Some of the world’s leading faith-based institutions of higher learning are located in the United States, as the country has a strong religious tradition. There are approximately 600 Christian colleges across the U.S., and some of the noteworthy ones include Wheaton College, Westmont College, Taylor University, Calvin University, Messiah University, College of the Ozarks, Bethel University, Gordon College, Biola University, and Ouachita Baptist University. These colleges offer a wide range of majors and programs, with a strong emphasis on integrating faith and learning into the curriculum.
Wheaton College, founded by abolitionists in 1860, is located in the Chicago suburbs and is one of America’s most highly regarded Christian colleges. Westmont College, situated in the Santa Barbara, California suburbs, offers off-campus programs, which a majority of students elect to participate in. Taylor University, one of the oldest Christian schools in America, has a strong focus on undergraduate programs and also offers select graduate programs. Calvin University in Grand Rapids, Michigan, is known for its core curriculum that culminates in a senior year capstone course.
Messiah University in Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania, features more than 150 undergraduate majors and various study abroad programs. College of the Ozarks in Point Lookout, Missouri, has a unique feature of no tuition, with students participating in a work program instead. Bethel University in Arden Hills, Minnesota, has a strong emphasis on student conduct in faith and personal morality through its Covenant for Life Together agreement. Gordon College in Wenham, Massachusetts, announced a 33% tuition reduction in 2020, citing the need for affordable Christian education.
Biola University, located in La Mirada, California, requires all students to take 30 hours of Bible courses regardless of major. Ouachita Baptist University in Arkadelphia, Arkansas, is affiliated with the Southern Baptist Convention and takes its name from the nearby Ouachita River. Liberty University, established in 1971, is the largest Christian university in the world with a 7,000-acre campus in Lynchburg, Virginia. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, as well as online degrees in Christian studies. Other notable Christian universities across America include Texas Christian University, California Baptist University, Cedarville University, and many more.
These Christian colleges and universities offer students the opportunity to pursue higher education in a faith-based environment. With a focus on integrating faith and learning, these institutions provide a unique experience for students looking to grow academically and spiritually. The diverse range of majors, programs, and study abroad opportunities allow students to explore their interests while deepening their understanding of their faith. With strong traditions and a commitment to providing quality education based on Christian values, these institutions continue to be leaders in the field of higher education in the United States.
