15 Best Christian Colleges In Arkansas That Will Transform Your Faith And Future

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Published by Kenneth Garcia

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Co-Founder of Biblekeeper, Author & Theologian

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Arkansas is home to several excellent Christian colleges, providing education and spiritual growth opportunities for individuals of faith. With its diverse religious landscape, students pursuing higher education from a Christian perspective[1] will find many options in Arkansas. From small liberal arts colleges to large universities and seminaries, the top 15 Christian colleges in Arkansas offer a variety of degree programs, student activities, and religious engagement opportunities.

These regional universities are some of the best in the nation, offering rigorous academic curricula that combine spiritual development with knowledge and skills used in career fields. Each college balances faith and learning while providing resources for a well-rounded educational journey. From their commitment to service learning to meaningful chapel experiences, these schools offer an environment of faith and spirit that will enrich the lives of their students.

15 Best Christian Colleges In Arkansas

1. John Brown University (Siloam Springs)

Founded in 1919, John Brown University is a private, interdenominational Christian institution that champions a blend of rigorous academics with Christian studies. This distinct approach has earned JBU recognition as a leading Christian university. Offering more than 50 undergraduate majors and several graduate programs, JBU fosters an environment where students can spiritually and academically grow.

2. Harding University (Searcy)

Harding University, one of the largest private universities in Arkansas, is affiliated with the Churches of Christ. The university offers over 100 majors across nine colleges, instilling a strong sense of Christian character and service in its students. At Harding, students are prepared for a life of service and leadership grounded in faith.

3. Ouachita Baptist University (Arkadelphia)

Ouachita Baptist University is a liberal arts institution affiliated with the Arkansas Baptist State Convention. With a wide range of degree programs, OBU provides a supportive, close-knit community that encourages spiritual growth and academic excellence. The university is committed to fostering a love for God and a love for learning among its students.

4. Williams Baptist College (Walnut Ridge)

Williams Baptist College is located on a picturesque 180-acre campus. This school offers a personalized, Christian liberal arts education, emphasizing small class sizes and a low student-to-faculty ratio. This intimate learning environment prioritizes spiritual development alongside academic learning.

5. Central Baptist College (Conway)

Affiliated with the Baptist Missionary Association of Arkansas, Central Baptist College offers a variety of degree programs. The college is particularly known for its PACE Program, designed for working adults who wish to complete their degrees. Central Baptist College combines quality education with a commitment to the Christian faith.

6. Hendrix College (Conway)

Although not explicitly Christian, Hendrix College maintains a relationship with the United Methodist Church. This liberal arts college is known for its innovative curriculum and commitment to experiential learning. Hendrix College encourages students to engage with their faith while pursuing academic excellence in a major field.

7. Philander Smith College (Little Rock)

Philander Smith College is a historically black college affiliated with the United Methodist Church. The college is committed to producing academically accomplished students who are advocates for social justice. Philander Smith College embodies the principles of scholarship, integrity, and faith.

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8. Lyon College (Batesville)

Lyon College, affiliated with the Presbyterian Church (USA), offers a rigorous liberal arts curriculum. The college is known for its Scottish Heritage Program, which celebrates the school’s Scottish roots. Lyon College strives to cultivate an appreciation for lifelong learning, critical inquiry, and active citizenship within a diverse global community.

9. Crowley’s Ridge College (Paragould)

Crowley’s Ridge College is a private, four-year, coeducational Christian liberal arts college. Its mission is to promote academic and spiritual growth in every student. Crowley’s Ridge College offers a holistic education that develops enrollees’ intellectual, spiritual, social, and physical aspects.

10. Ecclesia College (Springdale)

Ecclesia College is a private, four-year Christian work college. It offers biblical instruction, character development, and professional education. Ecclesia College prepares students for Christ-centered service in all aspects of life, emphasizing the importance of living out Christian values in the workplace.

11. Champion Christian College (Hot Springs)

Champion Christian College, associated with the Gospel Light Baptist Church, offers several associate and bachelor’s degree programs. It provides a Christ-centered, Bible-based education that prepares students for Christian leadership. Champion Christian College equips students to be leaders in their churches, communities, and families.

12. Arkansas Baptist College (Little Rock)

Arkansas Baptist College is a private, historically black liberal arts college located in Little Rock. The Colored Baptists of the State of Arkansas founded the institution to prepare students for a life of service. This preparation is grounded in academic scholarship, the liberal arts tradition, social responsibility, and culture.

13. University Of The Ozarks (Clarksville)

The University of the Ozarks is a private liberal arts university affiliated with the Presbyterian Church. It offers diverse academic programs and emphasizes character development and personal integrity. The University of the Ozarks creates an intellectual and spiritual growth environment where students are encouraged to explore their faith and values.

14. Shorter College (North Little Rock)

Shorter College is a private, faith-based, two-year liberal arts college. Affiliated with the African Methodist Episcopal Church, it provides students with the skills needed for lifelong learning and service to their communities. Shorter College nurtures a sense of ethical responsibility and a commitment to social justice in its students.

15. Baptist Health College Little Rock (Little Rock)

Baptist Health College Little Rock is a Christian institution focused on healthcare education. It offers degrees in various health disciplines and is dedicated to excellence in education, patient care, service, and research. Baptist Health College Little Rock equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in health while embodying Christian values.

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Conclusion

Arkansas is home to a diverse collection of Christian colleges that provide students with a faith-based education. These institutions offer diverse degree programs and foster an environment of spiritual growth and academic excellence.

From John Brown University to Baptist Health College Little Rock, Arkansas’s top 15 Christian colleges allow students to pursue their dreams while building their character and deepening their faith. No matter your educational or spiritual goals, there is a Christian college in Arkansas that can help you reach them.

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