Also known as Christian colleges, Missionary Colleges are affiliated with a religious group or ministry and offer faith-based education. Missionary colleges prepare students for missionary work or other religious vocations. Missionary colleges offer a variety of degree programs, including theology, Bible studies, Christian counselling, and music ministry. Missionaries work in churches, but some may also work in schools, hospitals, or other nonprofit organizations. Missionary work can be very demanding, so choosing a college that will provide the best preparation possible is essential.
When researching missionary colleges, it is essential to consider the school’s accreditation, curriculum, faculty, and student services. The best schools will have a solid academic program accredited by a reputable accreditation agency such as the Association of Missionary Colleges and Universities. The school’s curriculum should prepare students for a career in ministry, and the faculty should be experienced and committed to teaching the faith. Student services should be top-notch, providing support and resources for students pursuing their degrees.
Top Missionary Colleges in 2022 to Consider
You can use this list of the top missionary colleges in 2022 to help you find the right school for you:
1. Appalachian Bible College
Appalachian Bible College (ABC) is a non-denominational university located in Mount Hope, West Virginia. This is among a missionary colleges that produces men and women who are equipped to serve through the development of Christlike character and guided Christian Service. ABC has around 300 students and offers quality Bible and theology classes. Because Life is for Service is more than just a motto at ABC; it’s an evident passion that is integrated into every aspect of ministry within the college.
The Accredited Missions Program from ABC, for example, offers a comprehensive education that is both theoretical and hands-on, with missionaries with prior experience. Students will be prepared to serve in local and cross-cultural ministries, from composing a prayer letter to training believers.
2. Mid-America Nazarene University
Mid-America Nazarene University (MANU) is located in Olathe, Kansas and was established in 1966. The university’s Mission Statement is “to transform lives through higher education in the liberal arts and professional studies within a Christ-centered community of grace.”
The college offers degrees in over 50 different areas of study, including business, education, liberal arts & sciences, nursing, and theology & ministry. MANU has a 100% placement rate for students who complete an internship as part of their degree program. The university also offers online and evening classes for working adults looking for higher education in Missionary colleges.
3. Nyack College
Nyack College is located in Nyack, New York and was founded in 1882. The Mission of Nyack College is to educate and equip students for Service as leaders in the church and society. The college offers over 50 undergraduate and graduate degree programs, including business, education, music, nursing, and theology.
Nyack College has a long tradition of preparing students for ministry and offers a variety of resources to help students succeed, including an on-campus Center for Ministry Training & Development. The college also offers business, education, and nursing online degree programs.
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4. Northwest University
Northwest University (NWU) is located in Kirkland, Washington and was founded in 1934. The Mission of NWU is “to develop Christ-centered leaders with biblical worldviews to transform culture.” The university offers over 70 undergraduate and graduate degree programs in various fields, including business, education, engineering, nursing, and psychology.
NWU is one of the top missionary colleges that is committed to global missions and offers several resources to help students succeed in their studies, including an on-campus Missionary Training Center. The university also offers online degree programs in business, education, and psychology.
5. Olivet Nazarene University
Olivet Nazarene University (ONU) is located in Bourbonnais, Illinois and was founded in 1907. The Mission of ONU is “to develop Christ-like character in its students and prepare them for lifelong learning, leadership, and service.” The university offers over 80 undergraduate and graduate degree programs in various fields, including business, education, nursing, and theology.
ONU has a long tradition of preparing students for ministry and offers several resources to help students succeed in their studies, including an on-campus Missionary Training Center. The university also offers business, education, and nursing online degree programs.
6. Point Loma Nazarene University
Point Loma Nazarene University (PLNU) is located in San Diego, California and was founded in 1902. The Mission of PLNU is “to provide an academically challenging Christ-centered education for students from diverse backgrounds who seek to live lives of meaning and purpose.” The university offers over 60 undergraduate and graduates degree programs in various fields, including business, education, nursing, and psychology.
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7. Bethany Global University
Bethany Global University, accredited and focused only on missions, is situated in Bloomington near Minneapolis, MN. The first two years of the Bachelor’s Degree are spent at the university; students take classes and get training in discipleship and practical missionary work while participating in weekly chapels, various events, and outreach opportunities.
8. Dallas Baptist University
Dallas Baptist University is located in Dallas, Texas, near downtown Dallas and Fort Worth. Baptist Student Ministries at DBU is a religious organization for students of all denominations that supports student missionaries, mission trips, Bible studies, and events on campus.
The Bachelor of Arts and Sciences in Intercultural Studies (Missions) program is for students who want to serve nationally and internationally through missions, relief, or development work. The Intercultural Studies (Missions) major is intended to give students an understanding of the fundamental principles of any culture or subculture and the skills necessary to operate and minister successfully in different cultural settings.
9. George Fox University
George Fox University, located in Newberg, Oregon, is always nationally ranked by the U.S. News & World Report for study abroad participation. They offer a Christian Ministries Major with a concentration specifically designed for students interested in cross-cultural ministry contexts both domestically and internationally. If you pursue this major, get ready to explore a range of topics, including the global church’s historical development, contemporary mission work issues, methods for cross-cultural ministry specific to particular contexts, and how Biblical theology informs missions.
Also read about: City Colleges of Chicago
10. Grand Canyon University
Grand Canyon University is located in Phoenix, Arizona and has been open since 1949 and is a popular one among missionary colleges in the state. It was founded as a Christian college to keep the Bible’s values at its root. Over time it became an interdenominational university that serves students from all backgrounds and religions. GCU offers many features that allow students to enjoy their experience here, ranging from NCAA Division I athletics competitions to suite-style residence halls with delicious dining options and exciting events & clubs on campus.
Conclusion
Missionary work is a demanding but rewarding career; the best way to prepare for it is by attending one. These missionary colleges will provide the tools you need to succeed in ministry, whether working in a church or another type of organization. With their vital academic programs and experienced faculty, these colleges will certainly be the best options for you.