Diverse, United, and Proud
Trailblazers wrote the first words of American International College’s story—and they continue to craft our sprawling, multifaceted, and open-to-all narrative.
Over a hundred years ago, our founders broke down barriers that prevented immigrants from pursuing higher education, igniting an ever-widening and unabating path to American prosperity. Guided by this unshakable ethos, we have established a place for everyone to recognize and grow into their authentic selves.
Here, enduring differences empower all identities and flourish into exceptional outcomes. We welcome you—your individuality, your dreams, and your resilience—to define our next chapter.
Our Growth
The second half of the 20th century produced many of the programs, buildings, and initiatives that are hallmarks of AIC today.
Making Learning Flexible
As soldiers returned from World War II, AIC launched our Evening College and Summer School to accommodate increasing demand for higher education.
More Programs
Beginning in the 1940s, AIC introduced programs in the arts and sciences, business administration, and teacher education, constructing buildings that are features of our modern campus. We later added the Division of Nursing and the area’s first Criminal Justice degree.
Broadening Business Education
In the 1950s, AIC trained professionals from European countries rebuilding after World War II through the U.S. Marshall Plan, teaching American manufacturing and production techniques. During the same period, AIC partnered with local businesses to develop its Executive Development Program, which awarded the region’s first MBA degree.
Model Congress and Doctoral Degrees
The College celebrated many other firsts during this period, including the launch of Model Congress in 1941 and its first doctoral program in educational psychology.
Expanding Our Facilities
A focus on innovation informed AIC’s transition into the 21st century, beginning with the Health Science Complex (1996), the American International Communication Center (1998), and a state-of-the-art technological infrastructure (2007).
120th Anniversary
During the 2005-2006 academic year, AIC celebrated its 120th anniversary with the Founder’s Day (July 18) College Community Picnic and AIC Day at the Big E on Charter Day (September 18).
AIC Today
We haven’t lost sight of our original mission; in fact, we continue to amplify it. Today, a population reflective of our world—as well as the diversity of Greater Springfield—converges on the AIC campus to blaze an incredible future directly from their passions.
