In February 1841 the Nauvoo Charter established a university in that city, but because funds were scarce none was ever built. Now, 158 years later, the Latter-day Saints at last have a university building in Nauvoo. In September BYU will open a center right across the street from the Nauvoo Temple site.
“We are pleased to offer this study opportunity in one of the most important historical sites in the Church,” says Debby Bennion, program administrator.
BYU has had study programs in Nauvoo during winter semester for the last five years, with students living in the restored historic homes. The new center, formerly a Catholic boarding school, was recently acquired by the LDS Church.
The Nauvoo program includes tours of many American history and Church history sites. “Studying the early days of the Church in Nauvoo brings the history to life,” Bennion says. “Traveling to the home country of famous Americans such as Abraham Lincoln, Mark Twain, and Carl Sandburg makes American history live.”
The program offers classes in American history, English, and religion. Students may also take BYU Independent Study courses over the Internet, using computers available at the center.
The program will accept 80 students for fall semester and expand to 120 students thereafter. Students enrolled at any college or university may apply. Credits will transfer automatically for students from BYU, Ricks College, or BYU–Hawaii; students at other colleges can arrange to have the credits transferred.
The Nauvoo semester program is coordinated by BYU Travel Study. For more information, contact Debby Bennion by phone (801-378-3946 or, toll-free, 800-525-2049) or by e-mail (debby_bennion@byu.edu).