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Patrick Henry College

Purcellville, VA

private nonprofitbachelors

Quick Facts

“Pro Christo et Libertate”(For Christ and for Liberty)

2000
Founded
Private liberal arts
Type
373
Total Students
$28K
Tuition (In-State)
$28K
Tuition (Out-State)
82%
Acceptance Rate
65%
Graduation Rate
6-year
88%
Retention Rate
Baccalaureate Colleges
Classification
President: Jack Haye

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

About Patrick Henry College

Patrick Henry College: A Christian liberal arts institution committed to liberty and self-reliance.

Patrick Henry College, established in 2000, is a unique private liberal arts institution nestled in Purcellville, Virginia. Under the leadership of President Jack Haye, and guided by its motto, "Pro Christo et Libertate" (For Christ and Liberty), PHC serves a tight-knit community of approximately 380 students dedicated to a rigorous education deeply rooted in Christian principles and conservative values.

Founded by Michael Farris, who also established the Home School Legal Defense Association (HSLDA) with which PHC maintains close ties, the college opened its doors with an inaugural class of 92 students. A defining characteristic of Patrick Henry College is its deliberate decision to forgo federal financial aid, a choice that grants it independence from federal regulations and allows it to maintain its distinct mission without external dictates. This commitment to self-reliance extends to its funding model, relying solely on tuition fees and donations. The college's engagement with initiatives like Project 2025 further underscores its dedication to shaping future leaders aligned with specific conservative and right-wing policy ideals.

The college's journey through accreditation reflects its commitment to academic excellence while upholding its foundational beliefs. After initially being denied accreditation by one body due to its curriculum, PHC secured accreditation from the Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools (TRACS) in 2007, which was reaffirmed in 2012. Demonstrating its ongoing academic maturation, Patrick Henry College achieved full accreditation from the prestigious Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACSCOC) in 2022, a significant milestone that solidifies its standing as a recognized and respected higher education institution while remaining true to its distinctive purpose.

Key Highlights

  • ✦Founded in 2000 by Michael Farris, offering a distinctively Christian liberal arts education.
  • ✦A small, close-knit academic community with approximately 380 students.
  • ✦Operates independently, eschewing federal financial aid to maintain autonomy from government mandates.
  • ✦Accredited by the prestigious Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACSCOC) since 2022.
  • ✦Maintains close connections with the Home School Legal Defense Association (HSLDA).
  • ✦Member of the advisory board for Project 2025, reflecting a commitment to specific policy goals.
  • ✦Motto: "Pro Christo et Libertate" (For Christ and Liberty), guiding its mission and curriculum.

Timeline

1998
Incorporated by Michael Farris.
2000
Officially opened its doors with an inaugural class of 92 students.
2002
Denied accreditation by the American Academy for Liberal Education due to creationism in the curriculum.
2005
Recognized by the U.S. Department of Education as an institution eligible for ED programs.
2007
Achieved accreditation from the Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools (TRACS).
2012
TRACS reaffirmed Patrick Henry College's accreditation for a period of ten years.
2021
Received Candidacy status from The Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS-COC).
2022
Fully accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACSCOC).
🏛️
26 Years
of Excellence

Leadership

Data from Wikipedia – CC BY-SA 4.0

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