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Campbell University

Buies Creek, NC

private nonprofitgraduate

About Campbell University

Campbell University: Where steadfast faith meets ambitious academic pursuit across North Carolina.

Campbell University stands as a distinctive private Christian institution in Buies Creek, North Carolina, known for its deep-rooted Baptist heritage and expansive academic reach. Beyond its main campus, Campbell boasts a dedicated Health Sciences Campus, a vibrant Raleigh Campus housing its School of Law, and even satellite locations at military bases, demonstrating a commitment to accessible and comprehensive education. It's a university that prides itself on a diverse array of professional schools, preparing students for impactful careers in fields ranging from arts and sciences to medicine, law, business, and engineering.

The university's journey began humbly on January 5, 1887, as Buies Creek Academy, founded by the visionary Baptist minister James Archibald Campbell. The institution's early years were marked by resilience, notably surviving a devastating fire in 1900 thanks to the unwavering spirit of its founder and the community. This foundational dedication to overcoming adversity, encapsulated in its motto "Ad astra per aspera" ("To the stars through difficulties"), has shaped Campbell's growth from a small academy to a junior college, and ultimately, to the comprehensive university it is today. Its history is a testament to the belief in providing educational opportunities to all, as envisioned by J.A. Campbell.

For prospective students and families, Campbell University offers a vibrant and supportive environment. With a student body of 5,000, students can immerse themselves in 20 NCAA Division I varsity athletic programs, cheering on the "Fighting Camels." The university fosters an experience where academic rigor is balanced with a strong sense of community and purpose. Whether pursuing a professional degree in osteopathic medicine or exploring the liberal arts, Campbell aims to equip its graduates not just with knowledge, but with character and a commitment to service, echoing the founder's profound love for helping "poor boys and girls" secure an education.

Key Highlights

  • Founded on January 5, 1887, by James Archibald Campbell as Buies Creek Academy.
  • A private Christian university proudly affiliated with the Baptist State Convention of North Carolina.
  • Home to 5,000 students and competes in 20 NCAA Division I varsity sports as the "Fighting Camels."
  • Maintains an endowment of $209.3 million as of 2021.
  • Operates multiple campuses, including Buies Creek, a Health Sciences Campus, a Raleigh Campus for law, and locations at Fort Bragg/Pope Air Force Base and Camp Lejeune.
  • Inspired by the motto: "Ad astra per aspera," meaning "To the stars through difficulties."
  • The Kivett Building, completed in 1903, remains the oldest standing structure on campus, symbolizing early resilience.

Timeline

1887
Founded as Buies Creek Academy by James Archibald Campbell with 16 students.
1900
A devastating fire destroyed the academy buildings, except the tabernacle.
1903
The new brick Kivett Building, symbolizing resilience, was completed.
1926
Buies Creek Academy transitioned to Campbell Junior College; founder J.A. Campbell received an honorary Doctor of Divinity degree.
1934
Founder James Archibald Campbell passed away at the age of 72.
1961
Campbell Junior College was renamed Campbell College.
1979
Campbell College achieved university status, becoming Campbell University.

Schools & Colleges

9 notable schools within Campbell University

🎭

College of Arts & Sciences

The foundational college offering diverse undergraduate programs across various disciplines.

🔬

College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences

Preparing students for critical roles in pharmacy and a wide range of health professions.

✝️

Divinity School

Fostering spiritual growth and providing theological education for ministry and service.

📚

School of Education

Dedicated to training and inspiring the next generation of effective educators.

💼

Lundy-Fetterman School of Business

Developing ethical leaders with programs in business administration and specialized fields.

⚙️

School of Engineering

Offering innovative programs to educate future engineers across various disciplines.

🏥

Jerry M. Wallace School of Osteopathic Medicine

A comprehensive medical school focused on training compassionate osteopathic physicians.

💉

Catherine W. Wood School of Nursing

Providing rigorous education to prepare nurses for diverse healthcare settings.

⚖️

Norman Adrian Wiggins School of Law

Located in downtown Raleigh, offering a robust legal education.

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