Jacksonville University was founded in 1934 in downtown Jacksonville as a junior college offering night classes. It quickly became a four-year, co-ed institution and moved to its present location in the Arlington area of Jacksonville in the early 1950s.  JU combines the advantages of a liberal arts college with the strengths of an urban compreh​ensive university. Its academic programs and resources prepare students for success in their chosen careers and for advanced study at the graduate level.