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Montreat College

Montreat, NC

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

Wikipedia
1916
Founded
Private college
Type
750
Total Students
$10M
Endowment
$34K
Tuition (In-State)
$34K
Tuition (Out-State)
$26K
Avg Net Price
66%
Acceptance Rate
41%
Graduation Rate
6-year
62%
Retention Rate
Baccalaureate Colleges
Classification
President: Paul Maurer

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

About Montreat College

Montreat College: Christian education thriving in the Blue Ridge Mountains since 1916.

Nestled amidst the scenic beauty of North Carolina's Blue Ridge Mountains, Montreat College offers a distinctive private Christian education experience. Founded in 1916, its roots trace back to the interdenominational Mountain Retreat Association, established in 1897 with a vision for Christian work, living, and community. What began as Montreat Normal School, dedicated to training teachers and providing a Christian education for young women, has evolved into a vibrant institution upholding its foundational mission.

Throughout its rich history, Montreat College has adapted to meet the needs of its students, transitioning from a normal school to a junior college, and ultimately expanding to offer comprehensive four-year undergraduate degrees and even graduate programs. This dynamic growth is rooted in a commitment to academic excellence within a faith-based framework, designed to prepare students not just for careers, but for lives of purpose and service.

The college's unique setting in the historic town of Montreat fosters a close-knit community where students can thrive spiritually and academically. Notable figures like evangelist Billy Graham and his wife, Ruth Graham, were active benefactors and deeply involved with students, underscoring the enduring legacy of Christian fellowship. Today, Montreat College continues to provide an engaging learning environment, blending its traditional campus experience with expanded online offerings to reach a broader student body.

Key Highlights

  • Founded in 1916, evolving from the interdenominational Mountain Retreat Association established in 1897.
  • A private Christian college serving 972 students in the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains.
  • Originally established as a Christian Normal School for Teachers, providing education to worthy girls.
  • Offers a comprehensive curriculum, including four-year undergraduate degrees, graduate programs, and online classes.
  • Benefited from the active involvement and generous support of evangelist Billy Graham and his wife, Ruth Graham.
  • Overcame financial challenges in 2014, boosted by a $6 million anonymous gift and renewed leadership.

Timeline

1897
Mountain Retreat Association formed to encourage Christian work and living.
1913
Robert C. Anderson proposed using the Association's facilities for a school.
1916
Montreat Normal School opened, dedicated to Christian education and teacher training.
1917
Montreat Normal School granted a charter by the State of North Carolina.
1934
Montreat College became a junior college.
1967
The Town of Montreat was founded, separating municipal powers from the retreat center.
1975
The college and Mountain Retreat Association conference center formed two separate organizations.
1980
College expanded to offer a four-year curriculum again.
1990
Expanded the number of class sites and began offering online programs.
2014
Paul Maurer took office as President following a significant $6 million anonymous gift.
🏛️
110 Years
of Excellence

Leadership

via Wikipedia
Paul Maurer
President

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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