Athens State University began as the Athens Female Academy in 1822. The Methodist Church took control of the institution in 1842, changing the name to the Athens Female Institute. In 1931 the name was changed again to Athens College and it became coeducational. In 1974 the state of Alabama took control and the college became known as Athens State College. Later, in 1998, Athens State College became Athens State University.

Athens State is the only two-year upper level university in the state of Alabama. Athens State University, offering coursework at the junior and senior level, is the baccalaureate degree granting institution of the Alabama Community College System. Thirty-three different majors are offered to junior and senior students.

ASU is growing its distance learning programs. The University is experiencing a strong student demand for online courses. To address this interest, almost all of the 33 majors at Athens State now provide at least one or more classes that can be taken over the internet. The College of Education, College of Arts and Sciences, and College of Business all offer internet-based coursework.

Over 3,500 students have selected Athens State because of this neighborly environment where over 30 different degrees are taught by an understanding and quality faculty.

Whether students work full or part-time or whether they are a full-time student, Athens State offers a course schedule to meet their needs whether it be day, night, weekend or distance courses.