Accreditation
Our Vision for Future Accreditation
Advancing Academic Excellence While Preserving Affordability
At California Christian University, we recognize the importance of institutional accreditation and the opportunities it can provide for students, graduates, and the university community.
While pursuing recognized institutional accreditation remains part of our long-term vision, we are equally committed to preserving one of CCU’s foundational values: making quality, Christ-centered education accessible and affordable.
The accreditation process requires significant institutional resources, including investments in academic development, administrative infrastructure, faculty, and ongoing compliance. We recognize that these investments can affect the cost of providing education.
Rather than pursue accreditation at the expense of affordability, CCU is taking a thoughtful and strategic approach to institutional growth.
Our current efforts toward AETH certification represent an important step in strengthening our academic foundation as we continue preparing for future accreditation opportunities.
Our goal is not simply to achieve accreditation, but to pursue it in a way that preserves our biblical mission, supports academic excellence, and keeps theological education within reach of the students and communities we serve.
California State Regulatory Status
Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education (BPPE)
California Christian University operates under an exemption from the California Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education (BPPE), pursuant to applicable California law governing qualifying religious institutions.
This exemption allows CCU to provide religious education within the scope of its applicable exemption while maintaining its commitment to biblical teaching and ministerial preparation.
Institutional Disclosure: BPPE exemption is not equivalent to approval by the State of California or institutional accreditation.
AETH Certification
Advancing Academic Quality and Institutional Development
California Christian University has submitted its application for certification through the Association for Hispanic Theological Education (AETH) and is currently in the final stage of the certification process.
This important step represents CCU’s continued dedication to strengthening its theological education programs, academic practices, and educational standards.
Through this process, we seek to further develop an academic environment that supports student success, faculty excellence, and meaningful preparation for Christian ministry.
Current Status: AETH certification is pending final review and has not yet been awarded.
Our Commitment to Academic Excellence
Preparing Christian Leaders for Generations to Come
At CCU, academic excellence and biblical faithfulness go hand in hand.
Our educational philosophy is centered on providing theological education that responds to the needs of the local church while preparing students to serve in an evolving world.
We are committed to:
Biblical Integrity: Maintaining Scripture as the foundation of our educational mission.
Academic Quality: Strengthening our curriculum, faculty development, and student learning experiences.
Affordability: Making theological education financially accessible to more individuals and families.
Student Support: Providing guidance, resources, and encouragement throughout the educational journey.
Continuous Improvement: Advancing institutional practices and exploring opportunities for future recognized accreditation.
As part of our long-term institutional vision, CCU is working to strengthen the foundations necessary to pursue recognized institutional accreditation in the future.
Accreditation & Certification Disclosure
California Christian University is not currently institutionally accredited by an accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. The university is pursuing AETH certification for its eligible theological education program or programs. Certification has not yet been granted.
AETH program certification, California BPPE exemption, and institutional accreditation are separate forms of recognition and should not be considered equivalent.
Our Mission Remains Unchanged
Education That Serves the Needs of the Local Church
While our institution continues to develop, our mission remains rooted in the same biblical principles that guide our educational philosophy.
We believe theological education is not limited to those pursuing pastoral ministry. It is also an opportunity for Christian educators, church leaders, ministry volunteers, and individuals seeking a deeper understanding of Scripture to grow in knowledge, faith, and purpose.
At California Christian University, we are committed to building a stronger academic future without compromising the biblical foundation upon which our institution standsDiscover how CCU can help you grow in faith, knowledge, and leadership.