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Ave Maria University

Ave Maria, FL

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

1,229
Total Students
$28K
Tuition (In-State)
$28K
Tuition (Out-State)
$24K
Avg Net Price
45%
Acceptance Rate
53%
Graduation Rate
6-year
75%
Retention Rate
$50K
Median Earnings
10 yrs after entry
Baccalaureate Colleges
Classification

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About Ave Maria University

A Catholic university founded on a unique vision for faithful liberal arts education.

Ave Maria University stands as a testament to a unique vision: to create a Catholic university deeply faithful to the Magisterium of the Catholic Church. Founded in 1998 by Catholic philanthropist and Domino's Pizza founder Tom Monaghan, the university was established with the clear goal of providing a robust liberal arts education within a vibrant Catholic environment. It offers students an opportunity to pursue academic excellence while deepening their faith.

The university's history began with its humble origins in Ypsilanti, Michigan, occupying former elementary school buildings near Eastern Michigan University. Monaghan's ambitious plans extended to constructing a full college campus on his 280-acre property in Ann Arbor Township, known as Domino's Farms. This foundational period showcased a commitment to not just academic rigor, but also to creating a truly immersive Catholic community.

While the grand vision for a 25-story crucifix in Ann Arbor ultimately wasn't realized, it underscores the profound spiritual aspirations that guided the university's inception. Ave Maria University continues to embody this founding spirit, aiming to foster intellectual and spiritual growth for its students. It's a place where faith and reason are celebrated, preparing students to lead lives of purpose and impact.

Key Highlights

  • Founded in 1998 by Catholic philanthropist and Domino's Pizza founder Tom Monaghan.
  • Established with the core mission of providing a liberal arts education faithful to the Catholic Magisterium.
  • Initially occupied two former elementary school buildings in Ypsilanti, Michigan.
  • Original vision included a 280-acre campus in Ann Arbor Township (Domino's Farms).
  • Early plans encompassed a distinctive 25-story crucifix, reflecting a bold spiritual vision.

Timeline

1998
Ave Maria College founded by Tom Monaghan on March 19th.
1998
Began operations in two former elementary school buildings in Ypsilanti, Michigan.
1998
Established with the goal of providing a Catholic liberal arts education faithful to the Magisterium.
Founder Tom Monaghan planned to construct a full college campus on his 280-acre Domino's Farms property in Ann Arbor Township.
A plan for a 25-story crucifix on the Ann Arbor campus was conceived (though never built).

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