Cornerstone University
Acceptance rate
77.8%
2025
Peer median 77.9%
Tuition per year
$23,000
$35,700 with room and board
Peer median $34,392
Undergraduates
1,354
Student-faculty ratio 15:1
Peer median 13 : 1
Graduation rate
51.8%
4-year; 6-year rate 62.5%
Peer median 44.6%
“Peers” are all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Cornerstone University, located in Grand Rapids, Michigan, is a private Christian university known for its strong emphasis on integrating faith with learning. Established in 1941, the university's mission is to prepare students for a life of service and leadership in a diverse world. One of the unique characteristics of Cornerstone is its commitment to a Christ-centered education, which fosters a vibrant community where students can grow spiritually, academically, and personally. The university emphasizes a holistic approach to education, promoting not just intellectual growth but also moral and spiritual development.
In terms of campus culture, Cornerstone University boasts a supportive and close-knit environment. With a diverse range of academic programs, including degrees in business, education, and the liberal arts, students have the opportunity to explore various fields of study while participating in numerous extracurricular activities. The university promotes a strong sense of community through clubs, athletics, and service opportunities, encouraging students to engage with one another and develop lifelong friendships. With modern facilities that include state-of-the-art classrooms, athletic complexes, and recreational spaces, Cornerstone ensures that students have the resources they need to thrive both academically and personally. As a result, graduates from Cornerstone University are well-prepared for their careers and are often recognized for their leadership skills and commitment to making a positive impact in the world.
Analysis of Key Educational Metrics at Cornerstone University
The data from Cornerstone University reveals significant trends in tuition fees, student enrollment, graduation rates, and retention rates over the years. One of the most notable trends is the continuous increase in tuition fees. Between 2014 and 2024, the tuition for in-state undergraduates surged from approximately $24,168 to $29,100, marking a rise of about 20%. This escalation in costs may pose challenges for prospective students and their families, potentially impacting enrollment numbers in the long run.
In terms of student enrollment, the university has experienced a decline in both undergraduate and graduate student populations. For instance, undergraduate enrollment dropped from 2,238 in 2013 to 1,433 in 2023, indicating a concerning trend that could correlate with rising tuition fees. This decline may reflect broader national patterns as students increasingly scrutinize the return on investment of higher education amidst escalating costs.
Conversely, graduation rates have shown a positive trajectory. The percentage of undergraduates graduating on time increased substantially from around 30.8% in 2013 to approximately 53.9% in 2023. This improvement suggests that the university has implemented effective support mechanisms to enhance student success, which could bolster its reputation and attract new students despite rising costs.
Retention rates also displayed a noteworthy improvement, climbing from 73.2% in 2013 to 81.5% in 2023. This increase indicates that once students enroll, they are more likely to continue their studies at Cornerstone University, which is a promising sign for the institution's academic environment.
Overall, while rising tuition presents challenges, Cornerstone University's enhanced graduation and retention rates could play a crucial role in maintaining its enrollment levels and fostering a positive educational experience.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Midsize city
- Nearest major city
- In Grand Rapids
- Nearest international airport
- Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GRR), about 8 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Interdenominational
- President
- Gerson Moreno-Riaño (President)
- Phone
- 6169495300
- City
- Grand Rapids, Michigan
- Address
- 1001 E Beltline Ave NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49525-5897
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 77.9% · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 76.5%, women 78.2%.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Trends at Cornerstone University
The admission data from Cornerstone University reveals intriguing trends over the years, especially in acceptance rates and enrollment numbers. From 2009 to 2023, the acceptance rates for male applicants have shown fluctuations, starting at approximately 74% in 2009 and peaking at nearly 90% in 2021 before settling around 77% in 2023. This indicates an increasing trend in the university's willingness to accept male applicants over time, particularly during the pandemic years when many institutions faced declining enrollment.
For female applicants, the acceptance rate also saw a notable increase, moving from 75% in 2009 to an impressive 92% in 2022, before slightly declining to 85% in 2023. This suggests that Cornerstone University has been particularly accommodating toward female applicants, possibly in response to wider societal calls for gender equity in higher education.
The enrollment numbers experienced substantial growth, especially in 2010 with 662 new students, and have generally remained robust, particularly in the years leading up to the pandemic. However, the data reveals a concerning number of denials, with peaks in 2012 and 2014, suggesting increased competition for admission as the university's reputation grows.
Moreover, the number of deferred admissions has seen a consistent rise, indicating that while many students are accepted, there may be a strategic shift in how the university manages its incoming classes. This could reflect broader trends in higher education, where institutions are increasingly selective and strategic in their enrollment processes.
Overall, Cornerstone University's admission data illustrates a dynamic landscape of acceptance and enrollment, influenced by both internal policies and external factors within the educational sector. The university's commitment to inclusivity, particularly for female students, stands out as a significant highlight amidst the evolving admission climate.
School and Program Rankings
U.S. News school and program rankings · Click a school to see its programs, and a program for its full ranking
Undergraduate Rankings · 2027 edition
Social Sciences and Humanities1 programs—
Ranks in blue are top 10 · ▲▼ change from the previous edition · “—” means no overall ranking for that school · Medical schools are ranked in tiers since the 2025 edition
Test Scores
SAT/ACT not considered, even if submitted IPEDS (US Department of Education) has no recent SAT/ACT data for admitted students here. GPA, course rigor, essays and activities matter more.
Data insights
Trends in Admission Scores at Cornerstone University
Over the years, Cornerstone University has shown a notable evolution in admission scores, particularly in the SAT and ACT metrics. The data reveals a progressive increase in the number of students submitting standardized test scores. For instance, in 2018, only 7% of admitted students submitted SAT scores, whereas by 2020, this figure surged to a remarkable 88%. This upward trend indicates a growing emphasis on standardized testing among applicants, possibly influenced by the competitive nature of college admissions and the desire for students to present strong academic credentials.
Examining the score ranges, there has been a consistent increase in the lower and upper quartile scores for both SAT and ACT assessments. The 25th percentile and 75th percentile scores reflect a gradual rise, suggesting that the academic caliber of incoming students has improved over the years. For example, starting from 2010, the SAT reading and math scores have seen an upward trajectory, with the 75th percentile reaching 620 by 2023. This trend aligns with national patterns where colleges are increasingly attracting higher-achieving students.
The fluctuation in the number of submissions and the percentage of students submitting scores may also reflect broader trends in higher education, particularly the increasing number of institutions adopting test-optional policies. Nevertheless, for Cornerstone University, the robust submission rates and rising scores could signify a strong applicant pool and a commitment to maintaining academic standards. These trends not only enhance the university's reputation but also contribute to the overall quality of education provided to students.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 8 in 10
2,011 applicants in 2025, 77.8% admitted
1,564 admitted 447 not admitted Yield 18.6%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Counseling Psychology · Master's25 (8% international)
- Bible/Biblical Studies · Master's17 (0% international)
- Educational Leadership and Administration, General · Doctoral11 (0% international)
- Theological and Ministerial Studies, Other · Master's8 (0% international)
- Project Management · Master's5 (20% international)
- Health/Health Care Administration/Management · Master's3 (100% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at Cornerstone University
The graduation data from Cornerstone University in 2023 illustrates interesting trends across various academic disciplines. In the realm of Business Administration and Management, a considerable number of students graduated with a bachelor's degree, totaling 46 graduates, including 1 international student. This significant number reflects the growing interest in business education, which aligns with the increasing demand for skilled professionals in the global market.
In the field of Counseling Psychology, the university awarded 33 master's degrees, with 1 going to an international student. This high figure may indicate a robust program that is attracting both domestic and international talent, reflecting a broader trend in higher education where mental health and counseling are gaining prominence in light of recent societal challenges.
Conversely, there are programs such as Missions/Missionary Studies and History that have seen limited graduation numbers, with only 1 bachelor’s degree awarded in each field. This suggests these areas may not be as broadly pursued, possibly due to niche interests or career prospects.
The data also reveals a notable absence of international students graduating from multiple disciplines, with several programs not reporting any international graduates. This could suggest potential barriers to entry for international students in certain fields or a need for the university to enhance its recruitment strategies in these areas.
Overall, the graduation data highlights key strengths in business and psychology programs while also pointing to potential areas for growth. As the landscape of higher education continues to evolve, Cornerstone University may want to consider these insights to better align its offerings with student interests and market demands.
All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $50,925-$83,373 | ||||
| Non-Profit/Public/Organizational Management. | $50,925-$83,373 | ||||
| Project Management. | $50,925-$83,373 | ||||
| Business Administration, Management and Operations, Other. | $50,925-$83,373 | ||||
| Accounting. | - | ||||
| Finance, General. | - | ||||
| Human Resources Management and Services, Other. | - | ||||
| International Business/Trade/Commerce. | - | ||||
| Marketing/Marketing Management, General. | $43,786 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $42,088 | ||||
| Developmental and Child Psychology. | - | ||||
| Counseling Psychology. | $53,517 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Educational Leadership and Administration, General. | - | ||||
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | $49,732 | ||||
| English/Language Arts Teacher Education. | $41,702 | ||||
| Mathematics Teacher Education. | $41,702 | ||||
| Music Teacher Education. | $41,702 | ||||
| Science Teacher Education/General Science Teacher Education. | $41,702 | ||||
| Social Studies Teacher Education. | $41,702 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bible/Biblical Studies. | - | ||||
| Missions/Missionary Studies. | - | ||||
| Divinity/Ministry. | - | ||||
| Theological and Ministerial Studies, Other. | - | ||||
| Youth Ministry. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Health/Health Care Administration/Management. | - | ||||
| Pre-Dentistry Studies. | - | ||||
| Pre-Medicine/Pre-Medical Studies. | - | ||||
| Pre-Occupational Therapy Studies. | - | ||||
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sport and Fitness Administration/Management. | $39,831 | ||||
| Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | $39,831 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Speech Communication and Rhetoric. | $40,188 | ||||
| Radio and Television. | - | ||||
| Digital Communication and Media/Multimedia. | - | ||||
| Publishing. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Graphic Design. | - | ||||
| Cinematography and Film/Video Production. | - | ||||
| Music Technology. | - | ||||
| Music, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Human Services, General. | - | ||||
| Social Work. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - | ||||
| Environmental Biology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - | ||||
| Creative Writing. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Philosophy. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engineering, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| General Studies. | $42,868 | ||||
| Humanities/Humanistic Studies. | $42,868 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spanish Language and Literature. | - |
Students
1,695 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 41:59 · Freshman retention 78.3%
- Continuing undergraduates 930
- First-year undergraduates 255
- Graduate students 341
- Transfers and others 169
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,354)
Data insights
Student Demographics at Cornerstone University in 2023
In 2023, Cornerstone University showcased a diverse student body with distinct gender ratios across various categories. The undergraduate new students comprised 293 individuals, with a notable female representation of 63.1%, indicating a trend towards increased female enrollment in higher education. Similar patterns were observed in undergraduate continuing students, where 982 students had a female representation of 62.1%. This suggests that the university is successfully attracting and retaining female students.
Undergraduate transfer students also displayed a balanced gender representation, with 39.8% male and 60.2% female, further reflecting the university's commitment to inclusivity. In contrast, graduate students exhibited a higher male percentage of 46.6% compared to females at 53.4%. This aligns with national trends where graduate programs often have a more balanced gender distribution compared to undergraduate programs.
The demographic breakdown by race within the new undergraduate students revealed that the majority identified as White, comprising 78.5% of the cohort, while other racial groups such as Asian and Latino represented smaller portions. This diversity, coupled with a significant presence of international students, enriches the academic environment and encourages cross-cultural interactions.
Overall, Cornerstone University appears to be making strides toward gender balance and racial diversity, positioning itself as a welcoming institution for students from various backgrounds. As higher education continues to evolve, maintaining this diversity will be crucial for fostering an inclusive community that prepares students for a globalized world.
Age Demographics at Cornerstone University
The age distribution of students at Cornerstone University in 2023 reveals a diverse and dynamic academic environment. Notably, the largest group of students falls within the 18-19 age category, where undergraduate males and females comprise 243 and 338 students, respectively. This significant representation of traditional college-age students highlights the university's appeal to young adults transitioning from high school to higher education.
As we analyze the data further, we observe a gradual decline in the number of students in the subsequent age brackets. For instance, in the 20-21 age range, the male student population decreases slightly to 170, while female students in the same group remain robust at 307. This trend continues as students age, with the 22-24 age group showcasing a more diverse mix of undergraduates and graduate students. Here, the introduction of graduate males and females indicates a growing interest in advanced studies among younger cohorts.
Interestingly, there is also a notable presence of non-traditional students aged 25 and above, particularly in the 25-29 and 30-34 age ranges, where both male and female graduate students contribute significantly to the overall student body. This reflects a broader trend in higher education, where lifelong learning and professional development are increasingly prioritized.
Overall, the demographic data illustrates Cornerstone University's commitment to inclusivity and adaptability, catering to both traditional and non-traditional students. As higher education continues to evolve, maintaining this diversity will be vital for fostering a rich learning environment that benefits all students.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
64 in 2025 · 2.5% in 2016
3 in 2025 · 0.9% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at Cornerstone University
The data from Cornerstone University reveals noteworthy fluctuations in international student enrollment over the years. Starting with a modest representation in 2004, with 1.21% of undergraduate students being international, there were significant ups and downs in the following years. The most striking growth was observed between 2021 and 2023, where the percentage of international undergraduates surged from 4.72% to 7.26%. This upward trend indicates a growing appeal of the university to international students, possibly due to enhanced programs, support services, or broader global outreach.
On the graduate side, the proportion of international students has remained relatively low, peaking at 5.99% in 2005 but later dropping significantly. This inconsistency may reflect changing global dynamics or shifts in the university's graduate program offerings that could be less attractive to international candidates.
The overall increase in international undergraduate enrollment can be attributed to several factors, including a growing inclination among students to pursue education in the U.S. and possibly an increase in the university's reputation. However, the challenges highlighted by the lower graduate percentages suggest that Cornerstone University may need to re-evaluate its strategies to attract international graduate students effectively.
In the context of current educational trends, as universities globally adapt to a more interconnected world, it is crucial for institutions like Cornerstone to focus on enhancing their international student support systems, promoting diversity, and ensuring competitive program offerings to sustain and grow their international student population.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$35,700
- Undergraduate tuition
- $23,000
- Room and board
- $12,700
- Graduate tuition
- $9,522
Peer median tuition + room and board $47,329 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose -12% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 48%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$39.3M
Expenses$39.3M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NAIA · Wolverine-Hoosier Athletic Conference
Wolverine-Hoosier Athletic Conference: basketball, baseball, cross country
| NAIA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 58 | 51 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 58 | 51 |
| Soccer | 48 | 45 |
| Basketball | 37 | 31 |
| Baseball | 55 | - |
| Cross Country | 25 | 23 |
| Softball | - | 33 |
| Volleyball | 16 | 17 |
| Wrestling | 32 | - |
| Golf | 10 | 9 |
| Other Sports | - | 16 |
| Tennis | - | 11 |
| NAIA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 52 | 52 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 52 | 52 |
| Soccer | 49 | 42 |
| Basketball | 38 | 33 |
| Baseball | 64 | - |
| Cross Country | 21 | 18 |
| Softball | - | 37 |
| Volleyball | 18 | 18 |
| Wrestling | 24 | - |
| Tennis | 8 | 15 |
| Golf | 13 | 8 |
| Bowling | 11 | 9 |
| Other Sports | - | 14 |
| NAIA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 56 | 45 |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 46 | 51 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 46 | 51 |
| Basketball | 41 | 38 |
| Baseball | 61 | - |
| Softball | - | 46 |
| Volleyball | 19 | 23 |
| Cross Country | 22 | 19 |
| Tennis | 12 | 20 |
| Wrestling | 23 | - |
| Golf | 10 | 11 |
| Other Sports | - | 19 |
| Bowling | 6 | 8 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Kalamazoo CollegeKalamazoo · 47.6 mi
Liberal Arts #74
-
Western Michigan UniversityKalamazoo · 48.2 mi
U.S. News #276
-
Central Michigan UniversityMount Pleasant · 59.0 mi
U.S. News #262
-
Michigan State UniversityEast Lansing · 59.2 mi
U.S. News #69
-
Andrews UniversityBerrien Springs · 80.2 mi
U.S. News #262
-
Hillsdale CollegeHillsdale · 87.4 mi
Liberal Arts #47
-
University of Notre DameNotre Dame · 94.2 mi
U.S. News #20
-
Saint Mary's CollegeNotre Dame · 94.2 mi
Liberal Arts #78
-
University of Michigan-Ann ArborAnn Arbor · 106.3 mi
U.S. News #25
Data insights
Here are some notable schools located near Cornerstone University:
-
University of California-Merced - Ranked 60th in the 2024 US News rankings, this comprehensive university is part of the University of California system and offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs.
-
Bowdoin College - A highly regarded liberal arts college, Bowdoin ranks 9th in the 2024 US News rankings. It is known for its strong academic programs and vibrant campus community.
-
Colby College - With a rank of 25th, Colby College is another prestigious liberal arts institution that emphasizes undergraduate education and offers a wide range of majors.
-
Bates College - Ranked 24th, Bates College is known for its commitment to the liberal arts and for fostering a close-knit, inclusive community.
-
Tufts University - This comprehensive university is ranked 40th and offers a diverse array of programs, with a commitment to research and public service.
-
Harvard University - One of the most prestigious universities in the world, Harvard is ranked 3rd and is renowned for its academic excellence and historical significance.
-
Boston College - With a rank of 39th, Boston College combines a rich liberal arts education with Jesuit traditions and values.
These institutions provide a variety of educational opportunities and are recognized for their academic excellence.
Peer median 4.0 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Incidents, 2023–2025
From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.
Data insights
Analysis of Crime Rates at Cornerstone University
The crime data from Cornerstone University presents an intriguing overview of campus safety trends over the past decade. Notably, there has been a significant increase in the average crime rate per 1,000 students, escalating from 0.49 in 2013 to an alarming 3.48 in 2023. This spike, particularly evident in 2018 and 2023, raises concerns about student safety and campus security measures.
A closer look at specific crimes reveals fluctuations in incidents such as gun-related arrests and drug-related offenses. While these figures can fluctuate year to year due to various factors, the overall increase indicates a growing need for proactive safety initiatives. The rise in violent crimes, including domestic violence and assault, underscores the importance of comprehensive support systems for students, as these incidents can deeply affect the campus community.
Moreover, the data suggests a potential correlation between increased crime rates and higher awareness or reporting of incidents, rather than a straightforward increase in criminal activity. Universities across the nation face similar challenges, with many institutions responding by enhancing their security protocols and outreach programs.
As we analyze these statistics, it is essential for Cornerstone University to prioritize the safety and well-being of its students. By fostering an environment of transparency and support, the university can effectively address these issues and work towards reducing crime on campus. For more on how crime rates are calculated, see this link: Crime Rate Calculation.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Cornerstone University include Reid Ribble (Former Wisconsin congressman and businessman), Lisa Kelly (Trucker on Ice Road Truckers) and Chad Curtis (Former MLB outfielder).
-
Reid Ribble 1956–
Former Wisconsin congressman and businessman
-
Lisa Kelly 1980–
Trucker on Ice Road Truckers
-
Chad Curtis 1968–
Former MLB outfielder
Recent News at Cornerstone University
Summarized daily from the school's official news. Click "Source" for the original story.
-
Cornerstone University announced that its Bachelor of Science in Engineering (BSE) earned accreditation from the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET, securing full recognition for six years.
Source: cornerstone.edu
No updates on this topic in this month.
References and Data Sources
Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.