About Brenau University
Founded in 1878, Brenau is a not-for-profit, regionally accredited university offering online and on-campus degree programs.
Welcome to a heritage built on student success
We’re so excited you’re considering Brenau University in your pursuit of higher education. You should know something: We’re a little different from other universities.
Since our founding in 1878, we place our students first and do whatever it takes to help them succeed. Our students have come to realize what it truly means to accomplish their goals and improve their lives.
In the last 140 years, Brenau University has grown and changed a lot, but we’ve always remained true to our heritage of creating progressive learning environments steeped in tradition and centered on enduring values. We were one of the first regional universities to offer online classes, supporting our mission of providing quality education and making it accessible to all. It’s part of our charm. Brenau brings traditional and progressive thinking together to create a one-of-a-kind learning environment. You’re in the right place.
Brenau by the Numbers
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100% Online
Earn your degree whenever and wherever it’s convenient for you
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3,500
Average number of students enrolled each year
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80+
Number of online programs for working professionals like you
From the President of Brenau
“It’s extremely important to me that I’m joining a community steeped in a heritage of educating students, with a demonstrated commitment to the community and the world. The pride, energy and positive spirit of the Brenau community is palpable.”
— Dr. Anne Skleder, President of Brenau University
The Brenau Story: A Timeline
1878
The Georgia Baptist Female Seminary is founded as a private institution for the education of women. Many of the historic structures still stand today.
1900 – 1905
H. J. Pearce purchases the institution and renames it Brenau, a linguistic blend formed from the German word brennen, “to burn,” and the Latin aurum, “gold.” Its motto is “As Gold Refined by Fire.”
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A new educational model empowers students to choose elective liberal arts courses. The Atlanta Constitution described it as “radical innovation.”
1960
Brenau begins offering night and weekend courses to both men and women, continuing their tradition of “radical innovation” that has remained at the heart of Brenau’s progression.
1992
Brenau College becomes Brenau University, a name change that reflected the comprehensive programs of study, the diverse student body and the scope of available graduate programs.
1998
Select online programs are offered for the first time, signifying Brenau’s bold venture into this up-and-coming medium.
2002 – 2005
Brenau establishes a full-fledged Online College to meet the growing need of students who desire a quality education that isn’t restricted to a campus setting.
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The University expands to five regional campuses in Georgia and Florida.
2018
Brenau celebrates its 140th anniversary.
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Then-President Ed Schrader (2005–2019) is inducted into the Junior Achievement Northeast Georgia Business Hall of Fame for being a catalyst for major growth during his tenure at Brenau.
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Hear about the Brenau difference from some of our students
Throughout recent years, Brenau has received both regional and national recognition
Rest assured that the education you receive at Brenau University is backed by award-winning accredited programs, modern facilities and impressive alumni. Brenau ranks consistently as one of the top higher education values in the Southeast in the U.S. News & World Report guidebook, America’s Best Colleges, and The Princeton Review.
Now it’s time to tell your story
No matter your stage in life, you have the opportunity to refine it at Brenau University.
Whether you study online or on-campus, you can enjoy access to people and programs uniquely dedicated to helping you become something – someone – more extraordinary than you thought possible.
Start your future now. Complete the form below or call us at 866.239.4762 today.