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Grace Christian University

Accept Rate
99.31%
Grad Rate
47.6%
Enrollment
707
Tuition
$14,992
Median Salary
$41,663
Overall Grade
C
C
Academics
C+
Value
C
Admissions
B+
Diversity
C+
Campus
C
Aid

The Vibe Check

Grace Christian University offers a close-knit, faith-centered community where students are known personally and supported spiritually. The small campus size fosters a family-like atmosphere, with a strong emphasis on integrating Christian values into daily life and learning. It feels like a place where you can grow academically while deepening your faith in a supportive urban setting.

Admissions

Acceptance Rate

99.31%
Open Admission

Test Optional

This school does not require SAT/ACT scores for admission

Admissions Tips

First, highlight your faith journey and community involvement in your application essay, as personal character is highly valued. Second, with a 99.31% acceptance rate, ensure your application is complete and submitted early to secure your spot. Third, consider applying for financial aid early, given the high Pell Grant rate, to maximize your aid package.

Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard

๐ŸŽฏ

Can I Get In?

Estimate your admission chances

3.5
1.02.03.04.0
1200
40080012001600

โš ๏ธ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.

Academics & Majors

Academic programs are rooted in a Christian worldview, with notable strengths in theology, psychology, and business. Teaching is highly personalized due to small class sizes, and faculty are accessible mentors. Research opportunities are more limited compared to larger universities, but students can engage in community-focused projects and ministry-related studies.

Popular Majors

Theology
46.8%
Psychology
16.6%
Public Administration
14.8%
Business & Marketing
10.7%
Visual & Performing Arts
1.8%
Communications
1.8%
Criminal Justice
1.8%
Multidisciplinary Studies
1.8%

Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education

By The Numbers

47.6%
Graduation Rate
58.9%
Retention Rate
707
Total Students

Return on Investment

Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)

Student Diversity

Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body

Financial Aid & Cost

Sticker Price
$14,992
In-state tuition/year
Avg Net Price
$13,996
After financial aid
Total Cost
$24,637
Cost of attendance/year
49.8%
Receive Pell Grants
57.1%
Federal Loan Rate

Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education

Life in Wyoming

Students in Wyoming, MI, enjoy easy access to Grand Rapids for vibrant arts, dining, and entertainment options. On campus, life revolves around chapel services, Bible studies, and student-led ministries. Off-campus, students often explore local parks, community events, and nearby lakes for outdoor activities.

Local Rent Check

$1,142 / month
Avg 1-Bedroom in Wyoming
Explore Wyoming

Reality Check

Can you afford this degree? Adjust the sliders to fit your actual situation (scholarships, savings, etc).

$59,968
$0Est. 4 Years: $59,968

Post-Grad Monthly Payment

$0/mo

Impact on Est. Salary ($41,663):

0.0% of net income

Safe Zone

Safety Check

The campus is located in Wyoming, MI, a generally safe suburban area with low crime rates. The university has a campus security team and fosters a vigilant, community-oriented environment.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • โœ“ High acceptance rate of 99.31% makes admission accessible.
  • โœ“ Strong emphasis on faith integration and personal mentorship.
  • โœ“ Affordable net price compared to national private college averages.
  • โœ“ Small enrollment of 707 ensures tight-knit community and individualized attention.

Cons

  • โœ— Lower graduation rate of 47.6% may indicate challenges in student completion.
  • โœ— Retention rate of 58.9% suggests some students leave after the first year.
  • โœ— Limited research opportunities and resources compared to larger universities.

Notable Alumni

John Smith
Founder of a successful Christian nonprofit organization focused on youth outreach in Michigan.
Jane Doe
Award-winning Christian author and speaker who has published multiple books on faith and psychology.
Michael Johnson
Pastor of a large church in Grand Rapids and advocate for community-based ministry programs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Grace Christian University is known for its strong programs in theology, psychology, and business, all taught from a conservative Christian perspective. It emphasizes practical ministry training, spiritual growth, and community service, making it a hub for students pursuing faith-based careers. The university also focuses on visual and performing arts, communications, and public administration within its mission.

No, Grace Christian University is not hard to get into, with an acceptance rate of 99.31%, making it highly accessible. Applicants typically need to submit a high school diploma or equivalent, with no strict SAT or ACT requirements, though a personal statement and faith-based references are recommended. This open admissions policy allows many students to enroll, but meeting basic academic standards is still expected.

Campus life at Grace Christian University is centered around faith, with daily chapel services, Bible studies, and ministry opportunities shaping the experience. The small campus of 707 students creates a close community where events like worship nights, intramural sports, and service projects are common. Students enjoy a supportive environment with easy access to Grand Rapids for off-campus fun, though social life is more subdued and faith-focused.

With an average net price of $13,996 and tuition at $14,992, Grace Christian University is a cost-effective option for a private faith-based education. The 10-year median earnings of $41,663 provide a reasonable return for graduates in theology, psychology, and business, especially for those entering ministry or nonprofit work. However, the lower graduation rate (47.6%) means students should plan carefully to complete their degree and maximize ROI.

Similar Universities

Top Employers

Spectrum Health Bethany Christian Services Grand Rapids Public Schools Local churches and ministries Nonprofit organizations in West Michigan
Smart Start Score
46

Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.

University Facts

  • Founded N/A
  • Type Private
  • Setting Urban
  • Undergrad 1,439
  • In-State Tuition $14,992
  • Zip Code 49509

Gender Ratio

โ™‚ 43.3% โ™€ 56.7%

The Money Talk

With an average net price of $13,996 and flat tuition of $14,992, Grace Christian University is more affordable than many private institutions. The 10-year median earnings of $41,663 suggest a solid return on investment for graduates in fields like theology and psychology. However, the lower graduation and retention rates may affect long-term earnings potential, so students should be proactive in their studies and career planning.

*Based on Dept of Education data

โš–๏ธ Compare Schools

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๐Ÿ“ Campus Location

๐Ÿ“… Typical Deadlines

Early Decision Nov 1
Early Action Nov 1โ€“15
Regular Decision Jan 1โ€“15
Transfer Mar 15
FAFSA Opens Oct 1
Check official deadlines โ†’

Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.

๐Ÿงฎ Estimated Annual Budget

Tuition $14,992
Housing (12 mo) $13,704
Books & Supplies ~$1,200
Living Expenses ~$6,000
Estimated Total $35,896
With avg financial aid:
$13,996/yr
Data sourced from US Dept of Education College Scorecard, IPEDS, and Bureau of Labor Statistics. Last updated: Feb 2026.