Auburn University
Overview
Auburn University, located in Auburn, a small town in Alabama with a population of 40,000, stands as one of the largest educational institutions in the southern United States. It holds a unique distinction as one of the few American universities designated as a land-grant, sea-grant, and space-grant research centre. Established in 1856 as the East Alabama Male College, the university has evolved over the years, embracing co-education by admitting women in 1892. With a rich history, Auburn University claims the title of the oldest co-educational school offering four-year degrees in the state. Situated within convenient proximity to both mountains and beaches, the university also benefits from being less than a two-hour drive away from the bustling cities of Atlanta and Birmingham.
While ranked 801-850 in QS World University Rankings 2024; Auburn’s academic significance extends beyond its idyllic setting. It has earned its place among the handful of American universities engaged in innovative research on nuclear waste recycling and storage. The institution also takes a leading role in the realm of cyber operations research. As a land-grant university since 1872, Auburn has a foundational commitment to agricultural pursuits, but has evolved into a multifaceted institution, encompassing a broad spectrum of arts and applied sciences. The university is home to 13 colleges and schools, including a graduate school, offering a diverse array of more than 140 programs. These academic endeavours unfold across 206 academic buildings set on an extensive campus spanning 1,841 acres.
Auburn University’s legacy is underscored by its contributions to space exploration, with six NASA astronauts and three directors of the Kennedy Space Center among its notable alumni. Its strong alumni association, boasting over 43,000 members, signifies the enduring impact of Auburn’s education on its graduates.