CLT Colleges in

Michigan

Adrian College, established in the Methodist tradition in 1859, stresses a transformative educational experience based on truth and dignity. It is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and is known for its innovation and value, having been named a "Most Innovative College" and a "Best Value College" by U.S. News & World Report. It has a bustling campus culture and offers more than 90 majors, 14 specialized master's programs, and institutes focused on numerous topics. Academic buildings, sports facilities, and student housing have all undergone significant additions and modifications. The Bulldogs, who compete in Division III athletics, offer a diverse range of varsity sports and are constantly improving their athletic programs.

Calvin University was founded in 1876 by the Christian Reformed Church, initially for ministerial training. Following the principles of Dutch theologian Abraham Kuyper, it evolved into a liberal arts institution, extending its curriculum and campus. Calvin University was renamed in 2019 after facing financial difficulties and academic reorganization. The institution maintains accreditation and offers diverse majors, including graduate programs. It stresses cultural involvement and core curriculum integration and has strong theological foundation. The university, known for its off-campus initiatives and unique learning opportunities, continues to develop and adapt.

Calvin University, founded in 1876 by the Christian Reformed Church, is a distinctively Christian liberal arts university in Grand Rapids, Michigan. The university offers over 100 academic programs and is known for its commitment to academic excellence, with an emphasis on intentional participation in the renewal of all things. Calvin's campus spans 390 acres, and it is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. With a diverse student body, it maintains a strong focus on culture-building and faith integration. The university supports students in various disciplines, including engineering, nursing, education, and computer science, fostering a collaborative, holistic learning environment.

Christian Leaders Institute (CLI), a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization founded in 2001 by Rev. Henry Reyenga Jr., equips Christian leaders globally with biblical knowledge, ministry skills, and a passion for discipleship. Based in Spring Lake, Michigan, CLI offers religious education through distance learning, supporting over 70,000 graduates in more than 200 countries. It is non-denominational, with ties to the Christian Reformed Church, and offers degrees, certificates, and ordinations through its affiliate, Christian Leaders Alliance. CLI is accredited by the Association for Biblical Higher Education, achieving Candidate status in 2024. Funding is primarily from donations, supporting its “generosity-driven” training model.

Concordia University Ann Arbor (CUAA), part of the Concordia University System, is a private Lutheran institution located on a 187-acre campus in Ann Arbor, Michigan. CUAA offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, focusing on both professional careers and church leadership. The university is affiliated with The Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod and is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. It merged with Concordia University Wisconsin in 2013. CUAA is known for its strong arts traditions, such as the Boar's Head Festival, and its athletic teams, the Cardinals, compete in the NAIA and NCCAA.

Cornerstone University, founded as the Baptist Bible Institute in 1941, has evolved into a Christ-centered university that fosters global influence through gospel teachings. The Higher Learning Commission has accredited it, and it stresses integrity, humility, and academic excellence. The institution extended its offers, facilities, and programs after being renamed in 1999. The W. Wilbert and Meryl Welch Tower, a notable campus landmark, was dedicated in 2006. Within the NAIA, athletic teams known as the Golden Eagles compete in 20 varsity sports. Among the notable accomplishments are three NAIA Men's Basketball Championships in 1999, 2011, and 2015. Rocky the Golden Eagle, the university's mascot, embodies the university's enthusiasm.

Grace Christian University, founded in 1939 by Charles F. Baker, began as an evening Bible institute and evolved into a nationally recognized Christian university. Originally Milwaukee Bible Institute, it became Milwaukee Bible College in 1953 before relocating to Wyoming, Michigan, in 1961. Renamed Grace Christian University in 2018, it integrates biblical studies into all associate, bachelor’s, and master’s programs. With a 15:1 student-faculty ratio, a 4+1 bachelor’s-to-master’s track, and required theology coursework, Grace fosters academic and spiritual growth. Ranked Michigan’s safest college campus (Niche, 2024), it emphasizes internships, missions, and community engagement, preparing graduates to serve Christ in church and society.

Hillsdale College, founded in 1844 by Free Will Baptists, promotes traditional Christian ideals. It does not take federal financing in order to maintain its independence from government rules. Academically, it ranks well for its liberal arts programs and emphasizes core courses on Great Books, the U.S. Constitution, and sciences. The site is home to a number of buildings, including the classical-style Christ Chapel and Liberty Walk, which features bronze statues of famous historical personalities. Hillsdale University provides graduate programs as well as the Blake Center for Faith and Freedom and the Academy for Science and Freedom, which engage in conversations about scientific concepts and freedom.

Hope College, founded over 150 years ago, is a lively community that combines academic excellence with Christian faith. Its expansion from 10 students to over 3,200 students in Holland, Michigan, corresponds with a dedication to Christian tradition while embracing diverse perspectives. It promotes small classrooms and faith-based education and has 91 programs with a student-faculty ratio of 11:1. Hope is well-known for its undergraduate research and is ranked among the top research institutes. It provides a welcoming environment for diverse students committed to leadership and service, with 22 varsity sports and a scenic campus near Lake Michigan.

Kuyper College, founded in 1939 as Reformed Bible Institute in Grand Rapids, Michigan, is a private Reformed Christian college emphasizing biblical faith and leadership. Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and the Association for Biblical Higher Education, Kuyper offers degree programs integrating academics with a Reformed worldview. As one of 10 federally recognized work colleges, it combines classroom learning with practical job experience. With a student-to-faculty ratio of 11:1 and 127 students enrolled in 2023, Kuyper graduates serve in over 50 countries worldwide.

Spring Arbor University (SAU) is a private Free Methodist university in Spring Arbor, Michigan, founded in 1873. It evolved from an academy and junior college, offering bachelor’s degrees in 1963 and university status in 1994. Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, SAU offers 70+ undergraduate and graduate programs, including online degrees. It is Michigan’s second-largest evangelical Christian university, emphasizing faith-based education. SAU requires chapel attendance and fosters spiritual growth. With 3,436 students (as of 2018), it has strong professional studies and graduate programs. The university also supports study abroad opportunities and has been ranked among top Midwestern regional universities by *U.S. News & World Report*.