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Cornerstone University

Grand Rapids, MI

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

1941
Founded
Private university
Type
130 acres
Campus
1,387
Total Students
$18M
Endowment
(2025)
$29K
Tuition (In-State)
$29K
Tuition (Out-State)
$22K
Avg Net Price
73%
Acceptance Rate
62%
Graduation Rate
6-year
84%
Retention Rate
Master's Colleges & Universities
Classification
President: Gerson Moreno-Riaño

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

About Cornerstone University

Rooted in faith, Cornerstone offers diverse programs with flexible, innovative learning.

Cornerstone University, a private evangelical Christian institution nestled in Grand Rapids, Michigan, stands out for its comprehensive academic offerings and commitment to innovative education. With over 60 academic programs spanning the arts, sciences, humanities, Bible, teacher education, business, and journalism, Cornerstone empowers students to pursue their passions within a supportive, faith-based community. Beyond traditional learning, the university is a pioneer in accessible education, featuring extensive online programs and an groundbreaking mobile-only schooling option called SOAR, designed specifically for adults seeking a business degree.

Academically, Cornerstone boasts a robust portfolio, from certificates and associate degrees to bachelor's, master's, and even an online doctorate. It is home to two distinguished seminaries: the Grand Rapids Theological Seminary and the Asia Biblical Theological Seminary in Chiang Mai, Thailand, further solidifying its theological scholarship. The university's commitment to excellence is underscored by its accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission, alongside specialized accreditations from the Association of Theological Schools, the National Association of Schools of Music, and the Council on Social Work Education.

Founded in 1941 as the Baptist Bible Institute, Cornerstone has a rich history of growth and adaptation, evolving into a full university in 1999. Today, its 130-acre suburban campus welcomes a vibrant student body of 1,735, offering a blend of traditional campus life and modern learning pathways. Students are part of a community guided by a shared "Lifestyle Statement" reflecting Trinitarian values, fostering an environment of spiritual and academic growth. The university also extends its reach through Cornerstone Radio and Mission Network News, a global evangelical broadcast ministry.

Key Highlights

  • ✦Established in 1941 as a private evangelical Christian university in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
  • ✦Offers 60 academic programs leading to certificates, associate, bachelor's, master's, and online doctorate degrees.
  • ✦Home to two distinguished seminaries: Grand Rapids Theological Seminary and Asia Biblical Theological Seminary.
  • ✦Pioneered SOAR, a mobile-only schooling option for adults to earn a business degree.
  • ✦Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and specialized bodies including ATS, NASM, and CSWE.
  • ✦Supports a vibrant student community of 1,735 (2024) on its 130-acre suburban campus.
  • ✦Maintains Cornerstone Radio (WCSG, WNHG) and Mission Network News, a global broadcast ministry.

Timeline

1941
Founded as the Baptist Bible Institute
1947
Conferred its first degree
1963
Accredited as a four-year college and renamed Grand Rapids Baptist Bible College and Seminary
1973
Cornerstone Radio (WCSG) began broadcasting
1993
Absorbed the Grand Rapids School of Bible and Music
1999
Renamed Cornerstone University
2003
Graduate theological school became Grand Rapids Theological Seminary
2021
Gerson Moreno-Riaño assumed presidency
🏛️
85 Years
of Excellence

Schools & Colleges

2 notable schools within Cornerstone University

🏫

Grand Rapids Theological Seminary

One of Cornerstone University's two seminaries, offering graduate theological education.

🏫

Asia Biblical Theological Seminary

One of Cornerstone University's two seminaries, based in Chiang Mai, Thailand.

Leadership

Gerson Moreno-Riaño
President

Data from Wikipedia – CC BY-SA 4.0

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