2.2 Background

Rochester University was chartered in 1955 and opened its doors in September of 1959 as a two-year, Liberal Arts University.  In 1997, to better represent its status as a four-year liberal arts university, the institution changed its name from Michigan Christian University to Rochester University.  Based on its graduate degree offerings, Rochester University officially became Rochester University in 2020.  Throughout the institution’s history, the University has held true to its Christian founding and beliefs. 

The campus comprises 81 acres of prime property in Rochester Hills.  It is located adjacent to the Clinton River, is largely wooded, and contains two lakes.  Numerous walking trails are available and frequented by community visitors. 

Since its inception, Rochester University has emphasized the importance of combining academic excellence with Christian ideals.  While the University admits students of all ethnicities and religions and carefully explains varying worldviews in relevant courses, it employs only those professors and instructors who understand, model and teach the Christian faith.  Regardless of their disciplines, faculty members routinely relate their subject matter to relevant principles and concepts of the Christian faith.

Rochester University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission (30 North LaSalle, Suite 2400, Chicago, IL 60602.  Phone:  (312) 263-0456.