Mary Baldwin: Innovating student-led education
“Not for time but eternity.” Mary Baldwin’s motto signals its deep-rooted mission to design an institution that constantly responds to the needs of students and the ever-changing world they live in. MBU’s flexible, tailor-made online programs were born of that longstanding charge.
A storied history
Launched in 1842, Mary Baldwin was innovative from the start, providing an opportunity for women to pursue a higher education at a time when their abilities weren’t valued and opportunities were limited. That extraordinary legacy guides the institution today — a coeducational university that prioritizes student experiences and access to a high-quality education.
180+ Years Of History
Mary Baldwin University originally launched in 1842 as Augusta Female Seminary. It’s the oldest institution of higher education for women in the nation affiliated with the Presbyterian Church.
Mary Baldwin: Leader
Mary Julia Baldwin was one of Augusta Female Seminary’s first students. Celebrated for her boldness, intellect, and philanthropy, Baldwin was tapped to lead the school, which thrived under her direction. It was renamed Mary Baldwin Seminary in 1895.
Always Innovating
MBU’s online education story began decades ago, in 1977, as Mary Baldwin’s Adult Degree Program. It was designed to meet the needs of older, non-residential students — both men and women.
