Lindenwood University in St. Charles, Mo., and Belleville civic leaders first came together in 2001 to make the dream of a four-year university in the Metro East area a reality.  Following key partnership agreements and state approval, the university took ownership of the former Belleville West High School campus in 2003.

That same year, Lindenwood launched Master of Arts programs in education and educational administration at the new Belleville site.  Other programs were launched through the school’s College for Individual Education (LCIE) program, an evening-based accelerated format designed for working adults.

By 2004, the university received approval to offer both bachelor’s and master’s degree programs in business administration, human resource management, corporate communication, criminal justice, and professional counseling.

In addition to strengthening academic offerings at LU-Belleville, Lindenwood also engaged in an aggressive campus restoration campaign.  The university has invested more than $15 million in renovations to the campus, including the restoration of LU’s auditorium, the construction of a new welcome center, the development of housing, and creation of the Senator Alan J. Dixon Student Center.

Beginning in the fall of 2009, LU-Belleville became the only one of Lindenwood’s extension locations to offer daytime classes.  In November 2011, the Higher Learning Commission granted Lindenwood University-Belleville full campus status because of its ability to offer all traditional university services on location. 

With a focus on academics, athletics, and the arts, LU-Belleville is expanding degree offerings, athletic programs, housing facilities, and other services available to students, as well as continuing to foster a strong relationship with the community.

The campus now serves approximately 2,300 students offering 30 different undergraduate and graduate degree options.