Pacific Rim Christian University

Pacific Rim Christian University is a nonprofit Christian institution of higher education located in Honolulu, Hawaii. Founded with a mission to train and equip emerging Christian leaders, it offers a variety of degree programs centered on Christian theology and ministry.

History

The institution's roots trace back to 1995 when Pastor Wayne Cordeiro founded New Hope Christian Fellowship in Honolulu. This led to the establishment of the School of Church Planters (SCP) to address the need for leadership development in church planting. Over time, the SCP evolved into the Pacific Rim Bible Institute in 1998. The institution continued to expand its offerings and became a full-fledged college. From 2011 to 2015, it operated as the Hawaii campus of New Hope Christian College but later separated to become Pacific Rim Christian University. In 2015, it gained independent accreditation from ABHE.

Academic Programs

Pacific Rim Christian University provides undergraduate and graduate degree programs designed to equip students with skills in theology, ministry, and leadership. The undergraduate programs include concentrations such as Bible and Christian Counseling and Bible and Pastoral Ministry, as well as a Bachelor of Arts in Theology. Graduate programs focus on fields like Chaplaincy and Divinity.

Mission and Activities

The university is dedicated to serving the Christian community both locally and across the Pacific Rim. It supports initiatives such as the John P.C. Makuakane Institute for Christian Leadership, which offers specialized training for Native Hawaiian pastors. Pacific Rim Christian University partners with institutions in various countries, including the United States, Japan, and Myanmar, and its faculty have taught and presented in several international locations. Students also participate in mission trips to countries like Japan, Costa Rica, and the Philippines.

Student Life and Profile

As of 2022, Pacific Rim Christian University had a total enrollment of 131 students, with 54 being full-time students. The institution maintains a low student-to-faculty ratio, emphasizing personal attention and support. It does not require freshmen to live on campus. The university celebrates its diverse student body and offers opportunities for spiritual growth and ministry involvement through chapel services and community activities.

Financial Overview

Pacific Rim Christian University offers competitive tuition rates compared to other baccalaureate colleges in the U.S. The average net price for attending is significantly lower than the national average. A substantial portion of undergraduate students receive federal and institutional grant aid, with a notable percentage borrowing loans to cover educational expenses. In 2020, the university reported a zero default rate for borrowers.

Impact and Outcomes

Pacific Rim Christian University's alumni have gone on to establish churches and ministries in multiple countries, reflecting the institution's success in equipping leaders for global impact. Upon graduation, students are equipped to pursue careers in ministry and related fields, with a focus on spreading Christian values and leading as ambassadors for Christ.