Asbury University, founded in 1890 by Methodist evangelist Rev. John Wesley Hughes, is an independent, nondenominational evangelical institution deeply rooted in the Wesleyan-Holiness tradition. Originally named Kentucky Holiness College, it was renamed to honor Bishop Francis Asbury, a key figure in American Methodism and founder of Bethel Academy, the first Methodist school west of the Allegheny Mountains. Located in Wilmore, Kentucky, within Bishop Asbury’s evangelistic preaching circuit, the university reflects its founders’ vision of a Christ-centered education that integrates faith, learning, and living.
Asbury’s mission is grounded in John Wesley’s theological framework—the “Quadrilateral” of Scripture, tradition, reason, and experience. This approach permeates the university’s educational philosophy, encouraging students to think critically, reason logically, and enrich their experiences through a holistic integration of faith and academics. Asbury upholds the belief in sanctification through God’s grace, emphasizing that believers can lead lives of holiness, fully devoted to God and free from inward and outward sin, as reflected in John Wesley’s teachings on entire sanctification.
The founders of Asbury believed the Gospel was more than forgiveness of sins; it was a total surrender to God’s call on the believer’s life. This conviction fueled the passion of John Wesley Hughes and Henry Clay Morrison, who shaped Asbury into a vibrant institution committed to evangelism, social transformation, and Scriptural holiness. This foundation continues to guide the university’s mission of preparing students to serve as agents of God’s grace in meeting the needs of humanity.
Since opening its doors in 1890, Asbury has emphasized both spiritual and intellectual growth. Its early bulletins stated, “While we give prominence to the religious, we give equal prominence to thorough mental training; thus, giving liberal culture of mind and soul.” The university has maintained its commitment to Biblical convictions, encouraging disciplines like Bible study and prayer while fostering high standards of personal conduct and excellence in education. These principles aim to produce graduates with undivided hearts devoted to God and equipped to reflect Christ’s character in their lives.
Stewarding this mission of holiness is the responsibility of Asbury’s self-perpetuating Board of Trustees. Charged with safeguarding the university’s legacy, the board ensures that Asbury continues to develop leaders of integrity who pursue Scriptural holiness and exemplify Christian values in all aspects of life. The mission resonates with the Biblical call to salvation through repentance, forgiveness, and a transformed life, reflecting the character of God in a world in need of the Gospel.
Since 1893, Asbury has graduated over 23,000 men and women who have made significant contributions across diverse fields, including education, business, medicine, law, and ministry. Among its alumni are college presidents, denominational leaders, executives, pastors, missionaries, and Christian workers who have carried the university’s influence and commitment to holiness across the globe. Asbury continues to shape individuals called to live out the Gospel, inspiring a new generation to transform the world for Christ.
Undergraduate Admissions
(859) 858-5000
admissions@asbury.edu