American International College is a private, coeducational, four-year comprehensive institution located in Springfield, Massachusetts. Established on the core principle of providing access to a holistic education in an inclusive environment, this university offers a diverse array of undergraduate and graduate programs across its three specialized schools: the School of Business, Arts & Sciences, the School of Health Sciences, and the School of Education. The university is driven by a mission to propel its diverse community of learners to personal growth and professional success, focusing heavily on career preparation, civic engagement, and fostering a strong sense of belonging among its students.
The college was founded in July 1885 by Reverend Calvin E. Amaron with the explicit initial purpose of providing higher education access to the French Canadian youth residing in the area, quickly establishing a commitment to diversity and opportunity. This university made history in 1892 by becoming the first coeducational college in the region when it began admitting women. In the early 20th century, its mission broadened to educate immigrants and their children from various nations, reinforcing its "American International" name. Throughout the decades, it evolved from its liberal arts core to expand professional programs, particularly in the health sciences, culminating in its current structure as a comprehensive institution that remains true to its founding values of Access, Opportunity, Diversity, and Community.
This college successfully fulfills its over 135-year-old promise of providing opportunity and access through a relevant, career-oriented education. Its strength lies in its holistic approach, which combines a foundational liberal arts education with practical, accredited professional training, especially in the health sciences. By fostering a diverse and inclusive community and focusing on support services, the university prepares graduates for both professional achievement and civic engagement. Ultimately, this university is defined by its resilience and commitment to its core values, ensuring its students leave not just with a degree, but with the skills and confidence to lead successful, meaningful lives under the college's motto: Post Tenebras Lux—Light after Darkness.