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Abilene Christian University (ACU) is a private Christian university located in Abilene, Texas. Founded in 1906, ACU has a rich history and a commitment to providing a high-quality education in a Christian environment. With a focus on academic excellence, spiritual development, and service to others, ACU offers a wide range of programs and opportunities for students.


Overview of Abilene Christian University (ACU)


ACU provides over 70 undergraduate programs across a variety of disciplines such as business, education, sciences, humanities, and fine arts. ACU also offers graduate programs in business administration, education, divinity, and nursing. With small class sizes and dedicated faculty providing personalized learning experiences where students can engage meaningful discussions while receiving personalized attention. In fact, the student-to-faculty ratio is just 13 to 1.

One distinctive aspect of ACU is its commitment to merging faith and learning. As a Christian university, ACU seeks to offer an education that is not only academically rigorous but also founded in Christian principles. Students have opportunities to explore their faith through chapel services, Bible classes, and spiritual formation programs - as well as taking part in service and mission programs both locally and globally - as an outlet for living out their beliefs while making positive contributions in society.

In addition to its academic and spiritual offerings, ACU provides a vibrant campus life with numerous extracurricular activities and organizations. Students can participate in intramural sports, join student clubs and organizations, and attend various campus events. ACU also has a strong emphasis on community and encourages students to build lasting relationships and connections with their peers, faculty, and staff.

General Information


School Type Private not-for-profit
Campus Setting City: Midsize
Campus Housing Yes
Student Faculty Ratio 13:1
Graduation Rate 66%
Year Founded 1906

Student Enrollment


Total Students5,291

Undergraduate
3,494
Graduate
1,797

Undergraduate Student

Male 1,328
1,328
Female 2,166
2,166

Graduate Student

Male 683
683
Female 1,114
1,114

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ACU Acceptance Rate and Admissions


APPLICATIONS10,534

Male 3,855
Female 6,679

ACCEPTANCE6,636

Male 2,352
Female 4,341

Acceptance Rate63%

Male 61%
Female 65%

Enrollment 863

Male 303
Female 560
Admissions
Application Fee $50
High School GPA Recommended
High School Rank Recommended
High School Transcripts Considered But Not Required
College Prep Courses Recommended
Recommendations N/A
Formal demonstration of competencies Recommended
SAT/ACT Considered But Not Required
TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) Considered But Not Required
Application Deadline February 15
Common Application Accepted No

ACU Tuition Cost & Financial Aid


The cost of tuition at Abilene Christian University can vary depending on several factors such as the specific program of study, whether the student is an in-state or out-of-state resident, and whether the student is an undergraduate or graduate student. As of the 2022-23 academic year, undergraduate tuition was an average of $40,500 and, being a private institution, both in-state and out-of-state students pay the same except for differences between specific programs.

Graduate tuition rates depend on their particular program; on average, graduate students can expect to pay between $600 and $1,200 per credit hour as an estimate; actual costs may differ based on program choice and course load.

While the cost of tuition at Abilene Christian University may seem daunting, it's important to remember that there are various financial aid options available to help students manage the cost. The university offers scholarships, grants, and work-study opportunities, all of which can help offset the cost of tuition.

Average net price Current Year
Net Price $28,725
Average Total Aid $22,887
Students Receiving Financial Aid 100%
Room & Board $11,350

Sticker Price


  • Tuition In-State - $37,800
  • Tuition Out-of-State - $37,800
  • Books and Supplies - $1,250
  • Room & Board - $11,350
  • Other - $3,272

Popular Academic Programs at ACU


Abilene Christian University is known for its strong academics and commitment to providing a well-rounded education to its students. With a wide range of programs and courses available, students have the opportunity to pursue their passions and develop their skills in various fields. Whether you are interested in business, education, sciences, or the arts, ACU offers a quality education that can prepare you for a successful career.

One of the hallmarks of academics at ACU is experiential learning. Students are strongly encouraged to participate in internships, research projects, and community service opportunities that allow them to apply what they've learned in class to real-life scenarios - not only does this add depth and meaning to classroom studies but it can also give valuable experience for job hunting purposes.

ACU provides students with a selection of majors and minors designed to meet the interests of its diverse student body. From traditional disciplines such as business administration, biology, and psychology to unique programs like digital entertainment technology and forensic science - ACU provides an impressive academic selection that caters to career goals and aspirations for its diverse student body.

In addition to the extensive academic offerings, ACU stands out for its commitment to technology integration in the classroom. The university provides students with access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources including advanced computer labs, multimedia classrooms, and specialized software and equipment. This technological focus ensures that students are prepared to excel in fields that increasingly rely on digital tools and platforms.

Student Population Total


Student Population 5,291

Undergraduate
3,494
Graduate
1,797
Evening Classes : No
Online Learning : Yes

Most Popular Programs & Majors

(# of Diplomas Awarded by Subject)


All Business Majors 178 Total Graduates / 23%
Business Administration and Management, General 50 Graduates
Finance, General 49 Graduates
Accounting 37 Graduates
Marketing/Marketing Management, General 35 Graduates
All Health Professions and Related Majors 98 Total Graduates / 13%
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse 67 Graduates
Speech-Language Pathology/Pathologist 25 Graduates
Dietetics/Dietitian 5 Graduates
Health/Medical Preparatory Programs, Other 1 Graduates
Parks, Recreation, Leisure, Fitness, and Kinesiology 72 Total Graduates / 9%
Sport and Fitness Administration/Management 72 Graduates
All Visual and Performing Arts Majors 54 Total Graduates / 7%
Fine/Studio Arts, General 14 Graduates
Game and Interactive Media Design 13 Graduates
Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General 10 Graduates
Interior Design 7 Graduates
All Education Majors 53 Total Graduates / 7%
Elementary Education and Teaching 34 Graduates
English/Language Arts Teacher Education 6 Graduates
Music Teacher Education 6 Graduates
Education/Teaching of Individuals in Elementary Special Education Programs 3 Graduates
All Other Diplomas 41%

Outcome & Salary


One of the primary outcomes for graduates from ACU is a strong foundation in their respective fields. ACU's faculty consists of experienced professionals who are dedicated to providing the highest quality education to their students. With small class sizes and personalized attention, students have the opportunity to engage in meaningful discussions and hands-on learning experiences. This allows graduates to possess a deep understanding of their disciplines and be well-prepared for the challenges they may face in their careers.

Graduates of ACU also exhibit a deep commitment to service and leadership. ACU places great importance on character formation, encouraging its students to make positive contributions to their communities. Through various service-learning opportunities and leadership programs, ACU equips graduates to be ethical and compassionate leaders within their professions and communities.

ACU also emphasizes the integration of faith and learning, offering graduates with a strong moral compass and sense of purpose. Christian values are integrated into ACU's curriculum so that students may examine where religion intersects with various fields - creating an atmosphere that fosters an ethic of responsibility among graduates who approach their work with integrity and compassion.

Furthermore, ACU graduates benefit from a strong alumni network. ACU has a vast and active community of alumni who are eager to support and connect with recent graduates. This network provides valuable mentorship opportunities, job leads, and professional connections that can help graduates kickstart their careers. The support from the alumni community creates a sense of belonging and ensures that ACU graduates have ongoing support as they navigate their professional journeys.

Graduates Salary
College Grads Early Career Salary $53,700
College Grads Average Salary $66,000
College Grads Mid Career Salary $100,100
Return on Investment (ROI)
10 Year Salary Earnings Potential $660,000
20 Year Salary Earnings Potential $1,661,000
Cost of Education (Net Price) 4 Year $114,900
10 Year Projected ROI $545,100
20 Year Projected ROI $1,546,100
No College Education Salary Comparison
National Average Salary $38,792
10 Year Projected Income $387,920
20 Year Projected Income $775,840

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