Top 14 Best Christian Colleges in Pennsylvania
In the heart of rolling hills and vibrant cities, Pennsylvania boasts a unique landscape of Christian colleges, each weaving faith with academic excellence. If ... read more...you seek a bustling campus or a serene setting, nestled among forests or overlooking historic towns, these institutions offer diverse paths to grow your mind and spirit. In this article, Toplist has compiled some of the best Christian colleges in Pennsylvania, that you can refer to.
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Lancaster Bible College is a remarkable institution dedicated to nurturing its students through a philosophy called "Life-on-Life." Rooted in a rich history dating back 90 years, the college takes pride in its commitment to preparing students for the future.
Offering various academic programs including traditional undergraduate, online, seminary, and graduate courses, LBC stands out as an institution focused on providing a holistic educational experience. The college's 4+1 programs offer students the unique opportunity to earn both a bachelor's and a master's degree in just five years, emphasizing its dedication to career preparation and academic achievement.
Furthermore, LBC has received various accolades, including being recognized as the Best Christian College in PA, and its strong support for military families through the Yellow Ribbon Program. This institution's focus on "Life-on-Life" means fostering lasting friendships, nurturing relationships, and engaging with faculty and staff who genuinely care. LBC is truly an exceptional place for those seeking a well-rounded and faith-based education.
DETAILED INFORMATION:
- Founded: 1933
- Phone: 717.569.7071
- Cost: $22,700 / year
- Students: 738 Undergrads
- Address: 901 Eden Rd, Lancaster, PA
- Website: https://www.lbc.edu/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lancasterbible
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lancasterbiblecollege/
- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/lancasterbible
Ranking:
- Best Colleges for Religious Studies in America: 45 of 378
- Best College Dorms in America: 115 of 1,363
- Best Christian Colleges in America: 117 of 333
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Messiah University, located in central Pennsylvania, is a top-ranked private Christian institution dedicated to academic excellence and the integration of faith into all aspects of learning. With a beautiful 375-acre campus, it offers a nurturing and thriving community where over 2,750 undergraduate students find a second home.
The university provides a wide range of academic programs, including 150+ undergraduate and pre-professional degree options and 20+ graduate degree and certificate programs. Known for its commitment to experiential learning, Messiah University offers diverse opportunities for students to explore their interests and pursue their passions, from study abroad programs to career-focused internships.
The university emphasizes the holistic development of students, supporting their academic, personal, and spiritual growth. With a reputation for academic distinction and a vibrant Christian community, Messiah University stands as a transformative environment, shaping the lives of its 3,370 undergraduate and graduate students.
DETAILED INFORMATION:
- Founded: 1909
- Phone: 717-796-1800
- Cost: $23,895 / year
- Students: 2,304 Undergrads
- Address: One University Avenue Mechanicsburg PA
- Website: https://www.messiah.edu/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MessiahUniversity/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/messiah_univ/
- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/messiahcollege
Ranking:
- Best Christian Colleges in America: 92 of 333
- Best Colleges for Sports Management in America: 135 of 454
- Best Colleges for Public Policy in America: 152 of 643
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Lebanon Valley College is a private liberal arts college located in Annville, Pennsylvania. Established in 1866, it offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs in fields such as business, education, science, and the arts. The college is known for its strong sense of community and its personalized approach to education, with a student-faculty ratio of 10:1. Lebanon Valley College also emphasizes hands-on learning, offering students opportunities for internships, research, and study abroad experiences.
The campus features state-of-the-art facilities, including modern academic buildings, residence halls, and athletic centers. The college is affiliated with the United Methodist Church and promotes values of social justice, service, and ethical leadership. Its strong athletics program, competing at the NCAA Division III level, and vibrant student organizations contribute to a well-rounded college experience. Lebanon Valley College has a rich history and a commitment to providing a transformative educational experience that prepares students for success in their careers and communities.DETAILED INFORMATION:
- Founded: 1866
- Phone: +1 717-867-6161
- Cost: $26,944 / year
- Students: 1,587 Undergrads
- Address: 101 N College Ave, Annville, PA
- Website: https://www.lvc.edu/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lebanonvalleycollege/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lebanonvalleycollege/
Ranking:
- Best Colleges for Music in America: 103 of 265
- Best Colleges for Kinesiology and Physical Therapy in America: 115 of 591
- Safest College Campuses in America: 364 of 1,306
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Eastern University, situated near Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is a distinguished Christian university renowned for offering a wide array of over 130 nationally recognized undergraduate and graduate degree programs and certifications. The institution's core values of faith, reason, and justice are intricately woven into the fabric of all its academic offerings and campus life.
With a commitment to a 15:1 student-to-teacher ratio, Eastern University provides a personalized and supportive learning environment. Notably, students can expect a holistic collegiate experience with opportunities for athletics, student life, and faith-based activities.
East University’s rich history and commitment to academic excellence are further exemplified through its strategic alliances and partnerships, national recognition, and innovative academic initiatives. With a legacy of producing well-rounded, socially conscious graduates, Eastern University stands as a beacon of scholarly and spiritual growth, empowering students to thrive within a dynamic and inclusive community.
DETAILED INFORMATION:
- Founded: 1925
- Phone: 610-341-5800
- Cost: $24,199 / year
- Students: 1,281 Undergrads
- Address: 1300 Eagle Road St. Davids, PA
- Website: https://www.eastern.edu/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EasternUniversity
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/easternuniversity/
- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/EasternVideos
Ranking:
- Best Colleges for Religious Studies in America: 164 of 378
- Best Colleges for Public Policy in America: 184 of 643
- Best Colleges for History in America: 250 of 933
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Grove City College, situated an hour from Pittsburgh, upholds a tradition of academic excellence guided by eternal truths. This classical campus provides a Christ-centered living and learning experience, endeavoring to equip students with purpose. The college emphasizes the pivotal nature of the college years, encouraging individuals to discover and cultivate their God-given calling.
With an unwavering commitment to freedom of conscience, Grove City College empowers students to understand the Truth of who God is and their intended purpose. Adhering to rigorous academic standards, the college is nationally recognized and highly ranked. Notably, Impact 150: The Anniversary Campaign aims to further empower students, provide a rigorous education grounded in timeless truths, and bolster the institution's national reputation in higher education.
With a focus on personalized education, a 13:1 student-to-faculty ratio ensures individual attention. Featuring a vibrant community of caring students, more than 150 student organizations, and a range of academic programs in arts, sciences, and business, Grove City College offers a holistic and exceptional educational journey.
DETAILED INFORMATION:
- Founded: 1876
- Phone: 724.458.2000
- Cost: $21,846 / year
- Students: 2,146 Undergrads
- Address: 100 Campus Drive Grove City, PA
- Website: https://www.gcc.edu/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/grovecitycollege
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/grovectycollege/
- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/grovecitycollege
Ranking:
- Most Conservative Colleges in America: 6 of 100
- Best Colleges for Accounting and Finance in America: 331 of 828
- Best Colleges for Education in America: 421 of 972
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Bryn Athyn College, established in 1877, is a private Christian institution located in Bryn Athyn, Pennsylvania. Affiliated with the General Church of the New Jerusalem, the college's roots trace back to the Academy of the New Church and have since grown into a comprehensive educational institution.
With a stunning 130-acre suburban campus, the college offers a range of undergraduate programs, emphasizing a blend of academic excellence and spiritual nurturing. The institution's history is closely linked to the teachings of Emanuel Swedenborg, which influence the educational approach, including religious courses and a religion major.
The campus boasts notable facilities including a performing arts center, fine arts center, an ice-rink, and historic buildings within the Bryn Athyn Historic District. Notably, the Bryn Athyn Cathedral and Glencairn Museum are significant architectural and cultural attractions on campus. Bryn Athyn College provides a multidimensional learning experience deeply rooted in Christian values and academic rigor.
DETAILED INFORMATION:
- Founded: 1877
- Phone: +1 267-502-6000
- Cost: $24,396 / year
- Students: 228 Undergrads
- Address: 2945 College Drive, Bryn Athyn, PA
- Website: https://www.brynathyn.edu/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brynathyncollege
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brynathyncollege/
- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/brynathyncollege
Ranking:
- Most Liberal Colleges in America: 75 of 100
- Best Colleges for English in America: 298 of 901
- Best Colleges for Criminal Justice in America: 324 of 706
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Geneva College, located in Beaver Falls, PA, is a Christ-centered academic community offering a comprehensive education that equips students for faithful and fruitful service to God and neighbor. With a 55-acre campus, Geneva offers over 145 traditional undergraduate majors and programs, including in areas such as business, engineering, education, biology, communication, psychology, student ministry, cybersecurity, and nursing.
Additionally, the college provides an array of fully online bachelor's programs designed for busy adults and a range of high-demand graduate degrees in both classroom and online formats. Geneva's programs are recognized for their high quality, with U.S. News & World Report ranking the institution as a Top Three Best Value Regional University. Committed to integrating faith and learning, Geneva College encourages students to pursue their unique callings and offers a community that inspires students to discover a faith-life calling in service to God and neighbor.
DETAILED INFORMATION:
- Founded: 1848
- Phone: +1 724-846-5100
- Cost: $19,895 / year
- Students: 996 Undergrads
- Address: 3200 College Ave, Beaver Falls, PA
- Website: https://www.geneva.edu/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/genevacollege
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/genevacollege/
- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/genevacollege
Ranking:
- Best Colleges for Religious Studies in America: 173 of 378
- Safest College Campuses in America: 436 of 1,306
- Best College Food in America: 618 of 1,361
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Waynesburg University, located in Southwestern Pennsylvania, is a Christian university dedicated to the values of faith, learning, and service. With a curriculum deeply rooted in liberal arts and global experiential opportunities, it strives to nurture the spirit of its students.
The university boasts a supportive community in which students are encouraged to connect and engage in service. Academically, it offers excellent student-to-faculty ratios, with an average class size of 13. Additionally, 100% of students receive some form of financial assistance, and 99% of the class of 2022 reported being employed or in graduate school. The tuition, room, and board at Waynesburg University are approximately $13,000 below the national average for private, non-profit, four-year colleges.
Beyond academics, students at Waynesburg are known for their commitment to serving the local community, with 6 out of 7 days a week dedicated to community service. The university prides itself on shaping well-rounded, thoughtful, and service-oriented individuals, as evidenced by the testimonials of its diverse student body.
DETAILED INFORMATION:
- Founded: 1849
- Phone: 1.800.225.7393
- Cost: $22,070 / year
- Students: 1,132 Undergrads
- Address: 51 W College St, Waynesburg, PA
- Website: https://www.waynesburg.edu/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/waynesburguniversity
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/waynesburgu/
- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/waynesburgedu
Ranking:
- Safest College Campuses in America: 200 of 1,306
- Best Colleges for Criminal Justice in America: 211 of 706
- Best Value Colleges in America: 646 of 1,482
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Westminster College, founded on January 21, 1875, in New Wilmington, Pennsylvania, has a rich history deeply intertwined with its affiliation with the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). As one of the earliest coeducational colleges in the nation, Westminster has remained true to its mission of promoting the spirit and values of Christianity while nurturing the intellectual, spiritual, and social development of individuals.
Renowned for its commitment to students' needs, Westminster has solidified its position as one of the nation's finest liberal arts colleges. The college has been recognized for its high graduation rate, earning a place in the U.S. News Best Colleges guide and appearing in "The Best 379 Colleges" by The Princeton Review.
Embracing diversity and traditions, Westminster is open to various religious perspectives and strives to express the relationship between its religious heritage and liberal arts values in today's evolving world. Upholding traditions such as the Faculty Gauntlet, the Rock, and the Duff-Armington Memorial Carillon, Westminster College continues to foster a community of excellence, civility, and inclusivity.
DETAILED INFORMATION:
- Founded: 1875
- Phone: +1 800-942-8033
- Cost: $20,258 / year
- Students: 1,064 Undergrads
- Address: 319 South Market Street New Wilmington, PA
- Website: https://www.westminster.edu/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/westminsterpa
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/westminsterpa/
- YouTube: https://shorturl.at/wFQ59
Ranking:
- Best Value Colleges in America: 261 of 1,482
- Best Colleges for Biology in America: 461 of 1,102
- Safest College Campuses in America: 776 of 1,306
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Wilson College is a private, Christian institution nestled in Chambersburg, Pennsylvania. With a close-knit community, the college boasts a small enrollment of 586 undergraduate students and an impressive 93% acceptance rate. The campus offers a nurturing environment for its diverse student body, with popular majors including Nursing, Veterinary Technician and Assistant, and Business.
Wilson's commitment to academic excellence is exemplified by its dedicated faculty and a favorable student-to-faculty ratio of 11:1. The college prides itself on offering evening degree programs and a blend of online and on-campus learning options to cater to diverse student needs.
Wilson excels in producing well-rounded graduates, as evidenced by a starting salary of $29,000 and an outstanding 92% employment rate two years after graduation. The campus life reflects a mix of characteristics, from a leaning towards animal lovers and friendly traits among the student body to a focus on varsity sporting events and attaining valuable career preparation within a supportive community.
DETAILED INFORMATION:
- Founded: 1869
- Phone: 717-262-2002
- Cost: $22,200 / year
- Students: 586 Undergrads
- Address: 1015 Philadelphia Ave., Chambersburg, PA
- Website: https://www.wilson.edu/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WilsonCollegePa
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wilsoncollegepa/
Ranking:
- Safest College Campuses in America: 19 of 1,306
- Best College Locations in America: 826 of 1,527
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Founded in 1866, Thiel College is a distinguished institution offering a comprehensive Religion major program designed to provide students with a profound understanding of Christianity and other world religions. This program, leading to a Bachelor of Arts degree, delves into diverse subjects, including Hebrew, Greek, psychology of religion, and sociology of religion.
Through the liberal arts curriculum, students are prepared for careers beyond ordained ministry, with a focus on understanding the unity and diversity of the world's religions. Featuring an array of internships and practicum opportunities, the program also offers an extensive scholarship lineup, including the William F. Behringer Scholarship, Edith Binkley Scholarship, and many more.
Graduates have pursued advanced degrees at prestigious institutions such as Harvard Divinity School and have forged successful careers in teaching, financial planning, non-profit administration, and hospitality. Thiel College's commitment to holistic education and diverse career pathways distinguishes it as a premier destination for aspiring scholars of religion.
DETAILED INFORMATION:
- Founded: 1866
- Phone: 1-800-248-4435
- Cost: $22,883 / year
- Students: 770 Undergrads
- Address: 75 College Ave Greenville, PA
- Website: https://www.thiel.edu/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thielcollege
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thielcollege/
Ranking:
- Top Party Schools in America: 504 of 1,512
- Safest College Campuses in America: 661 of 1,306
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Clarks Summit University is a private Christian college offering a diverse range of degrees in business, counseling, education, ministry, science, and more. Established in 1932, the university is committed to providing a Christ-centered, career-focused education, emphasizing the integration of faith and learning.
Students can benefit from a reputable faculty and a supportive staff dedicated to preparing them for influential career paths while maintaining a strong Christian worldview. With a remarkable student-to-professor ratio of 11:1 and over 80 program options, the university prides itself on offering immersive learning experiences both on-campus and through its flexible online programs.
Notably, 99% of undergraduate students receive CSU scholarships, demonstrating the institution's commitment to supporting their students' educational endeavors. Clarks Summit University provides a rich and nurturing environment for students to grow academically, spiritually, and professionally, setting them on a path to impactful careers and ministry opportunities.
DETAILED INFORMATION:
- Founded: 1932
- Phone: 800.451.7664
- Cost: $17,216 / year
- Students: 321 Undergrads
- Address: 538 Venard Road Clarks Summit, PA
- Website: https://www.clarkssummitu.edu/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ClarksSummitU/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ClarksSummitU/
- YouTube: https://shorturl.at/qELN8
Ranking:
- Best Colleges for Religious Studies in America: 37 of 378
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The University of Valley Forge (UVF) stands as a Christian beacon of university and spiritual enrichment, fostering a vibrant community dedicated to equipping students for impactful service and leadership in both the church and the wider world. Nestled in a picturesque setting, UVF offers a diverse range of programs designed to nurture well-rounded individuals to honor God in their chosen paths.
The campus experience is underscored by a strong sense of community and faith, with opportunities for growth and engagement woven into the fabric of daily life. Notably, UVF encapsulates its commitment to excellence through a robust curriculum, experiential learning, and a wealth of extracurricular activities. From the esteemed Christmas at Valley Forge concert to immersive experiences like the Media Production Team's service at the World Assemblies of God Congress in Madrid, UVF cultivates an enriching environment that fosters personal, spiritual, and professional development.
DETAILED INFORMATION:
- Founded: 1939
- Phone: 800.432.8322
- Cost: $23,944 / year
- Students: 425 Undergrads
- Address: 1401 Charlestown Road, Phoenixville, PA
- Website: https://valleyforge.edu/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/UValleyForge/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/uvalleyforge/
- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@UValleyForge
Ranking:
- Best Colleges for Religious Studies in America: 84 of 378
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Albright College, located in Reading, Pennsylvania, is a private, Christian institution renowned for its small, close-knit community. With 1,312 undergraduate students and a somewhat competitive 76% acceptance rate, Albright offers a personalized academic experience.
The college boasts a diverse range of majors including Business, Psychology, and Sociology, and a remarkable 96% of students receive financial aid. With an emphasis on a supportive and inclusive environment, Albright achieves a student-faculty ratio of 10:1, offering evening degree programs and a robust array of majors including Fashion and Apparel Design, Industrial and Organizational Psychology, and Communications.
Campus life is vibrant, with 82% of freshmen living on-site and a strong focus on community involvement. Post-graduation, 65% of students are employed within 2 years and alumni earn a starting salary of $39,500. Reviews highlight the college's unique community, close professor-student relationships, and the emphasis on mental well-being. Altogether, Albright College offers a distinctive and supportive educational experience, fostering a strong sense of community and individualized attention.
DETAILED INFORMATION:
- Founded: 1856
- Phone: 610.921.2381
- Cost: $20,884 / year
- Students: 1,312 Undergrads
- Address: 1621 N. 13th Street Reading, PA
- Website: https://www.albright.edu/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AlbrightCollege/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/AlbrightCollege/
- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/albrightcollege1856
Ranking:
- Most Diverse Colleges in America: 283 of 1,517