Criswell College

Criswell College, a private institution founded in 1970, stands as a dedicated center for Christian higher education. With a student body of 165, it offers a close-knit academic environment focused on integrating faith with robust scholarship. Known primarily for its biblical studies, the college provides a unique educational experience designed for individuals seeking to deepen their understanding of scripture and its application in various fields of life and ministry.

The college began its journey as the Criswell Bible Institute, opening its doors to students on January 12, 1971. It later evolved through the Criswell Center for Biblical Studies before adopting its current name in 1985. The institution is named after its visionary founder, W. A. Criswell, the esteemed long-time pastor of the First Baptist Church of Dallas. Criswell College received crucial early financial backing from Ruth Ray Hunt, a Dallas citizen with deep religious convictions. Since 2001, it has been affiliated with the Southern Baptists of Texas Convention, maintaining independent ownership and operation while benefiting from this strategic partnership.

Academically, Criswell College offers a comprehensive range of programs, including Diplomas, Associate of Arts, Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science, Master of Arts, and Master of Divinity degrees. The college has demonstrated a commitment to growth and relevance, evidenced by its 2013 approval for a significant expansion of its undergraduate curriculum. This expansion now includes diverse and modern majors such as Philosophy, Politics & Economics (PPE), Education, and Psychology, broadening its appeal and preparing students for a wider array of vocations rooted in a Christian worldview. Under the leadership of its seventh and current president, Barry K. Creamer, Criswell College continues its mission of fostering intellectual and spiritual development.