5 benefits of a Christian education

Are you weighing the options for where to go to college and wondering how Christian universities measure up? 

An education at a Christian institution offers benefits that are hard to come by elsewhere. If you’re looking for a holistic learning environment that cares about both academics and faith, attending a Christian university can be a fulfilling and exciting next step. From unique opportunities to grow in your faith to a faculty deeply invested in your spiritual development, there are five major benefits to choosing this approach to higher education. 

1. You will be challenged in your faith. Your college years are a time of new independence, and the clubs, organizations, and friend groups you involve yourself in will be completely up to you. You will have the opportunity to truly make your faith your own on campus, whether through starting a small group Bible study on your dorm hall or by joining an established ministry. These outlets for spiritual growth will push you to dive deeper than ever before into discipleship, evangelism, and what it means to live for Christ each and every day. 
2. You will find a community of believers. Not only will you find a refreshing sense of freedom that will aid your spiritual development, but campus ministries, organizations, and your courses will introduce you to many likeminded friends. These friends will embark on the college journey of academics, faith, and fun alongside you. They will be able to understand and share your own experiences in a special way, leading to remarkable memories you will carry all throughout life. As you study God’s Word together, attend chapels and special events together, and go through every aspect of life at a Christian university together, your friendships will strengthen even more, particularly as you encourage each other in the faith. 
3. You will gain wise mentors. Another incredible benefit of a Christian education is that you are guided and supported by faculty and staff who share your faith. No matter what your major is, your professors will be an invaluable resource for both your academic and spiritual growth. Their wisdom, teaching, and own lived experiences can serve as much-needed encouragement during the difficulties of college. A Christian education provides this special blessing of potential mentors and advisors to help you on your journey. 
4. You will see how faith integrates into your academics and future career field. Whether you study theater, aeronautics, or finance, your coursework at a Christian university will demonstrate the role and relevance of faith to the field. You will explore how your beliefs shape the way you approach the responsibilities of your future job, as well as what those beliefs mean for you as a student today. As a Christian, you will be challenged to consider what it means to pursue the Great Commission and live out God’s calling on your life, whether it be as a teacher, writer, or musician. Any field can connect to faith, and at a Christian university, you will be prepared holistically to enter your profession with confidence. 
5. You will have opportunities to go on mission. Christian universities often offer various short-term mission trips through their campus ministries and other organizations. These trips can open your eyes to how the gospel is going forth in different parts of the world and can aid you in discovering your own passion for missions. This benefit is significant in that it helps prepare you further for life after graduation as it teaches you to go out with all that you have learned and serve others. This can be the first step towards a life of service and ministry, no matter your field or professional aspirations. Wherever you go and whatever you do, there are opportunities to represent Christ and love others in His name, and the mission trips you may participate in while pursuing a Christian education put that idea into action. 

The benefits of a Christian education are many, and they extend beyond your eight semesters of college. A Christian education can prepare you for the years following graduation, developing you into a stronger follower of Jesus, leader, servant, and friend. You will be equipped to go into your career field with intention, ready to represent your faith in any position you may hold. Lastly, you will meet a community of friends and mentors who can support and help you as you navigate the trials, twists, and triumphs of the Christian life together. These are benefits well worth the investment.

Audra Bergevin is an intern in the Office of Marketing and Communication at Charleston Southern University. She is a senior majoring in English with a writing emphasis and minoring in Christian Worldview and Apologetics.

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