kuyper college viewbook

APlaceforChristianLeaders

3333 East Beltline N.E. • Grand Rapids, MI 49525 • www.kuyper.edu 9/09

A Greater Cause—Making a DifferenceAs a leading ministry-focused Christian leadership school, Kuyper College is a place for those who truly want to make a difference. Our students want to have lives of significance after they graduate. And they are doing so—with extraordinary results—as they use what they’ve learned at Kuyper to touch the lives of others. As social workers, pastors, teachers, worship leaders, filmmakers, professors, accountants, health care providers and in many other professions, Kuyper graduates are helping to build God’s Kingdom in more than 50 countries around the world.

“Sometimes we assume, as I once did, that to be in full-time ministry you have to be a missionary. But, we are all full-time Christians, regardless of what we do in our careers.” Lisa Hope M.D.—Class of 1996 —Internal Medicine Physician

1. Arbin Pokharel—Class of 1999 —Pastor, Nepal 2. Alex Brito—Class of 2005 —Youth for Christ Coordinator, Dominican Republic3. Sarah Poulisse—Class of 2008 —AmeriCorps Bridges Coordinator, Washington4. Rick Lampen—Class of 1986 —Health Care Provider, Bolivia5. Angel Rodriguez—Class of 1989 —Life Guidance Services Coordinator, Michigan6. Stephen Vander Hart—Class of 1994 —Young Life Coordinator, California7. Peter Hofman—Class of 2002 —Chaplain, United States Army-Special Forces8. Jim Triezenberg—Class of 1998 —University Professor, Cambodia

A Greater Cause—Making a DifferenceAs a leading ministry-focused Christian leadership school, Kuyper College is a place for those who truly want to make a difference. Our students want to have lives of significance after they graduate. And they are doing so—with extraordinary results—as they use what they’ve learned at Kuyper to touch the lives of others. As social workers, pastors, teachers, worship leaders, filmmakers, professors, accountants, health care providers and in many other professions, Kuyper graduates are helping to build God’s Kingdom in more than 50 countries around the world.

“Sometimes we assume, as I once did, that to be in full-time ministry you have to be a missionary. But, we are all full-time Christians, regardless of what we do in our careers.” Lisa Hope M.D.—Class of 1996 —Internal Medicine Physician

1. Arbin Pokharel—Class of 1999 —Pastor, Nepal 2. Alex Brito—Class of 2005 —Youth for Christ Coordinator, Dominican Republic3. Sarah Poulisse—Class of 2008 —AmeriCorps Bridges Coordinator, Washington4. Rick Lampen—Class of 1986 —Health Care Provider, Bolivia5. Angel Rodriguez—Class of 1989 —Life Guidance Services Coordinator, Michigan6. Stephen Vander Hart—Class of 1994 —Young Life Coordinator, California7. Peter Hofman—Class of 2002 —Chaplain, United States Army-Special Forces8. Jim Triezenberg—Class of 1998 —University Professor, Cambodia

Intellectual & Spiritual Impact

Majors & Programs

Academics

Bachelor of Science (B.S.) AccountingAudio ProductionBusiness AdministrationChild DevelopmentCommunication StudiesCross-Cultural Studies --Church Planting Emphasis --International Development & Business --TESOL (ESL) EmphasisDance and Worship StudiesEducation—ElementaryEducation—SecondaryExercise Science

Associate Degree Programs Child DevelopmentGeneral Studies

Certificate ProgramsBiblical Studies (post graduate)Christian Ministry (post graduate) --Cross-Cultural Studies Emphasis --Youth Ministry Emphasis

Some Kuyper College programs are offered in collaboration with Cornerstone University, Calvin College and Grand Rapids Community College.

Interdisciplinary StudiesInternational Business/Marketing JournalismMedia Studies (Audio, Video, Film)Music and Worship StudiesPre-Nursing Pre-Seminary StudiesPublic RelationsSocial Work (B.S.W.)Sports MinistryTheatreYouth Ministry

Executive Office AdministrationReligious Education

Christian FoundationsTeaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL)

All Kuyper College programs are accredited through the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools and by the Association for Biblical Higher Education. The social work program is also accredited by the Council on Social Work Education.

Accreditation

Through the combination of a rigorous academic curriculum and a biblical worldview, the academic program at Kuyper College has been designed to completely integrate faith into the learning process. One important Kuyper distinction is that academic freedom of inquiry is not only accepted at the College, but encouraged. This learning environment allows you to explore all points of view and ask questions in a safe setting. It creates space for full ownership of your faith and provides a true learning experience that will prepare you for the future, whether that be graduate school, a ministry or a professional career. At Kuyper, you will graduate with two majors—one in your chosen field and one in Bible and theology. This integration of academics and Bible will help you to see, understand and genuinely live all of life through the lens of Scripture.

“Because of the strength of the curriculum, I will be able to get my

master’s in a shorter period of time than students who’ve graduated

from other colleges.”

Andrew Dusendang—Class 2010—Social Work Major

Intellectual & Spiritual Impact

Majors & Programs

Academics

Bachelor of Science (B.S.) AccountingAudio ProductionBusiness AdministrationChild DevelopmentCommunication StudiesCross-Cultural Studies --Church Planting Emphasis --International Development & Business --TESOL (ESL) EmphasisDance and Worship StudiesEducation—ElementaryEducation—SecondaryExercise Science

Associate Degree Programs Child DevelopmentGeneral Studies

Certificate ProgramsBiblical Studies (post graduate)Christian Ministry (post graduate) --Cross-Cultural Studies Emphasis --Youth Ministry Emphasis

Some Kuyper College programs are offered in collaboration with Cornerstone University, Calvin College and Grand Rapids Community College.

Interdisciplinary StudiesInternational Business/Marketing JournalismMedia Studies (Audio, Video, Film)Music and Worship StudiesPre-Nursing Pre-Seminary StudiesPublic RelationsSocial Work (B.S.W.)Sports MinistryTheatreYouth Ministry

Executive Office AdministrationReligious Education

Christian FoundationsTeaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL)

All Kuyper College programs are accredited through the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools and by the Association for Biblical Higher Education. The social work program is also accredited by the Council on Social Work Education.

Accreditation

Through the combination of a rigorous academic curriculum and a biblical worldview, the academic program at Kuyper College has been designed to completely integrate faith into the learning process. One important Kuyper distinction is that academic freedom of inquiry is not only accepted at the College, but encouraged. This learning environment allows you to explore all points of view and ask questions in a safe setting. It creates space for full ownership of your faith and provides a true learning experience that will prepare you for the future, whether that be graduate school, a ministry or a professional career. At Kuyper, you will graduate with two majors—one in your chosen field and one in Bible and theology. This integration of academics and Bible will help you to see, understand and genuinely live all of life through the lens of Scripture.

“Because of the strength of the curriculum, I will be able to get my

master’s in a shorter period of time than students who’ve graduated

from other colleges.”

Andrew Dusendang—Class 2010—Social Work Major

More than Teaching—Involved & Caring FacultySmall classes—averaging 16 students—will allow you to benefit from the nurturing, personalized and customized instruction of a committed and experienced faculty. Kuyper’s 15:1 student to faculty ratio allows professors to take a personal interest in your academic growth as well as your spiritual and personal well-being. It also provides our professors the opportunity to establish relationships as they get to know you outside of the classroom—Kuyper professors practice an open door policy where you can come to their offices without the need for an appointment. All of this adds up to mentoring opportunities that more often than not result in lifelong friendships and enriching experiences for both professors and students.

“We have a community of professors who desire to know God more and to share Him with us in every aspect of our lives.I have gained academic and spiritual knowledge, but more importantly, the passion to use both.” Camren de Waard—Class of 2010 —Cross-Cultural Studies Major

More than Teaching—Involved & Caring FacultySmall classes—averaging 16 students—will allow you to benefit from the nurturing, personalized and customized instruction of a committed and experienced faculty. Kuyper’s 15:1 student to faculty ratio allows professors to take a personal interest in your academic growth as well as your spiritual and personal well-being. It also provides our professors the opportunity to establish relationships as they get to know you outside of the classroom—Kuyper professors practice an open door policy where you can come to their offices without the need for an appointment. All of this adds up to mentoring opportunities that more often than not result in lifelong friendships and enriching experiences for both professors and students.

“We have a community of professors who desire to know God more and to share Him with us in every aspect of our lives.I have gained academic and spiritual knowledge, but more importantly, the passion to use both.” Camren de Waard—Class of 2010 —Cross-Cultural Studies Major

Applied Learning—Internships

In partnership with national and international organizations and ministries, you will participate in hands-on internships that will allow you to apply the knowledge and skills you’ve acquired in the classroom to everyday situations. Required internships are integrated into every Kuyper program, helping you gain professional experience and practical insight into your chosen career even before graduation. Kuyper’s field education and study abroad program offers learning and ministry opportunities in several locations throughout the world including Israel, China, Kenya, Japan, Switzerland, South Africa, Mexico and Romania, among many others. These opportunities will provide you a broader global perspective of places and people.

“My worldview now includes people from different cultures

where I’ve learned to look beyond differences and be culturally

sensitive. I’ve lived out ‘cross-cultural understanding.’

I could not get that in a classroom.”

Jeremy Van Woerden—Class of 2009 —Youth Ministry Major Internship at Netaiken

Christian College, Papua, New Guinea

Applied Learning—Internships

In partnership with national and international organizations and ministries, you will participate in hands-on internships that will allow you to apply the knowledge and skills you’ve acquired in the classroom to everyday situations. Required internships are integrated into every Kuyper program, helping you gain professional experience and practical insight into your chosen career even before graduation. Kuyper’s field education and study abroad program offers learning and ministry opportunities in several locations throughout the world including Israel, China, Kenya, Japan, Switzerland, South Africa, Mexico and Romania, among many others. These opportunities will provide you a broader global perspective of places and people.

“My worldview now includes people from different cultures

where I’ve learned to look beyond differences and be culturally

sensitive. I’ve lived out ‘cross-cultural understanding.’

I could not get that in a classroom.”

Jeremy Van Woerden—Class of 2009 —Youth Ministry Major Internship at Netaiken

Christian College, Papua, New Guinea

Community—Diverse & AuthenticAt Kuyper there is an intentional emphasis on authenticity and the embracing of diversity. Students come from more than 25 denominations, from across the country and around the world, and from a range of educational experiences—public, private, homeschooling and transfers from other colleges. As a result, the Kuyper community continues to grow stronger as we celebrate and learn from the commonalities, differences and uniqueness represented by our student body, faculty and staff. It is the importance we place on multi-denominational, ethnic, multi-cultural and educational diversity that provides our students with a representation of God’s love for the whole world, as well as a visible and tangible example of how to live that love through authentic relationships.

“I will graduate having learned that I can build authentic relationships with everyone by not looking at the outside of the person, but by really getting to know them.” Javonna Allen—Class of 2011 —Youth Ministry Major

Community—Diverse & AuthenticAt Kuyper there is an intentional emphasis on authenticity and the embracing of diversity. Students come from more than 25 denominations, from across the country and around the world, and from a range of educational experiences—public, private, homeschooling and transfers from other colleges. As a result, the Kuyper community continues to grow stronger as we celebrate and learn from the commonalities, differences and uniqueness represented by our student body, faculty and staff. It is the importance we place on multi-denominational, ethnic, multi-cultural and educational diversity that provides our students with a representation of God’s love for the whole world, as well as a visible and tangible example of how to live that love through authentic relationships.

“I will graduate having learned that I can build authentic relationships with everyone by not looking at the outside of the person, but by really getting to know them.” Javonna Allen—Class of 2011 —Youth Ministry Major

Christianity—On a Daily Basis

The imitation of Christ in our daily living is a Christian’s highest aspiration. That is why Kuyper’s continuous program of spiritual formation— mind, body and spirit—is part of every aspect of the College. From voluntary three-times-per week chapel to classrooms, and from athletics to all aspects of student life, Kuyper helps you discern your spiritual gifts and mature in the understanding of who you are in Christ. We then offer dozens of service learning opportunities throughout the Grand Rapids community to help you live a vibrant and fruitful life meeting the spiritual, social and physical needs of others.

“It wasn’t until I began to take Bible courses at Kuyper that I

realized God wanted me to know Him more. Kuyper is helping

me to grow in my profession, but more importantly, in my

spiritual life.”

Erdenetuya Tserev—Class of 2010—Communication Studies Major

Christianity—On a Daily Basis

The imitation of Christ in our daily living is a Christian’s highest aspiration. That is why Kuyper’s continuous program of spiritual formation— mind, body and spirit—is part of every aspect of the College. From voluntary three-times-per week chapel to classrooms, and from athletics to all aspects of student life, Kuyper helps you discern your spiritual gifts and mature in the understanding of who you are in Christ. We then offer dozens of service learning opportunities throughout the Grand Rapids community to help you live a vibrant and fruitful life meeting the spiritual, social and physical needs of others.

“It wasn’t until I began to take Bible courses at Kuyper that I

realized God wanted me to know Him more. Kuyper is helping

me to grow in my profession, but more importantly, in my

spiritual life.”

Erdenetuya Tserev—Class of 2010—Communication Studies Major

College Life—Everything it Should BeAt Kuyper you’ll be able to truly live and experience college. We know that a college education is not complete without a good amount of fun, so at Kuyper there’s always something going on. From the traditional start of the year Fun Fest to the End of the Year Bash, to the many banquets, bonfires, variety shows, concerts and sporting events, college life at Kuyper is everything it should be. Kuyper College is located on a beautiful campus eight miles from downtown Grand Rapids, Michigan, offering all of the advantages of big-city living, with the friendly attitude found in small cities. In addition, just a few miles from our campus you can find crystal clear lakes, miles of sandy beaches, national forests, plus snowboarding, downhill and cross-country skiing.

“Good times at Kuyper seem to be supersized because of the variety of things to do and the people to share them with.” Brianna DeWitt—Class of 2012—Communication Studies Major

ActivitiesStudent Government, Student Activities Committee, Spiritual Life Committee, Chapel, Bible Studies, Choir, Drama, Ensembles, Helping and Nurturing During Service (H.A.N.D.S.), Missio Deo Club (global church awareness), Patristics Club (early church fathers study), Harambe Diversity Committee, Pre-Seminary Club, Varsity and Club Athletics, Youth Ministry Club, Yearbook and Intramurals

College Life—Everything it Should BeAt Kuyper you’ll be able to truly live and experience college. We know that a college education is not complete without a good amount of fun, so at Kuyper there’s always something going on. From the traditional start of the year Fun Fest to the End of the Year Bash, to the many banquets, bonfires, variety shows, concerts and sporting events, college life at Kuyper is everything it should be. Kuyper College is located on a beautiful campus eight miles from downtown Grand Rapids, Michigan, offering all of the advantages of big-city living, with the friendly attitude found in small cities. In addition, just a few miles from our campus you can find crystal clear lakes, miles of sandy beaches, national forests, plus snowboarding, downhill and cross-country skiing.

“Good times at Kuyper seem to be supersized because of the variety of things to do and the people to share them with.” Brianna DeWitt—Class of 2012—Communication Studies Major

ActivitiesStudent Government, Student Activities Committee, Spiritual Life Committee, Chapel, Bible Studies, Choir, Drama, Ensembles, Helping and Nurturing During Service (H.A.N.D.S.), Missio Deo Club (global church awareness), Patristics Club (early church fathers study), Harambe Diversity Committee, Pre-Seminary Club, Varsity and Club Athletics, Youth Ministry Club, Yearbook and Intramurals

Exceptional ValueOne of the most important issues facing you is the cost of your education. Kuyper’s high-quality education is very affordable. Compared with other Christian colleges, Kuyper’s tuition is substantially lower by an average of 30 percent or $6,000 less per year, while a variety of scholarship opportunities also offer significant savings. In total, more than 90 percent of Kuyper students receive financial aid and scholarships, while the average financial aid package is over $12,000. Kuyper also has hundreds of academic, diversity, leadership, ministry and endowed scholarships that range from $500 to $8,000. Our affordable education allows students to choose a ministry or profession that aligns with their gifts and passion. Learn more at kuyper.edu/financialaid

“The education I received at Kuyper College prepared me well to attend graduate school, where I’m working on a master’s degree

in theological studies. I also know that I’ve received more than just head knowledge. What I learned

I apply to my everyday life.”

Megan Gearhart—Class of 2007 —Pre-Seminary Major

Exceptional ValueOne of the most important issues facing you is the cost of your education. Kuyper’s high-quality education is very affordable. Compared with other Christian colleges, Kuyper’s tuition is substantially lower by an average of 30 percent or $6,000 less per year, while a variety of scholarship opportunities also offer significant savings. In total, more than 90 percent of Kuyper students receive financial aid and scholarships, while the average financial aid package is over $12,000. Kuyper also has hundreds of academic, diversity, leadership, ministry and endowed scholarships that range from $500 to $8,000. Our affordable education allows students to choose a ministry or profession that aligns with their gifts and passion. Learn more at kuyper.edu/financialaid

“The education I received at Kuyper College prepared me well to attend graduate school, where I’m working on a master’s degree

in theological studies. I also know that I’ve received more than just head knowledge. What I learned

I apply to my everyday life.”

Megan Gearhart—Class of 2007 —Pre-Seminary Major

Kuyper College Facts Kuyper College History Founded in 1939, Kuyper College is a ministry-focused Christian leadership college that educates and trains women and men for ministry and service. The College is named after Abraham Kuyper—theologian, educator and statesman—who established the Free Christian University in Amsterdam, founded on Reformed worldview principles. Kuyper was prime minister of the Netherlands from 1901 to 1905.

MissionKuyper College equips students with a biblical, Reformed worldview to serve effectively Christ’s church and His world.

AthleticsIntercollegiateKuyper competes in the National Christian College Athletic Association. Varsity sports: Men’s and Women’s basketball. Club Sports: Men’s Soccer, Women’s Volleyball.

Intramurals Indoor Soccer, Basketball, Volleyball, Dodgeball, Ultimate Frisbee, Frisbee Golf, Flag Football, Broom-ball, Ping-Pong, Capture the Flag, Kickball, Badminton and more.

Admissions ProcessApplying to Kuyper is easy! Simply submit the following:1. Admissions application (apply online for free at kuyper.edu/apply)2. Official high school transcript3. ACT or SAT I scores4. Official college transcripts, if applicable

What We BelieveOur biblical, Reformed worldview • God created and sustains all of creation • Sin affects all of creation, alienating it from God • God redeems creation through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ • With the Holy Spirit, Christians are called to join Christ in His mission to restore and transform creation and culture • We believe that the Bible is the Word of God and must guide our teaching, philosophy, lifestyle and response to our ministry or professional calling

Student Body Diversity • 50% male / 50% female • Over 25 different denominations represented • 25% African-American, Hispanic, Asian-American, Native-American and International students; 75% Caucasian • Of incoming students, 66% new to college / 34% transfer students • Academic Profile Average freshman GPA: 3.6 Average freshman ACT: 23

Admissions Requirements • Successful graduation from high school or passing GED scores • Minimum 2.5 GPA in college preparatory courses (or 2.0 college GPA if transferring) • Minimum composite ACT score of 18 or combined SAT I critical reading and math score of 920 • Christian commitment to academic, spiritual, social and physical development

Financial Aid Process1. Apply to Kuyper College for free (kuyper.edu/apply). You’ll automatically be considered for most scholarships!2. Check out additional Kuyper scholarships (kuyper.edu/financialaid). Priority deadline is February 15.3. Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at fafsa.ed.gov (include Kuyper’s code: 002311). Priority deadline is March 1.4. If you have special circumstances, complete the Supplemental Information Form (kuyper.edu/financialaid). Priority deadline is March 1.

Campus VisitsThere’s no better way to get a real feel for Kuyper College than coming for a visit. Choose a free overnight visit event or set up your own personalized experience. We invite you to take a tour, visit a class or two, talk with a professor, join us for chapel, stay in the residence halls, and sample the food.

Kuyper hosts a number of all-day preview events for prospective students and their families, including Kuyper Experience Days, Kuyper Cougar Athletic Days, Music and Worship Experience Days, Leadership Experience Days and Homeschool Experience Days. Go to kuyper.edu/visit, email [email protected] or call 800.511.3749 to speak with our visit coordinator and set up a visit.