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Brenau University

Gainesville, GA

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

981
Total Students
$33K
Tuition (In-State)
$33K
Tuition (Out-State)
$21K
Avg Net Price
87%
Acceptance Rate
35%
Graduation Rate
6-year
62%
Retention Rate
Doctoral/Professional Universities
Classification

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

About Brenau University

Brenau: Where a century-old women's college tradition meets modern, comprehensive education.

Step into Brenau University, a place where deep-rooted history beautifully intertwines with innovative, forward-thinking education. Established in 1878 as a pioneering institution for women, Brenau has skillfully evolved from a proprietary college into a comprehensive, not-for-profit university. While proudly maintaining its unique residential undergraduate Women's College, Brenau has expanded its horizons, welcoming both men and women into its diverse undergraduate, graduate, and online programs, truly living up to its motto: "As Gold Refined by Fire."

Brenau's academic landscape is designed to empower. Students can explore over 50 areas of study, grounded in a strong liberal arts tradition that fosters critical thinking and well-rounded development. For those pursuing advanced degrees, the university offers a robust suite of master's and doctoral programs, including highly sought-after Doctor of Nursing Practice, Doctor of Occupational Therapy, and Doctor of Physical Therapy programs, alongside a distinguished Master of Fine Arts in Interior Design. The interdisciplinary Women's Leadership Certificate Program further enhances the undergraduate experience, offering practical leadership skills informed by gender awareness.

Beyond the classroom, Brenau is a vibrant community. The Northeast Georgia History Center, located on campus, offers a unique opportunity for students and the public to engage with regional history. Whether you're drawn to the intimate, supportive environment of the Women's College, the flexibility of co-ed online and campus programs, or the rigorous academic challenges of its doctoral studies, Brenau University provides a dynamic and enriching educational journey designed to refine and illuminate your potential.

Key Highlights

  • Founded in 1878 as a private institution for the education of women, with a unique heritage.
  • Evolved into Brenau University in 1992, offering comprehensive co-educational programs while preserving the residential Brenau Women's College.
  • Home to the interdisciplinary Women's Leadership Certificate Program, fostering leadership skills with gender awareness.
  • Designated a Level V doctoral degree-granting institution by 2010, offering advanced degrees.
  • Offers doctoral programs in Nursing Practice, Occupational Therapy, and Physical Therapy.
  • Proudly holds the motto "As Gold Refined by Fire," reflecting its transformative educational mission.
  • Hosts the Northeast Georgia History Center, providing a rich cultural and historical resource on campus.

Timeline

1878
Founded as Georgia Baptist Female Seminary (later Brenau) as a private institution for women.
1900
H. J. Pearce purchased the institution and renamed it Brenau, adopting the motto "As Gold Refined by Fire."
1911
A board of trustees assumed stewardship, transforming Brenau into a not-for-profit institution.
1960
Began offering evening and weekend classes to both men and women, expanding its reach.
1992
Brenau College officially became Brenau University, reflecting its comprehensive programs and diverse student body.
2002
Launched its first online programs to meet the needs of a wider student population.
2010
Approved as a Level V doctoral degree-granting institution, allowing for the expansion of advanced studies.
2011
Launched its first doctoral program, the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP).

Schools & Colleges

1 notable schools within Brenau University

🎓

Sidney O. Smith Jr. Graduate School

Created to focus on the needs of graduate students, this school offers a wide array of master's, education specialist, and doctoral programs, including Doctor of Nursing Practice, Doctor of Occupational Therapy, Doctor of Physical Therapy, and a Master of Fine Arts in Interior Design.

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