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About AU
Knowledge for your Journey
Located in the vibrant city of Anderson, in the rapidly growing region of Upstate South Carolina, Anderson University is an academically selective, comprehensive Christian university offering bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees on campus, online and at the University Center in Greenville. Undergraduate students may choose from 92 major degree programs, with 61 minors and 68 major-embedded concentrations; and the University offers 30 master’s degree programs, 16 doctoral programs and 10 certificate programs.
Anderson University is among the fastest growing private universities in the country, according to the U.S. Department of Education and the Chronicle of Higher Education Almanac. Increased enrollment only tells part of the story, however; the reason for it is Anderson’s reputation as a premier institution of higher learning and status, one that is recognized by U.S. News & World Report and Niche, among others.
Innovation is a hallmark of the Anderson University experience, and the University is a national leader in utilizing digital technology and online learning experiences. Among all universities in the nation, U.S. News & World Report ranks Anderson in several categories of its annual “Best Online Programs” rankings. Specifically, the publication’s extensive methodology ranks the University’s online undergraduate programs and its graduate programs in business, education, and nursing as among the best in South Carolina for all colleges and universities, public and private. Further, Anderson University is an Apple Distinguished School; to date, fewer than 60 colleges or universities in the world are recognized—and Anderson has received the distinction five consecutive times.
At the heart of the University’s educational program is an uncompromising commitment to a comprehensive Christian education as a means of preparing students with both a breadth and depth of knowledge they need not only to be successful in the career of their choice, but to be adaptable to multiple careers, and ultimately be successful in all realms of life—in work, family, community and faith.
Four Pillars of Distinction
From our humble beginnings to our growth into South Carolina’s largest private institution of higher learning, Anderson University has sought to provide a transformational education experience within an intentionally Christian environment. At the heart of the University’s mission is an uncompromising commitment to great academics, great faith, great hospitality, and great purpose.
Great Academics
Students depend on AU to give the knowledge they need for their individual journey in life. We don’t dare let them down. When it comes to intellectual development, we don’t play around. Rigorous, challenging academics combined with exceptional support and encouragement make the difference.
Great Faith
Human beings are not intellect alone, but a combination of mind, body, and soul. C. S Lewis said, “Once people stop believing in God, they will believe in anything.” Thus, we do not ask students to choose between God and science. We teach science and we nurture faith. We integrate the life of the mind with the life of the soul. We respect all people of moral conscience. We joyfully present the Gospel of Jesus Christ as our confession.
Great Hospitality
We relentlessly pursue genuine hospitality…because people really matter. We respect, honor, and serve one another on the AU campus. We want everyone to feel like an insider, and no one to feel like an outsider. Here, people feel valued and cared for. We are warm, kind, generous, anticipatory, and empathetic. The Anderson campus flourishes with an extraordinary sense of connection and community.
Great Purpose
We find joy in helping one another discover and pursue a purposeful life. At the end of their AU educational journey, we want students to not only be able to demonstrate what they know and what they can do, but also be ready to articulate a virtuous answer to the most important question: What kind of person do I want to be?
Recent National Recognitions
Anderson University is one of the premier, private Christian universities in the country. Known among its peers as an institution that provides a rigorous educational experience, grounded in faith and innovation, AU is regularly recognized by national organizations for affordability, excellence, and a commitment to our student’s engagement and growth.
"Best College"
among regional universities in the South: No. 26 (U.S. News and World Report, 2023)
"Best Value"
among regional universities in the South: No. 18 (U.S. News & World Report, 2023)
Four consecutive (2014, 2016, 2018, 2021) Apple Distinguished School recognitions for innovation, leadership, and educational excellence.
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AU History
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Alma Mater The Sounds of Anderson
Anderson University Fall Magazine
Anderson University Magazine is published twice a year and explores general interest stories, including articles covering the present happenings, traditions and future of the university.
