One positive aspect of Shorter University is that the school has multiple locations. The main campus is in Rome, Georgia, but the school also has campuses in Atlanta, Georgia, Birmingham, Alabama, and Chattanooga, Tennessee. This is a positive for students who want to attend the Christian university but do not want to move to the Atlanta area. The entire Shorter University system is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools to grant associate, baccalaureate and master's degrees.
Shorter University makes an effort to cater to working adults who may not have time for traditional classes. Though traditional classes are offered, Shorter also provides online classes for busy students and for those who may live out of the area. Even though the school has non-traditional offerings, the traditional campus experience is available for those students who would prefer that experience. Approximately 65 percent of all Shorter University applications are accepted for admission.
Another positive aspect is the school's teacher-to-student ratio. According to "U.S. News & World Report," Shorter University's 2010 student-to-teacher ratio was 11 to 1. Many primary- and collegiate-level schools aim for ratios that low, and Shorter University has been able to achieve and maintain this ratio year after year. The lower number of students allows professors to spend more one-on-one time with their students, which can add to the students' overall educational experience at Shorter.
While Shorter University has many positive aspects, it is not without a few potential negative aspects. The university may boast smaller class sizes, plenty of online offerings and multiple campus locations, but that does not mean that the small Christian school atmosphere will be a fit for everyone. However, even with the religious background of Shorter, the university still offers a plethora of student activities, clubs and athletics.
A disadvantage for some prospective Shorter University students may be the school's campuses. While there is a Shorter University location in Atlanta, the Birmingham, Rome and Chattanooga campuses may not offer the same big-city feel. While these cities are not necessarily rural areas, those seeking the bright lights and constant bustle of a larger metropolitan area may be a bit disappointed by some of the Shorter University campus locations.