Study Overseas

Each year thousands of international students enter faith-based education throughout the US. Study in America talks to Larry Anderson, the Director of Admissions at the Central Methodist University in Missouri to find out the ins and outs of faith based education.

Where is the State of Missouri?

Missouri is a Midwestern State which is located in the centre of the United States. It is away from the hustle and bustle of the east and west coasts and is largely rural. The main cities in Missouri are Kansas City and St. Louis with a population of 4 million and almost 3 million respectively. The State is well connected by plains and trains if you wish to travel.

The State of Missouri is named after the Missouri Indian tribe meaning ‘town of the large canoes’. It earned the nickname "Gateway to the West" because it served as a departure point for settlers heading to the west. Pronunciation of the state's name varies considerably: some use a distinct "long e" at the end to the contention of others who prefer to pronounce it like a ‘short a’.

In Missouri, about 80% of the population are ethnically white, 11% are black and 1% are Asian. The international student population is small, but growing steadily and the state is eager to welcome a broad range of students from all over the world.

Missouri is famed for its strong American Football teams. Kansas City Chiefs and St. Louis Rams are the most famous. The State is also strong on baseball, cross-country track and softball. All these sports are available to watch and participate in at your chosen university. Most universities have a variety of sports programs for both men and women.

Private education in the State of Missouri

Most faith-based colleges in the US are private. Private colleges pride themselves in providing smaller classes for their students. Individual attention can be one of the most important things for an international student in addition to regular meetings with advisors. Mentors are provided for international students who help with visas, sorting out finances and ironing out any problems or answering questions.

What can I expect?

A student can expect to pay approximately $15,000 to $25, 000 per year for their chosen program at a private university. This is an average fee for higher education in the US, some universities can charge up to $50,000 a year. The price covers tuition, room and board. There are scholarships available, but this has to be discussed with your chosen university before you apply. International students are assessed according to their home high-school transcripts and the subjects they studied. Most faith-based, private colleges in the US take on only the best students. Private colleges offer bachelor degrees and typically courses last for four years and consist of two 16-week semesters. Between these two semesters there is a month off at Christmas so there is plenty of time to visit family or travel around America.

Why is private education right for me?

Private education allows for a hands-on approach. For example, at some institutions students who wish to study geology can go to the Missouri river to study land formations. Those studying criminal justice can go to the highway patrol stations for observations. Education students will work with Kindergarten pupils. They get a chance to learn early all the nuances of teaching. Nursing students are in the hospital observing patients and student athletic trainers are working with the sports teams by assessing injuries. This develops the students’ understanding of their subjects as well as the ability to think critically and creatively which is vital for confidence in a future career and everyday life.

Personal Development

Private colleges offer much in terms of personal development for students. There are choirs, theatre groups and organised sports activities. Students can participate in instrumental or vocal lessons, art classes and leadership positions in student organisations (such as sororities and fraternities, church groups, sports and newspapers). Often the cafeteria will be open during the holidays too so students who stay behind are well taken care of. International students are often invited to spend the holidays with their newfound American friends.

There is also a social life outside campuses. Pizza restaurants are popular places with students as well as parks and scenic lakes for picnics. It is practical to have a car as Missouri is a rural state. This makes cinemas, theatres and shopping trips much easier.
Faith-Based Education In The State Of Missouri

Faith-based education is extremely popular in America. There are in the region of 760 faith-based institutions of all denominations, of which approximately seven are in the State of Missouri. Some faith-based colleges require that all students take at least two classes on the history of religion. They can be chosen depending on the student’s area of interest. There are opportunities to get involved in chapel and church activities but this is not mandatory. Students are encouraged to peruse their own religious interests.

What can I expect?

Education in faith-based institutions in Missouri is available to students regardless of social standing, ethnic identity or gender. Faculty and staff help students make full use of their capabilities; their teaching is focused on strong values and responsibility. Professional and vocational training is as important as liberal and classic learning. Small campuses in rural communities provide a safe environment for students to learn. Life on campus emphasises honesty, integrity, civility and a strong sense of personal responsibility and there is a spirit of community and caring among students, faculty and staff.

A faith-based education will guarantee that after four years of study, a student graduates being able to demonstrate knowledge of the liberal arts and academic specialities as well as technical skills and professional ability. The student will be able to think critically and conceptually and apply their knowledge and skills to the solving of problems. This type of education will guarantee that they continue to develop self-knowledge, confidence and a sense of honour and commitment. Most importantly, this type of education will help the students develop a sense of global citizenship and a commitment to the betterment of the world and of themselves.

Interview by: Sonia Zhuravlyova