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Oglethorpe University

Atlanta, GA

private nonprofitbachelors

Quick Facts

Wikipedia
1,429
Total Students
$46K
Tuition (In-State)
$46K
Tuition (Out-State)
$22K
Avg Net Price
60%
Acceptance Rate
54%
Graduation Rate
6-year
75%
Retention Rate
Baccalaureate Colleges
Classification

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

About Oglethorpe University

Oglethorpe University: A historic Atlanta institution known for Gothic charm and resilience.

Oglethorpe University, nestled in Brookhaven, Atlanta, offers a distinctive collegiate experience rooted in a rich and enduring history. Known for its picturesque campus adorned with stunning Gothic revival architecture, a significant portion of its 100-acre grounds is even listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This institution combines historical grandeur with a forward-looking approach, inviting students to become part of a legacy of resilience and transformation.

Chartered in 1834, Oglethorpe began its journey as one of the South's pioneering denominational institutions, guided by the Presbyterian Church. Its early years were marked by the profound challenges of the American Civil War, leading to its initial closure in 1862. Though it faced further financial hurdles and a second closure, the spirit of Oglethorpe was revitalized in 1913, re-chartered as a non-denominational university and charting a new course that led to its iconic Peachtree Road campus.

Under the leadership of figures like Thornwell Jacobs, Oglethorpe grew into a vibrant academic community. Its fascinating history includes a brief but unique medical school era in the 1940s, highlighting a past commitment to diverse academic pursuits. The generosity of benefactors like William Randolph Hearst further cemented its foundations, providing both land and financial support that continue to shape the campus today. For prospective students, Oglethorpe offers an opportunity to learn within a setting that champions perseverance, intellectual curiosity, and a sense of belonging to a truly storied institution.

Key Highlights

  • Founded in 1834 as one of the South's earliest denominational institutions, initially governed by the Presbyterian Church.
  • Re-chartered as a non-denominational institution in 1913, demonstrating remarkable resilience after two prior closures.
  • Features a 100-acre campus renowned for its Gothic revival architecture, with a significant area listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
  • Benefited from substantial gifts from William Randolph Hearst, including 400 acres in 1936 and a $100,000 donation in 1948.
  • Operated a unique medical school in the early 1940s, notable for unusual research involving elephants.
  • Its administration building is named in honor of Phoebe Hearst, mother of benefactor William Randolph Hearst.

Timeline

1834
Chartered in Midway (now Hardwick), Georgia, as a Presbyterian institution.
1862
Closed due to the American Civil War.
1870
Reopened, holding classes at the present site of Atlanta City Hall.
1872
Closed for a second time due to financial difficulties.
1913
Re-chartered as a non-denominational institution by Thornwell Jacobs.
1915
Cornerstone laid for the new campus on Peachtree Road in Brookhaven, Atlanta.
1936
William Randolph Hearst gifted 400 acres to the university.
1940
Began operating a medical school (early 1940s).
1948
William Randolph Hearst made a $100,000 donation.
1965
Renamed Oglethorpe College.
1972
Reclaimed the designation "Oglethorpe University".

Schools & Colleges

1 notable schools within Oglethorpe University

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Medical School

Operated in the early 1940s, known for unique research that included the dissection of elephants.

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