Kentucky Christian University

"KCU" redirects here. For the New Zealand association football club, see Kapiti Coast United.

Kentucky Christian University
Established	1919
Type	Private, 4 year
Location	Grayson, Kentucky, USA
Mascot	Knights
Affiliations	Christian churches and churches of Christ,, National Christian College Athletic Association
Website	http://www.kcu.edu

Kentucky Christian University (KCU) is a comprehensive baccalaureate level Christian university located in Grayson, Kentucky. It was founded on December 1, 1919, as Christian Normal Institute, by J. W. Lusby and J. O. Snodgrass. As a "normal school" its programs included a high school, a junior college, and a training program for public school teachers. During the early 1920s its emphasis shifted to educating students for the Christian ministry. Degree programs are offered in eight schools within the University: the School of Art and Science, the Sack School of Bible and Ministry, the School of Business, the Keeran School of Education, the School of Music, the Yancy School of Nursing, the School of Social Work and Human Services, and the Graduate School.

KCU is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools and is authorized to award bachelors and masters degrees. All programs requiring professional licensure (i.e. Nursing, Social Work, and Teacher Education) are professionally accredited.

Every graduate of KCU takes a thirty-hour core in Biblical Studies and Theology, in addition to the liberal arts core and the student's major area of study (social work, education, ministry, etc.) This combination of biblical studies, liberal arts, and professional studies is a feature unique to Kentucky Christian University. It is the rationale for KCU's self-designation as "The Great Commission University."

Twice weekly chapel services are an important part of the KCU experience and contribute to a sense of community on campus. The University is also well known for the strength of its music and athletic programs (football, men's and women's basketball, men's and women's cross country, men's and women's soccer, woman's volleyball.) The University Concert Choir has produced several albums and performs nationally and internationally.

Cost and comparison

KCU’s tuition is moderately priced compared to other private colleges in the State; $468 dollars per credit hour before scholarships and grants are applied. The average KCU student receives scholarships, grants, federal financial aid, and loans, significantly reducing the total cost of attending the University.

Recent additions

KCU began varsity football in the fall of 2008. The University is a member of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) and plays in the Mid-South Conference.

In September 2007, after more than 20 years in office, Dr. Keith P. Keeran announced his plans to retire as President of the University. In May 2009, the trustees of the university announced that Dr. Jeff Metcalf, currently serving KCU as provost and chief academic officer, will be installed as President of the University in August. President Keeran continues to serve as President until Dr. Metcalf's installation, after which he will continue to serve the University as its Chancellor.

Notable alumni

Several Contemporary Christian Music groups have come from KCU, including Audio Adrenaline, and Bleach.

References

• Main recruiting website
• KCU's official site