ACU
Faith, Learning, Community: Impacting the World.
📍 Abilene, United States 🇺🇸
🏆 #250 in United States
Quick Facts about ACU
- Type: Private
- Students: 6,219
- International: 3%
- Campus: Urban
- Tuition: $38,390 – $47,000/year
- Language: English
- Student-Faculty Ratio: 13:1
- Intakes: January, August, May
About ACU
Abilene Christian University (ACU) is a private Christian university located in Abilene, Texas, United States. Established in 1906, ACU offers a diverse range of academic programs and is committed to integrating faith and learning. The university fosters a vibrant community atmosphere, emphasizing supportive educational relationships and spiritual formation.
Academics
ACU comprises 10 schools and colleges, offering 87 baccalaureate majors, 71 master's and specialist degree programs, and 4 doctoral programs. The university is known for its strong academic reputation, with popular courses including Sports and Fitness Management, Finance, Nursing, Accounting, Psychology, and Marketing. ACU emphasizes a teaching approach that fosters supportive educational relationships, with professors often going out of their way to mentor students. The university also provides opportunities for undergraduate research.
International Students
ACU provides a range of support services for international students, including assistance with immigration, obtaining a driver's license, and health insurance. All international students are required to demonstrate English proficiency through tests like SAT, ACT, IELTS, TOEFL, or Duolingo, unless they meet specific exemption criteria. The university embraces cultural diversity, with student organizations like the International Students Association (ISA), African Students' Association (ASA), Asian Student Organization, and Indian Culture Association. These groups organize various events, such as cultural shows and food festivals, to promote cultural integration and celebrate the international presence on campus. ACU also offers a "Home Away From Home" program connecting international students with local families and a peer mentor program to aid in transition.
Campus & Location
ACU's vibrant, 272-acre main campus in Abilene, Texas, features green spaces, public art, and modern athletic and academic facilities. Abilene itself is described as a city with an affordable cost of living and a diverse economy, offering cultural opportunities such as collegiate theatre programs, art museums, and a philharmonic orchestra. While most people in Abilene drive, public buses operate on key routes, and rideshare services are available. Nearby attractions include parks, trails, and lakes for outdoor activities, and the city is known as the "Storybook Capital of America" with related sculptures and institutions.
Career Outcomes
ACU graduates demonstrate strong employment outcomes, with almost 95% working full-time three years after finishing their studies. The university's overall graduation rate is 60%. Career services at ACU are supported by initiatives such as the Griggs Center for Entrepreneurship and Philanthropy, which fosters an entrepreneurial spirit through student-run businesses like Wildcat Ventures, offering real-world experience, mentorship, and networking opportunities. Notable alumni include individuals who have achieved success in sports, military leadership, and business, such as NFL players, a CEO of a top public relations firm, and an award-winning music producer.
Information for International Students at ACU
ACU in Abilene, United States welcomes international students, with 3% of the student body coming from abroad.
- 3% of students are international
- Visa support available
- On-campus work allowed
- Student housing available
- Work placement / internship opportunities available
- Teaching languages: English
Admissions Requirements for ACU
Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to ACU:
- IELTS minimum: 6.5
- TOEFL minimum: 80
- Duolingo minimum: 110
- GPA minimum: 3
- Application fee: $50
- Selectivity: Open (60%+)
- Application deadline: Rolling Admissions
Programs at ACU (56 programs)
ACU offers 56 programs across Bachelor, Master, PhD levels.
Bachelor Programs (35)
- Management (BBA) — 48 months · English · $43,200/yr
Students learn principles of organizational behavior, human resources, operations, and strategic management to lead and manage effectively in various business contexts.
Field: Business
Career outcomes: Operations Manager, Human Resources Manager, Project Manager - English (BA) — 48 months · English · $43,200/yr
Students engage with literature, critical theory, and creative writing, developing strong analytical and communication skills applicable to various professional fields.
Field: Humanities
Career outcomes: Writer, Editor, Educator - Art and Design (BA) — 48 months · English · $43,200/yr
This program explores various art forms including painting, sculpture, graphic design, and digital media, fostering creativity and technical skills for artistic expression.
Field: Arts
Career outcomes: Graphic Designer, Illustrator, Art Educator - Chemistry (BS) — 48 months · English · $43,200/yr · STEM
This program provides a strong foundation in chemical principles, including organic, inorganic, analytical, and physical chemistry, for careers in industry or further study.
Field: Science
Career outcomes: Chemist, Lab Technician, Pharmaceutical Scientist - Engineering (BS) — 48 months · English · $43,200/yr · STEM
The engineering program offers specializations in mechanical, electrical, and civil engineering, focusing on problem-solving, design, and practical application of scientific principles.
Field: Engineering
Career outcomes: Mechanical Engineer, Electrical Engineer, Civil Engineer - Marketing (BBA) — 48 months · English · $43,200/yr
This program covers market research, consumer behavior, branding, and digital marketing strategies, preparing students for dynamic roles in the marketing industry.
Field: Business
Career outcomes: Marketing Manager, Brand Manager, Digital Marketing Specialist, Market Research Analyst - Biology (BS) — 48 months · English · $43,200/yr · STEM
Students delve into the study of living organisms, covering topics such as genetics, ecology, cell biology, and physiology, preparing them for health professions or research.
Field: Science
Career outcomes: Biologist, Research Scientist, Healthcare Professional - Accounting (BBA) — 48 months · English · $43,200/yr
Students learn financial reporting, auditing, taxation, and managerial accounting principles to prepare for careers in public accounting, corporate finance, or government.
Field: Business
Career outcomes: Auditor, Tax Accountant, Financial Analyst - Computer Science (BS) — 48 months · English · $43,200/yr · STEM
This program covers fundamental concepts of computing, including programming, data structures, algorithms, and software engineering, preparing students for technology careers.
Field: Computer Science
Career outcomes: Software Engineer, Web Developer, Data Scientist - Communication (BA) — 48 months · English · $43,200/yr
Students explore various communication theories and practices, including public relations, journalism, digital media, and interpersonal communication, to become effective communicators.
Field: Humanities
Career outcomes: Public Relations Specialist, Journalist, Marketing Communications Manager - Nursing (BSN) — 48 months · English · $43,200/yr · STEM
This program prepares students for a career as a registered nurse, focusing on patient care, health assessment, pharmacology, and clinical practice in diverse healthcare settings.
Field: Health Sciences
Career outcomes: Registered Nurse, Nurse Practitioner, Clinical Nurse Specialist - Bible and Ministry (BA) — 48 months · English · $43,200/yr
Students engage in theological studies, biblical interpretation, and practical ministry training for careers in church leadership or religious service.
Field: Theology
Career outcomes: Pastor, Youth Minister, Missionary, Chaplain - Engineering (General) (BS) — 48 months · English · $43,200/yr · STEM
This program provides a foundational understanding of engineering principles, allowing students to specialize or pursue diverse engineering careers.
Field: Engineering
Career outcomes: Engineer, Project Manager, Technical Consultant - Psychology (BA) — 48 months · English · $43,200/yr
Students explore human behavior, cognition, and emotion through various psychological theories and research methods, preparing for graduate studies or careers in social services.
Field: Social Sciences
Career outcomes: Psychologist (with further study), Social Worker, Human Resources Specialist - Kinesiology (BS) — 48 months · English · $43,200/yr · STEM
This program studies human movement, exercise science, and health promotion, preparing students for careers in fitness, sports, and allied health fields.
Field: Health Sciences
Career outcomes: Physical Therapist, Athletic Trainer, Fitness Professional - Social Work (BSW) — 48 months · English · $43,200/yr
Students learn to advocate for individuals, families, and communities, addressing social injustices and promoting well-being through direct practice and policy.
Field: Social Sciences
Career outcomes: Social Worker, Case Manager, Community Organizer, Advocate - Criminal Justice (BS) — 48 months · English · $43,200/yr
Students examine the criminal justice system, including law enforcement, courts, and corrections, with an emphasis on ethical practices and social justice.
Field: Social Sciences
Career outcomes: Police Officer, Probation Officer, Forensic Scientist - Music (BM) — 48 months · English · $43,200/yr
Students develop musical proficiency in performance, composition, or education, preparing for careers as musicians, educators, or in the music industry.
Field: Arts
Career outcomes: Musician, Music Educator, Composer, Sound Engineer - History (BA) — 48 months · English · $43,200/yr
Students explore historical events, cultures, and societies, developing critical thinking, research, and analytical skills through the study of the past.
Field: Humanities
Career outcomes: Historian, Archivist, Educator - Marketing (BBA) — 48 months · English · $43,200/yr
This program covers market research, consumer behavior, branding, and digital marketing strategies, preparing students for dynamic roles in the marketing industry.
Field: Business
Career outcomes: Marketing Manager, Brand Manager, Digital Marketing Specialist, Market Research Analyst - Biology (BS) — 48 months · English · $43,200/yr · STEM
Students delve into the study of living organisms, covering topics such as genetics, ecology, cell biology, and physiology, preparing them for health professions or research.
Field: Science
Career outcomes: Biologist, Research Scientist, Healthcare Professional - Accounting (BBA) — 48 months · English · $43,200/yr
Students learn financial reporting, auditing, taxation, and managerial accounting principles to prepare for careers in public accounting, corporate finance, or government.
Field: Business
Career outcomes: Auditor, Tax Accountant, Financial Analyst - Computer Science (BS) — 48 months · English · $43,200/yr · STEM
This program covers fundamental concepts of computing, including programming, data structures, algorithms, and software engineering, preparing students for technology careers.
Field: Computer Science
Career outcomes: Software Engineer, Web Developer, Data Scientist - Communication (BA) — 48 months · English · $43,200/yr
Students explore various communication theories and practices, including public relations, journalism, digital media, and interpersonal communication, to become effective communicators.
Field: Humanities
Career outcomes: Public Relations Specialist, Journalist, Marketing Communications Manager - Nursing (BSN) — 48 months · English · $43,200/yr · STEM
This program prepares students for a career as a registered nurse, focusing on patient care, health assessment, pharmacology, and clinical practice in diverse healthcare settings.
Field: Health Sciences
Career outcomes: Registered Nurse, Nurse Practitioner, Clinical Nurse Specialist - Bible and Ministry (BA) — 48 months · English · $43,200/yr
Students engage in theological studies, biblical interpretation, and practical ministry training for careers in church leadership or religious service.
Field: Theology
Career outcomes: Pastor, Youth Minister, Missionary, Chaplain - Engineering (General) (BS) — 48 months · English · $43,200/yr · STEM
This program provides a foundational understanding of engineering principles, allowing students to specialize or pursue diverse engineering careers.
Field: Engineering
Career outcomes: Engineer, Project Manager, Technical Consultant - Psychology (BA) — 48 months · English · $43,200/yr
Students explore human behavior, cognition, and emotion through various psychological theories and research methods, preparing for graduate studies or careers in social services.
Field: Social Sciences
Career outcomes: Psychologist (with further study), Social Worker, Human Resources Specialist - Kinesiology (BS) — 48 months · English · $43,200/yr · STEM
This program studies human movement, exercise science, and health promotion, preparing students for careers in fitness, sports, and allied health fields.
Field: Health Sciences
Career outcomes: Physical Therapist, Athletic Trainer, Fitness Professional - Social Work (BSW) — 48 months · English · $43,200/yr
Students learn to advocate for individuals, families, and communities, addressing social injustices and promoting well-being through direct practice and policy.
Field: Social Sciences
Career outcomes: Social Worker, Case Manager, Community Organizer, Advocate - Criminal Justice (BS) — 48 months · English · $43,200/yr
Students examine the criminal justice system, including law enforcement, courts, and corrections, with an emphasis on ethical practices and social justice.
Field: Social Sciences
Career outcomes: Police Officer, Probation Officer, Forensic Scientist - Music (BM) — 48 months · English · $43,200/yr
Students develop musical proficiency in performance, composition, or education, preparing for careers as musicians, educators, or in the music industry.
Field: Arts
Career outcomes: Musician, Music Educator, Composer, Sound Engineer - History (BA) — 48 months · English · $43,200/yr
Students explore historical events, cultures, and societies, developing critical thinking, research, and analytical skills through the study of the past.
Field: Humanities
Career outcomes: Historian, Archivist, Educator - Environmental Science (BS) — 48 months · English · $43,200/yr · STEM
This interdisciplinary program explores environmental issues, conservation, and sustainability, preparing students for careers in environmental protection and research.
Field: Science
Career outcomes: Environmental Scientist, Conservationist, Environmental Consultant, Park Ranger - Finance (BBA) — 48 months · English · $43,200/yr
This program focuses on financial markets, investments, corporate finance, and risk management, preparing students for careers in banking, financial planning, and corporate finance.
Field: Business
Career outcomes: Financial Analyst, Investment Banker, Financial Advisor
Master Programs (14)
- Business Administration (MBA) — 24 months · English · $25,000/yr
The MBA program develops leadership and management skills, focusing on strategic planning, finance, marketing, and operations for diverse business environments.
Field: Business
Career outcomes: Business Consultant, Operations Manager, Marketing Director - Education (MEd) — 24 months · English · $16,000/yr
This Master of Education program enhances teaching skills and leadership in educational settings, offering specializations in curriculum, administration, and special education.
Field: Education
Career outcomes: Teacher, School Administrator, Curriculum Specialist - Counseling (MA) — 36 months · English · $18,000/yr
The Master of Arts in Counseling prepares students to become licensed professional counselors, focusing on therapeutic techniques, ethics, and human development.
Field: Psychology
Career outcomes: Licensed Professional Counselor, School Counselor, Therapist - Business Administration (MBA) — 24 months · English · $25,000/yr
The MBA program develops leadership and management skills, focusing on strategic planning, finance, marketing, and operations for diverse business environments.
Field: Business
Career outcomes: Business Consultant, Operations Manager, Marketing Director - Master of Education in Higher Education (MEd) — 24 months · English · $18,000/yr
This program prepares professionals for leadership roles in colleges and universities, focusing on administration, student affairs, and educational policy.
Field: Education
Career outcomes: University Administrator, Student Affairs Professional, Academic Advisor - Master of Business Administration (MBA) (MBA) — 24 months · English · $25,000/yr
This program develops leadership and management skills, covering areas like finance, marketing, operations, and strategy for career advancement in diverse industries.
Field: Business
Career outcomes: Business Consultant, Marketing Manager, Operations Manager, CEO - Master of Science in Nutrition (MS) — 24 months · English · $20,000/yr · STEM
This program provides advanced knowledge in nutritional science, dietetics, and public health, preparing students for roles as registered dietitians or nutrition specialists.
Field: Health Sciences
Career outcomes: Registered Dietitian, Nutritionist, Public Health Specialist, Food Scientist - Master of Science in Information Technology (MS) — 24 months · English · $20,000/yr · STEM
This program provides advanced knowledge in IT infrastructure, cybersecurity, data management, and software development, preparing students for leadership roles in technology.
Field: Information Technology
Career outcomes: IT Manager, Cybersecurity Analyst, Data Architect, Software Development Manager - Master of Education in Higher Education (MEd) — 24 months · English · $18,000/yr
This program prepares professionals for leadership roles in colleges and universities, focusing on administration, student affairs, and educational policy.
Field: Education
Career outcomes: University Administrator, Student Affairs Professional, Academic Advisor - Master of Business Administration (MBA) (MBA) — 24 months · English · $25,000/yr
This program develops leadership and management skills, covering areas like finance, marketing, operations, and strategy for career advancement in diverse industries.
Field: Business
Career outcomes: Business Consultant, Marketing Manager, Operations Manager, CEO - Master of Science in Nutrition (MS) — 24 months · English · $20,000/yr · STEM
This program provides advanced knowledge in nutritional science, dietetics, and public health, preparing students for roles as registered dietitians or nutrition specialists.
Field: Health Sciences
Career outcomes: Registered Dietitian, Nutritionist, Public Health Specialist, Food Scientist - Master of Science in Information Technology (MS) — 24 months · English · $20,000/yr · STEM
This program provides advanced knowledge in IT infrastructure, cybersecurity, data management, and software development, preparing students for leadership roles in technology.
Field: Information Technology
Career outcomes: IT Manager, Cybersecurity Analyst, Data Architect, Software Development Manager - Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction (MEd) — 24 months · English · $18,000/yr
Educators enhance their skills in curriculum design, instructional strategies, and assessment to improve learning outcomes in various educational settings.
Field: Education
Career outcomes: Curriculum Specialist, Instructional Coordinator, School Administrator, Teacher Leader - Theology (MDiv) — 36 months · English · $15,000/yr
The Master of Divinity program provides comprehensive theological education for ministry, focusing on biblical studies, church history, and practical theology.
Field: Theology
Career outcomes: Pastor, Chaplain, Religious Educator
PhD Programs (7)
- Marriage and Family Therapy (PhD) — 60 months · English · $20,000/yr
The PhD program in Marriage and Family Therapy prepares students for advanced clinical practice, supervision, and research in systemic therapy approaches.
Field: Psychology
Career outcomes: Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, University Professor, Clinical Supervisor - Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership (EdD) — 36 months · English · $22,000/yr
This doctoral program focuses on advanced leadership theories and practices, preparing professionals to lead and transform organizations in various sectors.
Field: Leadership
Career outcomes: University Administrator, Organizational Consultant, Executive Leader, Policy Analyst - Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) (DPT) — 36 months · English · $30,000/yr · STEM
This professional doctorate prepares students to become licensed physical therapists, focusing on rehabilitation, injury prevention, and patient care.
Field: Health Sciences
Career outcomes: Physical Therapist, Rehabilitation Specialist, Sports Physical Therapist - Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership (EdD) — 36 months · English · $22,000/yr
This doctoral program focuses on advanced leadership theories and practices, preparing professionals to lead and transform organizations in various sectors.
Field: Leadership
Career outcomes: University Administrator, Organizational Consultant, Executive Leader, Policy Analyst - Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) (DPT) — 36 months · English · $30,000/yr · STEM
This professional doctorate prepares students to become licensed physical therapists, focusing on rehabilitation, injury prevention, and patient care.
Field: Health Sciences
Career outcomes: Physical Therapist, Rehabilitation Specialist, Sports Physical Therapist - Doctor of Ministry (DMin) — 36 months · English · $20,000/yr
Designed for experienced ministry professionals, this program enhances practical theological skills and leadership for effective ministry in contemporary contexts.
Field: Theology
Career outcomes: Senior Pastor, Denominational Leader, Ministry Consultant, Theological Educator - Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) — 36 months · English · $30,000/yr · STEM
This professional doctorate prepares students to become licensed physical therapists, focusing on rehabilitation, injury prevention, and patient care.
Field: Health Sciences
Career outcomes: Physical Therapist, Rehabilitation Specialist, Sports Physical Therapist
Scholarships & Tuition at ACU
Annual tuition for international students: $38,390 – $47,000/year
✅ ACU offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.
Rankings of ACU
- National Ranking: #250 in United States
- Ranking tier: Research University
- Research output: High
Campus & Facilities at ACU
- Student housing available
- Sports facilities available
- Disability support available
- Campus type: Urban
Key Highlights
- Private Christian university in Texas
- Strong academic reputation
- Diverse academic programs offered
- Support for international students
- Vibrant 272-acre campus
Accreditation
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND)
- Accreditation Council on Education in Journalism and Mass Communication (ACEJMC)
- Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE) of the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA)
- Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association
- Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB International)
- Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation (AAQEP)
- Association of Theological Schools (ATS)
- Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE)
- Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education (COAMFTE)
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET
- Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA)
- Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)
- Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET
- National Association of Schools of Music (NASM)
Notable Alumni
- Jordan Spieth
- Stone Cold Steve Austin
- Max Lucado
- Jodey Arrington
- Bobby Morrow
Frequently Asked Questions about ACU
What is ACU?
ACU is a private university located in Abilene, United States. It has approximately 6,219 students, with 3% being international students.
How much does it cost to study at ACU?
Tuition fees at ACU for international students range from $38,390 – $47,000/year. Scholarships are available for international students.
What are the admission requirements for ACU?
IELTS minimum: 6.5. TOEFL minimum: 80. Duolingo minimum: 110. GPA minimum: 3. Application fee: $50. Selectivity: Open (60%+). Application deadline: Rolling Admissions.
What language are courses taught in at ACU?
Courses at ACU are taught in English. International students need a minimum IELTS score of 6.5.
How many programs does ACU offer?
ACU offers 56 programs: 35 Bachelor's, 14 Master's, and 7 PhD programs across various fields of study.
What is ACU ranked?
#250 in United States.
Does ACU offer scholarships?
Yes, ACU offers scholarships for international students. Visit the university's official financial aid page for current opportunities, eligibility criteria, and deadlines.
Does ACU provide visa support?
Yes, ACU provides visa support for international students. Student housing is also available. On-campus work opportunities are available.
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