B.P. 3189

Route des Peres Maristes

(Hann II)

Dakar, Senegal

West Africa

School Office: 221.832.06.82

Business Office: 221.832.05.73

Fax: 221.832.17.21

Christian College...

or Not?

A persuasive case can be made for attending a Christian college or a secular institution. Some of the pros and cons are listed below. It is important to inform yourself about the differences (and similarities) between schools, INCLUDING the spiritual life on the campus.

"Christian" Schools

There are many universities in the U.S. that have a “historical connection” with a particular denomination (the school was founded by a church group).  That does not necessarily mean that the school continues to be a “Christian” school.  Several of the largest Ivy League schools were started by Christian denominations - they are decidedly secular campuses now.

On the other hand, there are also Christian liberal arts colleges that are “evangelical” – the living out of the Christian faith and the promotion of a Christian worldview are core values of such schools.  There are many different denominations that are connected with these schools.  Some of these schools admit only Christian students and professors; others have a more diverse student population and staff.

• Class sizes: classes tend to be smaller, with more attention paid by professors to individuals.

• Professors:  professors do the majority of teaching (not assistants); they may not have the highest degree possible; they may not be involved in research; while they may challenge students to think about their beliefs, they will in general be supportive of Christian values.

• Campus:  usually a smaller student body, but generally well-supported by alumni, adequate if not outstanding facilities (although many schools have been quick to upgrade computer networking).

• Diversity: the student population may be more homogenous than you are used to, especially if you chose a denominational school that doesn’t have a lot of students from other church backgrounds or ethnic backgrounds.  If you are a “seeker,” looking for a place to challenge the Christian faith or live outside its boundaries, you might not be comfortable in some of these schools.

• Dorm life: you will not be as likely to be subjected to drunkenness, drugs, violence or theft at a Christian school (statistics bear this out), and although there will be some occurrences, the disruption to your study or safety will be much less than at a secular school.

• Sports: may or may not be available, and most schools belong to lower NCAA divisions or other leagues.

• Fellowship & Worship: There will probably be a chapel on campus with a full-time chaplain or pastor; attendance may or may not be required.  There will be several fellowship groups and outreach ministries available.

Secular Schools

Many of the world’s most highly regarded schools are secular institutions.  Their facilities and staff may be outstanding, offering opportunities that smaller schools cannot.  And, although some of them are top-ranked “party schools,” there are also schools which take learning very seriously and attract students who are genuinely seeking a top-quality education.         

• Large classes, sometimes taught by assistants, but top-rank professors with the highest degree

• Excellent facilities: labs, computers, studios are generally quite good

• Large campuses, usually very attractive, often with buildings scattered throughout a wide radius.

• Such schools can attract world-reknowned speakers, teachers and performers, many of them alumni.

• Cost: state universities are much less expensive for residents.  Scholarship and grant money may be harder to come by since there are more students competing for the money.  On the other hand, some private schools are very well endowed by alumni and corporations, and this enables them to do a good job of offering financial aid.

• Sports programs are larger, more competitive and better-funded (although some state schools have experienced cut-backs).

• If you are an active Christian, you will probably be in a minority, but let your light shine.  Most campuses offer Christian groups such as Inter-Varsity, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Campus Crusade and others.   You might have to go off-campus to attend church.

• Worldview: most U.S. secular campuses are politically liberal, and you will be more likely to encounter opposition to your beliefs in the classroom and elsewhere on campus.   Promotion of “tolerance” may include lifestyles and attitudes that are at odds with your beliefs.

• Dorm life can be more difficult, although more campuses are offering the option of non-drinking dorms, single sex dorms and non-smoking dorms as well as honors dorms.

• Diversity: lots of it, both ethnically and ideologically.

• Freedom: you will have opportunities (and the accompanying temptations) to make choices in many areas of your life.

It is possible to survive and thrive at a secular school. Weigh the pros and cons carefully and be sure to talk to someone who has attended the school. A campus visit is essential.

Last Updated: 03/16/2005 10:28