Countless institutions of higher learning founded as Christian by church denomination have long since ceased to reflect their original identity, characteristics and philosophy as stated in their mission.

However, in the new millennium, it appears that we have come full circle, and there is a genuine search by parents and especially by young students for schools that are distinctively Christian, and can be identified as such in philosophy and practice. According to annual enrolment reporting, which at this stage is still being reviewed, institutions accredited by Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools (TRACS) are in the midst of a period of enrolment increases, which, according to faculty, is significant.

I like to think that TRACS accreditation has had much to do with this sudden influx. TRACS assumes a developmental approach to accreditation, and in its rigorous process of institutional evaluation, assesses not only the quality of education through operational standards, but the institution's mission commitment through its foundational standards. TRACS accreditation of a college, in a sense, provides a 'value added' dimension. This implies that member institutions have not loosened their academic or spiritual standards to gain students.

What are the advantages of enrolling in a Christian college accredited by an agency such as TRACS? There are many reasons, but I like to go to the primary source: the students themselves, as they are actually enrolled in a Christian institution. The students with whom I talk all agree that they were searching for a college that they could feel they are a part of, one that offered a program they wanted, and one in which they could receive quality education in an environment that stresses values while encouraging a life philosophy to serve them well after they graduate.

A Christ-centered learning environment is the desired alternative in today's higher education. TRACS-accredited colleges, seminaries and universities are located in nineteen of the United States, in all regions, south, east, west and north, plus one in Hawaii, and one in Guam. All ascribe to the same high standards set forth by TRACS.

Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools (TRACS) is a United States Department of Education-recognized institutional accrediting association for Christian colleges, universities and seminaries. TRACS fosters excellence and quality in a distinctly Christian atmosphere. Studying at a TRACS-accredited institution in America provides foreign students with the unique opportunity to experience American culture, learn about American democracy, visit American churches, meet Christian families, participate in US holidays, and make lasting friendships with other Christian students who have chosen to study in a Christ-centered learning environment.

Institutions accredited by TRACS exemplify the highest standards of Christian education. Students study in a Christ-centered learning environment under Christian professors, whose goal is to develop the whole person body, mind and spirit. All TRACS colleges and universities are evaluated on Biblical Foundation as well as operational standards and criteria during the accreditation process. This equates to Christian campuses which employ only Christian professors, are drug, alcohol and tobacco free, require church/chapel attendance, emphasise the building of Christian character in all students, and avoid actions that are forbidden by Scripture.

TRACS-accredited institutions offer quality degrees, including the Bachelor's, Master's and Doctorate, spanning all disciplines, including religious studies, liberal arts, and professional. The degree, regardless of its level or area, is designed to produce Christ-centered men and women with the knowledge, skills and values required to impact tomorrow's world. If you wish to study in America, consider a TRACS-accredited college, university or seminary, where excellence and quality go hand in hand.

Author:
Russell Guy Fitzgerald, Ed.D
Executive Director
Transnational Association of Christian Colleges & Schools (TRACS)

The TRACS office is located in Forest, Virginia
Tel: + 001 804-525-9539.
Email: info@tracs.org
Website: www.tracs.org