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Christian Colleges Rank High for Student Engagement

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The Wall Street Journal/Times Higher Education College Rankings measure several factors, including student engagement. This was determined mainly through surveys and, the Wall Street Journal reports, “monitors how challenged and inspired students feel inside and outside the classroom, as well as the breadth of courses their schools offer.”

Among the colleges and universities with the highest student engagement, nine of the top 12 are faith-based:

Institution
Engagement ranking
Dordt College
1
Oklahoma Baptist University
2
Texas Christian University
3
Cedarville University
3
Harding University
3
Indiana Wesleyan University – Marion
6
Lee University
6
Baylor University
12
Samford University
12

Source: Wall Street Journal/Times Higher Education College Rankings

CapinCrouse is privileged to serve several of these faith-based schools, all of which are focused on changing lives. 

“At Oklahoma Baptist University, we believe passionately in providing an engaged higher education experience for our students; one where they will grow in their faith, gain knowledge across a broad spectrum of disciplines and build an enduring sense of community with their classmates and professors,” notes Dr. David W. Whitlock, President of Oklahoma Baptist University. “This national ranking by the Wall Street Journal validates the efforts of our faculty, staff, and student body, who work together to make this such a special campus. Being ranked second in the nation by a prestigious publication such as the Wall Street Journal speaks volumes of the transformational experience our students find on Bison Hill.”

Lee University attributes its high student engagement to a combination of “a commitment to building critical thinking skills, encouraging community involvement, and seeking a transformational experience for each student, not just in class or future career preparation, but in the whole person,” says Chris Conine, Vice President for Business and Finance. “It’s not a passive process. It requires engagement from students. We aren’t building tomorrow’s leaders. Tomorrow’s leaders are coming here to actively engage their hearts and minds in becoming their best selves.” 

At Samford University, “the student experience offers opportunities for students to engage with their field of study while building meaningful connections within the Samford community,” says Betsy Bugg Holloway, Vice President for Marketing and Communication and Professor of Marketing. “This latest ranking affirms the work of our faculty and staff in fostering a diverse learning environment where students are equipped to thrive during their time on campus and to be successful in the marketplace after graduation.” 

Congratulations to all the Christian higher education institutions that made the list. You can read the full Wall Street Journal article here: The Colleges Where Students Feel Most Engaged (subscription required). 

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