About Ave Maria University
Ave Maria was established according to the guidelines of the Code of Canon Law, as a Catholic university. It is located in southwest Florida, and apart from the teachings of the Catholic Church, it centers its academic studies on liberal arts with specialized studies in the humanities.
The online programs at Ave Maria provide unique learning opportunities within a faith-based curriculum. With the convenience and flexibility of online learning, you can further your success in business or theology with their undergraduate and graduate programs.
Accreditation & Licensing
Ave Maria University is accredited by:
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
Type:
4-year, Private not-for-profitHighest Level Offered:
Doctor's degreeReligious Affiliation:
Roman CatholicEnrollment:
Undergraduate: 1,315 ; Graduate: 118Percent of Fully Online Students:
Undergraduate: Not applicable ; Graduate: Not applicableGraduation Rate:
54%Transfer Rate:
39%Median Earnings, 10-Years After Degree Completion:
$49,520Median Debt After Graduation (4-Year Degree):
$20,776Average Undergraduates Receiving Aid:
97%Per Undergraduate Average Aid Award:
$21,023Yellow Ribbon Program:
YesOnline Programs offered by Ave Maria University
All Programs
Ave Maria University uses a set path built on a Catholic liberal arts core. In the first two years, many classes come from that core. This leaves less room to pick many electives early on.
For students who like clear structure, this plan can work well. The class order is steady and follows a traditional pace. Students who want a fixed sequence often do best in this model.
Transfer timing is important. Moving credits can be tougher after time in the AMU core. Progress can also slow if class or aid issues are not handled fast near registration and term deadlines. Students who stay on AMU’s core path are often in the best position to finish on time.
At Ave Maria University, students often get strong support from their professors. Faculty are easy to reach and willing to help. In class, students can expect clear guidance and direct help when they need it.
Support outside the classroom can feel less steady. Some offices are more helpful than others with classes, aid, housing, and career planning. Students paying higher costs may expect more personal help. Overall, professor support is a clear strength, while office support can vary.
Online classes at Ave Maria follow a set structure. The Catholic core is central in coursework. Core classes can take up the first two years. That creates a clear pace and sequence.
This format fits students who want defined structure. It is less open to a custom class path. Instructors are a visible part of the experience. The school’s faith-centered academic design shapes day-to-day class expectations.
Classes at Ave Maria are clear, structured, and challenging. The liberal arts path is easy to follow. A Catholic core guides learning from day one and gives each course a clear purpose.
Teaching feels personal and direct. Professors are easy to reach and care about student progress. They work closely with students in class and outside it.
This learning style fits students who want faith-centered study and steady expectations. Many students say they truly enjoy their education here.
Ave Maria University is a strong match for students who want a clear Catholic education. Faith is part of class life and daily expectations. The community feels close, steady, and values-driven.
Professors are a key strength. They are easy to reach and invested in student growth. The academic path is set early, with required philosophy and core classes. This structure gives direction, though it can feel repetitive for some students and may slow early credit movement.
Support is strongest in the classroom, while office support can be uneven. Career services and dining are weaker areas. Overall, Ave Maria works best for students who want rigorous Catholic formation and a guided path to finish.
Ave Maria University is a strong match for students who want a clear Catholic education. Faith is part of class life and daily expectations. The community feels close, steady, and values-driven.
Professors are a key strength. They are easy to reach and invested in student growth. The academic path is set early, with required philosophy and core classes. This structure gives direction, though it can feel repetitive for some students and may slow early credit movement.
Support is strongest in the classroom, while office support can be uneven. Career services and dining are weaker areas. Overall, Ave Maria works best for students who want rigorous Catholic formation and a guided path to finish.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ave Maria University
Is Ave Maria University accredited?
Yes. Ave Maria University is institutionally accredited by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
How many online programs does Ave Maria University offer?
Ave Maria University offers 2 online programs currently listed on GetEducated.
What degree levels does Ave Maria University offer?
Ave Maria University offers both bachelor's and master's level programs.
How should students contact admissions at Ave Maria University?
Ready to connect? Check Admission Details to get admissions, tuition, and timeline details directly from the school.
Is Ave Maria University expensive, and what are the tuition costs?
Roughly speaking, Ave Maria University falls into GetEducated’s $$$ tuition tier, which points to a higher tuition range.
How quickly can I enroll at Ave Maria University?
Enrollment at any school can be a quick process; if all required admission requirements are met. This is where students can get hung up and slow down the process by taking too long to gather required documentation.
What should transfer students ask Ave Maria University first?
The first thing you must do is order your transcripts from any previous school you attended and have them provided to the new school immediately with the hopes of receiving an unofficial transfer credit evaluation quickly. In an ideal world, students would have an official transfer credit evaluation done prior to committing to enrollment at any school; however with the vast majority of schools, official transfer credit evaluations happen after you are already enrolled, typically in the first semester.
Is Ave Maria University military friendly?
Ave Maria University shows Yellow Ribbon support. Check Yellow Ribbon eligibility before you apply, since program-level benefits can vary.
How can students request information from Ave Maria University through GetEducated?
Comparing schools right now? Request Information to get admissions, tuition, and start-date details sent directly to you.
What documents are most commonly required for Ave Maria University applications?
Most listed programs ask for Statement of Purpose/Intent, Official College Transcript(s), and Official High School Transcript/GED Score. Getting these ready early can keep the application process moving.
Does Ave Maria University accept life experience credit?
Ave Maria University does not show a school-wide life experience credit policy. Check Transfer Options to confirm transfer-credit options for your specific program.
Are Ave Maria University programs fully online or mixed?
Ave Maria University programs are primarily listed as 100% Online, which can help students screen for schedule fit before applying.
Do in-state and out-of-state tuition totals differ at Ave Maria University?
For programs with both totals published, in-state and out-of-state tuition totals are typically the same.
Do any Ave Maria University programs have state authorization limitations?
State authorization restrictions are not prominent across available programs, but students should still confirm eligibility for their state. Check State Eligibility before applying to confirm whether your program is available where you live.
How often can students start at Ave Maria University?
Start times per year typically range from 3-6 for most schools. For Ave Maria University, students should confirm the next available start date for their specific program before applying.
How should working adults compare Ave Maria University programs?
Working adults should confirm program format, total cost, timeline, and application requirements before choosing a path.
What should students compare before choosing a Ave Maria University program?
Students should compare accreditation fit, program format, application requirements, total cost, and whether the timeline works with their schedule.
Featured Ranking Reports
Ave Maria University is featured in 2 of our ranking reports!
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Geographic and Educational Overview
Ave Maria University is located in Florida
Florida at a Glance:

Top Majors in Florida:
Top Incentives in Florida:
- Bright Futures Scholarship: Up to 100% tuition coverage
Top Career Pathways in Florida:
- Entry Level: Healthcare Coordinator ($60,000)
- Mid Level: Practice Manager ($85,000)
- Senior Level: Healthcare Executive ($150,000+)
- Required Education: BS Healthcare Administration
- Certifications: ACHE, CMPE



