Hardin-Simmons University logo

Hardin-Simmons University

Abilene, TX

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

"...Excellence in education enlightened by Christian faith and values."

1891
Founded
Private university
Type
1,275
Total Students
1,347
Undergrad
418
Graduate
$166M
Endowment
(2020)
$32K
Tuition (In-State)
$32K
Tuition (Out-State)
$21K
Avg Net Price
97%
Acceptance Rate
50%
Graduation Rate
6-year
65%
Retention Rate
Doctoral/Professional Universities
Classification
President: Eric Bruntmyer

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

About Hardin-Simmons University

Hardin-Simmons University: Christian education, academic excellence, and a rich history in Abilene, Texas.

Hardin-Simmons University offers a distinctive educational experience rooted in Christian faith and values, nestled in Abilene, Texas. Since its founding in 1891, HSU has been dedicated to "Excellence in education enlightened by Christian faith and values," preparing students not just for careers, but for lives of purpose and service. With a tight-knit community of around 1,765 students, HSU provides a supportive environment where personalized attention and spiritual growth go hand-in-hand with academic rigor.

The university's journey began as Abilene Baptist College, established by visionary pastors and cattlemen eager to bring Christian higher education to the Southwest. It quickly evolved, becoming Simmons College in 1892, then Simmons University in 1925, before adopting its current name, Hardin-Simmons University, in 1934, honoring significant benefactors Mary and John G. Hardin. This rich history reflects a continuous commitment to its foundational purpose: to lead, teach, and train students for Christ, maintaining a strong association with the Baptist General Convention of Texas since 1941.

At Hardin-Simmons, students benefit from a diverse range of programs designed to foster intellectual curiosity and professional competence within a faith-based framework. While the university has navigated financial challenges and adapted its academic offerings in recent years, including the restructuring of some programs and the closure of Logsdon Seminary in 2020, it remains committed to its core mission under the leadership of President Eric Bruntmyer. Prospective students and families will find an institution dedicated to holistic development, where community, spiritual formation, and academic pursuit combine to shape future leaders and engaged citizens.

Key Highlights

  • Founded in 1891 with a mission to deliver Christian higher education.
  • Motto: "...Excellence in education enlightened by Christian faith and values."
  • A private university with a close-knit community of 1,765 students.
  • Boasts an endowment of $0.2 billion, supporting its educational mission.
  • Associated with the Baptist General Convention of Texas since 1941.
  • Led by President Eric Bruntmyer, guiding the university into its next chapter.

Timeline

1891
Founded as Abilene Baptist College.
1892
Renamed Simmons College.
1925
Became Simmons University.
1934
Renamed Hardin-Simmons University.
1941
Associated with the Baptist General Convention of Texas.
2018
Ended nine undergraduate and four graduate programs, closing five campus extensions.
2020
Closed Logsdon Seminary and ended 22 additional academic programs.
2016
Eric Bruntmyer becomes president.
🏛️
135 Years
of Excellence

Schools & Colleges

2 notable schools within Hardin-Simmons University

🏫

Logsdon Seminary

Formerly a prominent seminary within Hardin-Simmons University, which officially closed in 2020.

🏫

Acton MBA Program

Formerly an MBA program based in Austin, which ceased operations in 2018.

Leadership

Eric Bruntmyer
President

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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