Abilene Christian University Viewbook 2026-2027
Immeasurably More
More Than
Meets the Eye
More Than
Meets the Eye
Nothing here happens by chance. Everything is shaped with intention.
At ACU, small moments lead to big things. A professor calling you by name. A friend saving you a seat in Chapel. A class discussion sparking your curiosity.
This is a place where purpose meets possibility. Where you can cheer on Division I sports and dive into undergraduate research. Where Sing Song and serious scholarship coexist. Where you’ll be seen, stretched and supported.
Here, you’ll discover that you’re meant for more.
For me, ACU was a place where I learned to thrive in community and connection. Getting to know and love people of all different experiences and backgrounds helped me grow as a person in every aspect.
Wyatt Crum
Psychology
Discover What Drives You
Choosing a major is about much more than a career. With more than 180 academic paths – including 12 accelerated programs that combine a bachelor’s and master’s degree in just five years – ACU helps you explore who you are and who you’re called to be.
Creators
+ Storytellers
+ Storytellers
You think in visuals, narratives and experiences that move people.
- Advertising/Public Relations
- Art
- Art Therapy
- Communication
- Digital Entertainment Technology
- English
- Film
- Graphic Design
- Interior Architecture and Design
- Journalism
- Multimedia
- Music
- Sports Media
- Theatre
Entrepreneurs
+ Innovators
+ Innovators
You see opportunity everywhere and can’t wait to make your mark.
- Accounting
- Agribusiness
- Digital Marketing
- Entrepreneurship
- Finance
- Government
- Human Resources and Leadership
- Interior Architecture and Design
- Management
- Marketing
- Politics and Public Policy
- Professional Accounting
Helpers
+ Healers
+ Healers
You’re driven to care, restore and advocate for others.
- Animal Science
- Biochemistry
- Biology
- Biomedical Sciences
- Child & Family Services
- Communication Sciences and Disorders
- Health Sciences
- Kinesiology
- Nursing
- Nutrition
- Psychology
- Social Work
Faith Leaders
+ Difference Makers
+ Difference Makers
Your faith isn’t just personal – it’s a way of leading, serving and shaping others.
- Bible and Ministry
- Biblical Languages
- Biblical Text
- Children and Family Ministry
- Christian Ministry
- Missions
- Vocational Missions
- Worship Ministry
- Youth and Family Ministry
Builders +
Problem Solvers
Problem Solvers
You love systems, logic and designing things that work.
- Accounting
- Architecture
- Biochemistry
- Chemistry
- Computer Science
- Data Science and Statistics
- Digital Entertainment Technology
- Engineering
- Environmental Science
- Information Systems
- Mathematics
- Physics
Global Citizens
+ Bridge Builders
+ Bridge Builders
You want to make an impact with connections that span borders, beliefs and communities.
- Animal Science
- Biology
- Biomedical Sciences
- Communication
- Criminal Justice
- Environmental Science
- Government
- History
- Livestock Production
- Social Work
- Spanish
- Wildlife and Natural Resource Management
Scholars
+ Future Grad Students
+ Future Grad Students
You ask big questions, think deeply and aim for excellence.
- ACU’s 4+1 graduate programs
- Biochemistry
- Biomedical Sciences
- Chemistry
- Data Science and Statistics
- English
- Honors College
- Mathematics
- Physics
- Psychology
- Pre-Law
- Pre-Medical
- Pre-Veterinary Medicine
Educators
+ Advocates
+ Advocates
You believe in the power of learning and the potential in every student.
- Art
- Art Therapy
- Child and Family Services
- Communication Sciences and Disorders
- Education
- Kinesiology
- Middle School Education
- Nursing
- Nutrition
- Social Work
- Teacher Certification
Movers
+ Performers
+ Performers
You lead with energy. You’re at your best when you’re fully in it: competing, moving and creating.
- Acting
- Coaching
- Dance
- Design/Technical
- Directing
- Kinesiology
- Music
- Musical Theatre
- Theatre
- Theatre Ministry
- Vocal Performance
Faith That
Shapes the World
Faith That
Shapes the World
Our faith grounds us in purpose and propels us to serve others in our community and around the world.
Through service learning, you’ll use your classroom knowledge and skills to join in God’s mission. ACU students have designed and built a latrine system in Honduras, taught English in Taiwan, mentored entrepreneurs in Costa Rica and organized soccer camps for refugee children.
Because Christian leaders don’t wait for the world to change. They help change it.
You don’t need to have it all figured out to start. But you do need a place that takes your spiritual growth seriously.
ACU is deliberately and courageously Christian because we believe deep faith creates bold leaders.
That’s why faith is woven into daily life here. Not only in structured settings, like Chapel and Bible classes, but also in unstructured moments. The professor who prays with you after class. The friends that support you through stressful times.
Every day, you’ll have opportunities to grow closer to God, surrounded by Christ-centered community.
The difference is that we are a God-centered campus. We come from an understanding community. That’s what makes us stand out. That’s what is unique that no one else has.Thomas Lyons
Mechanical Engineering
Growth
Starts With Guidance
Growth
Starts With Guidance
With a 14:1 student-faculty ratio, your professors will know you by name.
At ACU, 99% of tenured and tenure-track faculty hold the highest degrees in their fields. Expect deep conversations, real mentorship and the kind of academic challenge that pushes you toward your potential.
“Having students over for a meal is a great foundation for building community. Many of Jesus’s stories happened as people shared meals. Something special happens when we break bread – or brisket – together.”
Jody Jones | Associate Professor of Finance
CURIOSITY
With A Calling
CURIOSITY
With A Calling
You don’t have to wait until grad school to do real research.
At ACU, 87% of students involved in research are undergraduates, and research happens in just about every department on campus. You’ll ask bigger questions from the beginning. Whether it’s nuclear science or urban food systems, you’ll be doing work that makes a difference beyond the classroom.
Prepared for
More
Prepared for
More
The Honors College is for students who want to go deeper – academically, globally and spiritually. Whether you’re studying at Oxford or diving into presidential archives, you’ll expand your world and sharpen your calling.
Our
Office of Major Scholarships helps students apply for and receive prestigious national scholarships, including Fulbright, Marshall, Truman and Goldwater.ACU offers the perfect training ground for law school, med school and other graduate programs. Dedicated advisors, rigorous curriculum and test preparation resources mean that you’ll be ready to succeed in competitive programs.
Being part of the Honors College has inspired me to work harder and strive for excellence. It’s taught me balance – how to handle challenging academics while still building relationships and enjoying college life.Abigail Countess
Kinesiology
Study Abroad
WITH PURPOSE
Study Abroad
WITH PURPOSE
See the world and discover more of yourself. Study for a semester at one of ACU’s campuses in Leipzig, Germany; Oxford, England; or Valencia, Spain and across dozens of other faculty-led trips around the globe.
ACU students from all majors study in 20+ countries around the world. Transformation happens when you step outside your comfort zone and realize your calling is even bigger than you imagined.
Find Where You'll Flourish
Your interests, your background, your story – bring it all. ACU has over 75 student orgs, and there’s room for new ones.
Whether you find your voice through cultural clubs, Greek life, Esports or the Big Purple Marching Band, ACU is a place where you can be fully seen and deeply supported.
“I’ve been a part of the Black Student Union, student government, Gospel Choir and much more. I found in each one an outlet to express myself in different ways.”
Tamil Kayode-Adele | Criminal Justice
COMMUNITY
IN MOTION
COMMUNITY
IN MOTION
Join a club sport. Compete in intramurals. Lift weights, practice yoga, play pickleball or swim laps at the Money Student Rec Center.
Intramurals
ACU intramurals offer friendly but fierce competition. Join more than 1,200 other students in basketball, volleyball, flag football, soccer, tennis and the ACU Rodeo. All skill levels are welcome. You’re in it for the fun.
ACU intramurals offer friendly but fierce competition. Join more than 1,200 other students in basketball, volleyball, flag football, soccer, tennis and the ACU Rodeo. All skill levels are welcome. You’re in it for the fun.
Club Sports
ACU’s club sports take your fun to the next level. Join a team for competitive bass fishing, disc golf, esports, roundnet, swimming, basketball, men’s soccer, pickleball or powerlifting.
Rec Center
Head over to our world-class Money Student Recreation and Wellness Center to access fitness equipment, group exercise classes and an aquatic center, along with personal trainers and nutrition counselors.
A Place to Call Home
ACU’s campus has 272 walkable acres, wide-open green spaces, modern academic buildings, quiet corners to recharge and plenty of places to gather.
What makes ACU truly feel like home, though, is not the scenery but the people you’re surrounded by.
Step Into Community
At ACU, you belong from the beginning.
From the moment you arrive, you’re surrounded by care. When you pull up to your residence hall on move-in day, you’ll be met by a crew of students, faculty and staff, all excited to help you carry your boxes to your new room. Even our president gets in on the action! This is just the first of many moments you’ll experience genuine care, service and support.
Welcome to Abilene
With its laid-back charm, vibrant creative scene and wide-open skies, Abilene quickly starts to feel like more than a college town – it feels like home.
Built for Belonging
ACU and Abilene have flourished together. So it’s no surprise we share a lot in common. We’re both friendly communities rooted in tradition yet reaching toward opportunity.
Abilene offers the perfect balance of small-town community and big-city fun. As you discover your place on campus, you’ll also discover your new home in town.
Proof That Great Things Come in Small Packages
- Downtown cultural district – Enjoy live music venues, boutiques, thrift stores, cafes, coffee shops and photo-worthy murals. This is a great place to spend a day with friends.
- Eclectic art scene – Catch a live show or classic film at the historic Paramount Theatre, explore museums like the Center for Contemporary Arts or browse through one of the many arts and crafts shows at the Convention Center.
- Festivals galore – Revel in the city’s thriving music scene with rooftop concerts at The Grace Museum. Learn about all things cowboy at the Western Heritage Classic. Stroll through downtown streets during ArtWalk.
- Outdoor recreational opportunities – With wide-open spaces and over 240 sunny days per year, you can choose your adventure. Hike the trails at Abilene State Park, cast a line at one of the local lakes or soak in nature’s beauty while camping, kayaking or horseback riding.
- Culinary treasures – Indulge in the city’s diverse culinary scene – everything from authentic Texas barbecue to international cuisines.
- Breathtaking sunsets – You won’t find a better spot for viewing an amazing West Texas sunset than against the backdrop of Abilene’s skyline.
“Abilene isn’t too big or too small, so students don’t feel overwhelmed when they move here. Abilene immediately feels like home.”
Sara Jane Shanks | Marketing
Fueled by Spirit
There’s nothing quite like game day at ACU. Whether you’re in the stands or on the field, the energy is electric.
Tailgates. Wildcat Stadium. Moody Coliseum. Purple Fridays. It all adds up to something bigger: a campus that rallies together and plays with heart.
The Purple-and-White Hype Is Real
ACU athletes have left their mark all over the sports world, from the Olympic Games to the NFL. With 64 national championships and alumni who have set world records, we don’t just compete – we win. In fact, only five colleges and universities have won more NCAA national team championships than ACU.
Whether you’re a student-athlete or a superfan, you’re part of something legendary. Because the purple-and-white hype? It’s real.
Welcome to Abilene
Nothing replaces seeing ACU for yourself. The space. The people. That unshakable feeling of “I belong here.” Most of our students tell us their visit was the moment it all came together.
So, come for a daily visit or Wildcat Preview Day and see what it means to be a Wildcat.
“My tour guides were some of the nicest people, and when I came to ACU for school, they were the people I met and became friends with naturally as well. The staff was super friendly and helpful, which was nice, as I felt welcomed to the campus.”
Will Jones | Finance
Add $2,000 per year to your scholarship award when you visit before April 15, 2027.*
Click the button to schedule your visit today!
Can’t make it to Abilene right away? Explore campus virtually.
*This scholarship cannot exceed full tuition when combined with other ACU aid. It is not available to scholarship athletes, National Merit Finalists/Semi-Finalists, Tuition Exchange or Faculty/Staff tuition recipients.
Top 15
in the Nation in First-Year Experience and Learning Communities
Do More
From Day One
Do More
From Day One
The transition to college can be a big one. That’s why in your first moments here, we make sure you know you’re fully a Wildcat.
From orientation to Wildcat Week, your first-year experience is designed to help you thrive. You’ll step into ACU traditions like Sing Song and Freshman Follies, and settle into life in Freshman Village surrounded by the community that will carry you through the next four years.
Surrounded
by Support
Surrounded
by Support
At ACU, we care for your mind, body and soul through wraparound services designed with intention.
ACU’s Student Opportunities, Advocacy and Resources (SOAR) program is designed for students who are struggling in any area. If you need help, we’ll connect you with just the right person.
The Medical and Counseling Care Center is your on-campus healthcare provider, whether you’re dealing with an illness, injury or mental health need.
ACU Police Department has 13 full-time and five reserve officers who are on campus 24/7, offering everything from police patrols and emergency management to motorist assistance and nighttime safety escorts.
We work together to keep you safe, supported and seen.
If you need anything, we’ll be here for you.
This is a time of your life where you are surrounded by fellow followers in Christ, walking alongside you and preparing you for your future career. Embrace the late-night study sessions, Sing Song, formals and a community where a simple ‘hello’ can make someone’s day.Sarah Campbell
Accounting and Finance
“Knowing our officers are there for our safety and with genuine kindness and care is a comfort.”
Karissa Idoko | Interior Architecture and Design
Education
Without Compromise
Education
Without Compromise
Small school. Big opportunities.
At ACU, you get it all. Rigorous academics and Christian formation. Personalized attention and world-changing research opportunities. A close-knit community and Division I sports. Your college choice is about much more than a degree. It’s four years that shape the next forty.
“My parents always told me and my siblings that education would take us far. It wasn’t until I enrolled at ACU that I truly understood their words. Receiving a scholarship has been the opportunity of a lifetime.”
Ana Lara | Nursing
We’ve Got You Covered
ACU’s Block Tuition Model Makes College More Affordable
ACU’s unique annual block tuition model allows you to take up to 36 hours each school year for one price, including general fees. Take your classes during the fall, spring and summer terms. Take them online, on campus or across the world with Study Abroad.
Merit-Based Scholarships
Your application for admission serves as your merit-based scholarship application. That’s right – just by applying to ACU, you’ll be considered for scholarships up to $27,000 per year.
To ensure you have access to the full range of grants and loan options, complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) by visiting studentaid.gov
WILDCATS WALK
TOGETHER
WILDCATS WALK
TOGETHER
From tailgates and Candlelight Devo to Homecoming and the Parade of Flags, our students engage in traditions that connect them to 120 years of Wildcat pride.
And when you graduate, you’re joining a global network of more than 86,000 alumni who are ready to open doors, make introductions and cheer you on.
ACU alumni are best-selling authors, members of Congress, Texas Supreme Court justices, Pulitzer Prize winners, Hollywood producers, Nashville musicians, government leaders, ministers, missionaries, internationally renowned physicians, respected researchers, business owners and winners of Emmy, Telly, Dove, Grammy and Time Magazine Person of the Year awards.
Wildcats stand behind each other and push one another to excellence.
Tradition That Moves With You
The W-C hand sign. Purple Fridays. Sing Song. At ACU, traditions matter because they connect you to something bigger. They’re the memories you’ll carry long after you cross the stage.
And in every moment, you’ll know: you were never just a number – you are always a Wildcat.
Hold Up Your WC!
Tout your Wildcat pride with the W-C gesture of loyalty: the “OK” hand symbol with an open “O” (you’ll see the letters!). On campus, we hold the W-C high with our right hand while we sing “Oh, Dear Christian College” and cheer on our athletes.
Take the Next Step
VISIT CAMPUS
Choose a Wildcat Preview Day to experience ACU as an admitted student! We can’t wait to show you around!
2026 Fall Wildcat Preview Days
- Monday, October 12
- Monday, October 26
(Rising Scholars Reunion Lunch) - Friday, November 20
(Exclusive reception the evening before for admitted students) - Monday, November 23
(Exclusive reception the evening before for admitted students) - Monday, November 30
(Exclusive reception the evening before for admitted students)
2027 Spring Wildcat Preview Days
- Monday, February 15
- Friday, March 19
- Friday, April 2
- Add $2,000 per year to your scholarship award when you visit before April 15, 2027.*
*This scholarship cannot exceed full tuition when combined with other ACU aid. It is not available to scholarship athletes, National Merit Finalists/Semi-Finalists, Tuition Exchange or Faculty/Staff tuition recipients.
SCHEDULE YOUR 1:1
Your ACU admissions counselor is your go-to for anything and everything college-related.
Whether you’re:
- Wondering what’s next after being admitted
- Starting to think about housing, majors or visiting campus
- Curious about financial aid or scholarships (we’ll go deeper this spring!)
There’s no pressure. Just real support from someone who knows your journey.
GET A HEAD START
With ACU’s Dual Credit online program, you can get started on your degree while you’re still in high school.
Take flexible, online courses that are designed with high school learners in mind. Earn real, transferable college credit and save time and money.
Admissions Process Timeline
-
2026September
- Register for any ACU dual credit classes you want to take online
- Join ZeeMee and chat with other future Wildcats
-
October
- Attend an Evening with ACU event near you
- Begin filing your FAFSA (Oct. 1)
- Priority scholarship awards released (Oct. 15)
-
November
- Attend an Admitted Student Reception in Abilene
-
December
- Early scholarship deadline (Dec. 1)
-
2027January
- FAFSA priority deadline (Jan. 15)
-
February
- Financial aid packages released
- Schedule your financial aid 1:1
-
March
- Registration for New Student Orientation opens (March 1)
- Regular scholarship deadline (March 1)
-
April
- Submit your enrollment deposit before May 1
- Begin Intro to ACU: Online Orientation Course
-
May
- National Decision Day (May 1)
- Fall class schedules are released
-
June
- Attend New Student Orientation
- Submit your immunization records
- Submit your Education Record Information Release (FERPA)
- Submit your Personal Data Form
-
July
- Housing assignments released
- Fall 2027 bills released
- Six-month payment plan begins (July 15)
-
August
- Complete financial settlement
- Residence Hall move-in
- Wildcat Week
2026–2027 Majors and Concentrations
- Accounting
- Analytics and Reporting
- General Accounting
- Professional Accounting
- Advertising/Public Relations
- Agribusiness
- Animal Health Professions Cooperative
- Animal Science
- Livestock Production
- Pre-Veterinary Medicine and Health
- Architecture (A.A.)
- Art*
- Ceramics
- Painting
- Sculpture
- Art Therapy
- Bible and Ministry
- Biblical Languages
- Biblical Text
- Children and Family Ministry
- Christian Ministry
- Missions
- Vocational Missions
- Worship Ministry
- Youth and Family Ministry
- Biochemistry
- American Chemical Society
- Biomedical Science
- Pre-Vet
- Biology*
- Cellular/Molecular Biology
- General Biology
- Health Professions Biology
- Organismal Biology
- Pre-Veterinary Medicine
- Wildlife Biology
- Biomedical Sciences
- Pre-Dental
- Pre-Medical
- Pre-Optometry
- Pre-PA
- Pre-Pharmacy
- Pre-Veterinary Medicine
- Chemistry*
- American Chemical Society Nuclear Chemistry
- American Chemical Society Research
- Medicinal Chemistry
- Child and Family Services
- Child Life
- Communication
- Communication Studies
- Corporate and Nonprofit
- Strategic Leadership and Social Influence
- Communication Sciences and Disorders
- Computer Science*
- Computing Theory
- Game Development
- Software Engineering
- Criminal Justice
- Data Science and Statistics
- Biosciences
- Computer Science and Business Analytics
- Mathematics
- Digital Entertainment Technology
- Game Development
- Virtual Production
- Education
- Elementary
- Middle School, Language Arts
- Middle School, Mathematics
- Middle School, Science
- Middle School, Social Studies
- Special Education with Early Childhood and Elementary
- Engineering
- Civil Engineering
- Construction Management
- Electrical Engineering
- General Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- English*
- Environmental Science
- Environmental Sustainability
- Wildlife and Natural Resource Management
- Finance
- Financial Analysis
- Financial Management
- Fintech and Analytics
- Wealth Management
- Government
- Government and Economic Development
- International Relations and Foreign Service
- Politics and Public Policy
- Graphic Design
- Advertising
- User Experience
- Health Sciences
- History*
- Public History
- Information Systems
- Accounting Systems
- AI and Application Development
- Analytics
- Interior Architecture and Design
- Art and Design
- Business
- Engineering
- Journalism*
- Kinesiology
- Coaching
- Coaching Education
- Pre-Athletic Training
- Pre-Occupational Therapy
- Pre-Physical Therapy
- Sport and Recreation Management
- Management
- Analytics
- Business Leadership
- Entrepreneurship
- Human Resources and Leadership
- Interdisciplinary
- Operations
- Marketing
- Analytics
- Digital Marketing
- Mathematics*
- Actuarial Science
- Applied Mathematics
- Pure Mathematics
- Multimedia
- Film
- Media Ministry
- Music
- Commercial Music
- Instrumental Teaching
- Vocal Performance
- Vocal Teaching
- Worship Arts
- Nursing
- Nutrition
- Didactic Program in Dietetics
- Physics*
- Computational Physics
- Engineering Physics
- Engineering Science Technology
- Medical Physics
- Nuclear Physics
- Psychology
- Social Work
- Spanish*
- Sports Media
- Theatre*
- Acting
- Dance
- Design/Technical
- Directing
- Musical Theatre
- Theatre Education
- Theatre Ministry
- * Teacher Certification Available
Undergraduate Admissions
ACU Box 29000, Abilene, Texas 79699-9010
800-460-6228 • 325-674-2300