Minnesota, often referred to as the “Land of 10,000 Lakes,” is also the location of several prestigious Christian colleges that afford students an education rooted in faith. Scattered throughout the state, these institutions excel in offering a blend of academic rigor and spiritual growth[1]. In the sphere of higher education, Minnesota presents a wide array of options, regardless of whether one prefers the close-knit atmosphere of a smaller campus, such as Oak Hills Christian College, or the grand settings of Saint John’s University.
Within these hallowed halls, a common thread unites them—a commitment to nurturing not just academic excellence but the spirit as well. Institutions associated with various Christian traditions, such as Roman Catholic, Presbyterian, Methodist, and nondenominational affiliations, create a close community. Here, students grow both intellectually and spiritually, balancing the quest for knowledge with faith exploration.
Contents
- 1 15 Best Christian Colleges In Minnesota
- 1.1 1. Bethel University
- 1.2 2. Northwestern College
- 1.3 3. Concordia College
- 1.4 4. Crown College
- 1.5 5. University of Northwestern—St. Paul
- 1.6 6. Augsburg University
- 1.7 7. Martin Luther College
- 1.8 8. Gustavus Adolphus College
- 1.9 9. Saint John’s University
- 1.10 10. St. Olaf College
- 1.11 11. College of Saint Benedict
- 1.12 12. Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota
- 1.13 13. Oak Hills Christian College
- 1.14 14. North Central University
- 1.15 15. Macalester College
- 2 Conclusion
15 Best Christian Colleges In Minnesota
1. Bethel University
Located within the vibrant city of St. Paul, Bethel University stands as a beacon of enlightened Christian liberal arts education, renowned for its unwavering dedication to harmonizing faith with academia. With a rich tapestry of over 100 undergraduate and advanced degree programs, Bethel University nurtures a fertile environment where students embark on a transformative journey, fostering not only their intellectual growth but also the deepening of their spiritual connection.
2. Northwestern College
Situated in Roseville, Northwestern College stands as a testimony to Christ-centered education. With over 70 areas of study, it offers a diverse range of programs. Its robust campus ministry program and numerous opportunities for students to engage in local and global missions make it a top choice for Christian students.
3. Concordia College
Concordia College in Moorhead is a renowned institution offering more than 50 majors, including a comprehensive theology program. The college’s commitment to Christian service is manifested in its numerous community outreach programs and service-learning opportunities.
4. Crown College
Crown College in St. Bonifacius provides a holistic Christian education with over 40 undergraduate and graduate programs. Besides academic excellence, Crown College encourages spiritual growth through chapel services, Bible studies, and mission trips. Some of its popular courses include sports management, communication, and elementary education.
5. University of Northwestern—St. Paul
The University of Northwestern-St. Paul is a private Christian university emphasizing faith, academics, and character development. Offering over 75 undergraduate and graduate degree programs across various disciplines, it has a rich tradition of preparing students to make a difference in the world. It is situated right in the heart of the Twin Cities.
6. Augsburg University
In the heart of Minneapolis, Augsburg University emerges as a dynamic private liberal arts college deeply intertwined with the values of the Evangelical Lutheran Church. This is education with a purpose, where students aren’t just taught; they’re inspired to become agents of positive change. If you’re seeking a college experience that’s more than a degree, Augsburg beckons—a place where ideals come alive and education becomes a force for good.
You might also want to think about Bethany Lutheran College if you’re looking for another Lutheran university. The Evangelical Lutheran Synod runs the site, which overlooks the Minnesota River. The college also provides master’s degree programs online.
7. Martin Luther College
The Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod oversees Martin Luther College, a dynamic coeducational institution nestled within the charming embrace of New Ulm. This venerable college serves as a crucible for aspiring educators, pastoral scholars, and future leaders in staff ministry. With a profound commitment to preparing students for their roles in public ministry, Martin Luther College opens the door to a transformative educational experience in a serene setting.
8. Gustavus Adolphus College
Gustavus Adolphus College is a private liberal arts institution deeply rooted in its affiliation with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. Renowned for its dynamic science programs, this college isn’t just a place of academic pursuit; it’s a spirited hub of exploration.
Here, science takes root in the very ethos of the campus. But that’s not all. Gustavus Adolphus College doesn’t just feed the intellect; it nourishes the soul. With a lively spiritual life, the campus pulsates with regular worship services and beckons students to embark on missions of compassion and purpose. They offer a living community where learning, faith, and action converge in an inspiring symphony of growth and discovery.
9. Saint John’s University
Saint John’s University in Minnesota is a private men’s liberal arts college located in Collegeville. It was founded in 1857 and is affiliated with the Roman Catholic Church. The university, also known as SJU, shares an academic partnership with the nearby College of Saint Benedict, a women’s college.
More than 3,000 acres of pristine forests, prairies, and lakes surround Saint John’s University, which is situated in a rural setting. It offers various undergraduate programs and strongly emphasizes liberal arts education.
10. St. Olaf College
St. Olaf College in Northfield is a coeducational, residential college affiliated with the Evangelical Lutheran Church of America. It is known for its strong academic programs and commitment to cultivating a vibrant Christian community on campus.
11. College of Saint Benedict
The College of Saint Benedict graces the academic landscape of St. Joseph as a sanctuary for women’s liberal arts education. Rooted in deep affiliation with the Roman Catholic Church, it nurtures a fertile soil where intellectual rigor flourishes alongside the blossoming of spiritual growth and development. Within these hallowed halls, young minds embark on a journey that transcends traditional education, cultivating a harmonious fusion of knowledge, faith, and personal enlightenment.
12. Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota
Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota, located in Winona, is a private, coeducational university. The Lasallian Catholic institution offers more than 60 undergraduate programs and fosters a close-knit community with a strong emphasis on service and social justice.
13. Oak Hills Christian College
Oak Hills Christian Institution is a private, nondenominational Christian institution in Bemidji, Minnesota. The institution, as a branch of Oak Hills Fellowship, is committed to delivering faith-based education.
With roughly 100 students pursuing associate’s and bachelor’s degrees in the 2022–2023 academic year, the college offers a variety of undergraduate programs. Despite its modest size, the college boasts an active athletic program, with men’s and women’s basketball teams competing in the National Christian College Athletic Association (NCCAA) Division II North Region.
14. North Central University
With deep roots in the Pentecostal tradition of the Assemblies of God, NCU offers a diverse array of undergraduate programs, spanning the realms of business, education, fine arts, and pastoral studies. Within the bustling cityscape, North Central invites students on a transformative academic and spiritual journey where faith and learning converge in harmonious union.
It also provides online degrees for those who wish to study remotely. In addition to its academic offerings, the university has a vibrant athletics program and is home to the NCU Rams, who compete in NCAA Division III. The university prides itself on its commitment to integrating faith and academics.
15. Macalester College
Macalester College, located in Saint Paul, Minnesota, is a renowned Christian institution. As a top-ranked liberal arts college, it offers students a comprehensive academic experience within a faith-based environment.
Founded in 1874 with Presbyterian ties, Macalester combines rigorous academics with a commitment to internationalism, multiculturalism, and service to society. Its small campus fosters a close-knit community, while its location in Minneapolis-St. Paul metro area provides ample opportunities for cultural immersion and internships.
Conclusion
Minnesota has many Christian colleges offering students an excellent faith-based education. Each institution is committed to integrating faith into academics and cultivating a vibrant spiritual life on campus, from small, intimate campuses like Oak Hills Christian College to larger universities such as Saint John’s University.
These institutions provide students with a special chance to advance in both their academic and spiritual endeavors. Minnesota is a great location for students looking for a top-notch Christian education because there are so many different denominations and programs to select from there.