Located about 26 miles northeast of Los Angeles, Azusa Pacific University (also known as APU) is a respected Christian university with a venerable history. Founded in 1899 as a Bible college, it began granting four year degrees in 1939. Today this interdenominational, evangelical school, which became a University in 1981, has over 9,000 full-time students. Its diverse study body, varied degree offerings and strong faculty to student ratio keep it ranked among the best colleges and universities in the country.
Mission/Vision
The mission of Azusa Pacific University is “to advance the work of God in the world through academic excellence in liberal arts and professional programs of higher education that encourage students to develop a Christian perspective of truth and life.” They see this mission as compatible with the founding mission, back in 1899, when an original class of twelve students was trained to “impact the world for Christ.”
Campus Setting
The San Gabriel Valley, located in the city of Azusa at the base of the San Gabriel Mountains, is home to the main campus. In addition, the university maintains six other regional centers where students can take classes. These are in different locations across Southern California, including the high desert, Los Angeles, San Diego and Orange County.
Academics
Rigorous academic offerings at APU culminate in a number of degree offerings, including associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s and doctorate level degrees. Its 10 schools and colleges include Liberal Arts and Sciences, Theology, Nursing, Music and the Arts, Behavioral and Applied Sciences and Adult and Professional Studies. The University has three libraries on its main campus and six more in its off-campus locations. Other academic resources include research centers such as the Center for Research on Ethics and Values.
Athletics
The APU Cougars are part of the Pacific West Conference (PacWest) in Division II of the NCAA. Students compete in 17 sports including basketball, soccer, cross country, tennis and track and field, all with teams for both men and women. In addition, men compete in football and baseball, while women compete in softball, acrobatics, volleyball, water polo or swimming and diving. The school has won 50 national championships.
Tuition and Financial Aid
While tuition at APU is expensive, it is actually in the lower range in comparison to similar colleges. Students may apply for financial aid, grants and scholarships to help offset costs. More than 90% of students receive financial aid in some form. Due to the high cost of living in L.A., the school encourages students to set aside at least several hundred dollars per semester to cover expenses and books. Please refer to the school’s website for the most up-to-date tuition and financial aid information.
Accreditation
APU is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). Its various schools and colleges have 13 professional accreditations. The university is approved to train both veterans and foreign students.
Admissions
Undergraduate admissions standards vary for incoming freshmen, transfer students, international and nursing students. General minimum standards for all applicants ensure that the potential students will be considered for acceptance. These minimum standards include a cumulative 3.0 GPA in high school, a composite SAT score of at least 910 (excluding writing) and an ACT composite score of 19. Other factors considered in admission include involvement in church, school and local community activities.
For more information about undergraduate admissions, or to find out information regarding admission into their online programs, graduate programs or adult and professional studies program, contact:
Azusa Pacific University
901 E. Alosta Ave., PO Box 7000
Azusa, CA 91702-7000
Phone: (800) 825-5278;
(626) 812-3016
Fax: (626) 812-3096
