History
Azusa Pacific University was founded in 1899 by a group of men and women passionate about creating a place for Christian education. Together, they formed the Training School for Christian Workers, the first Bible college on the West Coast geared toward preparing men and women for ministry and service. The 12 pioneering students met in a home in Whittier, California and were led by President Mary A. Hill. During the early years, the school saw significant growth and had many changes in leadership. It later merged with three Southern California colleges and relocated to Azusa, California in 1949, where the main campus resides today. More than a century since its inception, Azusa Pacific University remains committed to God First and the vision on which it was founded--preparing disciples and scholars to go out and make a difference in the world for Christ. Azusa Pacific University continues to be recognized annually as one of America's Best Colleges by U.S. News & World Report.
Specialties
Since its founding in 1899, Azusa Pacific University has prepared Christian leaders, disciples, and scholars to make a difference in classrooms, hospitals, churches, boardrooms, communities, and beyond. An evangelical Christian college, APU offers 57 bachelor's degrees, 40 master's degrees, 14 certificates, 10 credentials, and 9 doctoral programs at the university's main campus in Azusa, seven regional centers, and online. APU is a leader in Christian higher education, annually recognized among the nation's best colleges by U.S.News & World Report and The Princeton Review. The university is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges and holds 14 other specialized accreditations. In 2011, APU was accepted into the three year NCAA Division II membership process, which will result in postseason eligibility by 2014.