ST. PAUL, Minn., August 15, 2024 – In response to a growing demand for classical education at the postsecondary level throughout the upper Midwest, University of Northwestern – St. Paul is excited to announce the launch of its Classical Christian Honors College (CCHC) in fall 2025. Already an educational leader in Minnesota for its unwavering commitment to the integration of faith and learning, Northwestern is positioned well to provide a setting for student growth in the cultivation of wisdom and pursuit of the true, the good, and the beautiful.
Classical education—a long tradition of asking questions, reading classical texts, and engaging others—has been in place for over 2,500 years. According to a recent report conducted by Arcadia Education, as reported by RealClearEducation, new primary and secondary classical schools have birthed at an annual growth rate of nearly five percent in each of the last four years. The same report noted that the boom of K-12 classical education goes well beyond just new schools, as many existing classical schools are experiencing a waitlist due to enrollment demands. Furthermore, classical microschools and homeschool learners are utilizing classical education at increased levels.
Classical Christian education—what Northwestern’s program will incorporate—adds the study of theology to the three classical disciplines of grammar, logic, and rhetoric. Northwestern’s classical Christian honors program will feature a curriculum that consists of unique honors courses each semester, allowing students to likely pursue a second major to accompany their initial degree in Nursing, Engineering, Education, or another selected field of study. Given the CCHC’s focus on the development of one’s Christian faith, this rigorous program features Scripture at the center of the learning journey as students develop critical thinking skills and a profound understanding of faith and leadership. This new program at Northwestern offers students the opportunity to engage with timeless texts and explore profound questions about life, faith, and leadership. Small, discussion-based classes will facilitate deep dives into the writings of influential thinkers such as the Apostle Paul and philosophers Plato, Aristotle, and Augustine, encouraging students to apply the authors’ wisdom to contemporary issues.
In anticipation of the CCHC’s launch, Northwestern’s president, Dr. Corbin Hoornbeek, noted, “The Classical Christian Honors College is an organic fit for Northwestern and our mission. As an organization, it is our vision to engage contemporary culture, influence how people think, and prepare Christian leaders for lives of purpose, service, and civic engagement. The faculty, curriculum, and experiences of our Classical Christian Honors College will do just that.”
Students and families interested in the CCHC can learn more about the program at unwsp.edu/cchc. An announcement of the college’s inaugural dean is expected in the coming weeks.
For more information about the Classical Christian Honors College (CCHC), please reach out to Jennifer Clemens, Senior Director of Marketing, at [email protected] or call her at (651) 628-3375.
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University of Northwestern – St. Paul (UNW) is a nondenominational, Christian university in St. Paul, Minn. With a biblical worldview integrated into all programs, UNW provides a unique educational experience for students who want to combine faith and education. Northwestern offers more than 65 areas of study, including seven master’s degrees, and online and early college programs. Northwestern Media, a ministry of the university, owns and operates 29 Christian radio stations throughout the Midwest with a total listenership of more than 2 million listeners. Visit unwsp.edu for more information.
