Crain's: Faith-based Cornerstone University Embarks on Bold, Laser-Focused Institutional Reset
Christian universities emphasize the importance of an education that serves the common good while fostering a strong Christian worldview in their students. Cornerstone University, located in Grand Rapids, Michigan, has taken this mission to a new level, and the results are evident. The university has achieved enrollment growth for two consecutive years, with a recent two percent increase.
To sustain its momentum and support the expansion of programs like engineering, health sciences and business analytics, Cornerstone University has brought on nine new faculty in the recent months. Additionally, the university is enhancing its student life offerings, responding to a growing number of students electing to live on campus, while incorporating virtual learning options for improved school-life balance.
Beginning in 2025, Cornerstone will complete the rollout of its CU Advantage™ initiative, a transformative approach to higher education. The CU Advantage™ includes a tuition reset to $22,000 – lower than most if not all Michigan-faith based institutions. This initiative also includes strategic educational investments, rigorous academic standards, and a strong focus on career preparation. Cornerstone has integrated discipline-specific Christian worldview training throughout all programs, emphasizing moral and ethical development as the foundation for the entire four-year experience.
Credit: Stephen Norregaard © 2019
Through hands-on training, students develop in-demand career skills and industry expertise — all taught from a Christian worldview.
“Cornerstone is committed to providing an excellent education and learning environment founded on a Christian worldview,” said Gerson Moreno-Riaño, president, Cornerstone University. “In addition to this, we are also committed to offering an education that is affordable and leading-edge in how it prepares students to be market and career-ready. CU Advantage™ embodies these commitments and our promise to ensure that our graduates are not only equipped to succeed but also to become invaluable contributors and influencers in today’s top industries.”
Recently, the Wall Street Journal recognized Cornerstone in its ranking of the top 500 colleges in the country – only 16 of which are in Michigan. The recognition focuses on an institution’s combination of strong academic outcomes, great student experiences, and a fast return on the student’s investment.
Credit: Ryan Prins © 2023
Cornerstone graduates join over 17,000 alumni who boldly lead in health care, business, mental health, education, ministry, and more.
At Cornerstone, leadership development begins in the very first semester, with a focus on helping students discover and refine their individual career pathway over time. Every student is required to participate in internships, practicums, clinicals or student teaching, ensuring they graduate ready to enter the workforce with a portfolio of real-world experiences. Discipline-specific Christian worldview training is embedded in all course work, networking opportunities, and student life, equipping students to excel professionally while staying grounded in their faith.
The Cornerstone Advantage™ is designed to provide students with a market-aligned educational pathway that combines on campus, virtual, and immersion experiences. This approach prepares students to navigate the modern work environment, develop clear career plans, and build a strong moral and ethical foundation, all while delivering exceptional value.
Cornerstone University is an accredited interdenominational Christian university offering more than 65 undergraduate and graduate degree programs, including Cornerstone Theological Seminary and Asia Biblical Theological Seminary.
Ready to experience a faith-based education that prepares you for success? Explore the CU Advantage™ at Cornerstone University today.
Published on December 9, 2024, in Crain’s Grand Rapids Business
