Amridge University: History, Programs, and Accreditation

Amridge University, a private institution rooted in the Churches of Christ, operates its main campus in Montgomery, Alabama. Since its inception in 1967 as the Alabama Christian School of Religion, the university has primarily functioned as a theological seminary, focusing on training ministers in Bible studies and Christian Counseling. Over time, Amridge University has broadened its academic offerings to include a diverse range of degree programs.

Founding and Early Development

The origins of Amridge University trace back to 1942 with the establishment of Montgomery Bible School by Rex Allwin Turner Sr., Calvin Leonard Johnson, and Joseph B. Greer. This initial venture laid the groundwork for what would become a prominent institution of Christian education. In 1954, the school transitioned into Alabama Christian College, reflecting its expanding scope. A significant transformation occurred in 1967 when a new corporation was formed, solidifying the foundation for future growth.

Expansion and Relocation

In 1974, the Alabama Christian School of Religion partnered with the Landmark Church of Christ to acquire new facilities in Montgomery, leading to a relocation of the campus. This collaboration marked a pivotal moment in the school's development, providing enhanced resources and infrastructure. By 1987, the institution had constructed its own campus on 9 acres (36,000 m2) of land alongside Interstate 85, adjacent to Auburn University at Montgomery. This move signified a commitment to establishing a distinct identity and expanding its physical presence. In 1991, the institution officially adopted the name Southern Christian University, further solidifying its status as a comprehensive university. On August 2, 2006, Southern Christian University's board of regents voted to change the institution's name to Regions University.

Leadership and Academic Structure

Throughout its history, Amridge University has been guided by a succession of dedicated leaders, including:

Rex Allwin Turner Sr., Ed.D.
Rex Allwin Turner Jr., Ed.D.
Stanley Douglas Paterson, Ed.D.
Michael Clark Turner, D.O.

These individuals have played crucial roles in shaping the university's mission and academic direction.

In line with its Christian heritage, Amridge University delivers educational opportunities through five schools:

The College of Business and Leadership
The College of General Studies
The School of Education and Human Services
The Turner School of Theology
The School of Continuing Education.

This structure allows the university to cater to a wide array of academic interests and professional goals.

Campus and Facilities

The institution's main campus in Montgomery, Alabama, is strategically located alongside Auburn University Montgomery, just north of Interstate 85 at the Taylor Road exit. The campus is centered around a single two-story complex, the Morgan W. Brown Building, which houses classrooms and the library on the ground floor, with administrative offices located upstairs. Classrooms are equipped with extensive multimedia equipment to facilitate live Internet streaming of instruction and lectures. This technology enables instructors to transmit computer data, video, or still pictures, enhancing the learning experience for students. The Amridge University library features a substantial collection of religious books and theological reference works, supporting scholarly research and theological studies.

Accreditation

Amridge University is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACSCOC). This accreditation is a testament to the university's commitment to maintaining high educational standards and ensuring the quality of its programs. Regional accreditation is particularly important for students planning to transfer credits or pursue graduate studies, as it ensures that their degrees are recognized and respected by other institutions.

Distance Education

Amridge University has been a pioneer in distance education for over 20 years. The university was among the first institutions selected by the Department of Education to pilot distance education at a broad level. All courses at Amridge University are taught online, with even on-campus courses being streamed over the Internet. This commitment to online learning provides students with flexibility and accessibility, allowing them to pursue their education from anywhere in the world.

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Student Body and Demographics

Amridge University's student body comprises a diverse blend of social and religious cultures, with over 60 percent of students not affiliated with the Churches of Christ. This diversity enriches the learning environment and promotes cross-cultural understanding. The university is planning to expand on a new 650-acre campus with almost two miles of scenic lakefront.

Rankings and Recognition

Amridge University has received recognition for its value and commitment to serving military personnel. The university is listed as a Best Value College and a University Research and Review Military Friendly School. It has also been named one of GI Jobs Magazine Top Schools by Military Advanced Education Magazine.

Admissions

Students interested in applying to Amridge University are required to complete an online orientation, which provides information about student services and online support tools available to assist them throughout their education. The admissions process involves completing an application and providing official transcripts from all previously attended colleges or universities. Associate and bachelor's degree applicants must provide proof of high school graduation or equivalent, while master's degree applicants must submit transcripts demonstrating successful completion of a four-year degree program from a nationally accredited institution. Doctoral students are required to submit official transcripts showing completion of a graduate degree from an accredited institution, as well as a writing sample.

Tuition and Financial Aid

Full-time undergraduate tuition at Amridge University is $250 per credit hour, while part-time tuition is $330 per credit hour. There is also a comprehensive fee of $450 per semester for undergraduate courses. Graduate tuition is $650 per credit hour. Students who maintain satisfactory academic progress are eligible for financial aid at Amridge University. The financial aid process involves completing a financial aid application and a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Students may qualify for scholarships, grants, or student loans.

Doctor of Philosophy in Professional Counseling

The Doctor of Philosophy degree in Professional Counseling is offered through the School of Human Services at Amridge University. This 60-credit-hour program includes a rigorous research component. While the program is not designed to prepare graduates for professional licensure, it is intended for students who already hold a valid license. The curriculum covers theories of counseling, human development, and issues related to abuse and addiction. Students also learn about cultural diversity and the importance of research. The program utilizes a combination of traditional classroom settings and online delivery methods. Amridge University provides live classroom broadcasts for the residency component of the Ph.D program, facilitating teacher-student interaction. Students are required to maintain a 3.0 GPA for all courses and pass a comprehensive examination. Additionally, students must complete a dissertation after achieving candidacy status and submit a Degree Completion Application to successfully complete the program. Graduates of the program are equipped to conduct original research and demonstrate comprehensive knowledge of current research in psychology and counseling. They can recognize and classify mental disorders and develop appropriate treatment plans.

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Flexibility for Students

Amridge University's flexible learning options, including online courses and distance education, make it an appealing choice for students who face barriers to continuing their education. The university's commitment to accessibility and innovation has made it a leader in online education.

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