5 Reasons to Choose a Christian College

The college search presents plenty of options—each with its own selection of academic programs, financial aid offerings and co-curricular activities. But what about a college that shares your Christian values and beliefs? For some high schoolers, being part of a community where their faith can flourish is just as important as learning from top profs or being recruited to a fine arts or athletic program.

Here are a few reasons why a Christian college might be the right fit for you—and how it leads to spiritual growth, lifelong friendships, and success in your education, career and life.

1. Be surrounded by people who care about you.

   Christian colleges are usually smaller in size, so you’ll enjoy small classes with personal attention from your professors. At large universities, teaching assistants often do much of the lecturing, but on a smaller campus, you’ll learn directly from your professors—and better yet, get to know them. At Northwestern College, we emphasize the value of community—because you simply learn better and grow more when others know and care about you. It’s one reason we worship together in chapel twice a week, plan student events that foster friendships, and have professional resident directors who serve as live-in mentors in the dorms.  

2. Integrate your faith into daily learning and living.

   Chapel services, praying in class, and dorm Bible studies are all things you might experience at a college that’s intentionally Christian. Other colleges and universities might have Christian ministry groups, but Christ-centered discussions in the classroom or in everyday interactions will be rare. That’s one of the reasons Northwestern’s faith integration stands out—our professors are eager to discuss what serving God looks like in their fields of expertise, so you’ll be prepared for a career that’s rooted in faith. You’ll also explore questions about the Bible and Christianity with other students during weekly D-Groups (discipleship groups) in the dorms.

3. Engage in hands-on service—locally, nationally and across the globe.

   Did you love participating in high school mission trips? If so, you should pick a college where you can do even more! Many Christian colleges connect students with volunteer ministry and mission opportunities in their region (and these experiences look great on a resume). Northwestern students love to serve others—so much so that many spend their spring or summer breaks working with churches, homeless shelters, refugee camps and other nonprofit organizations on Spring Service Partnerships or a Summer of Service.

4. Meet other students who are passionate about God and be held accountable in your faith journey.

   College is a hugely formative time. The relationships you form and the impact they have on you and your character could last a lifetime, so it’s beneficial to attend a school where others share your core values. You’ll still encounter people who see the world differently from you, but your shared faith in Jesus Christ can provide common ground for conversation and growth. You’ll also find that Christian college towns are usually home to churches that welcome students with open arms (and sometimes, a free meal). That spirit of hospitality might make your transition away from home a little easier—and help you find spiritual support during your college years.

5. Prepare for a career—and a life—that makes a difference.

   When faith is at the center of your college experience, you’ll have more opportunities to explore God’s call and how to use your unique gifts in the world. We think Northwestern College is the best place to do just that. Raiders aren’t just top accountants, skilled physicians and creative teachers; they’re also faithful spouses, caring parents and dedicated community members. No matter where life takes you, a Northwestern education will empower you for success at work, at home and in the world.