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Carolina University

Winston-Salem, NC

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

GRATIAE ET VERITATIS(Grace and Truth)

1945
Founded
Private university
Type
424
Total Students
350
Undergrad
476
Graduate
$16K
Tuition (In-State)
$16K
Tuition (Out-State)
$19K
Avg Net Price
34%
Acceptance Rate
29%
Graduation Rate
6-year
56%
Retention Rate
Master's Colleges & Universities
Classification
President: Charles Petitt

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About Carolina University

A Christian university forged through a rich history of mergers, offering diverse programs for global impact.

Carolina University, established in 1945 as Piedmont Bible Institute, has grown into a dynamic private university dedicated to Christian higher education. With a rich history marked by strategic mergers, Carolina University has expanded its reach and academic offerings, evolving from a local institute to a university with an international outlook. It's a place where students are prepared not just academically, but also spiritually, for meaningful careers and service.

Known for its robust programs in Biblical Studies, Theology, and Religious Education, the university also provides innovative degrees such as Sign Language Interpretation and a collaborative Criminal Justice program developed with law enforcement agencies. Its commitment to accessibility is evident through the Piedmont's Spurgeon School of Online Education, offering numerous undergraduate and graduate programs entirely online, including a master's in Biblical Studies available in Spanish.

Carolina University stands out for its unique growth trajectory, having integrated several esteemed Christian colleges over the years, including Tennessee Temple University and Southeastern Bible College. This ongoing evolution ensures a diverse academic environment and a broad range of perspectives, enriching the learning journey for its 826 students. Under the leadership of President Charles Petitt, the university continues its mission, guided by its motto, 'GRATIAE ET VERITATIS' (Grace and Truth), fostering an engaging and supportive community.

Key Highlights

  • Founded in 1945 as Piedmont Bible Institute, evolving into Carolina University in 2020.
  • Integrated five other Christian colleges and universities, significantly expanding its academic footprint.
  • Offers diverse programs including Religious Education, Theology, Sign Language Interpretation, and Criminal Justice.
  • Features a robust online presence through its Spurgeon School of Online Education, including a Spanish-language Master's in Biblical Studies.
  • Serves 826 students, providing a private university experience focused on Christian higher education.
  • Partners with Sheriff's Offices in North Carolina and Tennessee for a unique criminal justice degree program.
  • Holds the motto 'GRATIAE ET VERITATIS' (Grace and Truth).

Timeline

1945
Founded as Piedmont Bible Institute by Charles Stevens and North Carolina Baptist leaders.
1956
Achieved accreditation from the Accrediting Association of Bible Institutes and Bible Colleges.
2003
Merged with Spurgeon Baptist Bible College, establishing the Spurgeon School of Online Education.
2012
Officially changed its name to Piedmont International University.
2015
Merged with Tennessee Temple University, adding programs like Sign Language Interpretation.
2017
Merged with Southeastern Bible College.
2018
Merged with John Wesley University, the oldest undergraduate theological institution in North Carolina.
2020
Renamed Carolina University; the Piedmont School of Divinity was created to honor its heritage.
2024
Announced plans to move its main campus to new headquarters in downtown Winston-Salem.
🏛️
81 Years
of Excellence

Schools & Colleges

3 notable schools within Carolina University

📚

Piedmont's Spurgeon School of Online Education

Established in 2003 following a merger, offering comprehensive online undergraduate and graduate programs, including a Master's in Biblical Studies in Spanish.

✝️

Piedmont School of Divinity

Created in 2020 to honor the university's foundational heritage in training ministers and teaching Bible and theology.

🏫

John Wesley School of Leadership

Formed in 2015 from assets acquired during the merger with Tennessee Temple University.

Leadership

Charles Petitt
President
Heather Burkard
Provost

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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