Grace College and Seminary is a private non-profit evangelical Christian institution of higher learning that employs biblical values in enhancing competence, increasing character, and preparing for service. The college is characterized by high academic standards, a diverse learning environment, and dedicated faculty. It is also committed to spiritual development and providing students with an abundance of opportunities for Christian service. It prepares a diversity of learners for successful careers by offering an array of challenging programs including 45 majors in over 50 areas of study through its five schools of education. Grace College has consistently ranked on the U.S. News World Report publication of “Best Baccalaureate Colleges in the Midwest.”
Grace College and Seminary offers students a way to continue their higher education with biblical values through its online programs. It offers completely online degree programs and hybrid options that have limited on-campus requirements. All online courses are 8 weeks long with two sessions in each of the fall, spring, and summer semesters. The completely online degree programs include a bachelor’s degree in management and master’s degrees in ministry studies, business administration, and education. The hybrid programs include a master’s program in interpersonal relations and clinical mental health counseling. The master degree programs are cohort-based where students progress through a particular program as a group. The online programs are delivered using Learning House software to provide students with the best online education experience possible. The software offers an online orientation for all students to complete before they begin a course and includes various topics such as navigating the virtual classroom. It also maintains a help desk that provides full-time technical assistance to students. Aspects of the online learning environment include a grade book, forums and discussion boards, live chat, email support, and live classroom.
Grace Theological Seminary was established in 1937 and the college was founded in 1948. The institution was affiliated with the Fellowship of Grace Brethren Churches. Since its founding, Grace College and Grace Theological Seminary has grown adding various buildings and enrolling more and more students every year. Throughout its history, the institution has remained dedicated to its heritage. Today, it enrolls around 1,200 undergraduates.
Accreditation
The Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association accredits Grace College.
Schools of Education
School of Arts and Sciences: largest school within the college that houses the art, literature, history and political science, communication, languages, science and mathematics, and nursing departments.
School of Behavioral Sciences: features learning environments designed to promote a better understanding of human behavior and the nature of society from a biblical point of view. Offers programs in psychology, sociology, counseling, and criminal justice.
School of Business: its programs prepare students for various careers in the business field and advanced study. Offers programs in business administration, accounting, business education, finance, marketing, international business, information systems, and sport management.
School of Education: committed to preparing students to become competent, caring, and moral educators. Offers various programs in elementary education, art education, business education, English education, Spanish education, French education, journalism education, life science education, special education, secondary mathematics education, and social studies education.
School of Ministry Studies: dedicated to helping students make a difference in the world through Christ. Offers programs in biblical studies, youth ministries, bible, and intercultural studies.
Scholarships Offered
Grace College offers a variety of institution scholarships including the Presidential Scholarship, Provost’s Scholarships, National Merit Finalist Scholarships, Valedictorian/Salutatorian Scholarships, Dean’s Scholarships, Honors Scholarships, FGBC Scholarships, Miller Merit Awards, Grace Diversity Scholarships, Clergy Children’s Awards, Grace College Grants, Athletic Talent Awards, Grace College Department Awards, Church Matching Grant Program, Millennial Scholars Academy Scholarship, Grace College Grants, Transfer Student Scholarship, and Athletic Talent Awards. The college also encourages students to seek outside scholarship opportunities.
Financing Options
Grace College participates in various financial aid programs including grants and loans. Examples include the Federal Pell Grant, Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant, Federal Direct Stafford Subsidized Loan, Federal Direct Stafford Unsubsidized Loan, Federal Perkins Loan, Federal PLUS Loan, and alternative loans. The college also offers an interest-free payment plans for an installment fee.
Credit Earning Options
Grace College grants transfer credits for courses completed at another regionally accredited institution of higher learning. There is no maximum amount of credits that can be transferred, but students are required to complete at least 60 credit hours at Grace College for an undergraduate degree. All courses must have been completed with a grade of a C- or better. Students are required to submit official transcripts and course syllabi, catalog descriptions, and other information may also be required. Grace College also grants credits for examination programs such as the College Level Examination Program and Advanced Placement (AP). Military students may be eligible for credit for military training and experience by requesting an official evaluation and submitting official transcripts. Other students may receive credit for life of work experiences for adult degree completion programs and credit is granted on an individual basis.