Cornerstone University logo

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

Cornerstone University: Faith-integrated learning in Grand Rapids, innovating with mobile education.

Cornerstone University, nestled in Grand Rapids, Michigan, offers a distinctive educational experience rooted in its evangelical Christian foundation. Prospective students will find a vibrant community dedicated to a faith-integrated approach, guided by a "Lifestyle Statement" that shapes campus life. Beyond traditional learning, Cornerstone is at the forefront of educational innovation, exemplified by its pioneering SOAR program, which allows adults to earn a business degree entirely through a mobile app.

Academically, Cornerstone boasts a comprehensive portfolio of 60 academic programs, spanning the arts, sciences, humanities, Bible, teacher education, computers, business, and journalism. Students can pursue a range of credentials from certificates and minors to Associate, Bachelor's, Master's, and even an online Doctorate degree. The university is home to two significant seminaries, Grand Rapids Theological Seminary and Asia Biblical Theological Seminary (based in Thailand), further broadening its reach and impact. Its commitment to quality is underscored by accreditations from the Higher Learning Commission and specialized bodies like the Association of Theological Schools and the Council on Social Work Education.

The university's rich history began in 1941 as the Baptist Bible Institute, steadily evolving to meet the demands of a changing educational landscape. After several transformations, including absorbing the Grand Rapids School of Bible and Music, it officially became Cornerstone University in 1999. This journey of expansion in the 1990s and early 2000s saw significant growth in enrollment, facilities, and the introduction of innovative adult and honors programs, solidifying its place as a dynamic institution focused on holistic development.

Key Highlights

  • Founded in 1941, providing over 80 years of educational heritage.
  • Offers 60 diverse academic programs, from arts and sciences to business and Bible studies.
  • Home to two distinguished seminaries: Grand Rapids Theological Seminary and Asia Biblical Theological Seminary.
  • Pioneered SOAR, an innovative mobile-only program for adults to earn a business degree.
  • Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and specialized associations for quality assurance.
  • Operates Cornerstone Radio (WCSG, WNHG) and Mission Network News, extending its reach globally.
  • Engaging student community committed to a faith-integrated "Lifestyle Statement."

Timeline

1941
Founded as the Baptist Bible Institute
1963
Accredited as a four-year college and renamed Grand Rapids Baptist Bible College and Seminary
1973
WCSG radio began broadcasting
1993
Absorbed the Grand Rapids School of Bible and Music
1999
Became Cornerstone University
2003
Graduate theological school became Grand Rapids Theological Seminary
🏛️
85 Years
of Excellence

Schools & Colleges

2 notable schools within Cornerstone University

🏫

Grand Rapids Theological Seminary

One of the university's two seminaries, evolving from the graduate theological school in 2003, offering advanced theological education.

🏫

Asia Biblical Theological Seminary

Another of Cornerstone University's seminaries, based in Chiang Mai, Thailand, extending its global theological reach.

Leadership

Gerson Moreno-Riaño
President

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

Find Scholarships at Cornerstone University

Sign up free to discover grants and scholarships you qualify for at this school and thousands more.

Start Your Free Search