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Hardin-Simmons University is a private, Christian institution of higher education located in Abilene, Texas. Established in 1891 by a group of dedicated ministers, merchants and ranchers, Hardin-Simmons University has, since its founding, been committed to “developing the minds and nurturing the spiritual lives of its students.” Since 1941 the University has been affiliated Baptist General Convention of Texas and welcomes students of all faiths, ethnicities, races, and walks of life. Abilene, where the University is located, sits near the geographical center of the state of Texas in Taylor County. An area with a population of approximately 120,000, Abilene serves as the leading educational, business and medical hub in West Texas.
Academic Programs
Hardin-Simmons University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools and has been so since 1927. The University’s mission is to be a “community dedicated to providing excellence in education enlightened by Christian faith and values.” Hardin-Simmons University is made up of a variety of academic divisions, including the College of Fine Arts, the Cynthia Ann Parker College of Liberal Arts, the Holland School of Sciences and Mathematics, the Irvin School of Education, the Kelley College of Business, the Logsdon School of Theology, and the Patty Hanks Shelton School of Nursing.Hardin-Simmons University offers a number of both undergraduate and graduate-level programs, with degrees including: Bachelor of Arts; Bachelor of Behavioral Science; Bachelor of Business Administration; Bachelor of Fine Arts; Bachelor of Music; Bachelor of Science; Bachelor of Science in Nursing; Master of Arts; Master of Business Administration; Master of Business Administration in Entrepreneurship; Master of Divinity; Master of Education; Master of Music; Master of Science; Master of Science in Nursing; Doctor of Education in Leadership; Doctor of Ministry; and Doctor of Physical Therapy. Online degrees in the area of Nursing are also offered and Hardin-Simmons University intends to expand its online program offerings in the near future.
Student Life
Hardin-Simmons University has a total enrollment figure of over 2,000, including more than 1,600 undergraduate students. Situated on a 220 acre campus, 95 of those acres include beautifully landscaped grounds with more than 30 major structures including several classroom buildings and at least half a dozen residential halls and two apartment complexes which house Hardin-Simmons University’s students. Wireless technology is accessible to at least 95% of the University’s main campus and students have access to more than 200 computers in Hardin-Simmons University’s several labs and in three of the communal areas.More than 50 student-led clubs and organizations are recognized by Hardin-Simmons University, including groups focused on service, religious, honor, academic discipline, and civic issues as well as political organizations. A number of Hardin-Simmons University’s students also participate in the University’s campus-based social and service-oriented fraternities and sororities. As an NCAA Division III school, Hardin-Simmons University is a member of the American Southwest Conference and offers 18 varsity athletic programs. These include both men’s and women’s teams in basketball, golf, tennis, cross country, track, and soccer as well as men’s football and baseball and women’s volleyball and softball.