Attendee Numbers At Cornerstone University: How Many Students?

Cornerstone University is a private Christian university located in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Founded in 1941, the university offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including business, psychology, and communications. As of 2020, Cornerstone University had a total enrollment of 1,998 students, including undergraduate and graduate studies. However, recent reports from 2022 and 2025 indicate varying enrollment numbers, with figures ranging from 1,121 to 1,433 undergraduate students. The university's official headcount in 2015 was 2,775, but it has experienced fluctuations in enrollment over the years, with a peak of 3,054 students in 2010.

Undergraduate enrollment is 1,433 as of Fall 2022

As of Fall 2022, 1,433 students were enrolled as undergraduates at Cornerstone University. This figure represents a significant portion of the student body at this private, Christian university located in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Founded in 1941, Cornerstone University offers a range of academic programs, including undergraduate and graduate studies, with a total of 60 to 65 academic programs across various disciplines.

The undergraduate enrollment figure of 1,433 is specifically for the Fall 2022 semester, and it is worth noting that enrollment numbers can vary from semester to semester and year to year. Several factors can influence enrollment numbers, such as the state of the economy and the job market, as well as the university's academic and athletic programs. For example, in 2015, Cornerstone University experienced a 5.8% decrease in enrollment, which was attributed to an improving job market that reduced the number of adult students seeking to train for new occupations.

The undergraduate enrollment at Cornerstone University includes students from a variety of academic programs. The university offers degrees in fields such as business, psychology, communications, education, music, media, and more. These programs attract students with diverse interests and career goals, contributing to a vibrant and diverse undergraduate community on campus.

With an undergraduate enrollment of 1,433, Cornerstone University maintains a relatively small student body compared to larger public universities. This smaller size can foster a sense of community and provide a more intimate learning environment for students. It also allows for smaller class sizes, which can facilitate more personalized attention from professors and enhance the overall educational experience.

The undergraduate enrollment at Cornerstone University also contributes to the overall atmosphere and culture of the university. As a Christian university, Cornerstone integrates a Christian worldview into its academic programs and requires students to abide by a "Lifestyle Statement" reflecting trinitarianism. This shared religious foundation shapes the student experience and creates a unique environment for undergraduate students during their time at the university.

Enrollment fell 5.8% in 2015

Cornerstone University, a private Christian university in Grand Rapids, Michigan, suffered a 5.8% drop in enrollment in 2015. This decline marked the third consecutive year of falling student numbers at the university. The drop was attributed primarily to a decrease in adult students signing up for the university's Professional and Graduate Studies program, which offers training for new or existing occupations. The number of students enrolled in this program fell from 1,086 in 2014 to 948 in 2015.

The decline in enrollment had financial implications for the university, as tuition fees are a significant source of revenue. In response to the drop in student numbers, Cornerstone's vice president for advancement, Bob Sack, attributed the decline to an improving job market, which left fewer residents unemployed and seeking career transitions. Sack also acknowledged the challenge of affordability for students, stating that financial constraints were often the reason students did not return to the university.

Despite the overall decrease in enrollment, there were some positive signs for the university. Cornerstone experienced an increase in freshman and transfer student enrollment, with a total of 370 students in this category in 2015, up from 340 the previous year. Additionally, the university received a 22% increase in applications for fall 2016 compared to the same period the previous year, which Sack credited to new academic and athletic programs.

The total cost of attendance at Cornerstone University for the 2015-2016 academic year was estimated at $34,660. However, the net price, considering grants and scholarships, was $19,534. The university's overall enrollment peaked in 2010 with a headcount of 3,054 students. As of 2020, the university's enrollment, including professional and graduate studies and both seminaries, was 1,998 students.

The university's official headcount is 2,775

In 2024, Cornerstone University's total student enrollment was recorded as 2,775, a decrease of 172 students from the previous year. This decline primarily affected the Professional and Graduate Studies program, which experienced a drop from 1,086 to 948 students. The university's vice president attributed this decrease to an improved job market, which reduced the number of residents seeking career transitions.

Despite this recent drop in enrollment, Cornerstone University has a long history dating back to its founding in 1941. It is a private Christian university located in Grand Rapids, Michigan, offering a range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including seminaries and a radio division.

As of 2022, the total undergraduate enrollment at Cornerstone University was 1,433 students, with a campus size of 119 acres. The university's acceptance rate is reported to be 82%, and it offers various academic programs, such as business, psychology, and communications. The university's ranking in the 2025 edition of Best Colleges placed it at #64 in Regional Universities Midwest.

In 2020, enrollment was 1,998

Cornerstone University is a private Christian university located in Grand Rapids, Michigan. It was founded in 1941 and currently offers undergraduate and graduate programs, two seminaries, and a radio division. The university offers a wide range of academic programs, including arts, sciences, humanities, Bible studies, teacher education, computers, and business and journalism.

The enrollment figure of 1,998 in 2020 is notable as it represents a significant increase from previous years. This growth can be attributed to the university's expansion and transformation efforts, which made it more attractive to prospective students. Additionally, the university's commitment to providing a well-rounded education, including extracurricular activities and student organizations, has likely contributed to its appeal.

However, it is important to note that enrollment numbers at Cornerstone University have fluctuated over the years. For instance, in 2015, the university experienced a 5.8% decrease in enrollment, primarily due to a decline in its Professional and Graduate Studies program, which caters to adult students. This decrease was attributed to an improving job market, which meant fewer residents were out of work and in need of retraining. Despite this fluctuation, Cornerstone University continues to be a prominent educational institution in Michigan, offering a diverse range of academic programs and a holistic educational experience.

While enrollment numbers may vary from year to year, Cornerstone University maintains its focus on providing a well-rounded education that equips students for their future endeavours. With its variety of academic programs, commitment to Christian values, and emphasis on critical and biblical thinking, the university strives to create a supportive and enriching environment for its students.

The acceptance rate is 82%

Cornerstone University is a private, Christian university located in Grand Rapids, Michigan. It was founded in 1941 and offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs, including two seminaries and a radio division. The university has a relatively high acceptance rate of 82%, which means that it is not highly selective in its admissions process. This rate indicates that the university accepts a significant proportion of applicants who meet the basic admissions requirements.

The high acceptance rate at Cornerstone University can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, as a private institution, the university may have different admissions criteria and policies compared to public universities. Private universities often have more flexibility in setting their admissions standards and may prioritize factors other than selectivity, such as diversity or specific areas of interest. Additionally, Cornerstone University's religious affiliation as a Christian university may also influence its admissions process. The university requires students to abide by a "Lifestyle Statement" reflecting trinitarianism, which suggests that the university's admissions process considers factors beyond just academic achievements.

Another factor contributing to the high acceptance rate could be the university's focus on specific areas of study. Cornerstone University offers a range of academic programs, but it may have a particular emphasis on certain fields, such as business, psychology, and communications. By focusing on these areas, the university may attract a specific type of student who is well-suited to the institution, resulting in a higher acceptance rate. Additionally, the university's expansion and transformation over the years, including the introduction of new programs and improvements to the campus, may have contributed to making the university more accessible and attractive to prospective students, leading to a higher acceptance rate.

It is worth noting that while Cornerstone University has a high acceptance rate, it also has a relatively small undergraduate enrollment. As of 2022, the total undergraduate enrollment was 1,433 students, and in 2020, the enrollment was 1,998 students, including graduate studies and seminaries. The university's size and acceptance rate suggest that it may provide a more intimate and personalized educational experience for its students. Additionally, the university's ranking and recognition in specific areas, such as its position as #64 in Regional Universities Midwest, further enhance its reputation and appeal to prospective students.

In summary, Cornerstone University's 82% acceptance rate indicates that the university is accessible and welcoming to a wide range of applicants. The high acceptance rate can be attributed to various factors, including its private and religious nature, its focus on specific areas of study, and its commitment to expansion and improvement. With its small enrollment, diverse academic programs, and regional recognition, Cornerstone University offers a unique educational opportunity for students seeking a Christian-based education in the Midwest.

Frequently asked questions