Cornerstone University
The Vibe Check
Cornerstone University offers a distinctively faith-centered and intimate campus atmosphere, where the urban setting of Grand Rapids blends with a close-knit, supportive community. Students often describe the environment as one focused on personal growth and purpose, where it feels like faculty and peers genuinely know and invest in each other.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
SAT data not available
Average: 1095
ACT Score Range
ACT data not available
Average: 23
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
Can I Get In?
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⚠️ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.
Academics & Majors
Academics are anchored in a Christian worldview, with notable strengths in Business, Education, and Psychology, alongside its unique Theology programs. The small class sizes foster direct mentorship and high-quality teaching, while opportunities for undergraduate research and internships are integrated into the curriculum to connect faith with career.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Grand Rapids
Grand Rapids provides a vibrant yet manageable city experience, known for its booming craft beer scene, live music, and a thriving arts district called the 'Heartside.' Students enjoy easy access to downtown events, parks along the Grand River, and seasonal festivals, all within a short walk or drive from campus.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($47,314):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
The campus is located in a generally safe urban neighborhood with its own campus security team and well-lit pathways. Grand Rapids is considered one of the safer mid-sized cities in the region, though standard urban precautions are always advised.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Strong sense of community and faith-based support system
- ✓ Downtown Grand Rapids access without the overwhelming cost of a major metropolis
- ✓ Solid retention rate of 83.8%, indicating student satisfaction
- ✓ Diverse top majors including unique theology and parks programs
Cons
- ✗ Graduation rate of 61.6% is below the national average
- ✗ Tuition is relatively high for a private university of its size
- ✗ Smaller enrollment of 1,387 may limit variety in student organizations
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
Cornerstone University is known for its strong Christian liberal arts foundation, particularly in theology, business, and education. It emphasizes integrating faith into learning and is recognized for its intimate class sizes and programs like the Professional & Graduate Studies division.
No, it is not highly selective with an acceptance rate of 73.2%, making it moderately accessible. Applicants typically need a solid high school GPA and standard test scores, though admissions also consider personal essays and extracurricular involvement.
Campus life is centered around community and faith, with numerous chapel services, Bible studies, and service opportunities. Students participate in intramural sports, clubs, and urban outings in Grand Rapids, fostering a balanced social and spiritual environment.
It can be a good value for students prioritizing a faith-based education, with an average net price of $22,384 that often makes it more affordable than listed tuition. However, with median 10-year earnings at $47,314, it's best suited for those in high-demand fields like business or education where personal and professional fulfillment outweighs pure financial ROI.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Private
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 1,640
- In-State Tuition $29,100
- Zip Code 49525
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With an average net price of $22,384, the cost is often lower than the sticker price due to institutional aid and scholarships, making it more accessible. While the 10-year median earnings of $47,314 are modest, the investment can be worth it for students seeking a faith-based education with strong support networks in fields like business and education.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.