A Christian college is an educational institution or part of an educational institute dedicated to the integration of Christian faith and learning in traditional academic fields.[1] Unlike Bible colleges, Christian colleges offer degrees in liberal arts and science alongside religious degrees, though still emphasizing a Christian worldview.[2][3]

George Fox University, a Christian college in Newberg, Oregon
Martin Luther College, a Christian college in New Ulm, Minnesota

Curriculum

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Typically, the curriculum at Christian colleges is broader in scope compared to Bible colleges, including secular courses alongside biblical coursework.[4] Christian colleges offer a range of degree programs, including liberal arts, business, nursing, and engineering, all taught from a biblical perspective while preparing students for secular, rather than ministerial, careers.[5][6] Many Christian colleges also offer graduate programs, whereas Bible colleges typically only offer undergraduate programs.[7]

Worldwide

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Australia

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In Australia, Bible schools have traditionally focused on teaching the books of the Bible to help Christians deepen their understanding, while Christian colleges offered more in-depth studies, such as languages and discourse analysis, aimed at preparing individuals for full-time ministry. However, the lines between these institutions have blurred in recent years as Bible schools began offering degree programs, which were previously exclusive to Christian colleges. Both types of institutions integrate biblical principles into daily life.[8]

United States

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Many Christian colleges are affiliated with or are run by a Christian denomination, while others are non-denominational. Christian colleges are often regionally or nationally accredited universities that offer liberal arts and professional programs from a biblical worldview.[4]

See also

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References

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  1. ^ Arthur Frank Holmes (1987). The Idea of a Christian College. Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing. p. 6. ISBN 978-0-8028-0258-3.
  2. ^ "What is the difference between Bible college and Christian college?". Carolina College of Biblical Studies. Retrieved 5 September 2024.
  3. ^ "Bible College vs. Liberal Arts Christian College: What is the Difference?". Grace College. Retrieved 5 September 2024.
  4. ^ a b "5 Differences Between Bible and Christian Colleges". Online Christian Colleges. Retrieved 5 September 2024.
  5. ^ "The difference between Bible college and Christian university". International Christian College and Seminary. Retrieved 5 September 2024.
  6. ^ "Difference Between a Bible college and a Christian university". Carolina College of Biblical Studies. Retrieved 5 September 2024.
  7. ^ "What is the Difference Between a Bible College and a Christian University". Online Bible College. Regent University. Retrieved 5 September 2024.
  8. ^ Pietrzak, Garland (24 May 2023). "What is the Difference Between a Bible College and a Christian University?". BGCA Warriors. Retrieved 5 September 2024.