For Cedarville to thrive and perhaps survive in the coming decades, we must develop online undergraduate degrees. In this article, I will articulate why I believe so strongly in this new initiative. STRENGTHENING CEDARVILLE’S FUTURE Universities without fully developed online undergraduate programs experience a business disadvantage. The additional revenue stream can only be offset by a substantial endowment. Cedarville has neither. We must work on both because we consistently hear about small, tuition-driven schools that lack large endowments or additional revenue streams closing. For over a decade, I have studied business models within higher education, and one truth remains clear: Institutions must develop multiple revenue streams to remain stable. At Cedarville, we have increased scholarships, seeking to increase affordability and minimize student debt while maintaining the highest academic and spiritual standards. Despite rising costs, the net tuition revenue per student remains comparable to what it was 15 years ago, adjusted for inflation. While sticker prices have increased, so too have scholarships and tuition discounts. Developing new revenue streams like online education will help us navigate these financial realities and keep a biblical education affordable for our students. Starting in fall 2025, Cedarville University will begin offering fully online undergraduate degrees. Over the coming years, we plan to develop online degree programs across all academic disciplines, ensuring that our commitment to academic excellence and biblical integration extends far beyond our physical campus. EXPANDING OUR MISSION For decades, Cedarville has provided a Christ-centered education rooted in a biblical worldview. While we have done this successfully on campus, we frequently encounter students who, for various reasons, are unable to relocate to southwest Ohio for their education. Cost remains a significant barrier. Many students who desire a Cedarville education struggle to afford the full residential experience. Online courses, which are more cost-effective to deliver, provide an opportunity for students to earn a Cedarville degree at a lower price point without sacrificing academic quality or biblical faithfulness. Research consistently shows that a college degree significantly enhances lifetime earning potential, making higher education one of the most valuable investments a student can make. Developing new revenue streams like online education will help us navigate these financial realities and keep a biblical education affordable for our students. 4
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