bang for the buck
Yes, PBA is a little heavy on the pockets, but we have the BEST reputation. For job opportunities while a student, or after graduating, we always get picked first. The beach is a nice mile away from campus on the Island, and you barely know your walking for 20 or less minutes because the scenery is breath taking. The Intercoastal Waterway is right across the street from Campus and it is perfect for those late night walks with friends. The education is phenomenal as long as you apply yourself.
Tips for prospective students
Don't let the Christianity scare you. You do not have to be a Christian to come here, but they certainly do help you find God within different task. It helps you to become a level headed person and smart at decision making. People are always here to listen or help, and whenever your faith gets low a little song will do you well. If you want to be successful, PBA is definitely the place to be. Hands down, touch down, this is the greatest experience of a lifetime. It's not the traditional way of a college experience, but it is one of the best.
Great for these types of students
If you change your mind a lot, PBA is for you. With tons of majors and minors, it is hard to stick to just one. We have plenty of Art and Theatre like Majors, Many Business Majors, Nursing, Pharmacy, and for those who LOVE to watch CSI, we even have a new Forensic major. Every and anything is possible here, and I mean that!

Student from West Palm Beach, FL

a current student here
6 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
The professors here are very encouraging and willing to help students succeed. I have a one or two professors whose classes didn't challenge me at all. However, I've also had many professors who are not only incredibly intelligent with high standards, but are wonderful people and strong Christians, too. I think it depends partly on the program you pursue here; some (Nursing, Pharmacy, etc.) are stronger than others (Math, etc.). Overall, your academic experience is what you want it to be. If you want to learn and be challenged, you will put forth an effort, pick professors who will challenge you, and, preferably, look into the honors program. You can also slack off (to an extent), pick easy professors, and live it up at the beach all the time. That having been said, there is a great potential for academic growth here, in a Christian environment.
Am enjoying being here
I love the Christian atmosphere of PBA. Of course, not everyone contributes to that atmosphere, but a large portion of the student population really are actively involved in church and campus ministries. The school offers mission trips, hall Bible studies, weekly student-led nights of worship, etc. There is a moderate amount of school spirit (people get into Sailfish Cup -- the annual dorm competition -- but hardly anyone goes to sports games), which suits me fine, but may disappoint others. There are downsides to any school, and I could possibly get better academics (for less money) at UF or another public university. However, I think PBA offers more good than bad, especially if your faith is important to you.
Bang for the buck
For a private school, it's not too bad. They do offer a decent amount of merit-based aid, based on your test scores/high school GPA. Financial aid and work-study jobs are also available for those who qualify. Basically, if you diligently apply for scholarships, you won't end up breaking the bank. It helps if you're from Florida, as Bright Futures and the Florida Resident Access Grant will cover a chunk of the cost. There are also departmental scholarships for certain majors (Theatre, etc.). One bit of advice: Check online for books; the bookstore doesn't always have the cheapest prices, and you can save lots of money renting/getting used books elsewhere.
Tips for prospective students
Visit the campus if you can, and take the time to talk to some of the students (preferably in your major). Sit in on a class. You'll get a much better idea of whether PBA is right for you. I was set against coming here until my dad persuaded me to go to an open house. Now I'm glad I came.
Great for these types of students
If you want more in a college experience than academics (and realize that they aren't always the most important thing), and have a strong or growing Christian faith, you'll like it here. Also, you'll love it here if you like the beach. There's a small downtown area nearby too, but it's not a very big city, so if you want tons of things to do off-campus (and don't like the beach), the location might be a downside.

Francis from West Palm Beach, FL

a current student here
5 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
Palm Beach Atlantic is a Christian Liberal Arts university that focuses in the student's writings and critical thinking. I really like this about PBA because it helps develop our ideas and opinions and not only develops them, but it also helps the student express those ideas and opinions both orally and written. Their Christian foundation also helps with keeping up the relationship between the student and God.
Tips for prospective students
If you are capable of working in the computer without getting distracted very easily it will be easy for you to stay on task on pbaonline.net. This campus is small, meaning that it is a very amicable ambient.
Academic Rigor
Try to stay on task and do all your homework, even if they are not graded, because once the test comes you should be very prepared. It is easy to get help at PBA because there is free tutoring and your professors are available to help you.
Dorm Life
The rooms are very spacious and neat. The bathroom is a little small, but it is still comfortable.
Food and Dining
In order not to get one bored of the Caf (as PBA students call it) food, they vary the food every day. It is delicious!
What to do for fun
The beach is a mile away; students usually go running along the nice view we have right in front of us, until they reach the beach.
Bang for the buck
It is worth paying a great amount for this university because there is an excellent education and a great ambient to live in.
Great for these types of students
Christian people will be more than satisfied with this university.
Clubs and Activities
There is always something going on at PBA. Every day there is something new: activities (sports, intramurals, praise and worship, etc.) or club meetings.
Campus Safety
There is a very great Safety and Security program that PBA has. There are red buttons throughout PBA which one can press whenever they are in trouble.

Justin from Royal Palm Beach, FL

accepted here and planning to attend soon
4 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Will learn a lot
The professors are great. Always willing to help and always willing to see you after class if you need extra help. Small classes give opportunity for personal interaction between students and professors
Will enjoy being here
I love the atmosphere. My roommate is great. They do an awesome job setting you up in the class First Year Experience with people in your major.
Bang for the buck
It is a little expensive seeing as it is a private school but it is definitely worth it. Especially if you are going for your Doctorate of Pharmacy.
Tips for prospective students
Apply for as many scholarships as you can and the college doesn't even end up being that expensive.
Great for these types of students
Students who like small classes and the ability to talk to professors and get great advice from them about your future.

peyton

accepted here and planning to attend soon
3 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
i really love this school. it is a perfect size for me, in the city but not too crazy. the campus is absolutely beautiful. and it is right by the beach!
Tips for prospective students
if you like parties and drinking, it is not for you. but if you like a calm atmosphere who enjoys the outdoors while still being in the city, you will love it.
Academic Rigor
i have not taken classes yet, but i sat in one class. i really liked the professor and it seems they really care about their students.
Dorm Life
i liked these dorms much better than other campuses i have visited. they have different style housing depending on your preference.
Food and Dining
better than other campuses. they have chick-fil-a! the cafeteria is pretty small though, it is a small school.
What to do for fun
the beach of course!! citypace is an awesome shopping center as well, with live music on the weekends. has great places to eat like cheesecake factory and mellow mushroom and starbucks, movie theater, and starbucks! also has good stores there.
Bang for the buck
this school is expensive, but i think it is worth it if you are wanting this atmosphere.
Great for these types of students
if you like outdoors, want to serve the community, go on mission trips, or love the beach
Campus Safety
from what i hear, it is good. 24/7 security and id's required to get in all dorm buildings.

Nicole from Plymouth, MN

a current student here
3 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
Palm Beach Atlantic University has beautiful facilities especially the music and fine arts building, the sports and recreation building, the cafeteria, and the pharmacy building. The class sizes are small which allows for more personal attention and further one on one meetings with professors. I especially love this because you get to know the professors on a personal level and they genuinely care for each student.
Tips for prospective students
I recommend getting involved with on campus activities. This helps you get connected quickly with students that have similar interests as you. Don't be afraid to get to know the upperclassmen; they can really help you get connected, too!
Academic Rigor
Some classes are more rigorous than others and it depends on the teacher. My first year my roommate and I were taking the same Exploring the Bible class but with different teachers. I had a very difficult professor and she had an easy going laid back teacher. Needless to say, we had different amounts of homework and studying.
Dorm Life
Choose to live in Baxter Hall for your first semester. It is very friendly and a great freshman dorm because you meet so many people.
Food and Dining
The caf has good food and many options. I'm a vegetarian and I found it very easy to find healthy and tasty options. The downside of being on the meal plan is it is very expensive.
What to do for fun
PBA is located in the city so there is an endless supply of fun things to do. Sailfish Programs and Student Success put on fun activities for students throughout each semester. Go to the dances!!
Campus Safety
PBA is an open campus so anyone can walk through at any moment and you won't know them. There is theft and I never walk alone at night. Campus Safety and Security does a good job with keeping the campus safe.

Danielle from Howey IN The Hills, FL

accepted here and planning to attend soon
3 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
This school has the most beautiful campus I have ever seen. It is obvious the school takes pride in everything they own - the dorms, the food, the class rooms, and the administration. On top of all of this, you are not a number at this school; all of the teachers, and admissions counselors treats every student and ever prospective student like they will be attending and that this school is the right school for them.
Tips for prospective students
It is a Christian school, meaning there are morals and rules the school requires you to follow: chapel hours, community service, and rules about public display of affection such as lights in a room must be on and there are curfews. If you can't handle the rules, then don't come.
Academic Rigor
Because of the size of the classrooms, and the ratio being like 12:1 or 14:1, it creates a more one-on-one experience and the teacher can challenge students individually. So, even if the material being studied isn't rigorous, the teachers will challenge each student to a different capacity that they can handle.
Dorm Life
The dorms are definitely what you pay for is what you get. The school costs about $34,000/year without any grants or scholarships but that money is being put to good use because even the freshman dorms are nicer than any other dorms I've seen.
Food and Dining
They just rebuilt the cafeteria a few years ago creating a cafe feel to it and in my opinion, it is over the top nice. There is a huge salad bar, an american grill, your healthy foods, and like a grill in the center where a cook stands there and you give him food you want him to cook and he stands there and cooks whatever you like. On top of all of this, there is a Chick-fil-a on campus! Welcome to the South!!
What to do for fun
PBA is located in the center of an extremely expensive shopping plaza- CityPlace. There is the beach less than a mile from the college, shopping surrounding the college, literally.

Caitlin from West Palm Beach, FL

a current student here
3 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
The teachers are passionate about the subjects they teach which makes learning so much easier and so much more fun. I love PBA
Am enjoying being here
I love PBA. The teachers, pastor, everyone that works there is so passionate about being a Christian it makes the campus shine.
Bang for the buck
Worth the amount of money I have to pay.
Tips for prospective students
Live in Baxter Residence Hall if you are a girl.
Great for these types of students
Any student that wants to grow in Christ and in academics should go to PBA. Oh and if you want to live a mile from the beach.