Top Christian Colleges with Engineering Programs: A Guide For Future Engineers
If you’re interested in pursuing a career in engineering, you have come to the right place. There are many ways to integrate your faith into your journey within this important industry. Whether you already have a specialization in mind, like mechanical or civil engineering, or you’re still exploring, there’s a program at a Christian college that you’re sure to love.
This blog post will explore seven excellent Christian colleges and universities known for exceptional engineering programs and a commitment to upholding faith-based values.
First, let’s understand a bit more about the various specializations within engineering studies.
Types of Engineering
At its core, engineering is a specific skill set that combines science and mathematics to solve real-world problems. It's divided into several distinct disciplines, each with a particular area of focus. Some popular engineering programs include:
Biomedical engineering focuses on applying engineering principles to developing healthcare technologies in the medical field.
Civil engineering involves designing, constructing, and maintaining infrastructure like roads, bridges, and buildings.
Computer engineering combines the design and troubleshooting of software and hardware in computer systems.
Environmental engineering is dedicated to protecting and improving the environment through sustainable design, pollution reduction, and waste management strategies.
Electrical and mechanical engineering focuses on developing and applying electrical systems for power and designing and manufacturing mechanical devices and machinery.
Industrial engineering optimizes complex processes and systems by improving efficiency and safety productivity in production and service industries.
There are many engineering disciplines with various subfields that you can specialize in. If you're interested in exploring more engineering fields, you can check out our School Search tool.
Many of the schools featured offer ABET-accredited programs, meaning that the university has received a seal of approval from the accrediting organization. You can learn more about why accreditation is important, here.
Let's take a look at some of the top Christian colleges that offer engineering programs.
1. Bob Jones University
Imagine yourself at Bob Jones University - a beacon of Christian higher education nestled in the heart of Greenville, South Carolina. Here, you're not just earning a degree but beginning an exciting path of faithful exploration through chapel, prayer, worship events, local churches, and Bible conferences. With an ABET-accredited B.S. in engineering program, you can specialize in civil, electrical, mechanical, or computer engineering.
BJU offers over 585 leadership and outreach opportunities, providing you the chance to develop important soft skills. Strengthening your teamwork, communication, and project management abilities will help in your technical learning. You can also gain hands-on experience by participating in the Intelligent Ground Vehicle Competition, an annual event where teams design and build autonomous vehicles that must navigate through obstacle courses. Now that’s awesome!
Distinctive Programs: Engineering
Student size: 3,055
Student-to-faculty ratio: 12:1
Tuition: $19,750/year
To learn more about Bob Jones University, visit page 26 of THE Guide.
2. Geneva College
Geneva College has been recognized as one of the leading undergraduate engineering schools by U.S. News and World Report. Nestled in Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania, the school offers specialized programs like biomedical engineering.
Within this program, you get the chance to dive into thought-provoking topics like stem cell transplantation, using cutting-edge lab equipment. You'll also be able to join Geneva’s discipline & fellowship groups and chapel services to help integrate your faith into their engineering profession.
You can strengthen your engineering skills in national competitions, like Solar Splash, robotics competitions, steel bridge building, and more. This is a great way to apply knowledge, grow skills, connect with peers, and boost your job prospects. If you choose Geneva College, you can expect a top-notch education with access to valuable industry networking opportunities.
Distinctive Programs: Biomedical Engineering
Student size: 1,235
Student-to-faculty ratio: 11:1
Tuition: $31,090/year
To learn more about Geneva College, visit page 50 of THE Guide.
3. Hope College
Hope College, a Christian liberal arts institution located in Holland, Michigan, offers an ABET-accredited B.S. in engineering degree. This program allows you to specialize in areas such as biomedical, chemical, civil, computer science, electrical, environmental, and mechanical engineering. Pretty impressive, right?
What truly sets Hope College apart is its commitment to hands-on learning experiences. Smaller class sizes promote a sense of community and offer a supportive environment where you can create meaningful relationships with your professors and fellow students.
Hope College’s study abroad opportunities also give you the chance to gain practical knowledge and experience on a global scale. You can choose from more than 300 off-campus study programs in over 60 countries! Nurturing your faith while expanding your horizons is the perfect blend for your college journey.
Distinctive Programs: Engineering
Student size: 3,251
Student-to-faculty ratio: 11:1
Tuition: $39,990/year
To learn more about Hope College, visit page 58 of THE Guide.
4. LeTourneau University
LeTourneau University is located in Longview, Texas. This private institution is renowned for its ABET-accredited engineering programs. You can choose top-rated programs in various disciplines, including aerospace, biomedical, civil, electrical, mechanical, and software engineering. But that’s not all! LeTourneau has set itself apart with distinctive welding and computer science engineering programs.
At LeTourneau, you’ll benefit from a hands-on training approach, which means you’re not confined to a classroom. You can broaden your experiences and meet fellow students in various activities like research projects, internships, exchange programs, student clubs, and professional organizations.
Distinctive Programs: Welding Engineering and Computer Science Engineering
Student size: 3,541
Student-to-faculty ratio: 13:1
Tuition: $46,820/year
To learn more about LeTourneau University, visit page 70 of THE Guide.
5. Mount Vernon Nazarene University
Mount Vernon Nazarene University (MVNU) in Ohio offers an ABET-accredited BS in engineering with mechanical, electrical, or computer engineering concentrations. What's unique about this program is that you will also receive a minor in mathematics upon completing your degree. The program combines technical training with a Christ-centered educational approach that highlights real-world moral and ethical dilemmas, which allows you to grow into a leader in the field.
MVNU offers a cross-cultural program that allows engineering students to participate in service learning trips to countries like Belize, Swaziland, Haiti, and many more. If needed, you can get financial help from the university's endowed scholarships and access funds donated by the Ariel Corporation. During your summer break, the MVNU Career Services Office can also help you get a paid internship. Additionally, you can work on campus as a math, physics, or engineering tutor, grader, teacher assistant, or lab assistant.
Distinctive Programs: Mechanical, Electrical, and Computer Engineering
Student size: 1,941
Student-to-faculty ratio: 15:1
Tuition: $35,274/year
To learn more about Mount Vernon, visit page 156 of THE Guide.
6. North Park University
Look no further than North Park University (NPU), situated in Chicago, Illinois. You can pursue a B.A. in engineering or a B.S. in mechanical engineering, enriched with hands-on training, real-world knowledge, and moral leadership.
NPU's unique city-centric location, integrated approach, and faith-based curriculum create an exciting learning environment. The school's location opens up a world of possibilities for you, with countless engineering firms and ample networking opportunities at your doorstep. The beautiful city of Chicago offers plenty to see and do, like exploring the Field Museum, Navy Pier, Millennium Park, and more!
Distinctive Programs: Mechanical Engineering
Student size: 1,855
Student-to-faculty ratio: 15:1
Tuition: $34,685/year
To learn more about North Park University, visit page 84 of THE Guide.
7. Spring Arbor University
Spring Arbor University, in Michigan, offers another B.S. in engineering program to consider. This program focuses on mechanical and electrical engineering and provides you with an understanding of key engineering principles and hands-on skills. Ranked highly, Spring Arbor offers more than just academics. With a vibrant on-campus community and picturesque location, it's a place you'll love to call home with the perfect small-town feel.
They also offer a unique program, Cross-Cultural Studies (CCS), which is an educational initiative that immerses you in different environments to enhance global and cultural awareness. If you are interested in study abroad opportunities or expanding your horizons, this could be the perfect program for you to enrich your engineering career.
Distinctive Programs: Electrical & Mechanical Engineering
Student size: 1,000
Student-to-faculty ratio: 12:1
Tuition: $31,020/year
To learn more about Spring Arbor University, visit page 104 of THE Guide.
Can I Afford an Engineering Program at a Christian College or University?
The cost of higher education can certainly be expensive. However, numerous scholarships and financial aid programs can lighten the burden of student loans. We have plenty of financial aid information and resources to help you navigate opportunities.
Final Thoughts
As a Christian engineering student, finding an educational institution that aligns with your spiritual beliefs and supports your spiritual growth is important. It’s a chance to meet like-minded individuals, gain valuable hard and soft skills, and set a strong foundation for your career as an engineer, no matter the path you choose.
To help you find the right institution, you can check out our comprehensive resource, THE Guide, and use our School Search tool to explore more Christian engineering institutions that meet your needs.
