Augustana College students are guaranteed one very important aspect that will help them succeed in their professional lives – a quality education. This includes much more than just an academic understanding of their subject area, but also a well-rounded and diverse preparation of skills, resources and of course, hands-on field experience. At Augustana College, students and faculty a like work together to prepare each other for the reality that they will be face after graduation. Many students that attend Augustana College pursue degrees in the Business Administration program offered, which provides a wide range of preparation and training that can be applied to any business industry.
Augustana College, students are surrounded by an environment based on opportunity. Throughout the campus, both inside and outside of the classroom, students are faced with plenty of opportunity and choices that will benefit their futures in different ways. Although the College offers a strong liberal arts education, students can also find a large variety of professional and personal advancement opportunities as well such as internships, counseling and spiritual guidance on campus.
School History
Established in the late 1800s, Augustana College was founded on the unique approach of offering students a liberal arts education that was presented from a Lutheran perspective of the Christian beliefs. Since the College was founded by a group of Swedish Lutherans in 1860, the wide range of education and trades amongst the settlers gave students an advantage to learn from various perspectives, based on the same philosophies. Since opening, Augustana College has held strong ties to the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, providing students with various religious and spiritual guidance as well as academic enrichment. In honor of this heritage, a strong sense of diversity acceptance has been present on campus since the College was established.
Augustana College is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges of the Higher Learning Commission.
Although Augustana College, under its current name was not founded until 1860, the roots of the academic structure were established long before, operating under several different names and locations. At one point referred to as the College on Wheels, the school was established as a seminary school, offering training to local students. Over the years, the Lutheran Church of the Far Wes became involved in the academic curriculum, suggesting that it would be more beneficial to students to separate the courses to develop a more laser-targeted curriculum. Since Augustana College assumed its current name, presidents, alumni and faculty have worked hard to maintain a challenging curriculum and social enriching campus for students that have lasted over 200 years.
Campus Life
Understanding that students will spend more or their college experience outside of the classroom than in it, the Augustana College campus offers a wide variety of activities and student involvement opportunities. This includes over 75 different student operated clubs and organizations, special visits from famous speakers and professionals that extend their knowledge and experience to students, evoking an interest in various life studies and career options. In addition, students enjoy a wealth of personal enrichment activities such as workshops, lectures and day trips to the local historical sites that open their eyes to new perspectives, cultures and lifestyles.
The Office of Student Activities is available to assist students in developing new programs and activities, prepare their schedules to include the various extra-curricular activities being held around campus and to effectively adjust to the overall college experience. Many students that attend Augustana College also enjoy participating in the athletic teams offered on campus, including both varsity and intramural teams to accommodate student schedules. Many students enjoy playing the sports but would prefer to focus on their academic studies rather than compete in national tournaments such as the Division III Championships.
When it comes to residential life on Augustana College campus, the Office of Residential Life assists students on a day-to-day basis, as student members live amongst their peers in each residential hall. This ensures that all students are kept safe throughout their stay on campus, as well as able to obtain direct assistance when needed. Students can choose between several housing arrangements including apartment buildings and off-campus housing facilities as well. Special theme and interest housing is available upon request and submission of the proper application.
Financial Aid
Augustana College students can take advantage of various financial aid resources offered though the Office of Financial Aid to help reduce the stress of funding throughout the school year. Faculty and staff members, many of which are also Augustana alumni, understand how crucial it is for students and their families to obtain proper funding. All Augustana students are encouraged to apply for multiple financial aid opportunities such as scholarships and grants, in addition to any loan option. This ensures that students are given the opportunity to optimize their coursework while reducing the amount of repayment obligations. Freshman orientation will present and introduce students to the federal and state funding options available at Augustana College, which are highly recommended. Students should apply for the FAFSA loan to ensure that all financial aid options are explored.
Before applying for financial aid, it is recommended that students obtain a copy of applications and guidelines to ensure an error-free application process. Private funding by the college is available and based on specific need. However, many local community and charity organizations also offer smaller grants and scholarships that can be quite beneficial during the year.