Best Christian Colleges in South California

Christian Colleges

Christian colleges are colleges that integrate Christian faith and values into the very fabric of their educational experience. These colleges are not only about mandatory Bible study courses, it is also about creating a learning environment where professors encourage students to explore the intersection of their chosen disciplines with their faith.

Christian colleges often cultivate a vibrant spiritual life on campus. Chapels become hubs for worship services, guest speakers, and opportunities for reflection. Student-led ministries organize events and service projects, fostering a sense of community and encouraging students to live out their faith. Christian colleges provide a safe and supportive space for you to explore your beliefs, ask questions, and engage in open dialogue with others on their faith journeys.

What To Expect At A Christian College

• Curriculum: Christian colleges typically have a core curriculum that includes courses in Christian studies, theology, and biblical interpretation. These classes provide a strong foundation in Christian beliefs, ethics, and historical context, equipping students to understand and articulate their faith.
• Faculty: Often, the professors themselves share a passion for their fields and their faith. They bring these unique perspectives to the classroom, encouraging students to explore the intersection of their chosen disciplines with Christian principles. Imagine a biology professor discussing the wonders of creation alongside the theories of evolution, fostering a thoughtful discussion on science and faith.
• Campus Life: Christian colleges provide a spiritual atmosphere. Professors foster a strong sense of community and encourage students to live out their faith in a supportive environment.

Best Christian Colleges in South California

1. Southern Wesleyan University 

Southern Wesleyan University, a private Christian college, was founded in 1906 by representatives from Wesleyan Methodist churches in South Carolina and neighboring states. The university’s mission is to create a Christ-centered learning community focused on students, aiming to transform lives by encouraging them to become dedicated scholars and servant-leaders who impact the world for Christ.

Offering over 40 distinct academic programs, Southern Wesleyan University has a total enrollment of more than 1,600 students, with approximately 1,300 undergraduates. As a selective institution, it accepts only 35% of applicants and maintains an overall retention rate of 68% for full-time students. The average annual tuition at Southern Wesleyan University is $25,516, with 99% of students receiving some form of financial assistance.

2. Bob Jones University

Bob Jones University, a private Christian institution emphasizing liberal arts education rooted in biblical principles, was founded by evangelist Bob Jones, Sr. in 1927. The university’s mission is to operate within the framework of liberal arts higher education to cultivate a Christlike character characterized by scriptural discipline, service to others, love for God, the proclamation of Christ, and a focus on heavenly matters.

Offering a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs, Bob Jones University comprises several colleges and schools. It has an enrollment of approximately 3,000 students, with over 2,600 undergraduates. The university boasts an overall retention rate of 82% for full-time students and 50% for part-time students. The average yearly tuition for this college is about $19,000.

3. Erskine College

Erskine College is a private, coeducational Christian institution situated on a rural campus in Abbeville County, established in 1839 and affiliated with the Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church. The college’s mission is to honor God by fostering a Christian academic community where students are prepared to thrive as complete individuals, committed to a life of service through undergraduate liberal arts and graduate theological education.

Erskine offers a variety of undergraduate majors spanning from chemistry to political science, Erskine College has a student body of just under 700, predominantly undergraduates. The average annual cost of attendance is $36,510, with financial aid covering expenses for all students.

4. Anderson University

Established in 1911 as a women’s college within the Southern Baptist Convention, Anderson University (AU) has evolved into a comprehensive coeducational institution serving over 3,400 students. While AU provides a strong liberal arts foundation to prepare students both professionally and academically, it also emphasizes commitments to family, church, and community.

It is recognized as one of the premier online Christian colleges regionally, AU boasts notable alumni like bestselling author Sue Monk Kidd, Tony Award-winning writer James Lee Barrett, and South Carolina District Judge Timothy M. Cain. AU additionally offers an online doctorate program in ministry. Some programs are fully online, while others follow a hybrid model blending on-campus and online courses.

AU offers various unique services to learners, including prayer request forums and textbook delivery. Each student is paired with a personal Journey Coach and academic advisor to assist with all aspects of their academic journey, from applications and credit transfer to course selection and financial aid. Journey Coaches collaborate with students to develop academic plans ensuring efficient use of resources and are available to address any queries throughout the semester.

5. Charleston Southern University

Charleston Southern University, affiliated with the South Carolina Baptist Convention, offers diverse undergraduate and doctoral degrees on a beautiful campus. The university emphasizes vibrant campus life, including student organizations, intramural sports, and campus events. It also promotes spiritual growth through chapel services. Academic programs range from bachelor’s degrees in business, education, and healthcare to doctoral programs in education and nursing, with options for online and evening classes. The university prioritizes academic excellence, personal growth, and community engagement, providing students with a well-rounded college experience.

6. North Greenville University

7. Limestone University

Limestone University, a private Christian liberal arts institution, offers a curriculum that emphasizes the integration of faith and learning. The university provides students with a range of course options, including online and evening classes, to accommodate their individual needs and schedules. This flexibility benefits students who face challenges with traditional class schedules due to work or family commitments.

Alongside its flexible approach, Limestone University is dedicated to offering an affordable education, with an annual tuition rate of $27,900, aiming to ensure accessibility for students from diverse backgrounds. Additionally, the university cultivates a vibrant Christian community and promotes spiritual growth and discipleship among its students.

8. Southern Methodist College

Southern Methodist College is one of the best Christian colleges in South Carolina. It prioritizes preparing students for leadership and service, with a focus on internships and experiential learning to instill practical skills and knowledge.

The college aims to develop leaders capable of positively impacting their communities through a comprehensive curriculum blending academic rigor with hands-on experience. Southern Methodist College offers experiential learning which enables students to apply classroom learning in real-world settings through internships, co-op programs, and community service.

This approach enhances critical skills such as problem-solving and communication. The college offers a supportive campus community where students thrive academically, socially, and spiritually, with faculty and staff providing mentorship and guidance.

Accreditation for Christian Colleges

Accreditation for Christian colleges can be a bit more complex than for traditional colleges because there are two main types of accreditation to consider:-

Regional Accreditation:-

• This is the most important type of accreditation, as it ensures the college meets academic standards set by a national accrediting body.
• Regional accreditation is important for transferring credits to other colleges and for securing federal financial aid.
• Six regional accrediting bodies operate in the US. The specific one a college falls under depends on its location.

Faith-Based Accreditation:-

This type of accreditation focuses on ensuring the college upholds its religious mission and teachings. It’s not mandatory, but it can be important for students seeking an education firmly grounded in their faith tradition.

Several organizations offer faith-based accreditation for Christian colleges, below are a few of the most prominent ones:-

• Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools (TRACS): A well-respected accrediting body for Christian colleges worldwide.
• Association for Biblical Higher Education (ABHE): Focuses on accrediting Christian colleges in the United States and Canada that offer biblically-based education.
• Association of Theological Schools in the United States and Canada (ATS): Focuses on theological schools and seminaries.

How to Choose a Christian College

Choosing a good Christian College for your needs can be a bit stressful however, you can easily make your choice by considering the factors listed below:-

• Faith Journey: Reflect on your current faith journey. Are you a lifelong believer, or are you curious about exploring Christianity? Christian colleges cater to a range of backgrounds, but understanding your motivations will help you find the right fit.
• Academic Aspirations: What do you want to study? Do you have a specific career path in mind? Christian colleges offer a variety of programs, so consider your academic goals alongside your faith interests.
• Denominational Affiliation: Some Christian colleges are affiliated with specific denominations (Baptist, Methodist, etc.), while others are non-denominational. Consider if a particular denomination aligns best with your beliefs.
• Location and Size: Do you prefer a busy urban campus or a close-knit rural community? Consider the size of the college and its location, a factor that can significantly impact your overall experience.
• Academic Programs: Research the specific programs offered by each college. Look for programs that align with your academic interests and career aspirations.
• Accreditation: Ensure the college holds regional accreditation, which is crucial for transferring credits and financial aid. Research any faith-based accreditations that might be important to you.
• Faculty and Curriculum: Explore the faculty profiles and course descriptions. Do the professors share your academic interests and integrate faith into their teaching in a way that resonates with you?
• Campus Life and Ministry: Investigate the campus culture and spiritual life offerings. Does the college provide opportunities for worship, service projects, and faith-based discussions that align with your needs?

• Campus Visits: If possible, schedule a campus visit to get a firsthand feel for the college environment, interact with students and faculty, and attend chapel services.
• Contact Admissions: Reach out to the admissions office with any questions you might have. They can provide valuable insights about the college experience.

What curriculum do Christian colleges offer?

Christian colleges offer a curriculum that blends traditional academic disciplines with courses focused on Christian faith and values.

• Theology: This discusses the core beliefs of Christianity, exploring topics like the nature of God, salvation, and the Bible’s authority.
• Biblical Interpretation: This course equips you with the tools to interpret and understand the Bible’s historical context, literary styles, and theological messages.
• Church History: In this course, you learn about the development of Christianity throughout history, examining key figures, movements, and theological debates.
• Christian Ethics: You get to study ethical questions through a Christian lens, considering how faith should guide decisions in various aspects of life.
• World Religions: This allows you to gain a broader understanding of different religious traditions and how Christianity compares and contrasts with them.
• English: This course helps you sharpen your writing, critical thinking, and communication skills through the study of literature, grammar, and rhetoric.
• History: You get to explore significant historical events, analyze different cultures, and gain a broader perspective on the world we live in.

How many colleges are there in South Carolina?

There are approximately 61 colleges in South Carolina. This includes public and private institutions, as well as four-year and two-year colleges.

While both Christian colleges and Bible colleges focus on faith-based education, there are some key differences between them:

Focus

• Christian Colleges: These institutions offer a well-rounded education that integrates Christian faith and values into a traditional academic curriculum. They provide undergraduate and graduate degrees in various fields like arts, sciences, humanities, and professional programs like business or education.
• Bible Colleges: Their primary focus is on biblical studies and ministry training. They typically offer associate’s degrees, certificates, or diplomas in areas like theology, Christian leadership, or missions.

Curriculum

• Christian Colleges: Alongside core Christian studies courses, they offer a strong foundation in liberal arts like English, history, science, and mathematics. This fosters intellectual development alongside spiritual growth.
• Bible Colleges: The majority of their curriculum revolves around biblical studies, theology, practical ministry skills, and church leadership. There may be fewer, or even no, general education courses.

Student Body and Goals

• Christian Colleges: They cater to a broader range of students, from those seeking a faith-based liberal arts education to those interested in specific professional fields with a Christian perspective.
• Bible Colleges: Students typically have a strong vocational call to ministry or Christian service. They aim to equip graduates with the knowledge and skills necessary for careers in churches, mission organizations, or other faith-based ministries.

Emphasis on Faith Integration

• Christian Colleges: Professors may integrate their faith into their teaching across various disciplines, encouraging students to explore the intersection of faith and their chosen fields.
• Bible Colleges: The focus is heavily on explicit faith integration. Courses directly relate to ministry and equipping students to live and work according to Christian principles.

Lifestyle and Atmosphere

• Christian Colleges: They may have a more diverse student body with varying levels of religious commitment. Campus life might include both religious and secular activities.
• Bible Colleges: Often have a stricter religious environment and a student body with a strong focus on ministry. Campus life often revolves around religious activities, worship services, and ministry preparation.

 Christian colleges are universities with a strong Christian identity. They offer a broad education with a faith-based perspective. Bible colleges, on the other hand, are more like specialized training grounds for those called to ministry or Christian service. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your goals. If you seek a well-rounded education with a Christian foundation, a Christian college might be ideal. If your calling lies in ministry, a Bible college could be the perfect fit.