Criswell College

A Criswell education is explicitly and unapologetically built on Scripture. The college states that its academics "begin with Scripture, preparing graduates to serve, cultivate change, and solve problems." This theological foundation permeates the entire curriculum, including general education. For example, the Associate of Arts degree is described as "a unique combination of Bible and theology courses with General Education requirements," including classes like Old Testament Survey and New Testament Survey.

The academic offerings are specialized and ministry-oriented. The most popular majors are concentrated in theology and religious vocations, multi/interdisciplinary studies, and health professions (likely counseling or ministry-related tracks). Data shows the most specialized majors are:

• Theology (18 degrees awarded)
• Philosophy and Religious Studies (2 degrees)
• Psychology (3 degrees)

Other reported popular majors include Bible/Biblical Studies, Psychology (General), and Theological and Ministerial Studies. The college is accredited and describes itself as "equipping students with biblical education, leadership skills, and academic excellence."

Life at Criswell is defined by its intentionally small, close-knit Christian community. The total undergraduate enrollment is just 137 students (fall 2024), creating an environment where everyone knows everyone. The college describes campus life as beginning "with Scripture and is lived out in a close-knit community."

On-campus housing is viewed as "an extension of the classroom," providing "an immersive learning experience" that continues the college's mission outside of formal class time. The college also supports a small international student population through its International Office, which offers "Christ-centered guidance in immigration compliance, cultural adjustment, and academic success." With such a small student body, the vibe is less about a sprawling array of clubs and sports and more about deep, shared engagement within a focused religious and academic community.

Outcomes at Criswell College present a mixed picture of strong initial retention but significant attrition before graduation. The first-year retention rate is 100%, meaning every freshman who starts returns for their sophomore year—a testament to the supportive, immersive environment. However, the graduation rate is 50%, indicating half of the students do not complete their degree within six years.

For those who do graduate, earnings are modest, reflecting the ministry and service-oriented paths of many alumni. The median earnings 10 years after entry are $43,185. Other sources note the median salary six years after graduation is $42,026, with earnings five years after graduation reported at $45,000. One year after graduation, median earnings are approximately $36,427. The college publicly posts its graduation rates based on data submitted to the federal Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS).

Criswell College is transparent about costs and provides tools for families to estimate their net price. The college offers a Net Price Calculator to help students estimate the amount they may pay after grant aid and scholarships but before loans. This calculator accounts for tuition, required fees, books, supplies, and living expenses.

Financial aid is widely available. One source reports that 100% of Criswell's full-time beginning undergraduates receive grant or scholarship aid. The average aid package is $11,256. The process for applying for aid requires two steps: completing the FAFSA and completing the Criswell Supplemental Application for Financial Aid. Aid types include grants like the Texas Equalization Grant (TEG) for undergraduates who demonstrate financial need. The college's financial aid policies require students to be fully admitted; those admitted on a conditional basis may be awarded aid, but funds will not be disbursed until their file is complete. The sources provided do not indicate that Criswell College has a "no-loan" policy or that it meets 100% of demonstrated financial need without loans.

Criswell College stands out for its uncompromising, singular focus. This isn't a Christian liberal arts college with a theology department; it's a theology college where every academic program is built from the ground up on a biblical foundation. That makes it a unique haven for students seeking an education entirely framed by scripture, not just complemented by it.

Its scale is equally distinctive. With roughly 137 undergraduates, it offers an ultra-personalized, communal experience akin to a dedicated seminary track at the undergraduate level. The 100% first-year retention rate suggests this intimate environment successfully supports and engages students initially. However, the 50% graduation rate reveals the rigor and specificity of this path—it demands a clear and committed sense of vocation. For the right student—one called to ministry, counseling, or service and desiring deep theological training within a tight-knit community—Criswell provides a focused, immersive alternative to the typical college experience.