Ambassador International University
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Quick Links: Student Spotlights | FAQs about AIU | See AIU Event Calendar | Response/Registration Form
Giving Form Quick Links: Mail in Giving Form
In 1998 Gospelink made its first connections between American donors and Zambian preachers. This would be the beginning of the growing network that would connect Christians from across oceans and borders for the sake of the Gospel.
In 2005, preparations for the school continued with the construction of the first campus building and the development of the course curriculum. Then in 2009, the first sponsored students began taking courses from International Bible College of Zambia which became Ambassador International University (AIU) in 2017.
As this network began to develop, some of the early Zambian pastors began to request more in-depth theological training. This sparked the dream of creating a school to train the next generation of spiritual leaders of Africa. Through prayer and God’s provision, the land was secured for a college in rural Zambia — approximately 40 miles from Lusaka, the capital.
AIU was founded with the mission of biblically training the next generation of African spiritual leaders. Every aspect of campus life focuses on the principles of God’s Word. The young Christian men selected for this program are trained in theology and other practical courses. For many of our students, if not for AIU, the pursuit of this type of education would be impossible, which is why AIU provides work scholarships for our students. This model provides for the student’s education while creating a sense of ownership in their school and education and allows the college to run on a minimal budget.
Over the years the Lord has done magnificent work through AIU, but none of it would be possible without the support of our faithful sponsors. We do not take lightly this sacrifice to give hard-earned money for the benefit of someone else. We think it is pretty great! Below are photos of the class of 2026.
Will you change a student's life and impact Africa by Giving to AIU?
We have six academic programs at the University, but our only major emphasis is theology.
Certificate in Biblical Studies Diploma in Biblical Studies
The Certificate in Biblical Studies is offered as Distance Learning only. It entails earning 30 credits (15 courses) in Biblical Studies.
Diploma in Biblical Studies
The Diploma in Biblical Studies is granted to the student who earns 60 credit units. A maximum of 30 credits can be transferred.
Bachelor of Arts in Theology
The Bachelor of Arts Degree in Theology is granted to the candidates that have completed 120 credit units (90 which can be transferred) at AIU. Courses include theology, English proficiency, computer technology, and Biblical counseling.
Master of Arts in Biblical Studies or Master of Arts in Theology
The Master of Arts in Biblical Studies is earned over three years taking 42 credits beyond the bachelor's degree. The Master of Arts in Theology is earned at your own pace and involves taking 60 credits beyond the bachelor's degree
The residential undergraduate programs and graduate programs are fully accredited by the Higher Education Authority of Zambia.
AIU’s budget and day-to-day operations are overseen locally by Vice-Chancellor Jim Gerhart located on campus in Zambia and remotely by Chancellor Dr. Kris Bjorgen in the US.
AIU also has an internal leadership committee overseeing day-to-day operations. Additionally, the school is directed by a university council as a subcommittee of the Gospelink Zambia board. This council is a mix of key Gospelink personnel and qualified Zambian nationals.
Finally, direction is provided on behalf of Gospelink by Gospelink’s Chief Operation Officer Ron Redlinger, and Chief Financial Officer Chuck Pace.
The campus is open to students from most African countries. However, there is a comprehensive application process each prospective student must complete in order to be accepted into the program. Due to limitations in both funding and the size of the facilities, the number of students each year is limited.
Distance learning provides additional availability for quality education for those who are unable to attend on campus.
In 2019, distance learning courses were expanded to be offered to students outside of Africa. Six of the courses have been approved for transfer into over 45 US colleges and universities. A significant amount of the funds from tuition go directly to support the Zambian campus. Learn More.
AIU focuses on students who require support to pay for higher education. Therefore, currently, the school relies nearly entirely on donations to be able to offer education to its students. All students attend on a sponsored work scholarship. Donations help cover the cost of room & board, provide food for the students, power for the campus, and general operations. Sponsor Now.
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