The Atlanta Campus of Mercer University is a vibrant with just over 2000 students from 7 different schools. The advantage of being part of a major university is the wealth of resources available to theology students. On the student services website you will find information about campus housing, campus health care, recreation, career, and counseling services.

Where should I live?
There is great on-campus housing though it is limited. Most McAfee students live off-campus in the many apartments within walking distance or a few miles. The advantage of living on campus is, of course, convenience and simplicity. The advantage of living off campus is the variety of amenities and prices. The commute in Atlanta is hectic during rush hour, so we recommend students live as close to campus as possible. Rent varies from apartment to apartment depending on age of the building and amenities. Every apartment complex runs “specials” which can include waived application fees to a free months rent. You may also be able to split a referral fee with a current student who already lives at that complex. Please let the admissions office know when you will be in town looking at apartments; we’d love to help.

What about roommates?
The admissions office keeps a running list of current and entering students looking for housing. Once we receive your transition form, you should start to receive regular emails with names and contact information of incoming and current students who meet your request. These emails will also include various other opportunities from time to time like basement apartments and parsonage type situations.

What about Jobs?
A great thing about Atlanta is there is no shortage of employment opportunities. McAfee students work in all different kinds of jobs from coffee shops and retail to churches and non-profit organizations. The Office of Admissions assists students in finding church related employment. We need 5 or 6 hard copies of your resume sent to Office of Admissions, McAfee School of Theology, 3001 Mercer University Drive, Atlanta, GA 30341.  We also need an electronic copy, which should be emailed to Libby Allen @ allen_l@mercer.edu along with the placement form (download). Students looking for non-church related employment should contact Mercer-Atlanta’s Career Services.

What about churches?
Another great thing about Atlanta is the wonderful diversity of Christian Churches. Being part of a local church is crucial throughout seminary. Each year, we invite representatives from area churches to the New Student Orientation Luncheon. This is an excellent opportunity to be introduced to some great church communities in Atlanta. You will also a list of churches attending by current students in your orientation packet.

What is the cost of living like?
Atlanta has a booming economy, so compared with some other regions, you notice that on average, some things like rent and car insurance are a little more expensive. Don’t panic! This also means the average wage earned in Atlanta metro is higher as well. For example, the average teacher’s salary in Mississippi is $38,200, in Georgia it is $46,400.

What about things like finding a good mechanic or hair salon?
At New Student Orientation you will receive an “Atlanta Essentials” guide with recommendations from other theology students for things like where to get a hair cut, getting your car worked on and how to eat cheap.

What is there to do in Atlanta?
Are you kidding? Actually, finding something to do can be a little overwhelming because there is so much to choose from. Atlanta is an hour drive or so from several lakes, hiking and camping areas. There are also several great parks which host free concerts throughout the year.