Biola University: Top Christian College in California for Faith-Based Education

Biola University is a top Christian university in California, blending faith and academics with over 250 programs, vibrant campus life, and strong career outcomes.

Share:

Biola University: Top Christian College in California for Faith-Based Education
Telegram Group Join Now
WhatsApp Group Join Now

Biola University, founded in 1908 in La Mirada, California, is a leading private evangelical Christian institution known for its integration of faith and academic excellence. Offering over 250 undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs across several specialized schools—including theology, business, psychology, education, science, film, and fine arts—Biola emphasizes a Christ-centered education, requiring Bible courses and chapel attendance.

It consistently ranks among top Christian colleges and is recognized nationally for student experience, teaching, and specific academic programs. The 95-acre campus supports vibrant student life, athletics, and spiritual growth, while notable alumni span politics, entertainment, and academia. With a 60% acceptance rate and generous financial aid, Biola remains committed to accessible, faith-driven education.

CategoryDetails
LocationLa Mirada, California (22 miles SE of Los Angeles)
Founded1908 (as Bible Institute of Los Angeles)
TypePrivate, Non-denominational Evangelical Christian University
Motto“Above All Give Glory to God”
Campus Size95 acres
Student PopulationApprox. 6,000 (undergraduate and graduate)
Academic Programs250+ programs (Bachelor’s, Master’s, Doctoral, Certificates)
Notable SchoolsTalbot School of Theology, Crowell School of Business, Rosemead School of Psychology
Religious LifeRequired Bible courses & chapel attendance
AthleticsNCAA Division II, Pacific West Conference (18 varsity sports)
Acceptance Rate~60%
Average GPA3.66 (freshman class)
SAT/ACT Scores (Mid 50%)SAT: 1100–1340, ACT: 24–30
Annual Cost~$64,426 (tuition, fees, room & board)
Financial Aid$70M+ awarded annually; scholarships up to $23,500/year
Notable AlumniScott Derrickson, Zach King, John Thune, Judith Hill, Josh McDowell
Rankings#1 Most Comprehensively Christian (CHE Guide), Top 10 Best Christian Colleges (Niche)

Biola University: A Comprehensive Overview of a Leading Christian Institution

Biola University, a private, nondenominational evangelical Christian institution, stands as a prominent academic and spiritual hub in Southern California. Founded in 1908 as the Bible Institute of Los Angeles, it has evolved into a comprehensive university renowned for its commitment to integrating Christian faith with rigorous academic pursuits. Located in La Mirada, approximately 22 miles southeast of downtown Los Angeles, Biola offers a vibrant campus life and a diverse array of programs across undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels.

History and Mission

Biola’s roots trace back to its founding by Lyman Stewart, president of the Union Oil Company of California, and Presbyterian ministers Thomas C. Horton and Augustus B. Prichard. Initially focused on biblical and missions training, the institution expanded its curriculum over the decades, officially becoming “Biola College” in 1949 and “Biola University” in 1981. Its core mission, “Above All Give Glory to God,” remains central to its identity, curriculum, community, and policies, a commitment that has earned it recognition as the most comprehensively Christian university in North America.

Academics and Programs

Biola University offers over 250 academic programs, including bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees, as well as various certificates. The university is structured into several schools, including:

  • Talbot School of Theology: A premier school of theology offering degrees such as Master of Divinity and Master of Arts in Christian Ministry and Leadership.
  • Crowell School of Business: A nationally accredited business school with biblically centered programs, including a Master of Business Administration (MBA).
  • Rosemead School of Psychology: A leading psychology school accredited by the American Psychological Association, offering Psy.D. and Ph.D. degree programs.
  • School of Education: A graduate school dedicated to training educators and administrators.
  • School of Science, Technology and Health: Offering programs in fields like biochemistry, biological science, speech-language pathology, and public health.
  • Snyder School of Cinema and Media Arts: Recognized as a top film school in North America by Variety magazine.
  • School of Fine Arts and Communication: Encompassing programs in art, music, and communication.

Students are required to take Bible courses and attend weekly chapel services, emphasizing the integration of faith and learning. Biola’s commitment to academic excellence is reflected in its strong outcomes, with 97% of alumni expressing satisfaction with their Biola experience.

Rankings and Recognition

Biola consistently earns high rankings from various reputable sources:

  • #1 Most Comprehensively Christian University: According to “Christian Higher Education: An Empirical Guide,” Biola ranks #1 among 562 Christian colleges for its faith integration.
  • U.S. News & World Report: Tied with Harvard, Cornell, and MIT on the “Best Undergraduate Teaching” list, and recognized as a “Top Performer on Social Mobility” for its support of Pell Grant recipients.
  • Niche: Ranked among the top 10 “Best Christian Colleges in America” (#9 of 311) and top 50 in “Best College Dorms in America” (#41 of 1,353). Also highly ranked for specific programs like Film and Photography, Music, and Psychology.
  • The Wall Street Journal: Recognized as one of the “Best Colleges for Student Experience.”
  • Forbes: Listed among “America’s Top Colleges.”
  • The Princeton Review: Named one of the “Best of the West” colleges, praising its academic quality and attention to spirituality.
  • Variety: Consistently ranks Biola’s Snyder School of Cinema and Media Arts as one of the “Top Film Schools in North America.”

Student Life and Campus

Biola’s 95-acre suburban campus in La Mirada provides a safe and inviting environment with over 1 million square feet of building space across 40 major buildings. Key campus facilities include:

  • Calvary Chapel: A cross-shaped worship space transformed by renowned artists, serving as a hub for chapel services and events.
  • Alton and Lydia Lim Center for Science, Technology and Health: A state-of-the-art facility for science and health programs, featuring instructional labs, an anatomy suite, a nursing simulation suite, and a rooftop observatory.
  • Bardwell Hall: A recently renovated space dedicated to the visual arts, offering studios, exhibition areas, and computer labs.
  • Production Center: Providing film students with access to high-end equipment, soundstages, editing bays, and control rooms. A new 45,463-square-foot studio facility is scheduled to open in 2026.
  • Residence Halls and Apartments: Offering secure and community-focused living spaces for students.
  • Chase Gymnasium: The primary athletic facility.

Student life at Biola is characterized by a vibrant all-Christian community. Students can participate in a variety of activities, including:

  • Sports and Student Clubs: A wide range of clubs and organizations cater to diverse interests.
  • Music, Art, and Adventure: Opportunities to engage in performing arts, visual arts, and outdoor activities given its Southern California location.
  • Spiritual Life: Beyond chapel services, Biola offers conferences and ministry opportunities.
  • Campus Services: Including diverse dining options, mail services, recreation and fitness facilities, health center, and counseling services.

The university’s location in Southern California provides students with access to countless opportunities for internships, research, and cultural experiences in nearby Los Angeles, as well as beaches, mountains, and entertainment venues.

Athletics

The Biola Eagles compete in 18 intercollegiate varsity sports as a member of the NCAA Division II, primarily within the Pacific West Conference (PacWest). Formerly part of the NAIA, Biola achieved full NCAA Division II membership in 2019. Men’s sports include baseball, basketball, cross country, soccer, swimming, tennis, track & field, and water polo. Women’s sports include basketball, cross country, golf, soccer, softball, swimming, tennis, track & field, volleyball, and water polo. The athletic department emphasizes both athletic and academic success, fostering leadership and character development in student-athletes.

Notable Alumni

Biola University boasts a distinguished list of alumni who have made significant contributions in various fields, including:

Scott Derrickson: Filmmaker (director of Doctor Strange, The Exorcism of Emily Rose, Sinister).

Zach King: Internet personality and filmmaker known for his “magic vines.”

John Thune: Senior United States Senator from South Dakota.

Noah Munck: Actor (known for Gibby in iCarly).

Nabeel Qureshi: Author and apologist.

Judith Hill: Singer-songwriter, known for backing vocals for Michael Jackson and Prince.

Cassie Randolph: Reality television personality.

Daniel B. Wallace: New Testament scholar.

Josh McDowell: Apologist and evangelist.

Michael Chang: Former professional tennis player.

Steve Taylor: Singer, songwriter, and filmmaker.

Clyde Cook: Former President of Biola University.

Financials and Admissions

In 2025, Biola’s acceptance rate was approximately 60% of nearly 4,000 applicants. The average GPA for enrolled freshmen is 3.66, with middle 50% SAT scores ranging from 1100-1340 and ACT scores from 24-30. The estimated total cost of attendance (tuition, fees, room, and board) is around $64,426 annually, with undergraduate tuition and fees at approximately $46,704. Biola is committed to affordability, awarding over $70 million in aid to students annually, with academic scholarships offering up to $23,500 per year.

Biola University continues to stand as a vibrant and influential institution, dedicated to providing a comprehensive education rooted in Christian faith and preparing students to impact the world for Christ.

FAQs about Biola University

What is Biola University known for?
Biola University is known for its strong integration of Christian faith and academics, offering over 250 programs, a vibrant campus life, and nationally ranked schools in theology, business, psychology, film, and more.

Where is Biola University located?
Biola is located in La Mirada, California, about 22 miles southeast of downtown Los Angeles.

Is Biola University affiliated with a specific denomination?
No, Biola is a non-denominational evangelical Christian university.

What academic programs does Biola offer?
Biola offers more than 250 academic programs, including bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees, as well as certificates in various fields such as theology, business, psychology, science, education, media, and fine arts.

What is the student population at Biola University?
Biola serves approximately 6,000 students across its undergraduate and graduate programs.

Is a Christian background required for admission?
While students are not required to be from a specific denomination, they must affirm the university’s statement of faith and be committed to a Christ-centered education.

Are Bible courses required at Biola?
Yes, all students are required to take Bible courses and attend regular chapel services as part of Biola’s faith integration.

What are Biola’s most recognized schools or departments?
Some of Biola’s most recognized schools include the Talbot School of Theology, Rosemead School of Psychology, Crowell School of Business, and the Snyder School of Cinema and Media Arts.

How selective is Biola University?
Biola has an acceptance rate of around 60%, making it moderately selective.

What are the average GPA and test scores for admitted students?
The average GPA of incoming freshmen is 3.66, with SAT scores between 1100–1340 and ACT scores between 24–30 (middle 50%).

What is the cost of attending Biola University?
The estimated total annual cost (tuition, fees, room, and board) is about $64,426.

Does Biola University offer financial aid?
Yes, Biola awards over $70 million in financial aid annually, with academic scholarships offering up to $23,500 per year.

What athletic programs does Biola have?
Biola competes in 18 varsity sports at the NCAA Division II level, primarily in the Pacific West Conference.

What is campus life like at Biola?
Campus life includes a strong Christian community, diverse student clubs, athletics, arts, adventure programs, and spiritual growth opportunities.

Are there on-campus housing options?
Yes, Biola provides secure residence halls and apartment-style housing with a strong sense of community.

What facilities does Biola offer?
Key facilities include Calvary Chapel, Lim Center for Science and Health, Bardwell Hall for the arts, and a state-of-the-art Production Center for media students.

What internship or career opportunities are available?
Biola’s location near Los Angeles offers students numerous opportunities for internships, research, and careers in industries like film, healthcare, education, and business.

Is Biola a good school for film and media students?
Yes, Biola’s Snyder School of Cinema and Media Arts is nationally recognized, often listed among the top film schools by Variety.

Does Biola have notable alumni?
Yes, notable alumni include filmmaker Scott Derrickson, internet personality Zach King, Senator John Thune, singer Judith Hill, and apologist Josh McDowell.

What is Biola’s spiritual environment like?
Spiritual life is central, with regular chapel services, conferences, ministry opportunities, and a community focused on spiritual growth.

Is Biola accredited?
Yes, Biola University is fully accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission, and several of its programs hold specialized accreditations.

How does Biola rank nationally?
Biola is ranked as the #1 Most Comprehensively Christian university by “Christian Higher Education” and is recognized by U.S. News, Forbes, Niche, and The Princeton Review for teaching quality, student experience, and program strength.

Does Biola support first-generation and low-income students?
Yes, Biola is recognized as a “Top Performer on Social Mobility” and actively supports Pell Grant recipients and underrepresented students.

Can international students apply to Biola?
Yes, Biola welcomes international students and offers resources and support for their academic and spiritual success.

What are Biola’s chapel requirements?
Students are required to attend a set number of chapel services per semester, which include worship, teaching, and community-building.

When did Biola become a university?
Biola became Biola College in 1949 and officially changed to Biola University in 1981.

Is Biola a commuter school?
While commuter students are welcome, the majority of undergraduates live on or near campus, contributing to a tight-knit residential community.

Does Biola have graduate and doctoral programs?
Yes, Biola offers a wide range of master’s and doctoral degrees across various disciplines including theology, psychology, education, and business.

Are there online programs at Biola?
Yes, Biola offers several online degrees and certificates, particularly for working adults and graduate students.

What kind of support services are available to students?
Biola provides academic advising, counseling, health services, tutoring, career services, and spiritual mentorship.

in

Leave a Reply

AUBSP Logo

We noticed you're using an ad-blocker

Ads help us keep content free. Please whitelist us or disable your ad-blocker.

How to Disable