Virginia and West Virginia are home to several Christian colleges that provide students with a unique college experience. These schools offer a range of academic opportunities, extracurricular activities, and a strong emphasis on faith. This article will explore four Christian colleges in Virginia and West Virginia: Bluefield University, Eastern Mennonite University, Regent University, and Appalachian Bible College.

Christian Colleges in Virginia

Bluefield University

Bluefield University is a small, private Christian university affiliated with the Baptist General Association of Virginia. It’s located in Bluefield amidst the scenic Appalachian Mountains of the southwestern part of the state. 

In terms of academics, the school offers various undergraduate and graduate programs in areas such as education, business, biology, nursing, and criminal justice. 

Students can participate in student clubs and organizations, including the student government association, student ministries, and the Appalachian outdoor club. Spiritual life consists of worship services, small group Bible studies, service projects, and other spiritual growth opportunities.

School size: 1,200 students

Student-to-faculty ratio: 14:1 for on-campus and 11:1 for online

Tuition: $27,876 per academic year

Eastern Mennonite University

Eastern Mennonite University (EMU), located in Harrisonburg, is a private liberal arts university affiliated with the Mennonite Church, USA. The school is located near two national forests and the Shenandoah National Park, providing opportunities to get active outdoors.  

EMU has a diverse student body, with students from over 40 countries and 60+ religious backgrounds. The university offers over 55 undergraduate and graduate degrees in nursing, education, business, social work, peacebuilding, and theology.

In addition to its academic programs, EMU has a vibrant campus life with various student organizations, athletic teams, music ensembles, and spiritual events. The university also offers hands-on and cross-cultural learning opportunities through its intercultural study programs, internships, and research.

School size: 1,200 students

Student-to-faculty ratio: 11:1 

Tuition: $27,876 per academic year

Regent University

Regent University is a multi-denominational Christian liberal arts university located in Virginia Beach. The school has a wide range of on-campus and online academic programs with more than 150 areas of study.

Regent offers associate, bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral, and online degrees which are flexible and customizable. The top five undergraduate majors include psychology, Biblical/theological studies, Christian ministry, business, and cybersecurity. In addition to academics, the school has a lively campus with 60+ student organizations and frequent campus-wide events. 

In terms of spiritual life, students can grow their faith through campus ministries, chapel, volunteering events, service outreach, and Christian leadership opportunities.

School size: 11,000 students

Student-to-faculty ratio: 21:1 

Tuition: $18,080 per academic year

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For more information about Regent University, flip to page 88 of The Guide.

Christian Colleges in West Virginia 

Appalachian Bible College

Located in Mount Hope, West Virginia, Appalachian Bible College (ABC) is a non-denominational four-year Christian college. The school offers associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees and certificate programs. 

Undergraduate degrees include Bible and theology and various ministry majors such as Biblical counseling, camping ministry, music, and more. Campus life consists of events, student groups, leadership opportunities, sports, and outdoor activities in the Appalachian mountains. 

Regarding spiritual life, students can participate in small group Bible studies and prayer groups, devotions, chapel, church ministries, and special events like guest speakers and conferences. 

School size: 250 students

Student-to-faculty ratio: 9:1*

Tuition: $15,220 per academic year

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*Statistic from Niche.com

Final Thoughts

Attending a Christian college in Virginia or West Virginia not only means an opportunity to strengthen your faith, but also the chance to participate in a school immersed in the great outdoors. For more information about Christian Colleges and Universities, check out The Guide.