History of BJU
Bay County, Florida
In 1927, evangelist Bob Jones established Bob Jones College to help Christian students strengthen their faith while empowering them to impact the world for Christ. Distinguished by its academic excellence, expectations and opportunities to appreciate the fine arts, the College opened in Bay County, Florida, with 88 students in its first academic year.
Cleveland, Tennessee
Bob Jones College relocated to Tennessee in 1933 where daily chapel—the heart of campus life—continued encouraging students to deepen their relationship with God. The growing student body also enjoyed playing sports, attending Artist Series and meeting in their literary societies.
As the College attracted large numbers of students and faculty to its new home, it added degrees for every level of study and several minors. BJC also began offering a work scholarship program to help students pay for school.
Greenville, South Carolina
To accommodate substantial growth after World War II, BJC relocated to Greenville and became Bob Jones University, opening in 1947 with over 2,500 students. Adding six academic schools and expanding the campus footprint, BJU continued to prepare students from around the country to follow Christ.
Under the leadership of Bob Jones Jr. (president 1947–71), the University increased its fine arts opportunities for students and the public. Shakespearean plays, large-scale operas with visiting guest artists and concerts enhanced the social and cultural scene on campus. Campus guests and students also had access to the vast selection of artwork displayed in the renowned Museum & Gallery which opened in 1951.
BJU’s renewed emphasis on outreach and missions under Bob Jones III (1971–2005) spread the Gospel around the world. New scholarships also enabled international students to attend BJU and receive a Bible-centered education developing their abilities to share the Gospel and plant churches in their communities.
Quality education became readily accessible to schools and families in new ways through the founding of BJU Press. Today the Press offers educational curriculum and material to Christian schools and homeschool families around the world through print and online offerings.
Under the leadership of Stephen Jones (2005–2014), the University increased its focus on mentoring students and investing in their lives through academic excellence, an encouraging culture and the spiritual atmosphere on campus.
In 2006, BJU received national accreditation from the Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools, which unlocked greater financial aid for students and affirmed the high quality of its academics. BJU also reinstated intercollegiate athletics, replacing its 1927 mascot the Swamp Angels with the Bruins.
With a new ROTC program and the new School of Health Professions, key programs expanded to meet growing career demand under Steve Pettit’s leadership (2014-2023). Several enhanced academic and student life initiatives, such as discipleship groups and experiential learning, developed students spiritually and academically, preparing them for success during and after college.
BJU achieved regional accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools in 2017, affirming the academic quality of the University’s programs and its commitment to ongoing progress and improvement. Students also received further opportunities to pursue grad degrees around the country or obtain specific licensures required for their careers.
In 2024, Josh Crockett became BJU’s sixth president. As the University approaches its 100th year, its unwavering commitment to the truth of God’s Word and to providing excellent academics continues to prepare students for their lives and careers.
