Cornerstone University
Grand Rapids, MI
Quick Facts
Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education
About Cornerstone University
Cornerstone University: Faith-integrated learning in Grand Rapids, empowering lives for impact.
Nestled in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Cornerstone University stands as a private evangelical Christian institution dedicated to providing a transformative education. It offers a rich tapestry of undergraduate and graduate programs across a wide array of disciplines, complemented by two distinctive seminaries and a vibrant radio division. Committed to an interdenominational Christian worldview, Cornerstone fosters a unique learning environment where faith and academic excellence converge.
The university's journey began in 1941 as the Baptist Bible Institute, steadily growing and evolving through several name changes, including Grand Rapids Baptist Bible College and Seminary. This foundational history paved the way for its official recognition as Cornerstone University in 1999, marking a significant expansion in its academic offerings and campus infrastructure. The 1990s and early 2000s were periods of dynamic transformation, introducing adult programs, an Honors Program, and a distinctive "Civitas" Core Curriculum, all while enhancing its suburban 130-acre campus.
Academically, Cornerstone University boasts over 60 programs spanning the arts, sciences, humanities, Bible, teacher education, computers, business, and journalism. Students can pursue a variety of credentials, from certificates and minors to Associate's, Bachelor's, Master's, and even an online doctorate degree. The university is rigorously accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and several specialized bodies, ensuring high-quality education. It also champions innovative learning, offering flexible online programs and the groundbreaking SOAR initiative, a mobile-only schooling experience for adults to earn a business degree via their mobile app.
Beyond academics, Cornerstone cultivates a close-knit community of 1,735 students (as of 2024), guided by a "Lifestyle Statement" that reflects its Trinitarian principles. The university's commitment extends globally through its Asia Biblical Theological Seminary in Thailand and its broadcast ministry, Mission Network News, ensuring a holistic educational experience that prepares students for meaningful contributions to the world.
Key Highlights
- ✦Established in 1941, Cornerstone University boasts over 80 years of educational heritage.
- ✦Offers 60 diverse academic programs, from arts to business, across certificate, associate, bachelor's, master's, and online doctorate levels.
- ✦Home to Grand Rapids Theological Seminary and Asia Biblical Theological Seminary (located in Chiang Mai, Thailand).
- ✦Pioneers innovative mobile-only adult education through its SOAR program for business degrees.
- ✦Operates Cornerstone Radio (WCSG, WNHG) and the global evangelical broadcast ministry, Mission Network News.
- ✦Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, Association of Theological Schools, National Association of Schools of Music, and Council on Social Work Education.
- ✦Supports a vibrant community of 1,735 students (as of 2024) within a faith-integrated learning environment.
Timeline
Schools & Colleges
2 notable schools within Cornerstone University
Grand Rapids Theological Seminary
One of the university's two seminaries, providing advanced theological education.
Asia Biblical Theological Seminary
A seminary based in Chiang Mai, Thailand, offering theological education with an international focus.
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