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Rankings

13 Top Conservative US Colleges

Written by College Cliffs Team At CollegeCliffs.com, our team, comprising seasoned educators and counselors, is committed to supporting students on their journey through graduate studies. Our advisors, holding advanced degrees in diverse fields, provide tailored guidance, current program details, and pragmatic tips on navigating application procedures.

Reviewed by Linda Weems I got started researching colleges and universities about 10 years ago while exploring a second career. While my second career ended up being exactly what I’m doing now, and I didn’t end up going to college, I try to put myself in your shoes every step of the way as I build out College Cliffs as a user-friendly resource for prospective students.

Updated: March 8, 2024, Reading time: 21 minutes

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Choosing a university or college that involves students, faculty, and administration that all share the same political values may be your priority.

If you or your family is politically inclined, this aspect of choosing a school is vital. Student groups aligning with your interests and beliefs are more likely to be found in such communities.

Also, you are more likely to have a better college experience if the college shares your values. You won’t have to constantly feel triggered to oppose everybody’s ideals because you can relate to almost everyone anyway, at least in the political and social sense.

College is a Plethora of Different Viewpoints

The first time you meet people of different viewpoints is when you are in college. This is when you develop more of your lifelong skills, preparing you for what lies ahead in your career. Student interaction and exchange of ideas are important aspects of higher education.

This everyday exchange will give you a better understanding of the dividing factors between the country’s political parties. It is essential to choose your college carefully if you have strong political opinions already and hope to get the most out of your college experience.

College Cliffs is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

Factors Considered for our List of Conservative Colleges

The list of the most conservative colleges included herewith has been evaluated and considered by the following criteria:

Curriculum: Colleges that lean Republican tend to offer a Western-based core curriculum. 

Majors and Minors Offered: Republican-friendly schools offer majors in politics, history, economics, and other subjects that interest people with a political bent. 

Military Friendliness: Each of the colleges recommended on the list celebrates its military or veteran students and promotes a community that values service to the nation.

On-Campus Clubs and Organizations: Besides offering excellent political education, many colleges on the list also provide on-campus clubs and organizations. Refer to individual schools and check out which clubs or organizations they provide that you’d like to take part in.

Best Conservative Colleges in the U.S.

Liberty University

1 - Best Conservative Colleges in the U.S.

In 1971, Liberty University was founded by megachurch founder Jerry Falwell to train evangelists as “champions for Christ.”

Aside from strongly identifying with evangelical Christianity, Liberty also takes an overwhelmingly conservative political and social stance. As a result, college Republicans are represented at one of the best chapters on campus, and the political climate is vibrant.

All on-campus students must attend three or more religious services each week to meet chapel requirements. As of writing, the university is already offering more than 700 academic programs, so rest assured, you will have options to choose from. Over 100,000 students attend, including about 30,000 who have served in the military.

Location: Lynchburg, Virginia

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Average Tuition Fee: $22,747 / year

Acceptance Rate: 99%

Admissions:

Hillsdale College

2 - Best Conservative Colleges in the U.S.

Hillsdale College, founded in 1844 by Freewill Baptists in Hillsdale, Michigan, is a private, conservative college. In terms of the value that this college offers, it remains a leading college nationwide. In every aspect of its operation, Hillsdale College has refused state and federal funding year after year.

Despite receiving no taxpayer funding, conservatives are supported by conservatives who acknowledge the college’s right to reject federal funding. The organization aspires to promote conservative ideals by bringing together donors with similar ideologies, independence, integrity, and self-governance.

As the first bachelor’s-granting institution in the nation to officially prohibit discrimination based on race, religion, or gender, Hillsdale pioneered this movement. In Michigan, they are the first to admit women at the same level as men, and they were the second college to do so all over the nation. 

No matter what their major is, Hillsdale requires every student to take the U.S. Constitution class. College students study Western Culture and American Culture, in addition to the rigorous core curriculum.

Hillsdale-Washington Internship Program applicants will find these classes particularly useful. Some of the most desirable internship programs in the state and country are available to successful applicants, including those in the White House, Congress, and other state and federal agencies. There are several conservative clubs on campus, as the university remains true to its roots. 

Location: Hillsdale, Michigan

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

Average Tuition Fee: $30,902 / year

Acceptance Rate: 21%

Admissions:

Cedarville University

3 - Best Conservative Colleges in the U.S.

The Reformed Presbyterian Church and Cedarville University have maintained an alliance since 1887. Each of the university’s undergraduate programs includes minor Bible studies by default. So this would mean it’s a requirement that comes with every curriculum for all students.

In keeping with its Christian values, the school maintains a conservative profile. Campus community spirit is built through daily worship services attended by faculty, staff, and students. A faith-based doctrinal statement is also required of all faculty members, ensuring the school’s Christian values remain consistent.

With over 150 degree programs on offer, Cedarville is a leading academic institution. 98.5% of students who graduate within six months find jobs or enroll in graduate school, and the school has an excellent reputation for academics and placement. If you choose Cedarville, you can rest easy knowing that you can easily find a job after graduation. 

Location: Cedarville, Ohio

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

Average Tuition Fee: $34,698 / year

Acceptance Rate: 65%

Admissions:

Bob Jones University

4 - Best Conservative Colleges in the U.S.

An American evangelist named Robert Reynolds “Bob” Jones, Sr. observed that students’ faith was shaken by the time they reached college, leading him to investigate ways of improving the state of students’ faith.

As a response to secular education in higher education, Bob Jones University was created in 1927. An idea of a Bible-based, thoroughly Christian college came to fruition under his leadership.

The university’s motto is “Build Faith. Challenge Potential. Follow Christ”, and these are shown through their teachings. By doing so, the university maintains its high standards of academic excellence while also being true to its beliefs and ideas. 

Their core curriculum is composed of courses in liberal arts and biblical studies. It boasts its engineering graduates, who are rated highly for passing the National Engineering Exam.

It also produces highly qualified medical graduates. Approximately 80% of Jones pre-med graduates go on to medical school. So if you’re looking to start your path in engineering or medicine, you know this university is a great candidate.

At Bob Jones University, you may be expelled for consuming drugs or alcohol, possessing pornography, or another immoral act since the school is very serious about its rules and regulations.

Additionally, adult learners and professionals who wish to further their education can take advantage of the online courses offered at this university.

Location: Greenville, South Carolina

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Average Tuition Fee: $21,890 / year

Acceptance Rate: 89%

Admissions:

University of Dallas

5 - Best Conservative Colleges in the U.S.

The University of Dallas is an Irving, Texas-based private, co-educational Catholic university founded in 1956. Rome Program facilities are private and have been dedicated to the organization since it became an affiliate of the Roman Catholic Church. Catholic universities are shaped by the teachings and traditions of the Catholic Church

In addition to being a member of the twenty-three Catholic universities in the U.S., it is Phi Beta Kappa (PBK). The Phi Beta Kappa honor society is one of the largest and best-regarded honor societies in the country. PBK has been promoting liberal arts and sciences since 1776, fostering academic freedom, and recognizing academic excellence.

The University of Dallas’ academic course of study offers students the opportunity to take classes on Greek history, Scholastic Thinkers of the Middle Ages, and Science, Philosophy, and Individuals from Today.

Moreover, in its thirty undergraduate majors, the university is focused on preparing graduates to confront today’s challenges while anchored in the classical tradition.

Location: Irving, Texas

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Average Tuition Fee: $48,000

Acceptance Rate: 59%

Admissions:

Cornerstone University

6 - Best Conservative Colleges in the U.S.

With at least 60 undergraduate and graduate programs to date, Michigan’s C.U. is an independent Christian university that does not belong to any denomination. There are six master’s degree programs at Grand Rapids Theological Seminary, including theology, divinity, Christian studies, and counseling.

Historically, the seminary roots of the institute helped it gain its reputation as one of the more conservative colleges. Nevertheless, the campus’ conservative atmosphere extends to the social and cultural life on campus. If you feel like you share the same values and morals, you can have a fantastic college experience.

Teachers and staff at the school gather every fall to affirm their commitment to the school’s Community Covenant, which establishes traditional Christian values.

Financial aid is available to students through C.U.’s campus employment opportunities. More than 500 job openings are available exclusively to the school’s approximately 1,250 undergraduates.

Location: Grand Rapids, Michigan

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

Average Tuition Fee: $27,880 / year

Acceptance Rate: 82%

Admissions:

Texas A&M University

7 - Best Conservative Colleges in the U.S.

One of the most prestigious and significant public higher education systems in Texas is Texas A&M. Despite its open enrollment policy and the absence of religious affiliations, the university has earned a reputation as a conservative social and political institution.

This college has a conservative culture, as demonstrated by many aspects of campus life. As a result, you will enjoy your college experience, especially if you share the same ideals with the community.

Get ready to socialize with many active student groups at Texas A&M, many of which are firmly conservative in their orientation. Furthermore, the school’s policies cater to the needs of military personnel.

Texas A&M’s George H.W. Bush Presidential Library is a state-of-the-art facility. Vice President to Ronald Reagan, Bush was a leading figure of conservatism.

Location: College Station, Texas

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Average Tuition Fee: $29,684 / year

Acceptance Rate: 63%

Admissions:

Harding University

8 - Best Conservative Colleges in the U.S.

As a result of a merger between Arkansas Christian College and Harper College in 1924, Harding University was established. Harding became a university in 1979, becoming the largest private university in Arkansas. 

Despite its history as a liberal arts college, Harding implements complex core ideals as a Christian university. In a university setting and students’ personal lives, the university holds to the “character, example, and concern” of Jesus Christ.

Its graduates are envisioned to have an everlasting impact on the world because of their love for God and people. If you share the same faith and religion, this is a great school to attend and become a member of.  

On top of fulfilling their liberal arts requirements, Harding University expects its students to practice conservative values on a spiritual, moral, and social basis. The university attracts students from all US states and more than 50 countries around the globe.

Location: Searcy, Arkansas

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

Average Tuition Fee: $23,148 / year

Acceptance Rate: 45%

Admissions:

Brigham Young University – Idaho

9 - Best Conservative Colleges in the U.S.

Formerly, BYU Idaho was called Bannock Stake Academy to Brigham Young University – Idaho. It changed its name in August 2001. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints founded the institution in 1888. It ranks third among all private universities in the country and is the most prominent religious university in the U.S.

Due to the university being owned and operated by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, its students must adhere to their strict rules and regulations. It is strictly prohibited to use drugs or alcohol for recreational purposes or engage in extramarital sex.

The university also expects students to follow an academic stance (referred to as the Learning Model) and follow a strict grooming code. An affirmation from the ecclesiastical authority is required for each applicant. You may ask the admissions department regarding this.

Since nearly all Brigham University students are members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, such requirements are already a given.

The perks, however, are that besides receiving lower annual tuition and other fees, you would also be entitled to discounts as a church member. Brigham Young University – Idaho’s commitment to its students is one of the many advantages of the school.

Location: Rexburg, Idaho

Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

Average Tuition Fee: $4,536 / year

Acceptance Rate: 97%

Admissions:

Biola University

10 - Best Conservative Colleges in the U.S.

In Southern California, Biola College prides itself on promoting Christian values and promoting political conservatism. In the university, only the College Republicans chapter of the Republican Party holds official standing. Therefore, this university is good if you share the same political views as a republican.

A Biblical Studies minor is available to every student who graduates from Biola with a bachelor’s degree, as every undergraduate program includes the equivalent of 10 theology classes.

While Biola holds regional accreditation from the WASC Senior College and University Commission, several individual programs have also received specialized programmatic approval from organizations, including the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs, the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, and the American Psychological Association.

Location: La Mirada, California

Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges – Senior College and University Commission

Average Tuition Fee: $44,382 / year

Acceptance Rate: 57%

Admissions:

Pepperdine University

11 - Best Conservative Colleges in the U.S.

Pepperdine University is a top private research institution in Malibu, California. It is closely affiliated with the Churches of Christ. Its secular and religious values are part of the reason it’s a top conservative college.

Some conservative colleges require chapel attendance, whereas Pepperdine does not. However, they will need to complete at least three courses in religion or theology for undergraduates to graduate. Campus users also have access to several interdenominational prayer facilities.

Pepperdine University, a secular school, welcomes students with diverse perspectives and features a well-established community of conservatives and libertarians.

Its pedagogical philosophy embraces Western and American values, offering more than 300 majors in business, legal studies, education, public policy, and psychology.

Location: Malibu, California

Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges – Senior College and University Commission

Average Tuition Fee: $63,142 / year

Acceptance Rate: 49%

Admissions:

Colorado Christian University

12 - Best Conservative Colleges in the U.S.

The Colorado Christian University (CCU) held its inaugural class and started with only two students and one teacher in 1914. Fast forward to now, over 8,000 undergraduate and graduate students attend from all 50 states and more than 100 countries.

In addition to the emphasis on personal discipleship, Colorado Christian University encourages research and empirical analysis. Eight times in a row, CCU has been ranked in the Top 2% by the American Council of Trustees and Alumni (ACTA).  

The university firmly adheres to an unwavering respect for Scripture as part of its liberal arts programs. Therefore, as part of their strict rules of conduct, undergraduate students are required to attend church services, respect the law, and behave in a Christ-like manner towards all community members. If you fail to do so, you will be immediately suspended or expelled. 

CCU’s undergraduate program has both a student publication and an intramural sports program so that you can grow your creative side. Also, students have access to academic, recreation, and sports-oriented ministries. Choose Colorado Christian University for a complete college experience.

Location: Lakewood, Colorado

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

Average Tuition Fee: $37,432 / year

Acceptance Rate: 100%

Admissions:

Patrick Henry College

13 - Best Conservative Colleges in the U.S.

Patrick Henry College (PHC), established in 2000 as a conservative Christian college, believes in producing the next generation of leaders in America and, in doing so, preserving it for future generations.

Prospective students can choose from a wide range of baccalaureate programs in classical liberal arts, economics and business analytics, environmental science and stewardship, and strategic intelligence in national security, among others. 

Such is the excellent quality of its education that its students and graduates are valued interns and leaders in the White House and Capitol Hill, as well as at Homeland Security, CIA and FBI and in prestigious media companies and business corporations. Its strategic location—just an hour from Washington D.C.–makes it easier, too, for students and graduates to grab these stellar opportunities.  

For students interested in a successful law career, PHC takes pride in its 100% admittance rate for its graduates into law school, many of whom have been accepted into the law schools of Yale, Columbia and Harvard.

More impressively, the college has the country’s highest average LSAT scores, as well as the nation’s winningest Moot Court Program with 13 Moot Court National Championships. PHC also has four U.S. Supreme Court Clerks in its roster of alumni to date. 

Such impressive feats are attributed to PHC’s passionate commitment to its three foundational principles – world-class academic rigor, faithfulness to the American founding spirit, and an unwavering Biblical perspective in its programs. Among the fruits of its labor is that PHC was one of only 24 institutions to earn an “A” rating from the American Council of Trustees and Alumni’s (ACTA) “What Will They Learn?” project.

All students are required to complete the 63-credit curriculum, among the country’s most extensive, with subjects like Constitutional Law, Rhetoric, Theology, U.S. History, Western Civilization, Philosophy, Logic, Math, Science, Economics, Freedoms Foundations, and a foreign language.

These core courses are the bedrock upon which students and graduates build a foundation for life success underlined by the ability to think critically. 

Students must also attend thrice-a-week chapel services and twice-a-week dorm Bible study groups that reinforce their Christian faith, in addition to signing a Statement of Faith. 

Note that since PHC doesn’t accept federal and state government funds, it doesn’t offer federal and state financial aid for students. There are no faculty-tenured positions either. 

Location: Purcellville, Virginia

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Average Tuition Fee: $28,400 / year

Acceptance Rate: 76%

Admissions:

Impact of Conservatives

Christian churches have secular points of view that include conservatism. Formal connections between colleges and these churches would have a significant impact on campus culture. Those are the views of many of the country’s top conservative universities.

Most of the time, the philosophy of a college reflects its reputation for conservatism. Conservative-leaning schools follow a secular perspective. Religion and morality provide them with a sense of security. Conservatives celebrate American exceptionalism and Western civilization’s achievements.

A conservative college characterizes itself by the values held dear by its members, whether they are religious or not. The majority of them adhere to strong religious beliefs or are affiliated with conservative political leaders and organizations beneficial to their community.

They respect and perceive specific individuals and groups as role models, and the students in conservative colleges are recommended to follow through. 

A campus culture based on these beliefs and practices would be highly influenced. Other schools are conservative because they are predominantly conservative, while other schools are influenced by their conservative ideas, thoughts, and ideals. Some conservatives fervently deny their political views, even though they practice conventional approaches and systems. 

They adhere to conservative values based on their professional approach toward education. However, other schools have a history filled with conservatism. This started way back a long time ago and is continued from generation to generation.

US conservative colleges fact 3

How can You Tell If a College is Conservative?

The reputation for the conservatism of a college is determined mainly by its stated values, such as institutional objectives.

Many conservative colleges maintain formal affiliations with Christian churches, which can profoundly influence campus life. However, conservatism can also be rooted in secular viewpoints.

According to a secular perspective, conservatism is predominantly characterized by an emphasis on American exceptionalism and strong support for Western civilization and its traditions. Accordingly, the curricula and pedagogy of conservative schools tend to reflect these principles.

What are the Advantages of Attending a Conservative College?

You might enjoy attending a college with many other conservative students if you’re a conservative yourself. Unfortunately, conservatives may not receive the same acceptance from students at liberal colleges.

By attending a traditional college, you are more likely to meet people with similar political and social views, giving you the chance to build stronger ties within your campus community.

If you’re a conservative, you probably don’t want your ideas evaluated by a professor whose beliefs do not match your own.

Generally speaking, a conservative college’s faculty staff typically identify as liberal or moderate.

According to a study, sector-specific differences among faculty members were evident. For example, the most conservative teachers make up 19% of community colleges, and 37.1% of the faculty consider themselves the most liberal. College faculty members were most likely liberal at 61%, while 3.9% said they were most likely conservative.

Conservative colleges generally share Christian religious values. A majority of Christians align themselves with the political right, regardless of whether they identify as conservatives or not. It is essential, however, that not all Christian colleges are conservative. Be sure to check colleges’ religious affiliations before applying if you plan to attend a Christian school.

Finally, discipline is much more likely to be emphasized in conservative colleges. Various rules and regulations govern students at the service academies to strengthen peace and order and discipline. Rules may seem unappealing to young people, but graduates of service academies may benefit from their discipline. 

US conservative colleges fact 2

What are the Drawbacks of Attending a Conservative College?

Here are some reasons a conservative college may not be the right fit for you:

The LGBT community is less likely to find resources and support at conservative colleges. In a similar vein, conservative college students are more likely to oppose gay marriage. It’s recommended that you research schools on this list first if you’re looking for a college that welcomes LGBT students.

Typically, conservative colleges are also more structured. As a result, the discipline of conservative colleges may feel restrictive to students who want a more independent and accessible educational experience.

Colleges, for instance, have strict rules about whether you’re allowed in your dorm to have visitors or if you can drink alcohol. It might not be ideal to attend a conservative university if those kinds of regulations rub you the wrong way.

Lastly, conservative colleges may be too homogeneous if you prefer a college that attracts a wide range of students and is regularly challenged in your beliefs. Colleges with a conservative philosophy tend to draw students with the same political and religious viewpoints.

Thus, you may not find diversity in this structured community and expect to have somewhat similar people to the other, at least in terms of social, religious, and political beliefs.

Those who wish to attend a liberal or moderate institution should seek an environment tolerant of various ideas and beliefs.

Who is the Best Fit for Conservative Colleges?

The conservative college environment is a good fit for Christian students who wish to maintain an active spiritual life. For their maximum benefit, students who fit this profile should look for colleges affiliated with their particular religion.

Conservative colleges are also ideal for students with a libertarian political view or a conservative perspective on social issues. The vast majority of conservative universities also offer resources to military students.

Are there Benefits of Attending a Liberal College?

Yes, there are many benefits of attending a liberal college. Liberal colleges tend to provide an intellectually stimulating and open-minded learning environment. Students are exposed to a wide variety of perspectives and are encouraged to think critically and form their own opinions.

In addition, liberal colleges often provide various resources, such as counseling and career services, to assist students in achieving their goals. Additionally, these colleges often have more diverse student bodies, allowing for a more enriched learning experience.

How do I know if a Conservative or Liberal college is best for me?

The best way to determine if a college is best for you is to research it and its offerings. Look into the curriculum, the faculty and staff, and the student body. Consider what type of learning environment you would prefer and what kind of values the college holds.

Depending on your political views, you may want to look into the college’s history and its current political stance. You may also want to consider if there are any student organizations or clubs that could help you further explore and express your beliefs.

US conservative colleges fact 1

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