Each of these schools incorporate the Christian faith in a different way, including doctrinal statements. Prospective students can see if the degree programs and student organizations align with their interests by reading the overviews below.
School Comparison
All of the schools offer students a Christian faith-based education. Undergraduate tuition rates start around $32,000 and reach up to $55,000, depending on the school.
| School Name | Institution Type | Location | Denomination | Undergraduate Tuition and Fees (2019-2020)* |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biola University | 4-year, Private not-for-profit | Interdenominational | La Mirada, CA | $41,976 |
| Pepperdine University | 4-year, Private not-for-profit | Churches of Christ | Malibu, CA | $55,892 |
| Chapman University | 4-year, Private not-for-profit | Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) | Orange, CA | $54,924 |
| San Diego Christian College | 4-year, Private not-for-profit | Undenominational | Santee, CA | $32,346 |
| Azusa Pacific University | 4-year, Private not-for-profit | Undenominational | Azusa, CA | $40,220 |
Sources: *National Center for Education Statistics (NCES)
Overview of Christian Schools in California with Accreditation
Biola University requires that students earn chapel credits as part of their curriculum. Students at the other schools can strengthen their faith through optional chapel services or faith-based student organizations.
Biola University
Biola University is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission. The university developed the Articles of Faith, which is its doctrinal statement and describes its Christian beliefs. Biola holds traditional worship services, as well as evening services and Talbot chapels. Full-time students must attend five conference services and twenty chapel services during each semester. Students can join the university's Student Government Association, which focuses on creating a diverse campus environment. Degree programs at Biola include Biblical ministries, elementary education, and music composition.
Pepperdine University
Pepperdine University also holds accreditation from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission. The university's mission includes the values of service and leadership. The Pepperdine Volunteer Center offers weekly service opportunities for students in Los Angeles and Ventura Counties. Undergraduate degrees at Pepperdine include art history and economics, with graduate degrees available in education and psychology.
Chapman University
Chapman University offers 123 undergraduate majors and minors, such as advertising, computer science, and food science. The college is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission. Chapman was established by members of the Disciples of Christ Christian Church. The university's environment is centered on the Four Pillars: physical, social, spiritual, and intellectual parts of life. The Fish Interfaith Center provides a place for students to explore their spirituality. Other organizations include Campus Crusade for Christ, the Chapman Dance Alliance, the Accounting Society, and the National Society of Collegiate Scholars.
San Diego Christian College
San Diego Christian College has a doctrinal statement that is infused into all of its programs. The college holds accreditation from Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission. Students can pursue their undergraduate degree in fields like aviation, communication, and kinesiology and rehabilitation science. Master's degrees are available in leadership and teaching, as well as a combined credential and master's teaching program.
Azusa Pacific University
Azusa Pacific University is also accredited by Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission. Students can complete bachelor's degrees in areas such as accounting and art. Graduate degrees available include biotechnology, Christian ministries, and educational counseling. Azusa's mission is a God First approach, which means students will experience the Christian faith in all aspects of their college experience. Students can attend chapel services on Monday and Wednesday mornings.
