In September of 1971, Amberton University began as an extension campus of Abilene Christian University and was located in Mesquite, Texas. From the beginning, the University's purpose was to identify and provide for the educational needs of the community. Quickly, the University turned its attention and interest to educational programs that catered to working adults.In June of 1974, the campus location was moved to Garland, Texas. The new campus, a two-story professional office building, was designed to cater to mature adults who did not need or desire the environmental trappings associated with traditional colleges (dormitories, cafeterias, gymnasiums, intramural athletics, etc.). In 1981, the University received accreditation from the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, and plans were approved for separating the institution from Abilene Christian University. The separation was completed in June 1982 and the University took the name Amber University. In March 2001, the University changed its name from Amber University to Amberton University to more accurately describe its purpose. The English addition of “ton” to a word means a town or village. As a result of offering adult students traditional lecture and nontraditional e-courses, the name more accurately identifies the community of learners.Amberton University's Garland Campus is located on a five-acre site. The facility is a 60,000 square foot office complex designed to provide a secure, professional environment conducive to adult learning. In January 2006, Amberton opened a new center in Frisco in order to better serve their students in Collin County.Amberton University is designed exclusively for the mature, working adult who seeks to benefit from the richness of a relevant, educational experience. The adult who attends Amberton University will find the atmosphere similar to that of professional schools—law, medicine, engineering. At Amberton University, the student is exposed to a diverse group of working adults who share interests and ideas. Amberton University's desire is to equip its students with the practical knowledge, tools, and character necessary to cope effectively in the situations and challenges that lie ahead. In short, Amberton University educates for lifelong learning.