CLT Colleges in

Virginia

Ascent College offers an innovative, accredited educational experience that blends the flexibility of online coursework with hands-on apprenticeship in real-life church environments. Formerly Bethel College, Ascent provides affordable education at just $350 per credit, allowing students to balance their studies with work and family. Accredited by the Association for Biblical Higher Education (ABHE), Ascent grants diploma, associate, and bachelor degrees. This hybrid model prepares students for ministry leadership, equipping them to serve their communities with passion, principles, and practical skills. Founded in Virginia, Ascent College is dedicated to raising up the next generation of leaders in the Christian faith.

Bluefield University, a private Baptist institution in Bluefield, Virginia, was founded in 1922 by the Baptist General Association of Virginia. Located near the Virginia-West Virginia border in the Appalachian Mountains, it offers 70+ academic programs, including business, forensic science, and Christian studies. Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, it merged with Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine. The university became Bluefield University in 2021 and appointed Dr. Steve Peterson as its 10th president in 2024. Its athletic teams, the Rams, compete in 18 NAIA sports, with notable success in men’s soccer and baseball.

Christendom College, established in 1977, provides a Catholic liberal arts education with the goal of developing students into intellectually capable, morally grounded, and deeply cultured Christians. The college, which has the support of Archbishop Charles J. Chaput, aims to counter the challenges of a secularized culture by providing a rigorous education based on Catholic principles. Christendom fosters academic excellence, personal development, and a strong Catholic identity through an 86-hour core curriculum. The college's dedication to fostering a unified Catholic worldview and the development of leaders in a variety of fields distinguishes it as a beacon of faithful education. Christendom emphasizes affordability and a personalized educational experience.

Christopher Newport University (CNU), founded in 1960, places a premium on developing both intellect and character. The university is dedicated to developing leaders and has a robust liberal arts curriculum as well as an acclaimed President's Leadership Program. With a chapel and an honor code, it promotes community service while embodying heart-centered values. The university, located in Coastal Virginia, has 5,000 students enrolled in a variety of programs that emphasize leadership, civic engagement, and honor. Recognized by U.S. News & World Report, CNU stands out for its rankings in teaching quality, social mobility, and value among Regional Universities in the South.

Liberty University, established in 1971 in Lynchburg, Virginia, is one of the world's largest Christian universities. It is affiliated with the Southern Baptist Conservatives of Virginia and offers over 700 programs, with a sizable online presence. Known for its conservative Christian values, has been embroiled in controversies involving politics, finances, and the handling of sexual assault allegations, particularly during Jerry Falwell Jr.'s presidency. Despite criticism, it continues to have an impact on Republican politics. By 2020, the university's assets would have surpassed $2.5 billion, and it is governed by a 30-member board. It is affiliated with the Southern Baptist Convention, and was once known as the "Most Conservative College in America."

Patrick Henry College (PHC) is a private Christian liberal arts college in Purcellville, Virginia, founded in 1998 by Michael Farris. It emphasizes high academic rigor, a biblical worldview, and fidelity to America's founding principles. PHC offers majors in government, strategic intelligence, economics, history, journalism, and environmental science, with a 63-credit core curriculum. The college does not accept federal funding, maintaining independence from government regulations. Accredited by TRACS and SACS-COC, PHC is known for its conservative values and close ties to the Home School Legal Defense Association. Its picturesque campus features Colonial Revival architecture, a student life center, and a residential village surrounding "Lake Bob."

Regent University, which began as Christian Broadcasting Network University in 1977, now has 13,000 students on its Virginia Beach campus and online. It emphasizes a Christian perspective while offering 150+ degrees ranging from associate to doctoral levels. Its neo-Georgian campus, known for its top-ranked online programs, houses key academic buildings and once housed the Founders Inn and Spa. Regent excels at moot court and strives to broaden its evangelical identity. Athletics, with teams known as the Royals, are an important part of its participation in organizations such as the USCAA and NCCAA. Overall, Regent's holistic Christian-focused education and academic achievements mark its prominence.

Sweet Briar College, founded in 1901, is a women’s liberal arts and sciences college in Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains. It offers 17 majors, 21 minors, and an ABET-accredited engineering program. With a 9:1 student-faculty ratio and an average class size of eight, students engage in research, leadership, and global study programs. The college is known for its equestrian program, Division III athletics, and strong alumnae network. Campus life includes traditions, over 50 clubs, and historic Colonial Revival architecture. Sweet Briar fosters confidence, courage, and leadership, preparing women for impactful careers and lives. Its motto: “There’s nothing that you cannot do.”