Amberton University is a private Christian university in Garland, Texas. It began as part of Abilene Christian University as an extension campus from 1971 until 1982 and was initially located in Mesquite, Texas, moving to Garland in 1974. Plans for its separation into an independent institution were initiated when the school received accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools in 1981 and it became known as Amber University in 1982, with the "ton" being added to its name in 2001. A branch campus was opened in Frisco, Texas, in 2006.

Students

Amberton is aimed at the "nontraditional student", that is students who are above the age of 21. This term also is often used to encompass married students, students working full-time, students seeking a second bachelor's degree, or students who have worked for a significant time in one field and are seeking education in a new field. Amberton University does not sponsor athletic teams nor does it operate many of the adjunct facilities typical of U.S. higher education such as dormitories. Amberton does not admit students under age 21. It requires all its students to be fluent in the English language prior to enrolling. Amberton offers distance learning programs and degrees, consisting of courses taught by the resident faculty. The school awards credit for "life learning" for some undergraduate students, as is compliant with regional accreditation standards, but never for graduate students.

Accreditation

Amberton University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. While the school upholds a Christian philosophy, it promises its students complete freedom of conscience; no particular doctrinal creed or formulation must be professed to study there or to graduate.