More megachurches want to be your alma mater

Birmingham-Southern College, a private Methodist liberal arts institution in Alabama, graduated its final class in May 2024 after 168 years, closing due to financial losses despite producing Pulitzer winners and members of Congress. Meanwhile, Highlands College, a new private Christian school affiliated with the Church of the Highlands—the largest religious congregation in Alabama—opened its first freshman class the same year, gaining state approval to award bachelor’s degrees. The rise of megachurch-affiliated colleges reflects a shift away from traditional liberal arts models, prioritizing job training and church culture over broad academic curricula. These schools often lack regional accreditation, instead using religious nonprofit accreditation that may not transfer credits or qualify for federal financial aid. States like Florida, Georgia, and Minnesota have expanded public funding to such institutions, mirroring trends in K-12 religious school funding. Highlands College, for example, secured a $20 million donation from the Green family—founders of Hobby Lobby—to fund residence halls. Critics, including Adam Laats of Binghamton University, argue that public funding raises concerns about accountability and transparency, especially if students unknowingly limit their future educational or career options. Supporters counter that these schools offer practical training and strong faith community ties, catering to students seeking alternatives to secular higher education. The franchise-style model from a Florida-based Christian university has accelerated the growth of these institutions, leveraging megachurch networks for enrollment and donations. However, the lack of traditional accreditation could restrict students’ ability to transfer credits or pursue graduate studies, while close ties to specific churches may influence curriculum and governance without standard oversight mechanisms.