CLT Colleges

in Illinois

Greenville University, an Illinois private college affiliated with the Free Methodist Church, began as Almira College in 1855 before becoming Greenville College in 1892. It was further renamed to its present name in 2017, and holds students to a Christ-centered lifestyle as stated in the Lifestyle Statement, cultivating a grace-based atmosphere for growth and recovery. The 800-student campus has historical structures and a wireless network pioneer. Football, track and field, basketball, and other sports have enjoyed success in the NCAA Division III and SLIAC. The faculty-centered educational approach prioritizes excellence in teaching, scholarship, and service.

Olivet Nazarene University, founded in 1907, exemplifies a dedication to Christian principles in higher education. It is located in Bourbonnais, Illinois, and provides recognized programs ranging from associate to doctoral degrees in more than 140 fields of study. The 275-acre site features cutting-edge technology as well as historic landmarks. It is a faith-based organization with a long history and strong denominational ties to the Church of the Nazarene. The university, which is noted for its academic and athletic programs, has a varied student body, with over 80 clubs and 21 intercollegiate sports teams known as the Tigers. Previously, the Chicago Bears had their training camp here.

Trinity Christian College is a private Christian institution in Palos Heights, Illinois, founded in 1959 by Chicago businessmen. The campus has nearly 70 programs and important facilities such as the Ozinga Chapel, Heritage Science Center, Art and Communication Center, and the DeVos Athletics and Recreation Center. Trinity offers about 1,000 traditional undergraduates and has expanded to include graduate and adult programs, with a strong emphasis on Reformed Christianity. It is The Higher Learning Commission-accredited and emphasizes accelerated learning, with cohorts for adult programs and hybrid courses for master's degrees. The Trolls compete in 14 varsity sports at the NAIA and NCCAA levels.

Wheaton College, founded by abolitionists in 1860, exemplifies evangelical Christian beliefs. It broke denominational connections, backed the Underground Railroad, and graduated Edward Breathitte Sellers, one of Illinois' first black graduates, in 1866. J. Oliver Buswell's term provided progress but ended in turmoil in 1940. Despite criticism, Wheaton College rose to prominence as a premier Evangelical university, emphasizing faith-integrated learning and a thriving musical conservatory. It is known for its academic excellence, but it is also known for its conservative viewpoints, which has led to its designation as an LGBTQ-unfriendly institution. While advancing academically and athletically, the college remains committed to Christian ideals.