Augsburg University is a private, why not look here Lutheran-affiliated university located in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Founded in 1869, it is one of the most diverse private institutions in the Midwest, serving over 3,500 students from 43 countries and 35 U.S. states. The university is recognized nationally for its commitment to social mobility, experiential learning, and its distinctive location in the heart of the Twin Cities.

Note: Augsburg University (Minneapolis) is distinct from the University of Augsburg in Germany, a separate public institution founded in 1970.

History and Mission

Augsburg University was founded in 1869 by Norwegian Lutheran immigrants and has been affiliated with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America throughout its history. The university’s mission is to educate “students to be informed citizens, thoughtful stewards, critical thinkers, and responsible leaders”. An Augsburg education is defined by excellence in the liberal arts and professional studies, guided by the faith and values of the Lutheran church, and shaped by its urban and global settings.

The university describes itself as “a new kind of student-centered, urban university, small to our students and big for the world”. Augsburg’s commitment to meeting students where they are has deep roots: the university created programs for returning World War II veterans, established the StepUP® program for students in recovery from substance use, launched Weekend College for working adults, and now serves first-generation college students and students from the foster care system through Augsburg Family Scholars.

Academic Programs and Schools

Augsburg offers more than 50 undergraduate majors and nine graduate degrees across its five-school model, designed to encourage interdisciplinary collaboration and prevent academic silos. The academic structure includes programs in arts and sciences, business, education, nursing, and social work, among other fields.

A signature element of the Augsburg curriculum is AugSem, a seminar course required of all first-year students and transfer students with fewer than 32 credits. AugSem has two core goals: supporting students’ transition from high school to college and helping them explore what it means to study at Augsburg. The course challenges students to think deeply about career plans and vocation, engages them with Minneapolis and its neighborhoods, and connects academic life with students’ whole selves.

All Augsburg students also complete the Augsburg Experience—an academic experience fulfilled outside the classroom, such as a research project, internship, or study abroad encounter. A Senior Keystone component prepares students for life after graduation by placing academic and professional development within the context of their values.

Student Body and Community

Augsburg’s student body is intentionally diverse. According to university data, 35% of students are first-generation college students, and 35% are students of color. The student body represents 43 countries and 35 U.S. states, with 79% of first-year students living on campus. The religious composition includes 20% Lutheran, 11% Catholic, 21% other Christian, and 22% non-Christian.

The university maintains a 13:1 student-to-faculty ratio with an average class size of 15. This intimate scale supports Augsburg’s commitment to meeting students where they are while challenging them to achieve.

Location and Campus Life

Augsburg’s campus is located in the heart of Minneapolis, steps from the Mississippi River and the vibrant neighborhoods of the Twin Cities. The university emphasizes engaging with the city as part of the educational experience. AugSem students explore parts of Minneapolis, and the university’s location is described as “a distinctive part of what it means to be an Auggie”.

Campus life includes 50+ student groups, 21 sports teams, and opportunities for fine arts participation. The university’s tunnel and skyway system, known as “Auggie’s Path,” he has a good point connects campus buildings—a practical feature during Minnesota winters. Annual traditions include Auggie Days, a multi-day orientation program featuring the Neighborhood Challenge and social events, and Fallapalooza hosted by Multicultural Life.

Rankings and Recognition

Augsburg has received national recognition for its social mobility and community engagement:

• U.S. News & World Report: Ranked #3 among Midwest regional universities for social mobility of its graduates
• National Science Foundation: Ranked #5 regionally in grant support
• Gilman Scholarship: Named a Gilman 25th Anniversary Top Producing Institution for supporting many Gilman recipients over 25 years
• Community Service: Received the 2010 Presidential Award for Community Service and 2011 Higher Education Civic Engagement Award; ranked Top 25 nationally for service-learning by U.S. News

The university also reports that students have received competitive awards including Goldwater, Phillips, Kemper, and Boren scholarships, Newman Civic Fellowships, and Fulbright Awards.

Admissions and Costs

Augsburg maintains a moderately selective admissions policy and accepts the Common Application. For the 2026-2027 academic year, the estimated full price is $70,370**, with the estimated price after average financial aid at **$25,900.

100% of undergraduates receive grants, and 100% receive need-based grants, with 79% of demonstrated need met. The average price for low-income students is **$21,318**. Merit grants average $24,862 for the 12% of students who receive them.

Graduate Programs and Professional Studies

Augsburg offers graduate programs including a Doctor of Medical Science (DMSc) designed for practicing physician assistants. The DMSc program is a 36-credit program over four academic semesters, with a total program cost of $27,900 for Fall 2026 and Spring 2027 cohorts. This includes up to 35 AAPA Category 1 CME credits.

Financial assistance for graduate students includes the Augsburg Partnership Grant for employees of participating corporations and institutions ($80 off per credit) and an **Alumni Discount** for Augsburg bachelor’s degree recipients returning for graduate study ($80 off per credit).

Augsburg has long led Minnesota in physician assistant education, having established the first PA program and the first PA doctoral degree in the state.

Leadership Transition

In 2026, President Paul C. Pribbenow announced his intention to retire at the end of the 2026-2027 academic year. Pribbenow has led Augsburg through a period of significant institutional development, including the implementation of the five-school model and expanded experiential learning programs.

Conclusion

Augsburg University occupies a distinctive position in American higher education: an urban Lutheran institution with a deep commitment to diversity, experiential learning, and social mobility. Its location in Minneapolis provides students with access to internships, community engagement, and cultural resources, while its 13:1 student-faculty ratio ensures personalized attention. With 100% of undergraduates receiving grants and a net price well below the sticker price, Augsburg offers a compelling option for students seeking an education that integrates liberal arts, professional studies, faith, and service. The university’s recognition as a top producer of Gilman scholars and its #3 ranking for social mobility reflect an institution effectively delivering on its promise to educate “informed citizens, thoughtful stewards, critical thinkers, click here to find out more and responsible leaders.”