Acadia University

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The History of Acadia University

Founded in 1838, Acadia University is one of the oldest and most respected liberal arts universities in Canada. Our 3,574 students come from nearly every province and nearly 60 countries to take advantage of our strong academic programs, a curriculum that encourages personal development, and collaborative learning experiences led by award-winning professors.

Students are encouraged to become part of a scholarly community that encourages and inspires them. Community engagement, real-world opportunities, and meaningful research at the undergraduate level are pillars of an Acadia education. The University recognizes that learning means living every moment in and out of class. Working closely with their professors is something that can be transformative for both our faculty and students, and often results in lifelong friendships.

Academic Highlights

In addition to the academic experience, co-curricular and campus life programs enhance learning opportunities and help students develop teamwork and leadership skills. Acadia has a long tradition of respecting diversity. Each member of the community has different experiences to share, enriching classroom and casual interactions.

Our liberal arts curriculum, combined with the intangible Acadia spirit and sense of belonging, lays a strong foundation for our students’ future aspirations – travel, post-graduate study, careers, and family. An Acadia education helps our students grow and prepares them for life.

Life in Acadia University

Arcadia University teams compete in the NCAA Division III within the MAC Commonwealth of the Middle Atlantic Conferences. Men's sports teams include baseball, basketball, cross country, golf, lacrosse, soccer, swimming, tennis, and volleyball. Women's sports teams include basketball, cross country, field hockey, golf, lacrosse, soccer, softball, swimming, tennis, and volleyball.

School Ranking

Admissions

Notable Alumni

• Julianne Boyd, theater director
• William R. Evanina, the NCIX, the National Counterintelligence Executive of the United States, and director of the U.S. National Counterintelligence and Security Center
• Catherine Gunsalus Gonzalez, religious author and Professor Emerita at Columbia Theological Seminary
• Joe McKeehen, World Series of Poker Main Event Champion (2015)
• Dorothy Germain Porter, amateur golf champion
• Abbey Ryan, artist (painter)
• M. Susan Savage, Secretary of State of Oklahoma and former Mayor of Tulsa, Oklahoma
• Edith Schaeffer, religious author and co-founder of the L'Abri study center
• Oliver B. Shallenberger, electrical engineer
• Anna Deavere Smith, actress

Acceptance Rate

Arcadia University is a private university with an acceptance rate of 64%. The university enrolls approximately 4,000 undergraduate and Master's students.