Aurora University Viewbook 2023-2024

Your future. Our promise.

Your future begins at Aurora University.

A NEW HOME AWAY FROM HOME

4-year, private, nonprofit, accredited university

average class size of 26 students

core values: integrity, citizenship, continuous learning, and excellence

4,000 undergraduate students

founded in 1893

AU is test-optional; we base admission decisions on all application information, including previous grades and coursework.

We are a campus centered on connections. From professors who will know you by name to peers who will support you both in and out of the classroom, AU is more than a university. It’s a community.

Our beautiful, 40-acre campus — with its blend of historic buildings and modern, state-of-the-art facilities — is nestled in a safe, tree-lined residential neighborhood with nearby nature trails, forest preserves, shopping centers, and dining options.

Our promise represents opportunity.

As an Aurora University student, you’ll be able to explore numerous academic possibilities. Our programs are designed to spark curiosity, reveal unrealized potential, and build upon your current educational interests. We’ll introduce you to new ideas, help you develop marketable skills, and teach you to be a problem solver — preparing you to impact the world and giving you a tremendous advantage as you enter the job market.

AUTHENTICALLY AU

Academic programs designed so you can double major and still finish on time.

Unique majors include autism studies, cybersecurity, data engineering, humananimal studies, and therapeutic recreation.

Focused program areas in business, education, health and sciences, liberal arts, nursing, and social work.

More than 60 undergraduate academic programs to customize a degree around your interests.

A foundation for your future.

Learn by doing. That’s the AU difference. Students deepen their understanding of the health sciences, including nursing and athletic training, in specialized cutting-edge labs. Our professors take classes on field trips to explore industries and professions. We volunteer in the community. Our students build meaningful relationships and gain teamwork skills by working together on class projects and connecting with community leaders. We engage in dialogue with guest speakers and one another.

These experiences will prepare you for what employers need. As your career path advances, AU’s Hill Center for Student Success will provide direction to ensure your growth as a student and a professional. Dedicated staff will work one-onone with you to uncover your interests, research careers, help secure internships, practice interviewing, review cover letters and résumés, and find jobs. These services continue after graduation, too.

THE AU WAY

We partner with top universities to provide students direct admission to graduate health science programs.

Medical School Partnerships

» Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine

» Loyola University

» Midwestern University

» National University of Health Sciences

» Rush University

» Southern College of Optometry

» University of Illinois College of Medicine Rockford

» University of Missouri College of Veterinary Medicine

Our dedicated academic advisors will help you choose classes and develop a graduation plan.

Students participate in Junior Mentoring, a unique program that involves workshops covering personal and professional goals led by professors in their major.

74% of students participate in internships, field experiences, student teaching, clinical rotation, or practicum.

Our promise embodies value.

There’s a familiar saying at AU: Once a Spartan, Always a Spartan. Summer programs for first year and transfer students will help you become more familiar with the university. And after graduation, we continue to provide services and resources to help you create a purposeful life and fulfilling career.

When you attend AU, you’re making an investment in your future. In turn, we work to ensure a college degree — and all the support and guidance that comes with it before, during, and after your time as an undergraduate — is within your financial reach.

AN ACCESSIBLE EDUCATION

We have one of the lowest private school tuition rates in Illinois.

Merit scholarships are awarded based on each student’s academic achievement.

AU’s financial aid program includes scholarships and awards specific to freshman and transfer students.

Nearly 100% of first-time students receive financial assistance.

Gwen

SOPHOMORE BIOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES & SUSTAINABILITY DOUBLE MAJOR

“One course at AU changed my life. During my freshman year, I took Introduction to Environmental Studies, even though I wasn’t into nature. Fortunately, Professor Barclay brought my class outside to literally show us what we were learning. She also introduced me to literature that gave me a deeper appreciation for where we live. Now I’m a biology and environmental studies and sustainability double major with a part-time job in a lab doing what I love: making the world a better place.”

Hear more from Gwen at aurora.edu/experienceAU.

A future we inspire through the transformative power of learning.

SUPPORT FOR EVERY SPARTAN

AU will help you make the transition to college through the Welcome U and Discover AU orientation programs.

Professional and peer tutors at the Academic Support Center offer free tutoring, study skills training, and writing assistance.

AU’s Wellness Center provides a variety of health and counseling services. In addition, students have 24/7, on-demand access to virtual mental health services.

Campus Public Safety, a fully sworn law enforcement agency, ensures the security of our campus 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

EDUCATIONAL EXCELLENCE

We’re recognized by the U.S. government as a MinorityServing Institution. This means we value diversity and serve as a national model for other universities.

We make staying on schedule for graduation a seamless process in part by offering convenient May Term and summer courses that cover a variety of topics.

A promise to help build your life around what matters.

Francis

JUNIOR HISTORY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION MAJOR

“At AU, I discovered I want to become a teacher. I also further pursued my passion for music while I continued to be involved in Spartan Athletics. Over my freshman year winter break, I wrote my first composition for guitar and performed it during a student recital in the spring. I don’t feel limited at AU. I can prepare to teach, take music lessons, and run on the cross country and track and field teams. I can do the things that matter to me.”

Hear more from Francis at aurora.edu/experienceAU.

Professional partnerships provide hands-on learning opportunities in the area’s best hospitals, schools, and businesses.

AU students can choose from a variety of academic programs in business, education, health and sciences, liberal arts, nursing, social work, and technology.

A future with unlimited potential.

The Wackerlin Center for Faith and Action offers programs and resources that promote belonging and flourishing, solidarity and service, and reflection and purpose. Central to the center’s resources is a free food pantry for students.

Spartan Athletic Park houses championship-quality venues and an elite multipurpose facility with a weight room, wrestling center, and golf simulator.

Tony

SENIOR EXERCISE SCIENCE MAJOR AND MASTER OF SCIENCE IN ATHLETIC TRAINING CANDIDATE

“As an athletic training 3+2 student, I’ll be completing the bachelor’s degree coursework in three years and a master’s in two, so the Junior Mentoring Program was an important tool to ensure I stayed on track. Junior Mentoring provided me with a faculty mentor who met with me one-on-one to review my academic plan, help me prepare my résumé, and discuss plans for after graduation.”

Hear more from Tony at aurora.edu/experienceAU.

AU’s on-campus residence halls feature free laundry and printing amenities, study spaces, fitness centers, and air-conditioned rooms.

There’s plenty on the menu at AU with the Tru Blu Dining cafeteria, the Spartan Spot fast food hangout, and the popular Tru Blu Coffee cafe.

An AU promise fulfilled.

DISCOVER YOUR PURPOSE.

Study abroad and earn course credit. International short- and long-term study in many countries, covering a variety of subjects, is available.

In addition to campus and community service opportunities, you can participate in Spring Break Social Impact Trips.

Students are invited to share their academic work with the university during the annual Undergraduate Research Symposium.

AU has three performance stages, a black box theatre, band and vocal rehearsal spaces, a fine arts studio, a gallery, and a museum.

Our 24 NCAA Division III teams have competed in 180 tournaments and won 191 conference championships.

Jaylah

SENIOR NURSING MAJOR

“AU faculty and staff are fulfilling their promise to support me as a nursing major, basketball player, and student worker. My coaches want me to succeed in nursing just as much as my professors want me to succeed in basketball. They help me align my nursing clinical schedule with my basketball schedule, so I can be devoted to both passions. They also encourage me to contribute to the university. I work in the Spartan Weight Room and Fitness Center and I’m a campus tour guide. At AU, I’m learning how to manage my time and follow my passions.”

Hear more from Jaylah at aurora.edu/experienceAU.

Ana

BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN CRIMINAL JUSTICE GRADUATE

PLUS ONE MASTER OF SCIENCE IN CRIMINAL JUSTICE GRADUATE

MEDICAL/LEGAL ADVOCATE AT MUTUAL GROUND

“Earning my Plus One master’s degree right after graduating with a bachelor’s was really beneficial. AU’s Plus One program introduced me to topics and information that apply to my career today. My law coursework was especially valuable as it helped me understand how the court system works. And because the graduate program was only one year long, I was able to start looking for a job sooner and consider more options. It definitely made me more qualified and prepared for the workforce.”

THE PLUS ONE GRADUATE PROGRAM IS DISTINCTIVE TO AURORA UNIVERSITY.

Complete your master’s in one year at AU following your undergraduate education.

Participate in a premier internship, portfolio project, résumé-building activities, and professional development opportunities.

Your future is our priority.

Equip yourself with the knowledge and skills needed to follow your calling.

Plus One master’s degrees include programs in business, criminal justice, and teaching.

Eduardo

JUNIOR BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION AND COMMUNICATION DOUBLE MAJOR

RESIDENT ASSISTANT, DUNHAM SCHOLAR, FOOTBALL STUDENT-ATHLETE

“Whether I’m in my residence hall or a classroom or on an athletic field, I’ve found different ways to be an AU Spartan. As a resident assistant, I’m helping build a positive and welcoming community. As a Dunham Scholar, I’m preparing to lead and paving the way for a rewarding career. As a member of the football team, I’m working with others toward a common goal. I’m learning and having fun here. To me, that’s the ultimate college experience.”

CAMPUS LIFE CREATES COMMUNITY.

100+ campus events and student engagement opportunities each year

7 on-campus residence halls

A promise to focus on you.

50+ student organizations and clubs

multiple intramural sports and activities

A future we plan together.

DISTINCTIVELY AURORA

AU faculty have designed courses in collaboration with employers to ensure students are learning the skills they need to land good jobs and be successful in the workplace. Our professors and teaching partners know what’s needed to get hired or secure a spot in graduate school. We also have programs in which you can earn certifications. Whichever opportunities you pursue here, your goals become our goals.

Andrew Carr, MBA, MA

ASSISTANT PROFESSOR OF BUSINESS AND FINANCE

BUSINESS PROFESSIONAL WITH MORE THAN 30 YEARS OF CORPORATE AND NONPROFIT EXPERIENCE

“I introduce students to guiding theories that are the foundation of the financial services industry. This knowledge serves as a springboard into higher mastery for students who pursue advanced degrees. For students who go right into the workforce, the real-world applications introduced by our industry experts give them the potential to hit the ground running. At AU, professors and professionals in the field prepare students for a variety of post-graduation paths.”

126 full-time faculty members

100% of classes are taught by faculty (as opposed to teaching assistants)

18:1 student-faculty ratio

Professors mentor students beyond the classroom as advisors to award-winning academic and professional campus organizations.

Emily

BACHELOR OF ARTS IN PROFESSIONAL WRITING AND COMMUNICATION & MEDIA GRADUATE

ASSISTANT MARKETING COORDINATOR AT F.H. PASCHEN

“AU’s Hill Center for Student Success connected me to an internship and a job during my senior year. A career counselor also reviewed my résumé and cover letter, proofread my writing samples, and did a mock interview with me. My internship was with an executive recruiting firm, which gave me experience managing a website and creating newsletters. AU guided me in the right direction with the best resources to start my marketing career.”

Hear more from Emily at aurora.edu/experienceAU.

OPPORTUNITIES LEAD TO OUTCOMES.

Top fields and industries employing Class of 2022 graduates include accounting, education, healthcare, law enforcement, marketing, and social work.

A promise for today — and tomorrow.

40+ staff members are dedicated solely to student success initiatives.

More than 42,000 graduates represent the Aurora University alumni network. Employers who hired recent graduates include JPMorgan Chase, Northwestern Medicine, Sikich LLP, Target Corporation, and numerous school districts.

Continue your promising future at Aurora University.

From day one, AU will provide you with what you need to make your ideal future a reality. Right now, it’s simply about taking the first steps on the pathway to success. Come to campus. Visit us online. Give us a call or send us a text for more information.

Our application process is always open, although we encourage you to apply early. We review applications as they are completed, and after that we notify students about admission decisions. If you apply before our November 15 Priority Application Deadline, you will receive expedited communications about admission, financial aid, and registration. LEARN

WE’RE HERE FOR YOU.