Brenau University

Brenau University offers a captivating blend of rich history and modern academic innovation. Founded in 1878 as a private institution for women, it evolved significantly while retaining its core mission. Renamed Brenau in 1900, a linguistic blend of German "brennen" (to burn) and Latin "aurum" (gold), its motto "As Gold Refined by Fire" perfectly encapsulates its enduring spirit and commitment to excellence.

While maintaining the residential undergraduate Brenau Women's College, Brenau has expanded its reach dramatically. The university pioneered offering evening and weekend classes to both men and women in the late 1960s, a testament to its adaptive nature. In 1992, Brenau College transitioned to Brenau University, reflecting its comprehensive program offerings, diverse student body, and growing graduate studies. This commitment to accessibility further extended with the introduction of online programs in 2002, catering to students with professional or personal responsibilities.

Today, Brenau University is known for its strong emphasis on a broad-based liberal arts education, supporting over 50 areas of study. Its academic strengths are particularly evident in the Sidney O. Smith Jr. Graduate School, which offers a wide array of master's, education specialist, and doctoral programs, including Doctor of Nursing Practice, Doctor of Occupational Therapy, and Doctor of Physical Therapy. The university's unique offerings, such as the Women's Leadership Certificate Program and its role in housing the Northeast Georgia History Center, provide students with distinctive opportunities for academic and experiential growth.