Andrew MacDonald says the kind of support Tyndale offers its students is what sets it apart. Photo courtesy Tyndale University College.

Christian higher education: Uniting the mind and soul

“Professors, alumni and donors really want to see students succeed,”

By Tyndale University College and ChristianWeek | May 14, 2015

This story originally appeared in the print edition of ChristianWeek. View it here.

Andrew MacDonald, a Tyndale University College Bachelor of Arts Business Administration graduate, is the Director of Marketing and Strategic Initiatives at Opportunity International Canada, a global microfinance not-for-profit organization. At Tyndale, Andrew saw a difference from other universities. Here, students receive a university education and a supportive, well-connected Christian community. One of his business professors helped him secure a job at World Vision Canada before he graduated, a story that is similarly lived out by many Tyndale university graduates.

“Professors, alumni and donors really want to see students succeed,” Andrew explains. “You don’t get that sort of attention at secular universities.”

Andrew came to Tyndale with the desire to learn how he could help charities succeed. “Charities are made up of people with a lot of passion but they need that solid business understanding as well,” he says. “That’s why I came to Tyndale—to get that understanding.” Andrew could have studied business at any university; he chose Tyndale because of its unique perspective as a business program founded on Christian principles.

For decades Tyndale has provided this unique approach to education. Its alumni have demonstrated their ability to make an impact on almost every area of society. Tyndale is now positioned to offer a distinctive university experience in today’s post-Christian culture. The approach is holistic, focusing on integrating knowledge, skills and faith while developing character and ethics.

Tyndale challenges students to think and feel passionately and to reflect deeply on their vocational calling. It provides the tools to work that call out within the framework of a recognized, publically-accountable university. Tyndale university graduates are prepared for professions as diverse as international development workers, psychologists, teachers, business professionals, lawyers, human services workers and more.

With a university degree from Tyndale, graduates like Andrew are equipped to influence our ever-changing culture. The same passion that has been the driving force behind generations of Tyndale graduates still exists today. Students eager to integrate their faith and learning become culture-shapers, equipped with a degree that will get them to where they want to go.

Barry Smith, Senior Vice President Academic and Dean of Tyndale University College, knows that at Tyndale, a flame and a passion ignites in the students. He emphasizes that the world needs passionate Christians who resist placing God and faith in one box and education and career in another. Smith says, “Our graduates are skilled and able to integrate their faith into all of life.”