èßäÉçÇø

Skip to main content
èßäÉçÇø

Introducing èßäÉçÇø Christian University

On June 1, 2026, èßäÉçÇø will officially change its name.

What’s in a Name?

200 years after our first students stepped onto campus, MC continues to make history and live out its mission.

As we celebrate our legacy as èßäÉçÇø’s oldest institution of higher learning and the second oldest Baptist University in the nation, we are adopting a name that more clearly articulates who we are and what we stand for as an institution. Beginning June 1, èßäÉçÇø officially becomes èßäÉçÇø Christian University. 

Sept2024_008-crop.jpg

MC is firmly rooted in èßäÉçÇø

Located in the center of the state, MC has always been and will always be a èßäÉçÇø school, and is a point of èßäÉçÇø pride. We seek to serve our state and region. 

The word Christian speaks to the heart of MC’s mission.

MC is known for outstanding academics and commitment to the cause of Christ. The University’s Christian mission and identity are what set MC apart. We want to keep that mission front and center in our name.

By all measures, MC is a university.

MC is a comprehensive university with broad academic offerings, including excellent graduate and professional programs. Including “University” in the name clarifies that status and aligns MC with our peers.

FAQs

Why is MC making this change and why now?

MC's bicentennial year provides an opportunity for us to reflect and recalibrate for the next 200 years. A part of that is ensuring that our name aligns with our current mission and values. Each word of the new name holds significance. MC is firmly rooted in èßäÉçÇø, the word Christian speaks to the heart of MC's mission, and by all measures, MC is a University. The possibility of changing the institution's name has been discussed at one time or another for many years, and our bicentennial provides an opportunity to enact this bold change.

Will this new name change our identity as an institution?

This change solidifies the type of institution we've reflected in branding and advertising, recruitment, and across the institution for many years, and it incorporates a longstanding tagline of “A Christian University” into our formal name. Officially becoming èßäÉçÇø Christian University underscores our mission of being a University recognized for academic excellence and a commitment to the cause of Christ.

What will not change?

The MC our students, alumni, employees, donors and friends know and love will still be MC! The traditions, moments, memories, and people of the University are the same. Our mission and vision remain the same, and we remain committed to the success of our students, the integration of faith and learning throughout the educational process, and the preparation of the next generation of Christian leaders.

Will you still be known as MC?

Absolutely! Students, employees, alumni and friends have referred to the University as MC for decades. Members of our close-knit MC community can take heart that MC will always remain a part of who we are as an institution. The interlocking MC created during a 2022 rebrand remains central to our MC brand, and we hope our MC community will continue to call us MC for decades to come.

Will students have to identify as Christians to attend èßäÉçÇø Christian University?

The University has always been open to any student regardless of their faith. The university seeks to provide an environment where believers will deepen their faith and non-believers will be exposed to the gospel and Christianity.

Will faculty and staff have to identify as Christians to be employed by èßäÉçÇø Christian University?

The transition to èßäÉçÇø Christian University will not change existing practices. For many years, the University has required all applicants for employment to provide a statement of faith, a statement of how their relationship with Christ influences their daily lives, and provide their denominational preference and place of worship. Faculty applicants also interview with a Department Chair, Academic Dean, Provost, and University President, and issues of faith are discussed in those meetings.

When does the name officially change?

June 1, 2026

What will my diploma read if I graduate in 2026?

May 2026 graduates’ diplomas will still read èßäÉçÇø. Beginning with Summer 2026 graduates, diplomas will read èßäÉçÇø Christian University.

Will my diploma and transcripts that list èßäÉçÇø still be valid?

Yes. If you have existing documents that read èßäÉçÇø, those are still valid. If you need a new copy of your transcript, those can be requested online. Transcripts ordered beginning June 1, 2026, will read èßäÉçÇø Christian University.

How do I get a new diploma with èßäÉçÇø Christian University on it?

Replacement diplomas with the new name - èßäÉçÇø Christian University - can be ordered online beginning July 31, 2026.

What about the Law School?

The èßäÉçÇø School of Law will become the èßäÉçÇø Christian University School of Law but will remain known as MC Law or MC School of Law. May 2026 graduates’ diplomas will still read èßäÉçÇø School of Law. Beginning with Summer 2026 graduates, diplomas will read èßäÉçÇø Christian University School of Law.

How do I get new èßäÉçÇø Christian University merchandise?

We're glad you asked! MC is launching a new campus bookstore experience in April 2026, and new èßäÉçÇø Christian University merchandise will soon be in stock.

I love the new name! What can I do to support the transition from èßäÉçÇø to èßäÉçÇø Christian University?

Tell your family, friends and others about your excitement. And, if you're an MC alum, we'd love for you to stay connected to your alma mater by updating your , and sharing your life updates with us through .