Christian colleges in the United States have a long and rich history that dates back to the colonial period. These institutions were founded by various Christian denominations with the aim of providing students with a well-rounded education grounded in the principles of faith.
One of the first Christian colleges in the United States was Harvard University, which was founded in 1636 by Puritan ministers. However, over time, Harvard became more secularized, leading to the founding of other Christian colleges that placed a stronger emphasis on faith.
In the 18th and 19th centuries, several denominations, such as the Methodists, Presbyterians, and Baptists, founded their own colleges. These institutions aimed to provide a liberal arts education within the context of their respective faiths. Some notable examples of these early Christian colleges include Yale University, Princeton University, and Wheaton College.
During the early 20th century, Christian colleges continued to grow in popularity, particularly among evangelical Christians. Many of these institutions were founded with the aim of providing an alternative to secular universities, which were seen as increasingly hostile to Christianity.
In the 1940s and 1950s, the number of Christian colleges in the United States continued to increase. Many of these institutions were founded by evangelical leaders, such as Billy Graham, who saw the need for Christian education in a rapidly changing world.
Today, Christian colleges in the United States are known for their commitment to faith-based education and the integration of faith and learning. These institutions offer a wide range of programs, from liberal arts and sciences to professional and vocational programs, all with a focus on preparing students to live out their faith in their chosen careers.
Many Christian colleges also offer a variety of extracurricular activities and ministry opportunities, such as mission trips and service projects, allowing students to put their faith into action.
The following list includes Christian colleges by state: