Top Christian Colleges
You don’t have to sacrifice quality to attend a Christian college. Just like any other type of school, Christian colleges come in different sizes, approaches, and levels of quality, but many of them are regularly recognized alongside the best schools in the country. On this site you’ll find lists of the top Christian colleges and lists of Christian colleges in general.
Four Models of Christian College Education
Christian colleges in the U.S. offer diverse approaches to integrating faith and education, each with unique characteristics. Understanding these models can help you determine which approach aligns with your personal and academic goals.
Dr. Robin Baker, president of George Fox University, identifies four primary models of Christian higher education:
- Moral Commitment These institutions focus on cultivating ethical values and character development based on classical Western principles. However, they may not emphasize explicitly Christian teachings or spiritual formation.
- Dualistic Approach In this model, Christian activities such as Bible studies and worship services are available outside the classroom. However, academic instruction remains secular, with little integration of faith into the curriculum.
- Closed Integrative Community These colleges require all members—students, faculty, and staff—to adhere to a specific statement of faith. This creates a homogenous environment where spiritual formation and academic pursuits are intertwined within a community of shared beliefs.
- Open Integrative Community This type of institution welcomes students who are Christians as well as those who are not while maintaining a Christian framework. Faculty and staff integrate faith into their teaching and mentorship, creating an environment that encourages exploration of Christian perspectives across disciplines.
Source: The Four Models of Christian College Education
It may be helpful for you to determine which of these categories the Christian schools you consider fit into. Since all of the colleges listed on this website are governing members of the Council for Christian Colleges & Universities, few of them fall into the “moral commitment” category.
Determining the Right Fit for You
When choosing a Christian college, reflect on the following:
Faith Integration
Do you prefer a college where faith is central to all aspects of education, or one where spiritual activities are separate from academics?
Academic Goals
Does this college offer programs that align with your career goals and will help you become the person you want to be?
Community Environment
Would you thrive in a community where all students are Christians, or do you prefer a more diverse environment?
How to Assess Schools
Research
Investigate each institution's mission, values, and educational approach. Read their statement of faith, which should be available on their website.
Visit Campus
Experience the campus firsthand to assess if it aligns with your expectations.
Engage with the Community
Talk with current students and faculty to gain insights into daily life and the role that Christian faith plays on campus.
Reflect
Consider how each college's approach aligns with your personal beliefs and academic goals.
Stick Close to Home or Leave the Nest?
Many students choose colleges close to home for familiarity and convenience, and there’s nothing wrong with that. However, studying in a different region can offer new cultural experiences and personal growth opportunities. Attending a Christian college in another part of the country allows you to broaden your perspective while engaging with a faith-based community.
Looking for a Specific Program?
For a few courses of study, we’ve also compiled lists of Christian colleges that offer them:
Ultimately, choosing the right Christian college involves many factors: program, cost, location, and quality – as well as how an institution's approach to faith and learning aligns with your personal and spiritual values.