The new Yetter Hall residence building.
Colorado Christian University (CCU) is a private, interdenominational Christian liberal arts university that offers the opportunity to pursue an accredited degree taught with conservative values. The college was originally founded by Clifton Fowler in 1914 as the Denver Bible Institute, and merged with Colorado Baptist University in 1989. CCU is located in Lakewood, Colorado, a suburb of Denver.
Overview
Colorado Christian University is ranked in the top 2% of all U.S. colleges and universities for the eighth consecutive year by the American Council of Trustees and Alumni (ACTA) in the organization’s 2019-2020 “What Will They Learn?” report. CCU is one of only 22 institutions nationwide, and only one of two institutions in Colorado, to receive an ‘A’ rating for its core curriculum requirements.
The National Council on Teacher Quality (NCTQ) has ranked both the elementary and secondary education programs in CCU’s School of Education as the top education programs in the State of Colorado, and in the 98th percentile of all education programs, nationwide.
CCU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. The university is a member of the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities, the National Association of Independent Colleges and Universities, and the Council for Independent Colleges.
Colorado Christian University has been named a military-friendly institution by G.I. Jobs annually since 2012 and offers a tuition discount for active military and dependents.
Mission
As the flagship Christian university in the Rocky Mountain region, CCU’s mission is to provide a Christ-centered higher education teaching students how to think critically and creatively, lead with high ethical and professional standards, embody the character and compassion of Jesus Christ, and engage the world with grace and truth.
Dr. Donald Sweeting, CCU President, said “CCU exists to train leaders. We want to build the church, we want to engage the culture, [and] we want to help you prepare for your calling.” Sweeting added that multiple surveys reveal that most college graduates lack civic literacy which includes, among other subjects, basic courses in American politics, government, and U.S. history.
“CCU is addressing America’s knowledge crisis; we require such courses,” said Sweeting. “This is not only essential in preparing them for a dynamic labor market where they will have many different jobs, but also providing an essential civic literacy for our republic.”
What do CCU students think about the big issues? Watch this video!
Diversity of opinion? At a university? Well then, CCU is doing it right. Thanks for the interviews at Colorado Christian University, Will Witt!
Academics
Colorado Christian University comprises two colleges: the College of Undergraduate Studies and the College of Adult and Graduate Studies (CCU Online). All courses incorporate a Christ-centered worldview that has been a cornerstone of the university for more than a century.
The College of Undergraduate Studies serves more than 1,400 traditional-age high school graduates and transfer students at the university’s Lakewood campus – offering 30 majors, 38 minors, and even a few dual degrees. There are programs in business, liberal arts, music, sciences, engineering, nursing, pre-med and pre-law.
They have some unique combinations, too. For example, you can major in Outdoor Leadership with a minor in Camp Management. Or you can major in Youth Ministry with a minor in Young Life Leadership. Or major in Music with a minor in Music Theatre. Or how about Global Studies and either Intercultural Ministry or International Business. Design your program to suit your interests!
The College of Adult and Graduate Studies offers more than 80 undergraduate, graduate, licensure, and certificate options designed specifically for adult learners to learn at their own pace. Nearly all of these programs can be completed 100% online through CCU Online. The College of Adult and Graduate Studies also has regional learning centers throughout Colorado. An enrollment counselor can help put together a degree plan that fits your schedule.
Most classes at CCU Online are only five weeks long, so you can take one class at a time and still have time for life’s adventures. CCU also has a generous transfer credit policy and even offers credit for life experience. So you may be closer to your degree than you think! CCU Online has a support team that will help you finish the program and achieve your goals.
Campus
Colorado Christian University is currently undergoing a major campus renovation. They already built two new residence halls. Fundraising is currently underway for the Armstrong Center, which will house the Clifton Fowler Library and the Lee Strobel Center for Evangelism and Applied Apologetics. Future plans include another academic building.
The Anschutz Student Center is located at the heart of CCU’s campus and has 55,000 square feet of space, including food services and a gym. The upper floor is a hangout space for students and includes a game room, along with Student Life and Student Activities offices.
Being close to both Denver and the Rocky Mountains means there’s always something to do whether it’s on campus, in the city, or in the wilderness. Traditional undergraduate students enjoy hundreds of activities beyond academics, including Colorado trips, cultural events, Division II NCAA athletics, intramural sports, student-led ministries, and overseas missions.
A CCU student doesn’t have to be an extreme sports enthusiast or outdoor adventurer to appreciate the remarkable natural beauty showcased by our Creator. There is a pond right in the middle of campus, and the Colorado Christian University campus is just five miles from the Rocky Mountains for beautiful scenic views all year round.
Student Life
All traditional undergraduate students are required to sign a “Lifestyle Covenant” to attend Colorado Christian University. Teaching sanctity of life from the moment of conception is an important part of the university’s mission and a core value shared by staff and students. Those who sign the lifestyle covenant are also required to attend church services and chapel.
In order to graduate from CCU’s traditional undergraduate college, every student must complete an average of 45 ministry hours per year for a total of 180 hours of service through a local or international ministry, non-profit organization or business during his or her college career.
The CCU campus is home to a close-knit, Christ-centered community of learners. Each student is assigned a personal advisor who will guide you through your academic and life planning process. In addition, CCU professors are mentors as well as teachers — dedicated to keeping students challenged, supported, and engaged both inside and outside the classroom.
How is going to Colorado Christian University different from attending other colleges? Will Witt speaks to students and faculty at Colorado Christian University to find out.
Homeschool Admissions
CCU’s College of Undergraduate Studies is looking for students – including students from a high school homeschooling background – who demonstrate a strong academic career and exemplify a vital Christian pursuit, personal integrity, and a desire for Christ-centered community. CCU sets the following minimum level of acceptance for admission:
- 2.8 High School GPA
- 21 ACT composite score or 1460 SAT score (1060 New SAT)
- A strong recommendation from a pastor, youth pastor, or “spiritual mentor”
- Application essay responses that speak to your Christian testimony and growth
However, students who do not meet these minimum requirements are still encouraged to apply and the university will consider their application under a committee review process which may include a personal interview. Factors such as essay content, recommendation content, and extracurricular activity all contribute to an individual admission decision. Learn more about homeschool admissions here.
Apply to CCU Now!
The Preferred Admission deadline for the fall 2020 semester is December 1, 2019. High School and Transfer Students: submit your tuition deposit by December 1st to qualify for Preferred Admission, including an extra $4,000 scholarship. Use code PREFERRED to waive the application fee through November 30, 2019!