Overview of Augsburg College
Augsburg College, officially known as Augsburg University since 2017, was founded in 1869 in Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA. As a private, comprehensive liberal arts institution, Augsburg has a rich heritage rooted in Lutheran tradition and urban engagement. Serving approximately 3,400 students, the university provides a close-knit learning environment with robust undergraduate, graduate, and professional offerings. Augsburg’s single, urban campus in the heart of Minneapolis fosters strong community connections and accessibility to diverse cultural resources.
Academic Strengths and Structure
Augsburg is particularly renowned for its programs in social work, business administration, education, and the natural sciences. Its flexible educational model emphasizes experiential learning, combining classroom knowledge with practical fieldwork in the local community. Interdisciplinary study and problem-based learning are encouraged, equipping students with 21st-century skills. The university is a member of the Associated Colleges of the Twin Cities (ACTC), enabling cross-registration and sharing of resources. Augsburg also maintains a notable commitment to undergraduate research, with students and faculty collaborating on projects that contribute to both regional and national scholarly discourse. The institution’s recognition as a “Top 15 Most Innovative” Midwest University by U.S. News & World Report in 2023 underscores its academic vitality.
Student Life and Community
Vibrant campus life at Augsburg features over 50 student-led organizations spanning academic, cultural, and recreational interests. The annual Nobel Peace Prize Forum, diverse cultural festivals, and service-learning opportunities reinforce an engaging, socially conscious campus atmosphere. Augsburg is dedicated to inclusivity, with 60% of its most recent incoming class identifying as students of color or international students. Comprehensive student support services, on-campus housing, NCAA Division III athletics, and a range of performing and visual arts initiatives further enrich the student experience, fostering holistic growth within a diverse urban environment.
Mission, Vision, and Values
Augsburg University’s mission is to foster informed citizens, thoughtful stewards, critical thinkers, and responsible leaders. The institution champions equity, global citizenship, and sustainability as central tenets, inspiring graduates to contribute meaningfully to an ever-changing world.
