Abilene Christian University Online

Highlights

• Online arm of Abilene Christian University, a school founded over 100 years ago
• School ranked as one of "America's Best Colleges" by U.S. News & World Report
• School included in the "America's 100 Best College Buys" and "America's Best Christian Colleges" lists by Institutional Research and Evaluation, Inc.
• Programs can be completed in 18-24 months with part-time study
• Accreditation provided by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools

About the School

An online extension of Abilene Christian University (ACU), ACU Online provides a collection of online master's degree programs in education, conflict resolution and reconciliation; and organizational & human resource development. The programs are based in a strong Christian environment. The school's goal is to educate their students for Christian service and leadership throughout the world. Abilene Christian University is affiliated with the Churches of Christ.

Located in Abilene, Texas, Abilene Christian University began in 1906 as Childers' Classical Institute. In recent years the school has regularly received recognitions for the high quality of its programs, including from the U.S. News & World Report, America's 100 Best College Buys, and the Princeton Review.

Academic Programs

• Master of Education – Students are prepared for careers in a wide variety of education environments. The faith based graduate programs include curriculum and instruction; leadership and learning; and special education. An internship is part of the program.
• Master of Education in Higher Education – The program's goal is to produce faith-informed practitioners who are ready to engage and have an impact on their students' lives and to take leadership roles in a variety of education settings. The program emphasizes college student affairs and conflict management. The program also thoroughly reviews topics such as higher education resource management, research and assessment in higher education, student development, mediation, legal and ethical issues in higher education and student spiritual formation.
• Master of Arts and Certificate in Conflict Resolution and Reconciliation – Provides training in analyzing, addressing and managing conflicts professionally and effectively. Graduates are prepared for leadership roles in dispute resolution and managing conflict. The program emphasizes reconciliation.
• Master of Science in Organizational & Human Resource Development – The curriculum trains students to become decision makers who possess skills such as strategic planning, critical thinking and conflict resolution. The program examines organizational behavior, intercultural communication, mediation, teams and team leadership and social change.

Learning Options

• Students have access to programs 24/7
• Classes are taught on a semester basis
• Students enroll in two courses each semester and take one course at a time
• Programs begin six times each year

Faculty

The school notes that its online classes are taught by experienced, knowledgeable instructors. The faculty provides personalized attention to the ACU online students. According to the university the faculty are dedicated to equipping students to live integrated Christ-centered lives of service and leadership.

Student Life

Students have access to discussion boards 24/7 and have opportunities to interact with ACU online faculty and other students. Student Service Managers are available to assist students with a variety of issues. Also, small group instructors guide students through class content and requirements. In addition, technical support is available 24/7.

Admissions and Financial Aid

Admission Counselors are available to guide candidates through the application procedure. For master degree programs, applicants must have a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited university and have a 3.0 GPA. They must also submit two recommendation forms from their current and/or former supervisors as well as meet other requirements. In addition, federal financial aid and other types of financial assistance are available to qualified students.