Atheist at a Christian university?

Question

I would like to transfer to another university next spring, but I'd like to know what your opinions are regarding an atheist at a christian school? I'm looking at the University of San Francisco, University of Portland and University of Seattle. Would I stick out like a sore thumb, or will this be no big deal?

Be objective- I don't want to convert to christianity. I just want an education.

I'm not only looking at christian schools. These were just a couple I was looking at. I have a few state funded schools on my list too.

Answer 1

I attended St Leo's College in Florida as an open atheist with no issues. I had many an interesting debate with other students, always respectful.
The only difference is that there are Seminary degrees, and the associated coursework, available alongside the rest. My degree in Computer Science has some religion electives...interesting stuff.
http://www.saintleo.edu

Pick a Catholic college and you will be fine. Pick a Baptist college and you will be tarred and feathered. Not to mention if your degree is in Science then it won't be worth any more than toilet paper. For whatever reason, they have some sort of pathological fear of science, so they teach Biblical science, like PI=3 and a 6,000 year old Earth.

Answer 2

Dear Nubilin,

i think it's wonderful, but i suppose it would depend on what sort of a degree you were pursuing. i wasn't aware that any of those schools were Christian universities but i suppose you should see if they have a statement of faith.

i attended seminary (to prepare for ministry as a pastor) and i think a program as such would have certain requirements, but that might be a little bit different from what you are going to school for.

i think you have to consider why you're interested in the schools that you are- what are you studying??? If the only thing that those schools taught were Christian related then it might not be a place where you would feel very comfortable- however, i'm sure if the school was known for certain programs (like a good bio program or something) i don't think that every single person in that program would be Christian.

i don't think it should be big deal- but honestly i can't answer for anyone else. For myself as a pastor i love it when we get Atheists and people of different religions who attend our church's Bible Study because it's a chance to not only share but show people how real God's love is.

And Christians ought to be the utmost of loving and understanding people.

Hope that helps. Feel free to email me if you'd like to share a little more about your specific situation.

Kindly,

Nickster

Answer 3

It depends on "how" Christian these universities are. I don't know about any of the schools you listed, but based on the names, they just sound like regular colleges that just happen to have a religious affiliation rather than truly being "Christian colleges" in the way that places like Bob Jones University, Liberty University, Abilene Christian University, etc. are. That being the case, I doubt that your atheism will ever be an issue, and I'm sure there will be plenty others like you there. So I'm sure you'll be fine.

Answer 4

I started a master's program at a private Christian school and I am agnostic. It was a little uncomfortable to start each class with prayer, and a lot of our education focused on how to respond as a "Christian." I don't know if all Christian schools are like that, but I know that was the focus at the one I attended.

Answer 5

Be objective's answer is ridiculous. He's missing the fact that he's speaking of a radical belief and not a Christian belief. Atheism is also a form of a religion. Truth be told, something is drawing you to that university if you want to go there. People who are true in the faith are not going to treat you poorly, people who are not in the right place will. So I really think it will be no big deal.

Answer 6

i won't be in a position to speak from own adventure, having attended a public college yet Jesuit institutions, a minimum of interior the US, have a reasonably sturdy attractiveness for emphasizing lecturers particularly than piety (Notre Dame, Boston college, Georgetown college, Gonzaga, and so on). My spouse have been given her BA from Seattle college, and have been given an astounding training. Even the mandatory philosophy classes have been fairly liberal (I spent it sluggish flipping interior the direction of the books and her notes). i'm uncertain if the comparable holds in different international locations, however. that's going to be stated that the present pope looks reason on rolling returned any progression the Catholic church has made interior the final 50 years. much extra so at the instant, in spite of the present climate of hostility in gentle of consistent revelations approximately new child abuse scandals. i do no longer understand if his rules would have any effect on the ambience at Jesuit colleges.

Answer 7

middle school students of jewish background go to catholic schools, hindus go to christians schools- why, because of the education it offers. This is not to say christian schools are better, but for some people its the best bet for their future and education. If you like the schools academics and like what it has to offer, go for it! i can assure you you won't be the only nonbeleiver there. And even if you were it woulnd't matter, for you are all there for the same reason - not to practice relgion- to learn.

Answer 8

I didn't realize those were all Christian schools. Unless there is an actual requirement to attend church, I doubt you would. However, you probably wouldn't want to broadcast the fact you're an Atheist since everyone might want to convert you.

Answer 9

Why are you only looking at Christian schools? Seems like you're setting yourself up to be harassed. There are plenty of good secular universities out there - the vast majority of them, in fact.

Answer 10

I am a Christian with the whole ball of wax belief system. I may not represent a fair enough cross population; however, my children's stepmother is an atheist and we get along fine. After, all judge not lest ye be judged.