Christian Colleges in Idaho

While Idaho offers exceptional Christian colleges, it is also worth considering the benefits of studying in Oregon. With its vibrant Christian college community and renowned institutions, Oregon presents an enriching environment for students seeking to further their Christian education. The state’s commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive atmosphere allows students to thrive academically, spiritually, and personally. 

From the stunning natural beauty that inspires contemplation to the diverse cultural landscape that promotes a well-rounded education, Oregon offers a compelling setting for students desiring to deepen their Christian faith while pursuing their academic goals.

Whether you choose to explore the Christian colleges in Idaho or venture to Oregon, we hope this guide provides valuable insights and assists you in making an informed decision about your educational journey. May your college experience be filled with growth, discovery, and a deepening of your Christian beliefs.

List of Christian Colleges in Idaho

Each college listed here offers a range of courses specifically designed to explore various aspects of Christianity and religion. 

We hope that this list serves as a helpful resource for students who desire to integrate their faith with their higher education journey. It is our aspiration that these colleges provide a nurturing environment where students can develop their spiritual beliefs alongside their academic pursuits.

Northwest Nazarene University (Nampa,Idaho)

Image from Northwest Nazarene University’s official website

Tuition: The average annual cost before aid is $47,836, and after aid, it is reduced to $22,893.

Graduation Rate:  59%

Acceptance Rate: 88%

Northwest Nazarene University, commonly referred to as NNU, is a private Christian liberal arts university situated in Nampa, Idaho. It is religiously affiliated with the Church of the Nazarene, which is a denomination in the Wesleyan-Holiness tradition of Protestant Christianity. As a Christian institution, NNU incorporates faith-based values into its educational programs and campus life. 

In terms of accreditation, Northwest Nazarene University is regionally accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities, which is a recognized accreditation body that ensures the institution meets high standards of educational quality and integrity. Additionally, specific programs within the university may also have specialized accreditations. For example, the business programs are accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP), and the nursing programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). These accreditations reflect the commitment of NNU to providing high-quality education grounded in Christian values.

Admission Requirements

If you are looking for information on admissions to Northwest Nazarene University, you can visit their admissions office webpage at https://nnu.edu/office/admissions

Courses Offered

Bachelor of Arts in Biblical Studies

At Northwest Nazarene University (NNU), there’s an inviting program waiting for you in the Department of Philosophy and Religion. Fancy diving into Biblical Studies? Whether you’re dreaming of a career in ministry or just have a heart for understanding the sacred scriptures, NNU’s Bachelor of Arts degree in Biblical Studies is a perfect match. The program is thoughtfully crafted to sharpen your scripture-interpreting skills while unfolding the rich tapestry of the Bible’s stories, teachings, and languages. 

Along the way, you’ll earn 40 core credits, and spice up your transcript with 21 foundational credits that also tick off the general education boxes. But it’s not all books and study; at NNU, you’ll find a family in the faculty. They’ll be your mentors, guiding you through this enlightening journey. 

Beyond the degree, the horizon is wide – perhaps a calling to seminary, a role in ministry, mission work, or a personal spiritual voyage. Best of all, this inspiring education is not just pixels on a screen – it’s a campus experience, with the sights and sounds of university life at NNU.

Bachelor of Arts in Youth Ministry

Northwest Nazarene University (NNU) appreciates the unique callings that men and women may receive to serve in various types of ministries. With this in mind, NNU provides students the opportunity to tailor their education to meet their specific callings, and one of these specializations is in the area of Youth Ministry. 

This major equips students to effectively minister in diverse youth settings, spanning from local church communities to broader, parachurch organizations. The average class size for this program is intimate, typically consisting of 15 students, promoting closer interactions and personalized attention.

Furthermore, students have the option to augment their studies with a Christian Ministry minor, which, in combination with the Youth Ministry major, fulfills the educational requirements for ordination as an elder in the Church of the Nazarene. It’s important to note that for students from other denominations, specific ordination requirements can often be fulfilled by choosing appropriate elective courses.

Bachelor of Arts in Christian Ministry

This well-rounded program offers a sturdy theological foundation, enhances ministry and leadership abilities, deepens insights into biblical interpretation, and cultivates a Christian worldview.

What’s more, students have the flexibility to specialize in a particular area of ministry by adding a minor in fields such as Bible, children’s ministry, family ministry, missions, theology, worship leadership, or youth ministry.

As an added bonus, this major satisfies the educational criteria for ordination as an elder in the Church of the Nazarene. But there’s more – NNU has rolled out an exciting Accelerated 5-Year Pastor-Scholar Program. This innovative track enables ambitious students to fast-track their education and obtain both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in ministry in a mere five years.

New Saint Andrews College (Moscow, Idaho)

Image from New Saint Andrews College’s official website

Tuition: On average, the annual cost amounts to $21,000.

Graduation Rate:  67%

Acceptance Rate: N/A

New Saint Andrews College, nestled in Moscow, Idaho, stands as a distinguished private Christian liberal arts college dedicated to classical Christian education. Intimately tied to the Communion of Reformed Evangelical Churches, the college weaves Christian principles and teachings into the very fabric of its curriculum. Accredited nationally by the Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools (TRACS), New Saint Andrews College is recognized for meeting rigorous educational quality standards. 

A hallmark of the college is its small class sizes, which, coupled with a low student-to-faculty ratio, enables a deeply personalized educational experience. The resulting close-knit academic community is a hotbed for rich discussions and tailored student development, harmonizing perfectly with the college’s unwavering commitment to Christian-rooted scholarship and rigor.

Admission Requirements

If you’re interested in applying to New Saint Andrews College, you can find all the information and application details on their admissions page at https://nsa.edu/admissions/apply

Courses Offered

Bachelor’s Degree in Theology

At New Saint Andrews College, theology is revered as the queen of the sciences and is considered the guiding light that lends direction to every subject and class. In the freshman year, students are introduced to the fundamental truths of the Christian faith through a year-long theology course. This course aims to nurture a life that is both informed and shaped by a deep understanding of the Creator and how all of creation is connected to Him. Adopting a Reformed viewpoint, the course emphasizes practices that align with correct beliefs and actions, such as confession, prayer, and praise. 

When students reach their senior year, they engage in a theology colloquium that rests on the twin pillars of Reformed Theology: the doctrine of God and the doctrine of Scripture. The doctrine of God is the heartbeat of the senior-year colloquium, as it not only lays the foundation but also aims for the true knowledge and love for God as the ultimate goal. 

Boise Bible College (Boise, Idaho)

Image from Boise Bible College’s official website

Tuition: Before accounting for any aid, the average annual cost stands at $25,800. However, once grants and scholarships from the institution, state, and federal government are applied, the average annual cost is significantly reduced to $16,128.

Graduation Rate:  51%

Acceptance Rate: 79%

Located in the vibrant city of Boise, Idaho, Boise Bible College is a distinguished private Christian educational institution whose core mission is to equip students for service in Christian ministry through comprehensive biblical education. The college holds a religious affiliation with the Independent Christian Churches/Churches of Christ, a group of autonomous churches associated with the Restoration Movement that seeks to base church practice on the New Testament and is non-denominational. 

On the other hand, Boise Bible College is duly accredited by the Association for Biblical Higher Education (ABHE), which is an affirmation of the college’s commitment to uphold rigorous educational standards and to provide education of the highest quality with a religious foundation. A particularly notable feature of Boise Bible College is the intimate class sizes. The institution takes pride in maintaining a favorable student-to-faculty ratio, which is instrumental in creating a nurturing and supportive academic environment.

Admission Requirements

For those interested in exploring admission opportunities at Boise Bible College, all the necessary information can be found at their admissions page: https://www.boisebible.edu/admissions

Courses Offered

Bachelor of Arts in Biblical Studies

At Boise Bible College, the Bachelor of Arts in Biblical Studies is thoughtfully structured around three core components: General Education, Bible Major, and Ministry Program. Students are required to meet all the criteria within these components to earn the degree, with each course designed to mold them into influential individuals. 

The Biblical Studies Program is particularly aimed at inspiring students to recognize the pressing need for compassionate individuals who are devoted to interpreting, teaching, applying, and embodying God’s word. Graduates emerge with a profound understanding of Scripture’s overarching message, complemented by the acumen for in-depth study. 

An integral part of the curriculum includes a minimum of five semesters of New Testament Greek, along with an array of classes focusing on Bible Exegesis and theology. Furthermore, students have the invaluable opportunity to put theory into practice through a semester-long practicum, wherein they employ their Biblical Studies skills in a real-world ministry setting.

Bachelor of Arts in Pastoral Care

In Boise Bible College’s Pastoral Care program, students have the option to pursue either a Bachelor of Science or a Bachelor of Arts degree. The program is centered around developing a strong grounding in Biblical teachings, coupled with insights into psychology and counseling.

A key objective of the program is to cultivate empathy among students. This is achieved by involving them in thoughtful reflection on theological perspectives regarding suffering, and sharpening their skills in appreciating different viewpoints. The faculty, comprising professors with a rich background in counseling and various ministry settings, play a crucial role in this. Through core classes, they arm students with the tools vital for providing pastoral care to individuals both within and outside the church community.

Additionally, the program incorporates internships or “observation hours”. These are thoughtfully crafted to provide students with real-life ministry experience and at the same time offer enough flexibility for students to explore different paths within the field.

Resources and Christian Organizations in Idaho

We are excited to present this comprehensive list of organizations and resources tailored specifically for Christian college students in Idaho. This compilation aims to serve as a valuable guide, whether you are seeking faith-based student organizations, spiritual guidance, or resources for personal growth. 

Our goal is to support you in navigating your college journey while deepening your Christian identity. With these resources at your disposal, we hope to empower you to engage in a vibrant and fulfilling college experience, enriched by your faith.

Cru: With a dedication to making a significant impact on college students, Cru employs enthralling Bible studies as a medium to animate Scriptures and augment the student journey. The devotionals offered by Cru are designed to ignite a fervor and unwavering commitment, while the intellectually engaging discipleship content nurtures spiritual advancement and an intimate connection with God.

Cru’s aspirations, however, reach far beyond the realm of individual development. The organization is driven by a mission to embolden students to leave an indelible mark on both their college campuses and the wider community. Through an extensive arsenal of resources made available to Christian students, Cru fortifies them with the tools needed to interact purposefully with fellow students and to manifest Christ’s love in both pragmatic and heartfelt ways.

Chi Alpha: Operating primarily in the United States, but with a presence in various parts of the world, Chi Alpha establishes chapters on college and university campuses. The organization aims to create vibrant, inclusive communities where students can explore and deepen their faith while building meaningful relationships with peers.

Chi Alpha places a strong emphasis on discipleship, mentorship, and small group gatherings known as “Life Groups” or “Core Groups.” These small groups serve as safe spaces for students to engage in Bible studies, prayer, discussions, and other activities that foster spiritual growth.

Diverse in nature, Chi Alpha welcomes students from various backgrounds and denominations, reflecting a broad spectrum of cultures and beliefs. It operates with the conviction that the college years are a pivotal time for individuals to shape their values and beliefs, and it strives to guide students in developing a solid Christian foundation during this formative period of their lives.

InterVarsity Christian Fellowship: InterVarsity Christian Fellowship/USA, commonly known as InterVarsity, is an evangelical Christian organization dedicated to campus ministry. They operate on college and university campuses across the United States, with a primary focus on creating vibrant communities of students and faculty who follow Jesus. InterVarsity seeks to integrate faith with academic pursuits and daily life, recognizing the importance of bringing together these aspects of a student’s journey.

One of the key emphases of InterVarsity is cross-cultural missions and global engagement. They provide spaces and opportunities for individuals to share their beliefs, ask questions, and explore their faith in a supportive environment. InterVarsity actively welcomes students from diverse backgrounds and denominations, fostering unity amidst theological differences and celebrating the richness of diversity within their communities.

As a Christian campus ministry organization, InterVarsity holds fast to traditional Christian beliefs and values. They strive to create an inclusive and welcoming environment that remains firmly rooted in biblical teachings. InterVarsity seeks to challenge and inspire students to live out their faith in meaningful ways, both on campus and beyond. .

Frequently Asked Questions About Studying in Idaho

How does the Christian college in Idaho incorporate faith into the curriculum?

The Christian college in Idaho weaves faith into the curriculum by offering courses that integrate biblical principles with academic subjects. Students have the opportunity to explore the intersection of faith and their chosen fields of study, fostering a holistic approach to learning.

Are there opportunities for student leadership development at the Christian college in Idaho?

Absolutely! The Christian college in Idaho places a strong emphasis on student leadership development. There are various student organizations, clubs, and ministry teams where students can take on leadership roles, empowering them to grow in their skills, character, and service to others.

What resources are available for students who want to deepen their spiritual growth at the Christian college in Idaho?

Chapel services, small group Bible studies, mentoring programs, and retreats are offered to foster a vibrant spiritual community and provide opportunities for students to deepen their faith.

Does the Christian college in Idaho offer opportunities for community engagement and service?

Through partnerships with local organizations, students can engage in community service projects, internships, and mission trips, making a positive impact both locally and globally.

How does the Christian college in Idaho promote a well-rounded education beyond academics and faith?

Alongside academic and spiritual development, the college offers a variety of extracurricular activities such as sports, arts, clubs, and cultural events. These opportunities enhance students’ personal growth, creativity, and social interactions.

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