Armstrong Atlantic State University Profile

Armstrong Atlantic State University (AASU), established in 1935, is a distinguished public university located in Savannah, Georgia. It is part of the University System of Georgia and has made significant strides in providing a comprehensive education to its diverse student body. Over the decades, AASU has grown into an important educational institution, offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs designed to prepare students for success in various professional fields. With a strong emphasis on academic excellence, community engagement, and the development of critical thinking skills, Armstrong Atlantic State University is a valuable resource for students pursuing careers in health professions, education, liberal arts, science and technology, and beyond.

The university comprises several academic colleges, each dedicated to providing specialized knowledge and skills to students. These include the College of Education, College of Health Professions, College of Liberal Arts, and College of Science & Technology. The breadth of disciplines offered at AASU is reflective of the institution’s commitment to providing a well-rounded education that caters to a wide range of student interests and career aspirations. Whether students are pursuing careers in education, healthcare, technology, or the arts, AASU offers programs that not only equip them with the technical expertise needed in their chosen fields but also encourage them to develop leadership, communication, and problem-solving abilities.

Among the academic offerings at Armstrong Atlantic State University are undergraduate degrees in disciplines such as Applied Physics, Art, Biology, Chemistry, Early Childhood Education, Information Technology, and Economics. These programs are designed to provide students with the foundational knowledge required to succeed in both professional and academic settings. For instance, students in the College of Science & Technology are provided with hands-on experience and exposure to cutting-edge research and technologies, ensuring they are well-prepared for the fast-evolving fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). The university’s computer science program is accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET), a recognition that highlights the high standards and rigor of the curriculum offered in this discipline.

In addition to undergraduate programs, Armstrong Atlantic State University offers graduate degrees that cater to professionals seeking to advance their careers. These include programs such as Adult Education & Community Leadership, Communication Sciences & Disorders, Computer Science, Health Services Administration, and History. These graduate programs are structured to meet the needs of students who want to pursue advanced studies in their respective fields while balancing work, family, and other responsibilities. The Master of Health Services Administration (MHSA) program, in particular, has earned accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education (CAHME), signaling the program’s commitment to providing quality education that aligns with industry standards in healthcare management.

The College of Education is one of the standout academic units at AASU, offering programs in various fields of education and training. The Special Education program, for example, is accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE) and the Georgia Professional Standards Commission (PSC), ensuring that students who graduate from this program meet the highest standards of teacher preparation. In fact, the College of Education has received recognition as the Best in the State by the Georgia Association of Teacher Educators in 1998, reflecting the strength of its programs and the success of its graduates in the teaching profession. This is particularly significant as the state of Georgia has long been recognized for its commitment to educational excellence, and AASU’s role in shaping future educators is an integral part of this legacy.

Accreditation is a crucial element of Armstrong Atlantic State University’s reputation for providing high-quality education. The university is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, an accreditation that reflects the institution’s adherence to rigorous academic standards and its ongoing commitment to institutional improvement. In addition to institutional accreditation, many of AASU’s academic programs have received specialized accreditation from respected accrediting bodies. For example, the Department of Nursing is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), ensuring that students in the nursing program are receiving a comprehensive education that prepares them to excel in the healthcare industry. Similarly, the Department of Medical Technology is accredited by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences, which underscores the department’s commitment to maintaining high standards in medical education and training.

While Armstrong Atlantic State University is dedicated to academic excellence, the university also prioritizes community engagement and service. Located in Savannah, a vibrant and historic city, AASU encourages students to engage with the local community and participate in activities that have a positive impact on society. Many students choose to undertake internships, service-learning projects, and research opportunities that benefit both their personal development and the well-being of the wider community. This focus on community engagement not only enriches the students' academic experience but also provides them with a deeper understanding of the role they can play in shaping the world around them.

Armstrong Atlantic State University’s commitment to student success is further reflected in its support services, which are designed to help students thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. The university provides a range of resources, including academic advising, tutoring, career counseling, and mental health services, to ensure that students have the support they need to succeed. Additionally, the university offers numerous extracurricular activities, clubs, and organizations that allow students to build connections, explore their interests, and develop leadership skills outside the classroom. These opportunities help students grow as individuals and prepare them to enter the workforce as well-rounded professionals.

Despite being a regional institution, Armstrong Atlantic State University has garnered national recognition for its academic programs and overall institutional quality. In the 2011 edition of U.S. News & World Report’s "Best Colleges," the university was ranked among Tier 2 Regional Universities in the South. This recognition speaks to the university’s ability to provide students with a solid academic foundation while also offering programs that meet the needs of students in a rapidly changing world. The university has also been ranked 85th in the U.S. News Ranking of Top Physical Therapy Schools in 2009, further demonstrating its excellence in specific academic areas.

The university’s reputation for quality is not limited to its educational offerings. Armstrong Atlantic State University has also garnered attention for its facilities, campus environment, and student life. The university’s picturesque campus in Savannah provides students with a beautiful and conducive learning environment, complete with state-of-the-art classrooms, laboratories, and student spaces. The proximity to downtown Savannah offers students access to a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage, excellent dining options, and numerous recreational activities. This combination of academic excellence and a dynamic campus environment ensures that students have a well-rounded college experience that prepares them for life beyond graduation.

In conclusion, Armstrong Atlantic State University is a dynamic and forward-thinking institution that has played an important role in shaping the educational landscape in Georgia. With its commitment to providing high-quality education, fostering community engagement, and supporting student success, AASU continues to be a leading institution in the region. The university’s focus on accreditation, student-centered learning, and academic rigor ensures that its graduates are well-equipped to succeed in a variety of professional fields. Whether students are pursuing degrees in health professions, education, science, or the liberal arts, Armstrong Atlantic State University provides them with the tools and resources they need to thrive academically and professionally.