THE CHRISTIAN COLLEGE DIFFERENCE

Choosing a college is one of life’s most important decisions.  It not only represents a significant financial investment, but the choice influences so much of who we become in all areas of life—philosophy, values, intellectual and emotional preparedness for careers, long-term friendships, commitment to serving others, even the choice of marriage partners.

There are approximately 3,500 colleges and universities in the United States, but only 600 or 700 maintain some tie to a specific church denomination or religious tradition.  Of this subgroup, a smaller number are referred to as “Christ-centered”.

On the surface, most small colleges look a lot alike.  They all promise a strong academic program, varied co-curricular offerings, a pleasant campus, and a friendly faculty.  What sets Christ-centered colleges apart is the educational environment: the way in which faith, learning, and life come together.

In today’s troubled times, the need is great for people who have experienced the Christian college difference.  As God’s ambassadors to a sinful and hurting world, graduates of Christian colleges are working for good in America and abroad.  Theirs is a voice for peace, justice, and the abundant life that comes from knowing Christ. 

All Christian Colleges take seriously the need to prepare students for lives of service to God, the world, and the church.  At a Christian College, the faculty and administration share the following beliefs:

  • That we live in a world that was created by God
  • That God is love
  • That Jesus Christ is the Son of God and the “author and finisher of our faith”
  • That the key to abundant life is a relationship with Jesus Christ
  • That a high-quality education must deal with matters of the heart as well as of the mind.
  • That a college education should provide a solid foundation for living an active, meaningful, and contributing life in God’s world and that a curriculum that is firmly grounded in the liberal arts is the surest basis for such a foundation.
  • That faculty members should serve as both academic and spiritual mentors to their students.
  • That co-curricular and resident-life activity is an important part of an educational experience.
  • That in addition to a degree, sharpened intellectual skills, and current information, student should graduate with an enhanced sense of wholeness and the courage to ask questions.
  • That no college experience, if it is to be whole and valuable, can ignore the problems of society or the major issues of the modern world.

Whether serving in student government, singing in the college choir, or playing basketball students are encouraged to use their talents and skills for the glory of God.

When looking back at their undergraduate years, alumni of Christian colleges and universities speak of the lifelong friendships that continue to grow out of a shared commitment to Christ.  Campus life is designed to encourage healthy friendships.

Parents and alumni alike agree that it is impossible to place a dollar value on the lifelong benefits of a Christ-centered undergraduate experience.