Should Christian Students Attend a Christian College?

What’s next? This is the question every high school senior has to answer to inquiring family members, friends, and acquaintances over the next several months. Truthfully though the thought of what comes next begins well before a student's senior year. It seems in our fast-paced society students are faced with this question even before they enter high school. For many the prospect of college/university is probable, which lends itself to the question of whether a Christian student should attend a Christian college? The short answer, it depends. There are some advantages to attending a Christian college. There are also challenges.

Advantages

1. Faith-Based Community

Regardless of whether a student attends a Christian or secular university, finding a faith-based community is of paramount importance. Paul writes in Hebrews,

“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.” – Hebrews 10:24-25 (NIV)

It’s clear the biblical value of being in a faith-based community and it is one the greatest factors to a student's spiritual health as they enter college. The advantage that Christian colleges have in this regard is broader access to faith-based communities. In addition to the various campus ministries, Christian colleges will often have school-sponsored events designed to expand Christ-centered community focused on biblical values. Students who attend non-Christian colleges still do have options to get involved in various campus ministries, however, there tend to be more available options at Christian colleges.

2. Christian Values

While it isn’t true of every college, there are many Christian colleges that require students to either take a certain number of bible classes or graduate with a minor degree in biblical studies. This has tremendous value for Christian students. Regardless of what occupational field a student is planning to enter, having an academic, biblical foundation is invaluable. Frankly, I believe it is key in spreading the gospel into the global marketplace and making disciples beyond the walls of the church.

Challenges

1. Tuition

It’s no secret that higher education is expensive and can be the deciding factor in deciding schools. Christian colleges are private and thus tend to be more expensive. Despite this fact, there are ways that cost doesn’t have to be a prohibiting factor. At most Christian colleges and universities, students are eligible for federal financial aid. This is a tremendous help for students who are struggling to figure out how to pay for their education. Additionally, online and hybrid options have become much more accessible at Christian colleges than ever before, typically these experiences are offered at a lower cost than traditional on-campus education experiences.

2. Limited Choice of Majors

Often private, Christian colleges simply can’t compete with the range of majors that would be offered at a large state university. For those who are locked into a specific field of study, it may mean a student has to forgo a Christian college experience. However, for many, the solution could be to find a comparable major that is offered at a Christian college. This is certainly something students should consider.

Regardless of a student's decision to attend a Christian college or a secular university, there is one thing all students entering college should prioritize: finding a biblical, faith-based community. It is the key to keeping and growing in faith. I think Christian colleges are a great option; I have attended two different Christian universities in undergraduate and graduate programs and found great value in those experiences. I also don’t think it’s the only option. There are plenty of students who attend secular universities and emerge with a biblical worldview. Students should carefully weigh their options and understand that as they seek after God, He will guide their steps.