Ave Maria University

Ave Maria University is a private, nonprofit Catholic university in the town of Ave Maria, Florida. Its defining feature is a Catholic liberal arts curriculum: students take a common core alongside a major, and the university describes faith and intellectual formation as part of campus life. That environment is central to the experience, so applicants should consider whether they want religion integrated into their education, not just whether a particular degree appears in the catalog. The university is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees; its nursing program also lists specialized accreditation.

Degrees and academic pathways

The current catalog lists 36 undergraduate majors and seven graduate programs. Areas students may want to compare include nursing (BSN), biology, biochemistry, business administration, accounting, psychology, politics and theology. Graduate choices include an MBA, education leadership, theology, and a Ph.D. in theology. This is a Catholic liberal arts university rather than a large research campus with dozens of professional schools, so review the required core curriculum alongside the major. The 2026–27 program catalog is the best place to check every degree, minor, concentration and course requirement.

For nursing, confirm clinical placement locations, licensure preparation and the sequence of required courses before enrolling. Students considering pre-med or another health career should ask which prerequisites fit their intended graduate programs. The catalog notes that the university’s BSN is approved by the Florida Board of Nursing and accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing. A student pursuing a different field can use the catalog to see how the common curriculum fits into the four-year plan and whether a second major or minor is realistic.

Tuition, scholarships and financial aid

The university’s cost page currently displays its 2027–28 undergraduate rates: $33,200 in tuition and $1,820 in fees for the year. For students living on campus, the listed annual room-and-board total varies by residence hall from $15,634 to $15,878, bringing tuition, fees, room and board to about $50,654–$50,898 before books and lab fees. Because these figures are for 2027–28, ask the financial aid office for the exact schedule that applies to your entry year; the university’s tuition and cost page also links to a net-price calculator for an individualized estimate.

Ave Maria lists merit, athletic and specialized scholarships, including awards tied to background, community involvement, career interests, faith and other eligibility factors. Some opportunities require students to complete the university’s scholarship information form, and outside awards must be reported to Financial Aid. The university also describes federal Pell and FSEOG grants, federal student loans and work-study, along with Florida programs such as Bright Futures, EASE and the Florida Student Assistance Grant for students who qualify. Awards depend on eligibility and available funding; ask how each grant or scholarship renews and whether it can be combined with other aid. Start with the scholarship information and submit the FAFSA each year if you are seeking need-based federal aid.

Applying and planning a visit

The university’s direct undergraduate application is free. Its admissions process asks applicants to submit school transcripts and standardized scores, then meet with an admissions counselor; requirements can vary by applicant, so check the current process before paying for tests or sending documents. You can start the undergraduate application online. Admissions also hosts open houses and private campus visits, which are useful for asking about the core curriculum, residence-life expectations, clinical placements, class sizes and the actual aid package.

The main address is 5050 Ave Maria Blvd, Ave Maria, FL 34142; call (239) 280-2500 or email admissions@avemaria.edu. The Financial Aid Office lists weekday hours of 9 a.m.–5 p.m. The public Canizaro Library lists visitor access Monday through Friday, 9 a.m.–5 p.m., and Saturday–Sunday, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.; this is library access, not an unrestricted campus tour. Arrange an admissions visit in advance, especially on weekends. The university’s setting is outside a large city, so students who want frequent off-campus activities should ask about transportation and nearby options.

What students say about campus life

Student comments on Niche often describe a close-knit community, professors who make time for students, and a campus culture centered on Catholic faith. Other reviewers say weekends can feel quiet, particularly without a car, and some criticize dining quality, limited career support or aspects of residence-life rules. Those accounts reflect individual experiences rather than a guarantee of what every student will encounter. During a visit, speak with students in your intended major and ask specific questions about advising, internships, employment, meal plans, housing and transportation. You can read a range of student comments about Ave Maria University before deciding.

Ave Maria University may suit students seeking a small Catholic community and a broad liberal arts education, especially those drawn to theology, nursing, business or the sciences. The key comparison is fit: how the university’s religious identity and core curriculum match your goals, whether your intended program leads to the next step you want, and what you would actually pay after aid. Confirm those points with admissions and Financial Aid, and compare them with other colleges before committing.