Originally known as St. Mary's Academy, the University of Saint Mary has a long history as an educational institution. The university has three campuses: one in Leavenworth, one in Overland Park and one in Kansas City. USM has 26 undergraduate degree programs and six master's degree programs. Resident housing on campus provides rooms for 340 students in two halls. The University of Saint Mary is formed by "the educational mission of the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth," according to the USM website. In order to leave USM with a Bachelor's degree, students must complete at least six hours of theology credits. USM accepts students from all religious backgrounds.
MidAmerica Nazarene University is located on a 105-acre campus in Olathe, 19 miles southwest of Kansas City. This university was founded in 1966 and began offering classes in 1968. As of February 2011, student enrollment is about 1,753. The school's institutional goals include service to God and humanity, career preparation, development of the student and understanding America's heritage. MNU is accredited by the Commission on Institutions of Higher Education of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. This university is sponsored by the North Central Region of the International Church of the Nazarene. MNU does not discriminate based on religion, but in order to satisfy the general education requirements, students must take six hours of spiritual development courses, including Bible and Christian Beliefs. MidAmerica Nazarene University has around 40 undergraduate degree offerings, such as nursing, education, Christian ministry and formation and behavioral sciences.
Manhattan Christian College was founded in 1927 as the Christian Workers University. It was renamed in 1971. Located in Manhattan, Kansas, Manhattan Christian College offers programs such as family, pastoral, bible, educational, music and adult education. The school is affiliated with independent Christian Churches and Churches of Christ of the Restoration Movement. Most students who attend MCC full-time are studying to serve as preaching ministers, missionaries, youth ministers and other religious positions, while students who attend both MCC and Kansas State University are studying more often to "show competence in handling aright the Word of truth," according to MCC's website.
Central Christian College is located in McPherson, Kansas, and offers eight academic departments, including education, philosophy/religion and communications. CCC is affiliated with the Free Methodist Church of North America. The college is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission North Central Association and the Kansas State Department of Education. Athletic programs at Central Christian College include cross country, tennis, basketball, soccer and softball. The school also has programs for cheerleaders and those interested in intramural sports. Those working toward a bachelor degree must take courses on the New and Old Testaments and two Christian Worldview classes. Students do not need to be Christian to attend CCC.