To become a surrogate in California means that the woman with subject herself to a rigorous and at times length, pre-screening process. The process starts by contacting a surrogacy agency and requesting an application form. This application form requires that the potential surrogate provide complete details of current health status and family history including any medical conditions which a family member has either had or has at the present time. All this medical background information is part of the screening process which is necessary to eliminate potential surrogates who may pass medical or mental conditions to the unborn child. It is also a necessity that the applicant be given a full medical examination to support claims of being in good health.
As well as being in good health the applicant must also be free from any sexually transmitted diseases, if the woman is sexually involved then the partner must also be free of any STDs. The surrogate must refrain from smoking as well as abstain from doing illegal drugs as well as consume alcohol. Age is often a factor in becoming a traditional surrogate; usually the age limits are 21 to 42 years of age.
Although it is not true with all agencies, there is some that want the woman who wishes to become a surrogate in California to have been pregnant in the past. The reason for this is to prove to the agency that you are capable of becoming pregnant as the process of impregnation is time consuming and expensive and agencies do not want to waste resources if getting pregnant or staying pregnant is a problem.
Some agencies expect that the surrogate candidate undergo a full background check as well as undergo a psychological evaluation. It is important that the surrogate is a stable individual and capable of completely understanding the process in it's entirely as well as being free from any issues that may be harmful to either the surrogate mother or the unborn child.
In many programs the agency expects the surrogate to be financially stable. As money problems can be the source of unwanted stress and anxiety, these factors can affect the pregnancy. Most surrogacy programs want to see the importance of being a participant in the process; they are less inclined to accept a surrogate who sees it as a way to dig out of debt.
Once all the preliminaries have been completed and the woman is accepted into the program, a contract is signed so she can become a surrogate in California. The contract states that the rules and procedures will be followed and that there will be no effort to pursue legal rights to the child once born.
If you wish to become a surrogate in California you are invited to discuss the details with the Center for Surrogate Parenting, Inc. As a surrogate mother you can help those who cannot have a child see their dream of becoming parents come true.


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Economic and Game Theory
Piracy: Who Wins, Who Loses?
by Michele Boldrin and David K. Levine
top | general | research | classes | links | David "this month [Lars Ulrich]...was hoping to have a gold plated shark tank bar installed right next to the pool, but thanks to people downloading his music for free he must now wait a few months before he can afford it" Southpark
In the MPAA propoganda video, the party line is given by David Goldstein: "the piracy issue I don't believe will effect the producers, I mean it does effect them but it is miniscule to the way it effects the guy working on construction, the lighting guy, the sound guy." Milena Davidson-Levine has brought to our attention that Southpark has a somewhat different perspective. Neither the MPAA nor Southpark gives a rationale for their point of view.
Economics does enable us to determine who wins and who loses from piracy. The crucial concept from economics is that of opportunity cost and economic rent. Your opportunity cost is what you could earn in your second best choice of job (presuming you are already making use of your best opportunity). Your economic rent is the difference between what you earn and what your opportunity cost is - it is a measure of how much you benefit from having your current job. Economic rent is positive for most people - they are better off doing what they are doing than quiting and doing something else. But for the ordinary worker, economic rent is quite small, because the ordinary worker faces a lot of competition from workers just like him, and there are many similar jobs available. A good example is the mailworker in a different MPAA propoganda video: if the Matthew were to lose his job working for the studio delivering the mail to Clint Eastwood, he would have little difficulty finding work in another one of the many mailrooms around. Perhaps he would not like this as much as delivering Clint Eastwood's mail, but then again, since he wouldn't get to see Clint Eastwood, perhaps he would make a few more dollars. Either way, working in a different mailroom in a different industry (his opportunity cost) wouldn't find him much worse off. Similarly the construction worker in the movie industry has a job not much different from and paying about the same as a construction job in another industry, so would not be more than inconvenienced by being forced to switch industries. So too the many other ordinary occupation held by ordinary people in the movie industry, such as the security guard and fireman in the complete MPAA video. Basically, the more ordinary the occupation, the less the economic rent.
By way of contrast, the big stars - the "million dollar employees" - earn very large economic rents. For example Lars Ulrich, the drummer for Metallica, was a service station attendant before becoming a rich rock star; Harrison Ford was a cabinet maker. The difference in salary between being a big star and a service station attendant or cabinet maker - the economic rent received by these two - is huge.
The economic consequence of the monopoly power granted through copyright is that it drives up the economic rent of scarce resources. That is, copyright raises the economic rent of big stars - who are scarce - while having little impact on the salaries of ordinary workers - who have many competitors and are not scarce. So reversing the field, we can see the impact of weakening copyright - due to piracy for example. The big losers are those who command the big rents - the big stars. So Southpark has it about right. The MPAA has it exactly wrong. Although one cannot blame them for running their own progaganda film instead of the Southpark clip. However true the Southpark clip might be, it would be tough to sell Congress on ever more restrictive laws based on the fact that without them a few big stars might be a little less rich.
The complete MPAA propoganda video is remarkably also for the extent to which it exagerates the importance of the movie industry: we wouldn't really want to lose all these ordinary jobs would we? In the first and second screen of the video it is claimed that the U.S. motion picture industry employs 580,000 people nationwide, 259,00 of whom work directly in the production and service jobs necessary to create motion picture and television shows; the final screen lets us know that the "U.S. Copyright Industries" contribute more to the economy and employ more American workers than any other single manufacturing industry.
In this case, it is the U.S. Census Bureau that has a somewhat different perspective. The "U.S. Copyright Industries" are what the Census classifies as part of the "Information" industry. According to the 1997 Economic Census, the "Motion picture & sound recording industries" which includes not only motion picture and television production - but also music and sound recording - employs 275,981 paid employees. By way of contrast, IBM alone employs over 300,000 people. The MPAA may perhaps be including radio and television broadcasting as part of the "U.S. motion picture industry" - but of course the jobs of those doing broadcasting does not much depend on whether or not they are broadcasting copyright or non-copyright material. The remaining "Copyright Industries" are the publishing industries, which are quite a bit larger with 1,006,214 paid employees - but many of these (403,355) are in newspaper publishing - which receives practically no protection from copyright. Accepting the MPAA's exagerated estimate of the motion picture industry, and adding in the entire publishing industry, we get 1,586,214 employees. Looking at manufacturing we find three industries: fabricated metal product manufacturing, computer and electronic product manufacturing, and transportation equipment manufacturing all employ more workers. Looking more realistically at the industries that benefit from copyright, we add the 275,981 workers in motion picture and sound recording to the 336,479 publishing workers that do not work for newspapers or publish software to get an estimate of 612,460 workers - a tiny fraction of the U.S. workforce, and about the same number of workers employed, for example, in the furniture industry. We may ask whether the benefit to these workers of imposing restrictions on electronic devices to reduce (by some trivial amount) piracy justifies the cost to the 1,698,529 workers who produce them - not to speak of the cost to the 250 odd million people who use them.
But this comparison is not fair, because it assumes that the substantial reduction of copyright - a policy that the two of us, among many others, advocate - would necessarily imply the disappearance of all those 612,460 jobs! This is obviously not the case. In fact, it may even lead to an increase in the number of jobs even if it would most certainly reduce the income of the very selected few (maybe 1 or 2% of the total number of employees in the copyright industries) who appropriate all the big monopoly rents created by the existence of copyright. For the remaining 98% of the people working in the copyright industries, it would be business as usual.
MPAA Video
Southpark Video
MPAA Mailroom

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


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House of Commons Hansard #87 of the 38th Parliament, 1st Session. (The original version is on Parliament's site.) The word of the day was cfia.
Italian-Canadian Recognition and Restitution Act
Statistics Act
Civil Marriage Act
Alberta Scene
Spelling Bee of Canada
Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms
Milton Community Awards
National Day of Mourning
Stefan Surette
Message from the Senate
ImmigrationStatements By Members
Mr. Speaker, the claims of the Liberal government being immigration friendly ring hollow when compared to its dismal record.
Here is what Liberal policies have brought us: record waits for travel visas to Canada; five year waits for family reunification approvals; intolerable delays for compassionate travel requests; and onerous restrictions on immigrants to qualify their professional and trade skills to satisfy Canadian standards. I do not see anything immigration friendly about that record.
This is typical of the Liberal government. It brings the system to its knees, raises the frustration stage to the desperation stage, and then just before an election makes promises to fix the problem with a threat that if someone does not vote Liberal, then everything is off.
This is sleazy politics from a--
The hon. member for Ahuntsic.
Dalai LamaStatements By Members
Eleni Bakopanos Liberal Ahuntsic, QC
Mr. Speaker, I am honoured to point out that today is the first anniversary of the visit of His Holiness the Dalai Lama to Canada.
A year ago millions of Canadians were deeply touched and moved by the visit of His Holiness, the Dalai Lama. Many of us here in this House took part in this incredibly memorable visit to Parliament Hill. His reception at the Centre Block is remembered as one of the most powerful receptions for a world leader in recent times.
A Nobel Peace Prize winner, a relentless campaigner for freedom and human dignity, a respected spiritual leader, and figurehead of the pacifist movement, he has successfully led his people in the field of education and the preservation of their ancient and unique Tibetan culture.
To mark this anniversary, the representatives of the Tibetan community, who are here today and to whom I extend greetings, have distributed khatas—a Tibetan ceremonial scarf symbolizing peace and friendship—to all the MPs. I invite my fellow parliamentarians to wear them with the humility and peace they represent.
National Day of MourningStatements By Members
April 21st, 2005 / 2:05 p.m.
Bev Desjarlais NDP Churchill, MB
Mr. Speaker, "mourn for the dead, fight for the living" is the battle cry of workers throughout Canada and indeed the world. Each year in Canada a thousand workers are killed and more than a million are injured or made sick by workplace accidents or disease.
With the passage of Rod Murphy's private member's bill in 1991, April 28 was recognized nationally as the day of mourning. Part of the continuing fight for the living is improving workplace safety and health through legislation, enforcement, education and technological change. The passage of Bill C-45, the Westray bill, is also a deterrent for employers who disregard the lives of workers.
As we continue to fight for improvements in Canada, we know that the fight must also extend throughout the world. More than 1,100 miners were killed by fires and cave-ins in China in the first three months of this year, an increase of 21%. If our country pushes trade with China, we must also press for extensive improvements in safety for Chinese workers.
As I join with workers, unions, employers, and the families of those who have lost a loved one in the workplace, I ask my colleagues here in the House to join me on April 28 mourning lives lost and committing to fight like hell for the living.
Charitable OrganizationsStatements By Members
Mr. Speaker, tonight our Prime Minister will perform a nationally televised panic attack. He is now desperate. He has tried for months to get people to forget about the Liberal ad scam.
Now the Liberal scheme is to claim that everyone is corrupt. Citizens should learn that all politicians steal and all charities take money that does not belong to them, so goes the Liberal line.
Yesterday Liberals smeared Lawrence Cannon for his work in the charitable sector. Mr. Cannon legitimately employed a small grant to fund a successful 34 nation business meeting that brought $4.5 million in trade to Canada. None of the dollars went into Mr. Cannon's pocket. It was all put toward building our economy. This is not the same as the Liberal payola scam.
Here we have it, Liberals will now attack every charity to which they gave sponsorship money. Are they saying that all of these volunteers were involved in conniving to skim money into Liberal coffers? Canadians deserve better and soon they will have a chance--
The hon. member for Saint-Hyacinthe—Bagot.
Mr. Speaker, a year ago, millions of Quebeckers and Canadians were deeply touched and moved by the visit to Canada of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. In solidarity with his peaceful struggle, and that of the Tibetan people, we are proud to wear the khata, a traditional Tibetan scarf symbolizing peace and friendship.
The Dalai Lama promotes Tibet's right to independence, seeking meaningful autonomy for the Tibetan people within China. However, the issue is far from being resolved, because the fundamental rights of Tibetans continue to be denied.
Based on its strong ties with China, Canada must ensure that Beijing takes concrete action to ensure that the current dialogue between the representatives of the Dalai Lama and China results in a negotiated settlement on the status of Tibet.
Members of this House must add their voices to those of the millions of people around the world who struggle to help the Tibetan people reclaim their homeland.
Monte Solberg Conservative Medicine Hat, AB
Mr. Speaker, when the Prime Minister speaks tonight on television he will be up against shows like Just Shoot Me and Crime Scene Investigation . I refuse to comment on this interesting coincidence except to say that there are no shows as sordid as the Liberal Party.
On tonight's episode, Canada's top spin doctor performs plastic surgery on the Liberal Party in an attempt to give it a new face. We will see him nip and tuck those ugly sponsorship scars away in the hope of making the Liberal Party more attractive to the Canadian public and maybe a little less recognizable to the police. It is a tough job. Even as the spin doctor is trying to cover up old wounds, Benoît Corbeil is opening up new ones.
The Liberal Party is so fundamentally sick that an extreme political makeover just will not cut it. It needs to open this patient right up, cut out the arrogance and replace it with some humility. It needs a conscience implant. It needs shorter arms so that the only pockets it can reach into are its own.
Finally, if it has the stomach, it needs to get rid of the head.
Stefan SuretteStatements By Members
Robert Thibault Liberal West Nova, NS
Mr. Speaker, I rise today to salute a young soldier, Mr. Stefan Surette. Mr. Surette was killed from gunshot wounds during an insurgent ambush in Baghdad while the vehicle he was in waited for the road to reopen.
Mr. Surette's family lives in Saint-Anne-Du-Ruisseau, a small close-knit community in my riding.
Stefan left Nova Scotia a little over a decade ago to join the British military. He later joined a private security firm with whom he was employed at the time of his unfortunate death.
I spoke to Mr. Surette's mother today. His parents are devastated by the loss of their child, as is all of the community.
I am certain Nova Scotians and Canadians alike join me in sending the Surette family our deepest condolences.
TibetStatements By Members
David Kilgour Independent Edmonton—Beaumont, AB
Mr. Speaker, at this time last year we were in the company of His Holiness the Dalai Lama during his visit to Parliament Hill. On the first anniversary of the visit, all of us in this House hope that we can reflect on his message.
I can say that in my 26 years as a member of Parliament, I have never seen such a reception as was seen last year. The welcome His Holiness received was concrete proof that the values of the Tibetan people and their struggle have a resonance on Canadians.
The Parliamentary Friends of Tibet, which has parliamentarians from all parties as members, urges the Canadian government to speak out against China's incursion upon the Tibetan way of life and to condemn China's railway to Tibet.
In this week's international policy statement, the word "Tibet" did not appear once. Neither did the phrase "human rights in China". This is not a reflection on the desires of the Canadian public or Parliament.
I also call upon Canadians, as shareholders of Bombardier, Nortel and Power Corporation, to voice their objection to the involvement of those companies in the construction of that railway.
At this critical juncture in Tibet's struggle, I hope that we will have the--
The hon. member for Sault Ste. Marie.
Child CareStatements By Members
Mr. Speaker, the Minister of Social Development has warned Canadians that there better not be an election or the national child care plan and its first $700 million to the provinces and territories will be in jeopardy. He and his party deserve a game misconduct for this.
Canada does not have a child care plan because the Liberals failed to make it happen in three consecutive majority governments. Canada does not have a child care plan because the Liberal government refused to accept the verdict of Canadians in the last election and work with the minority Parliament.
New Democrats want to work with the government on a child care act. The Liberals said no. Nine months ago, the New Democrats wanted to work with the government on a universal, not for profit, accessible child care system. The Liberals ignored the partnership.
It is time for the government to respect Parliament, respect Canadian voters and decide if it wants this Parliament to work.
The Prime MinisterOral Question Period
Mr. Speaker, apparently today the Prime Minister will not appear in public. Instead, tonight he will issue a tape from his den, like some kind of fugitive leader.
I have spoken to the other opposition leaders and I think there would be unanimous agreement that if the Prime Minister wants to address Canadians at 7 p.m., he could do so here with the televised hearings of the House of Commons. He could do so in a public setting, as is our democratic custom.
Would the government be willing to give unanimous support to such a motion?
Edmonton Centre Alberta
Anne McLellan LiberalDeputy Prime Minister and Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness
Mr. Speaker, we have watched day after day the official opposition and the other opposition parties turn these 45 minutes into nothing more than gratuitous insults and half truths.
Therefore, the Prime Minister will speak directly to Canadians. I do hope that the leader of the official opposition is not suggesting that is in any way inappropriate.
Sponsorship ProgramOral Question Period
Mr. Speaker, the former director general of the Liberal Party now says that the party exists "to take power, keep power and win back power".
The result is that we have stories of fraud, theft, illegal lobbying, filing false election returns, money laundering, campaigning with dirty money and kickbacks. Now we can add to the list paying off campaign workers with an appointment as a judge.
Is it any surprise that the Prime Minister is afraid to come to the democratically elected chamber and show his face?
Clearly, Mr. Speaker--
Order, please. The hon. Deputy Prime Minister is used to a lot of cheering, but we do not have to have it when she is giving an answer. The hon. Deputy Prime Minister has the floor so we can hear her answer.
Anne McLellan Liberal Edmonton Centre, AB
Mr. Speaker, clearly Mr. Corbeil has made very serious and disturbing allegations. In fact, if those allegations are true, everyone in the House would condemn that conduct and those activities.
We have made it very plain in the House that anyone who has done wrong should be punished to the full extent of the law, which is why Mr. Justice Gomery needs to be allowed to finish his work.
Mr. Corbeil's allegations are simply that. Mr. Corbeil, as I understand it, will be appearing before the Gomery investigation. We should permit Mr. Justice Gomery to conclude his work and hear from Mr. Corbeil.
Mr. Speaker, a former director general of the Liberal Party of Canada admitted that people from the Liberal Party are there to take power, stay in power, and regain power. And what is the result? We have fraud, illegal lobbying, theft, threats, extortion, falsified election reports, money laundering, campaigns run with dirty money, and now they are rewarding volunteers by appointing them judges.
Is it any surprise that the Prime Minister is terrified at the thought of explaining all this here?
Mr. Speaker, as I have said, Mr. Corbeil has obviously made serious and disturbing allegations. If in fact Mr. Corbeil or others are guilty of any of those activities, they should be punished to the full extent of the law. We have been absolutely clear about that.
I again say it is so important that Mr. Justice Gomery be allowed to continue his investigation. Mr. Corbeil will be appearing before the Gomery investigation.
If Mr. Justice Gomery is allowed to report, all Canadians will know what happened, who was involved and the appropriate action will be taken.
Diane Ablonczy Conservative Calgary Nose Hill, AB
Mr. Speaker, another Liberal insider has come forward with new information about the shadowy world of Liberal power brokering.
Benoit Corbeil reveals that top godfathers of the Liberal Party, whom he calls the Liberal network, control everything. They decide who gets government contracts and who does the money laundering that helps Liberals get elected with illegal cash. He says the Liberal network goes right up into the Prime Minister's office and states that everyone knew what was happening.
In the face of mounting evidence, does the Prime Minister still plead ignorance?
Kings—Hants Nova Scotia
Scott Brison LiberalMinister of Public Works and Government Services
Mr. Speaker, these are very serious allegations and we will not defend the kinds of activities that Mr. Corbeil is alleging. They are indefensible.
What we will defend and what the Prime Minister will defend is the right for Canadians to have the truth. That is why we will continue to defend the work of Justice Gomery.
It is important to recognize that these allegations in fact contradict some other allegations by Mr. Brault. That is why it is important that we trust Justice Gomery to consider all the allegations and to give Canadians the truth they deserve.
Mr. Speaker, Benoit Corbeil was the executive director of the Liberal Party's Quebec wing during the height of ad scam. He tells of tens of thousands in laundered cash, fake election volunteers from ministers' offices, regular flouting of election law, judgeships for helping elect Liberals, false invoices. He says that all this was orchestrated by the Prime Minister's office and top Liberals in Quebec.
The Prime Minister was the most senior Quebec minister at the time. How can anyone believe he was clueless about all this?
Mr. Speaker, listening to the opposition members, in my view they are becoming experts in trafficking in innuendo and in drive-by smears and show no respect for the House or the rule of law in this country.


As the next chapter in a series, Christian Universities Online is happy to present the Top 25 Christian Colleges and Universities in the West for 2017. Not merely a subset of the national top 50; this ranking only narrows the geographic criteria and starts from square one with the evaluation criteria. CUO offers these rankings not because any one area is superior to another, but that while not necessarily a top consideration in the decision, geography can often play a part in school selection. There are certainly some familiar names on this list; some new schools are showcased as well. It is our hope that those who may need to limit their school selection based on geography will be well-served by this ranking.
The methodology behind this ranking began with schools in our West region that are members or member eligible of the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities (CCCU). We then collected publicly available data for these schools in the following categories: 1) Faculty-to-student ratio, 2) Percent of full-time beginning undergraduates receiving grant or scholarship aid, 3) Selectivity, 4) Overall retention rate and 5) Overall graduation rate. Each category received equal weight in calculating the final ranking.
Oklahoma Baptist University boasts a total enrollment figure of nearly 2,000, the majority of whom are undergraduate students with an average student to faculty ratio of 15 to 1. OBU's student body is filled with diversity, as students hail from at least 40 states and 35 foreign countries. Students under the age of 21 years are required to live on OBU's campus and the University offers an array of housing options including traditional dormitories, suites and apartment complexes. A total of 10 bachelor's degrees are available in more than 80 areas of study along with five master's degrees, and several certificate programs. OBU holds its accreditation through the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. A selective institution, OBU admits 61% of applicants and boasts an overall retention rate of 74% with an overall graduation rate of 52%. Financial aid options are readily available to students, as evidenced by the fact that 100% of full-time, beginning undergraduates receive some type of financial assistance.
Vanguard University is a private, comprehensive, Christian university of liberal arts and professional studies, located in Costa Mesa, California and affiliated with the Assemblies of God denomination. Vanguard University's began in 1920 when the school was opened with the intention of preparing Christian workers for the various ministries of the church. Originally named the Southern California Bible School, by 1939 the institution was chartered by the State of California and was made eligible to grant degrees, becoming the first four-year institution of the Assemblies of God. The school's name was then changed to Southern California Bible College as the college continued to grow, receiving regional accreditation and eventually membership in the Western Association of Colleges and Schools. By 1999, the college was granted university status and its current name was adopted.
Vanguard University is comprised of multiple academic departments, including: the Department of Anthropology and Sociology; Department of Biology; Department of Business & Management; Department of Chemistry; Department of Communication; Department of English; Department of History and Political Science; Department of Kinesiology; Department of Liberal Studies; Department of Mathematics; Department of Music; Department of Psychology; Department of Religion; and the Department of Theatre Arts. A four-year Bachelor of Arts or Science degree is available in 30 majors and concentrations in addition to a number of Adult Degree Completion programs and Graduate Study options. More than 2,000 students are enrolled at Vanguard, including over 1,800 undergraduate students with an average student to faculty ratio of 15 to 1. A selective University, Vanguard admits 68% of applicants and boasts an overall retention rate of 78% with an overall graduation rate of 56%. Financial aid is readily available to students, and 98% of full-time beginning undergraduate students receiving some type of financial aid.
Oral Roberts University (ORU) is a private, coeducational, interdenominational, Christian comprehensive liberal arts university located in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Named in honor of its founder, evangelist Oral Roberts, the University was established in 1965. ORU purpose is to educate the whole person – mind, body, and spirit – and promises students a thorough education that is taught in the context of a "vibrant Christ-centered community." A charismatic university, ORU's motto is, "Make no little plans here." The University's declared mission is to "build Holy Spirit-empowered leaders through whole person education to impact the world with God's healing." ORU is situated on a 263 acre campus located in south Tulsa, Oklahoma, the state's second-largest city, which, as a thriving metropolis, offers a wide array of both internship and professional opportunities in addition to its cultural and recreational resources.
Oral Roberts University holds its accreditation through the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Comprised of five colleges, these include the College of Arts and Cultural Studies; the College of Business; the College of Education; the College of Nursing; the College of Science and Engineering; and the College of Theology and Ministry. More than 65 undergraduate majors are offered as well as 14 graduate programs and two doctoral programs and a number of adult degree completion programs and online degrees. ORU's five most popular majors include Nursing; Ministry & Leadership; Business Administration; Media; and Biology. ORU's total enrollment exceeds 3,500, including over 3,000 undergraduate students, with an average student to faculty ratio of 16 to 1. A selective school, ORU admits 64% of applicants and boasts an overall retention rate of 80% with an overall graduation rate of 58%. Financial aid is readily available and 96% full-time beginning undergraduate students receive some type of financial assistance.
Northwest Christian University holds its accreditation through the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities. The University offers a wide variety of undergraduate majors, adult degree programs, and graduate programs of study; NCU's most popular areas of majors have proven to be in Accounting, Business Administration, Exercise Science, Psychology, and Teacher Education (K-12). NCU has a total enrollment of just over 700 students, with a female/male ratio of about 60/40. NCU's student to faculty ratio is 12 to 1 with an average class size of 16. Thanks to this low ratio, faculty members are able to provide students with personal attention, helping to "guide and nurture [their] faith and education". A selective institution, NCU admits 68% of applicants and boasts an overall retention rate of 69% with an overall retention rate of 53%. The university offers an excellent scholarship program and more than 97% of fulltime, beginning undergraduate students receive some form of financial aid, whether grants or scholarships.
Concordia University Irvine (CUI) is a private, coeducational, Christian institution of higher education located in Irvine, California. CUI was established in affiliation with the Lutheran Church- Missouri Synod in 1976 for the purpose of serving students in the Pacific Southwest. Originally named Christ College Irvine, in 1993 the school's Board of Regents voted to change the institution's name to Concordia University Irvine, making CUI the tenth campus within the national Concordia University System. Today, the University's mission statement declares its commitment to being "guided by the Great Commission of Christ Jesus and the Lutheran Confessions, [to empower] students through the liberal arts and professional studies for lives of learning, service and leadership." CUI has a total enrollment figure of more than 4,500, including nearly 2,000 undergraduate students, with an average student to faculty ratio of 15 to 1.
Concordia University Irvine holds its accreditation through the Western Association of Schools and Colleges which granted its initial accreditation in 1981. The University offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and online degree completion programs. Undergraduate majors include Actuarial Science, Art, Athletic Training, Behavioral Science, Biblical Languages, Biology, Business Administration, Chemistry, Christian Education Leadership, Coaching, Communication Studies, Director of Christian Education, Director of Parish Music, Early Childhood, Economics, Education Specialist, Elementary Education, English, Exercise and Sport Science, Forensics, Global Cultural Studies, Graphic Design, Healthcare Management, History and Political Thought, Humanities and Fine Art, International Studies, Liberal Studies, Lutheran Teaching Ministry, Mathematics, Medical Science Professions, Music, Physics, Pre-Deaconess Studies, Pre-Law, Pre-Nursing, Pre-Seminary Studies, Psychology, Secondary Education, Theatre, Theology, Theological Studies, and Worship Arts Leadership. A selective institution, CUI has an acceptance rate of 59% and boasts an overall retention rate of 72% with an overall graduation rate of 61%. 97% of beginning, full-time undergraduate students receive some type of financial aid.
Hardin-Simmons University (abbreviated HSU) is a private, coeducational, Christian institution located in Abilene, Texas. Established in 1891, HSU began as the Abilene Baptist College. Affiliated with the Baptist General Convention of Texas, the school was founded by the Sweetwater Baptist Association along with a group of cattlemen and pastors. Renamed Simmons College in 1892 in honor of James B. Simmons, an early contributor, the school adopted its current name in 1925, adding the name Hardin in honor of Mary and John G. Hardin, who were also major contributors to the school. HSU's mission statement declares its intention "to be a community dedicated to providing excellence in education enlightened by Christian faith and values." The University strives to offer an undergraduate education based in the liberal arts that is both academically challenging and which advances scholarly growth by offering specialized graduate and professional degree programs.
Hardin-Simmons University is fully accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools and has been so since 1927. The University has a total enrollment figure of about 2,000, including more than 1,600 undergraduate students with an average student to faculty ratio of 12 to 1. HSU is comprised of several colleges and schools, including the College of Fine Arts; Cynthia Ann Parker College of Liberal Arts; Holland School of Sciences and Mathematics; Irvin School of Education; Kelley College of Business; Logsdon School of Theology; Logsdon Seminary; Patty Hanks Shelton School of Nursing; and HSU's Graduate Studies. A selective institution, HSU admits 60% of applicants and boasts an overall retention rate of 68% with an overall graduation rate of 53%. A number of financial aid options are available to students, including grant or scholarship aid and approximately 97% of full-time, beginning undergraduate students at HSU do receive some type of aid.
William Jessup University is a private, coeducational, nondenominational, Christian liberal arts institution located in Rocklin, California. The University began in 1939 and was originally called the San Jose Bible College. The new school's name was changed a number of time before its current name was selected in honor the University's founder, William Jessup. Today, William Jessup University's mission statement declares its intention to "educate transformational leaders for the glory of God", with a vision that "graduates will be transformed and will help redeem world culture by providing notable servant leadership; by enriching family, church and community life; and by serving with distinction in their chosen career." The University operates two campus locations; its main campus is located in Rocklin with a second in San Jose.
William Jessup University holds its accreditation through the Association for Biblical Higher Education and the Western Association of Schools and Colleges. The University has a total enrollment figure of more than 1,000, the vast majority of whom are undergraduate students, with an average student to faculty ratio of 11 to 1. William Jessup University offers a wide range of undergraduate majors as well as an Adult Degree Completion program, graduate degrees, and online programs. The University's undergraduate programs are founded in the integration of faith and academics while the University School of Professional Studies offers working adults the opportunity to earn their Bachelor of Science degree in as little as 19 months and graduate degree program offerings include the MA in Teaching, MA in Leadership and MBA. William Jessup University has an acceptance rate of 82% and boasts an overall retention rate of 87% with an overall graduation rate of 71%. Financial aid is available to students in a variety of forms including grants, scholarships, and student loans with 100% of full-time beginning undergraduates receiving some type of financial aid.
Oklahoma Christian University (abbreviated OC) is a private, coeducational, comprehensive, Christian, liberal arts university located in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. OC began as Central Christian College, established in 1950, and has expanded and grown ever since – both in numbers and in the range of programs offered. OC's mission statement declares its intention to be a "higher learning community that transforms lives for Christian faith, scholarship, and service." The University is situated on a 200 plus-acre campus located in the northeast part of Oklahoma City, bordering the city of Edmond. This strategic location provides students with access to the many academic, cultural, and recreational benefits the large city has to offer along with the comforts and safety of a suburban atmosphere.
Oklahoma Christian University is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools and has been so since 1966. OC has a total enrollment figure of just over 2,500, including nearly 2,000 undergraduate students, with an average student to faculty ratio of 13 to 1. OC offers more than 60 majors and 30 additional areas of study and is comprised of five academic divisions, namely the College of Engineering and Computer Science; the College of Liberal Arts; and the College of Natural and Health Sciences. OC also offers a number of graduate degrees including the Master of Accountancy, Master of Business Administration, Master of Science in Computer Science, Master of Science in Engineering, Master of Arts in Christian Ministry, Master of Divinity, and the Master of Theological Studies. A selective institution, OC admits 59% of applicants and boasts an overall retention rate of 79% with an overall graduation rate of 49%. Students have access to a number of financial aid options and approximately 99% of full-time beginning students receive some type of financial aid.
Warner Pacific College is a private, coeducational, Christian liberal arts institution located in Portland, Oregon. The College's roots date back to 1937 when the Pacific Bible College was established in Spokane, Washington; the first graduating class consisted of two women who earned their Christian Education certificate. In 1940, the school relocated to Portland and by 1959, the school's name was changed to Warner Pacific College in order to better reflect the school's growing emphasis on the liberal arts. Warner Pacific College is the only Church of God (Anderson, Indiana) institution of higher learning located in the western part of the United States. The College is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities and has been received a number of notable recognitions from names such as U.S. News & World Report and was included as 37th in the nation on the Washington Monthly's 2015 Baccalaureate Colleges list.
Warner Pacific College is a small institution, with a total enrollment figure of just over 500, all of whom are undergraduate students, with a student to faculty ratio of 11 to 1. More than two dozen major programs and nearly 30 minors are offered as well as 7 pre-professional programs and four graduate programs. The College is divided into several departments, covering the subjects of Business, Education, Humanities, Music, Natural Sciences & Health, Religion & Christian Ministries, and Social Science. Students have the option of earning an associate, baccalaureate (Bachelor of Arts or Science) or master's degree in addition to post-baccalaureate certifications. A selective institution, Warner Pacific College admits 51% of applicants and boasts an overall retention rate of 62% with an overall graduation rate of 55%. Financial aid is readily available in a variety of forms, including grant and scholarship aid, as evidenced by the fact that 100% of full-time, beginning undergraduates receive some type of aid.
Fresno Pacific University (FPU) is a private Christian institution located in Fresno, California. The only accredited Christian university in California's Central Valley, FPU was founded in 1994. The University's main 50 acre campus is located in the southeast Fresno area and FPU also maintains four regional campuses located in Central California, including the Bakersfield Campus, Merced Campus, North Fresno Campus, and Visalia Campus. The University has a total enrollment figure of nearly 3,500, including more than 2,600 undergraduate students, with an average student to faculty ratio of 13 to 1. Many of these students are the first in their families to ever attend college and as one of the Top 10 Hispanic Serving Institutions (HIS), FPU has a high percentage of students of Hispanic decent. A residential University, FPU requires students under 21 years of age to live on campus and offers a number of on-campus living options including modules, suites, apartments and houses.
Fresno Pacific University is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges and has been so since 1961. The University offers a wide range of degrees and programs and is comprised of five growing schools, including the School of Business, the School of Education, the School of Humanities, Religion and Social Sciences, the School of Natural Sciences and the Fresno Pacific Biblical Seminary. FPU has been ranked in the top tier of their category and all of the University's programs emphasize Christian values, ethics, and character development. A selective institution, FPU admits 63% of applicants and boasts an overall retention rate of 80% with an overall graduation rate of 54%. Financial aid is readily available in a variety of forms, including grant and scholarship aid, as evidenced by the fact that 99% of beginning undergraduate students receive some type of financial aid.
Seattle Pacific University is a private, Christian institution of higher education located in Seattle, Washington. Founded in 1891 in conjunction with the Oregon and Washington Conference of the Free Methodist Church, the school was originally named the Seattle Seminary. In 1913 the school was renamed the Seattle Seminary and College and in 1915 settled on the name of Seattle Pacific College. Today, Seattle Pacific University's mission statement declares its intention to be a "Christian university fully committed to engaging the culture and changing the world by graduating people of competence and character, becoming people of wisdom, and modeling grace-filled community." The University's main campus is situated on 43 acres in the northern end of Queen Ann Hill, just a few miles north of downtown Seattle. The University also owns and operates two satellite campuses, including a wilderness field station on Blakely Island in the San Juan Islands which specializes in biology.
Seattle Pacific University is holds its accreditation through the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities which granted its initial accreditation back in 1933. The University offers a wide range of academic programs at both the undergraduate and graduate-levels and is comprised of the College of Arts & Sciences and several schools including the School of Health Sciences; the School of Business, Government, & Economics; the School of Psychology, Family, & Community; the School of Education; and the School of Theology. Seattle Pacific University has a total enrollment figure of more than 4,200 students, including more than 3,200 undergraduates, with an average student to faculty ratio of 15 to 1. The University admits 82% of applicants and boasts an overall retention rate of 87% with an overall graduation rate of 71%. Financial aid is readily available with 99% of all full-time, beginning undergraduate students receiving some type of aid.
George Fox University is a private, coeducational institution of the liberal arts and sciences and professional studies located in Newberg, Oregon. George Fox began in 1885 and was founded by a group of Quaker pioneers as the Friends Pacific Academy. In 1891 the school's name was changed to Pacific College and in 1949 was again renamed George Fox College (eventually attaining university status) in honor of the founder of the Quaker movement. Today, George Fox University continues its historic affiliation with the Northwest Yearly Meeting of Friends and holds the mission is to be a "Christ-centered community [which] prepares students spiritually, academically, and professionally to think with clarity, act with integrity, and serve with passion." George Fox University has a total enrollment figure of nearly 4,000, including more than 2,500 undergraduate students, with an average student to faculty ratio of 14 to 1.
George Fox University holds its accreditation through the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities which was initially granted back in 1959. The University offers more than 40 undergraduate majors which culminate in a Bachelor's degree. Several adult degree programs, six seminary degrees, and more than a dozen master's and doctoral degree programs in the areas of business, counseling, education, physical therapy, and psychology are also offered. A member of the Council of Independent Colleges as well as the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities, George Fox University ranks high among Christian colleges in the nation and has been classified as a first-tier "Best Regional University (West)" by U.S. News & World Report. A selective institution, George Fox University admits 77% of applicants and boasts an overall retention rate of 81% with an overall graduation rate of 70%. Financial aid is readily available to students with 100% of all full-time, beginning undergraduates receiving some type of financial aid, including grants and scholarships.
Abilene Christian University (ACU) is a private, coeducational, Christian institution of higher education located in Abilene, Texas. Affiliated with the Churches of Christ, ACU grew out of an idea held by A.B. Barret and Charles Roberson and backed by the Churches of Christ in Abilene. Established in 1906 as a small learning institution in West Texas, ACU has since become known as a leader in Christian higher-education and has received a multiple honors and recognitions from a number of sources including Apple, which named ACU a distinguished school for its innovation, leadership and educational excellence. ACU's mission is clearly stated as having the goal of educating students for "Christian service and leadership throughout the world." ACU requires daily chapel services and mandatory Bible courses and the majority of students spend time volunteering for community service.
Abilene Christian University holds its accreditation through the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. The University comprised is of multiple colleges and schools, including the College of Arts & Sciences, College of Biblical Studies, College of Business Administration, College of Education & Human Services, Graduate School, Graduate School of Theology, and ACU's Honors College. A wide range of undergraduate and graduate degree programs are available. ACU has a total enrollment figure of more than 4,500, including nearly 4,000 undergraduate students with an average student to faculty ratio of 15 to 1. Students come from nearly every state in the Union and more than 40 foreign nations and many choose to reside in University owned residence halls or apartments. A selective institution, ACU admits 50% of applicants and boasts an overall retention rate of 79% with an overall graduation rate of 61%. Financial aid is available to students including ACU-specific scholarships, outside scholarships, grants, loans, and work study programs; 100% of full-time beginning students do receive some type of financial aid.
Biola University is a private, coeducational, evangelical Christian institution of higher education located in La Mirada, California. Biola University began as the Bible Institute of Los Angeles, founded in 1908 by Lyman Stewart, the president of the Union Oil Company of California, as well as by Presbyterian minister and author, Thomas C. Horton, and August B. Prichard, also a Presbyterian Minister. Since that time, Biola University has become a nationally ranked Christian institution which endeavors to offer a "biblically centered education, intentional spiritual development and vocational preparation within a unique learning community where all faculty, staff and students are professing Christians." A proven leader in both academic quality and innovation, Biola University ranks among the nation's foremost Christian universities. Biola University has a total enrollment figure of more than 6,000, including over 4,000 undergraduate students, with an average student to faculty ratio of 15 to 1.
Biola University is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges and has been so since 1961. All undergraduate students are required to take courses in General Education, Biblical Studies, in addition to their major coursework. Students have the option of over 40 undergraduate majors and concentrations from which to choose and Biola University also offers a variety of graduate programs through the Talbot School of Theology, the Crowell School of Business, the Rosemead School of Psychology, the Cook School of Intercultural Studies, the School of Arts and Sciences, and the School of Science, Technology and Health. Biola University has an acceptance rate of 70% and boasts an overall retention rate of 85% with an overall graduation rate of 70%. Financial aid is readily available to students, as evidenced by the fact that nearly all full-time, beginning undergraduate students (95%) receive some type of financial assistance, whether in the form of grants or scholarship aid.
Le Tourneau University (LETU) is a private, interdenominational Christian university located in Longview, Texas. Named in honor of founder, Mr. R.G. LeTourneau, the school was chartered by the State of Texas chartered as LeTourneau Technical Institute in February of 1946. LeTourneau's original purpose in establishing the Institute was to offer training to returning World War II veterans. Since those early days, the University's scope has greatly expanded as LETU has only continued to grow over the years. LETU operates off of a main 160-plus acre campus in Longview and also offers undergraduate and graduate programs through its educational centers which are located in both Dallas and Houston as well as online. LeTourneau University has a total enrollment of nearly 3,000, including more than 2,000 undergraduates, with an average student to faculty ratio of 12 to 1. Nearly all 50 states, more than 30 foreign countries, and over 45 different denominational groups represented in the student body. A significant percentage of LETU's residential students are homeschooled students with a 46%/54% male/female ratio within the university's global and residential student population.
Le Tourneau University is fully accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools and has been so since 1970. Four-year ABET accredited engineering and engineering technology programs are offered as well as a number of traditional undergraduate degree programs in the areas of technology, the liberal arts, business, aeronautical science, education and the sciences. LETU also offers a variety of master's degree programs in business, education, engineering and psychology. A selective institution, LETU has an acceptance rate of 45% and boasts an overall retention rate is 69% with an overall graduation rate of 57%. Financial aid is readily available to students, as evidenced by the fact that nearly all (97%) full-time, beginning undergraduates receive some type of financial assistance.
Point Loma Nazarene University is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges and has been so since 1949. A wide range of degrees and programs are offered, including over 60 majors a number of graduate programs which are offered through PLNU's regional centers located across Southern California. PLNU has a total enrollment figure of over 3,600, including more than 2,700 undergraduate students, with an average student to faculty ratio of 15 to 1. PLNU admits 71% of applicants and the University boasts a higher overall retention rate of 84% with an overall graduation rate of 75%. Financial aid is available to students and 90% of all full-time, beginning undergraduate students receive some type of aid, whether in the form of scholarships or grants.
Dallas Baptist University (DBU) is a private, coeducational, Christian liberal arts institution located in Dallas, Texas. Affiliated with the Baptist General Convention of Texas, DBU established as Decatur Baptist College, the first two-year institution of higher education in the state of Texas, in 1898. By 1965 the school had moved to Dallas and was renamed Dallas Baptist College before achieving university status in 1985. Today, DBU's mission statement declares its intention of providing a "Christ-centered higher education in the arts, sciences, and professional studies at both the undergraduate and graduate levels to traditional age and adult students in order to produce servant leaders who have the ability to integrate faith and learning through their respective callings." The university has a total enrollment of more than 5,000 students, including over 3,000 undergraduates with a student to faculty ratio of 13 to 1 and an average class size of 13 students.
Dallas Baptist University is fully accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges and is made up of several colleges and schools, including the College of Business, Mary C. Crowley College of Christian Faith, Dorothy M. Bush College of Education, College of Fine Arts, College of Humanities and Social Sciences, College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, College of Professional Studies, Gary Cook School of Leadership, and Graduate School of Ministry. More than 70 undergraduate majors are available along with nearly 30 master's programs, over 55 duel master's degree programs, and two doctoral programs. A selective institution, DBU has an admittance rate of 42% and boasts an overall retention rate of 72% with an overall graduation rate of 58%. Financial aid is available to students and 96% of all beginning, full-time undergraduates receive some type of financial assistance.
The Master's University (formerly called The Master's College and Seminary) is a private, coeducational, Christian liberal arts institution located in Santa Clarita, California. Established in 1927, the University was originally called the Los Angeles Baptist College. The Master's University is affiliated with Grace Community Church and John F. MacArthur serves as the University's president. The Master's University's mission statement declares its intention to "empower students for a life of enduring commitment to Christ, biblical fidelity, moral integrity, intellectual growth and lasting contribution to the Kingdom of God worldwide." The University has a total enrollment figure of nearly 2,000, including more than 1,200 undergraduates, with an average student to faculty ratio of 10 to 1. The Master's University is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges and has been so since 1975.
A comprehensive liberal arts and professional preparation institution, The Master's University offers students a variety of programs with more than a dozen majors and 60 areas of study from which to choose. Areas of study include Biblical Studies, Business, Communication, Computer & Information Science, English, Family & Consumer Sciences, History/Political Studies, Kinesiology/ Physical Education, Liberal Studies, Mathematics, Music, Sciences, and Teacher Education. The University's Graduate Studies department offers two Master's Degrees, the Master of Arts in Biblical Counseling and the Master of Arts in Biblical Studies. Graduate programs offered through other departments include the 5th Year Undergraduate Teaching Credential and Master of Business Administration, as well as a Master of Divinity, Master of Theology, Doctor of Ministry, and Doctor of Philosophy which are offered through the Master's Seminary. The University admits 95% of applicants and boasts an overall retention rate of 85% with an overall graduation rate of 69%. Financial aid is readily available, as evidenced by the fact that 92% of full-time, beginning undergraduate students receive some type of financial aid.
Northwest University is a regionally accredited Christian institution of higher learning located in Kirkland, Washington. Founded by the Northwest Ministry Network of the Assemblies of God in 1934, the school was originally named the Northwest Bible Institute. The new institution's name was changed multiple times before its current one was finally adopted in 2005 after achieving university status. Today, Northwest University's mission statement declares its commitment to "carry the call of God by continually building a learning community dedicated to spiritual vitality, academic excellence, and empowered engagement with human need." Northwest University's campus is situated on 56 semi-wooded acres overlooking beautiful Lake Washington. Located just outside of Seattle, students at Northwest University have access to all of the academic, career, and recreational opportunities that the thriving area has to offer. Northwest University is neighbors with some of the most successful companies and organizations of this century, including Google, Microsoft, Boeing, and Amazon, which provide fantastic opportunities for internship and careers.
Northwest University has a total enrollment figure of nearly 2,000 students, including 1,500 undergraduates, and boasts a student to faculty ratio of 10 to 1. A wide range of traditional undergraduate majors and programs are offered including the subjects of Accounting, Biblical Literature, Biology, Business Administration, Children and Family Ministries, Communication, Teacher Education, English, Environmental Science, Exercise Science, History, Intercultural Studies, International Business, Management, Marketing, Mathematics, Music, Nursing, Pastoral Ministries, Political Science, Psychology, Religion and Philosophy, and Youth and Family Ministries. In addition to these, Northwest University also offers adult evening programs, graduate study, and online programs. A selective institution, Northwest University admits 64% of all applicants and boasts an overall retention rate of 82% with an overall graduation rate of 51%. Financial aid is available to students with approximately 96% of beginning, full-time undergraduates receiving some type of financial assistance.
Corban University is a private, coeducational, independent Christian institution. Self-described as a "gospel-driven community of scholars and leaders who seek to bring a biblical perspective to all areas of study and practice", Corban University is currently located in Salem, Oregon. Originally established in Phoenix, Arizona as a bible institute in 1935, the school moved three times – once in 1946 to Oakland, California, then to El Cerrito, California in the mid-1950's and finally to its current location in Salem, Oregon in 1969 – and changed its name several times before obtaining university status and adopting the name it holds today. Called after the ancient Hebrew word meaning, "a gift dedicated to God", the University's mission is to prepare men and women who will offer themselves – heart, soul, and mind – as a gift dedicated to the service of Christ.
Corban University is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities. A number of associates, bachelors, masters, and doctoral degrees are available with undergraduate majors offered in Business, Education, English, Exercise Science, Health Science, History and Government, Mathematics, Ministry, Music, and Psychology. Corban University was one of the first universities to make online learning available to its students and has been ranked as one of the best colleges in the U.S. and in the west. With a total enrollment of more than 1,200 and a student to faculty ratio of 15 to 1, Corban University is a selective institution and admits only 31% of applicants. The University boasts an overall retention rate of 80% with an overall graduation rate of 59%. Financial aid is available to students in a variety of forms, including grants, scholarships, and student loan aid. 100% of full-time beginning undergraduate students do receive some type of financial aid.
Simpson University is a private, coeducational, Christian liberal arts college located in Redding, California on a 92 acre suburban campus. Simpson University is affiliated with the Christian and Missionary Alliance and was founded in 1921 by W.W. Newberry. Originally called the Simpson Bible Institute, the school was named in honor of Albert Benjamin Simpson, a Presbyterian minister, pioneer of the Bible institute movement and founder of the Christian and Missionary Alliance. Today, Simpson University's mission statement declares its intention to be a "Christ-centered learning community committed to developing each student in mind, faith and character for a lifetime of meaningful work and service in a constantly changing world." Simpson University is the only Christian university located north of Sacramento and boasts a total enrollment figure of nearly 1,300, including more than 1,000 undergraduate students, with an average student to faculty ratio of 13 to 1.
Simpson University is fully accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges and has been so since 1969. The University offers a wide range of liberal arts and professional degree programs through the School of Traditional Undergraduate Studies as well as the Betty M. Dean School of Nursing. In addition to these, Simpson offers a number of graduate-level programs, adult degree-completion programs, and non-degree certificates through the School of Adult Studies (ASPIRE), the School of Education, the School of Graduate Professional Studies, and the A.W. Tozer Theological Seminary. A selective institution, Simpson University has an acceptance rate of 52% and boasts an overall retention rate of 74% with an overall graduation rate of 49%. Financial aid is readily available to students as evidenced by the fact that 100% of all full-time, beginning undergraduates receive some type of financial assistance.
Hope International University (HIU) is a private, coeducational, Christian institution of higher education located in Fullerton, California. Though a nondenominational institution, HIU does have strong ties to the Restoration Movement and the Christian churches and churches of Christ. The university's mission is "to empower students through Christian higher education to serve the church and impact the world for Christ." HIU was established in 1928 as the Pacific Bible Seminary. By the 1960's the school was granted accreditation through the Western Association of Schools and Colleges and adopted the new name of Pacific Christian College. In 1997, after achieving university status, the institution was renamed Hope International University. HIU's main campus is strategically located in the city of Fullerton, in the heart of Orange County, California. HIU also operates the Anaheim Campus at Stadium Towers which serves as the main campus for the university's online and graduate students, as well as an extension campus in Everett, Washington for working adults and graduate students.
Hope International University has a total enrollment figure of just over 1,300, nearly 900 of which are undergraduate students, with an average student to faculty ratio of 14 to 1. HIU is offers a wide range of degrees and programs and is comprised of five Colleges, including the College of Arts & Sciences; College of Business & Management; College of Education; Pacific Christian College of Ministry & Biblical Studies; and the College of Psychology & Counseling. A selective institution, HIU admits only 34% of applicants and boasts an impressive overall retention rate of 91% with an overall graduation rate of 42%. Financial aid is readily available to students in a variety of forms including grants and scholarships, as evidenced by the fact that 96% of full-time, beginning undergraduate students receive some type of financial aid.
Westmont College is a private, coeducational, interdenominational, Christian liberal arts institution located in Santa Barbara, California. Westmont College had its beginning as the Bible Missionary Institute which was founded in 1937. Shortly after its establishment, the school was renamed the Western Bible College and eventually the name was shortened to Westmont College. A residential institution, Westmont College sits on a beautiful 111 acre campus which features nearly 30 major buildings; the College's library offers students access to more than 150,000 titles including books, scores, and media as well as approximately 30,000 print and full-text online journals. Westmont College describes its mission as being to serve "God's kingdom by cultivating thoughtful scholars, grateful servants and faithful leaders for global engagement with the academy, church and world." Westmont College has a total enrollment figure of nearly 3,000 students, all of whom are undergraduates, with an average student to faculty ratio of 12 to 1.
Accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges since 1957, Westmont College offers a range of undergraduate programs which culminate in either a Bachelor of Arts or a Bachelor of Science degree. Major options include the subjects of Art, Biology, Chemistry, Communication Studies, Computer Science, Economics & Business, Engineering Physics, English, European Studies, History, Interdisciplinary, Liberal Studies, Mathematics, Music, Music Education, Philosophy, Physics, Political Science, Psychology, Religious Studies, Social Science, Sociology, Spanish, and Theatre Arts. Programs in Elementary Education and Secondary Education are also available in addition to pre-professional programs in the areas of Business Administration, Dentistry, Engineering, Law, Medicine, Ministry/ Missions, Nursing, Osteopathy, Pharmacy, Physical Therapy, Teaching, and Veterinary Medicine. Westmont College has an acceptance rate of 81% of applicants and boasts a high overall retention rate of 83% with an overall graduation rate of 77%. Financial aid is available with 98% of all full-time, beginning undergraduates receiving some type of aid.
Azusa Pacific University (APU) is a private, coeducational, evangelical Christian institution located in Azusa, California. The University was originally founded by a small group of Quakers and a Methodist Evangelist in Whittier, California in 1899. The first Bible college ever established in the state, the University was first called the Training School for Christian Workers. Eventually, APU discontinued its association with the Quaker denomination, adopting a more evangelistic theology; today APU is nondenominational and welcomes students and staff members from a variety of Christian backgrounds, traditions and denomination. During the earlier part of its history, APU merged with three other Evangelical colleges in Southern California, and moved to its current location in 1949. Today APU is firmly rooted in the Wesleyan-Holiness tradition and boasts the second largest evangelical undergraduate student body with an undergraduate enrollment of nearly 6,000 and a total enrollment figure of nearly 10,000. The University's average student to faculty ratio is 11 to 1.
Azusa Pacific University is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges and has been so since 1961. APU is comprised of a number of colleges and schools through which are offered a wide variety of undergraduate, graduate, and special programs. The University's colleges and schools include the Leung School of Accounting, the School of Behavioral and Applied Sciences, the School of Business and Management, the School of Education, APU's Honors College, the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, the College of Music and Arts, APU's Nursing School, Azusa Pacific Seminary, the School of Theology, and the University College. APU has an admittance rate of 81% and boasts an overall retention rate of 88% with an overall graduation rate of 68%. Financial aid is readily available with 97% of all full-time, beginning undergraduate students receiving some type of aid.
Whitworth University has a total enrollment figure of more than 2,600, including over 2,300 undergraduate students, with an average student to faculty ratio of 11 to 1. The University holds its accreditation through the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities, which was first granted in 1933. Whitworth University has become characterized not only for its academic excellence but also for the way in which faith and learning are purposefully integrated. A variety of undergraduate and graduate degrees and programs are offered through the University's several schools and colleges, which include the College of Arts & Sciences, the School of Business, the School of Education, and the School of Continuing Studies. A selective school, Whitworth University admits 62% of applicants and boasts an overall retention rate of 95% with an overall graduation rate of 75%. Financial aid is available and approximately 99% of all full-time, beginning undergraduates receive aid.


An After the big bang, the stars and planets were forming for billions of years. Earth formed about 4 billion years ago, and then life started about a half billion years later.
Scientists have a lot of ideas about how life might have started. Somehow, little molecules reacted to form big molecules, and bigger molecules, and organized structures of big molecules; and some of the molecules stored information for making more molecules, and some molecules helped the chemical reactions that made the food molecules that were needed to make more big molecules, and fatty lipid membranes formed to hold the molecules in containers.
That question isn't easy to answer, since the big bang isn't directly involved in the existence of animals. It is indirectly involved; without the big bang, there would be no universe for animals to exist in, but there were about ten billion years between the big bang and the formation of the Earth, and then another four billion before the first animals appeared on Earth.
Animals appeared on Earth after a long period of evolution from single-celled organisms. The details of exactly when and how that happened are still largely unknown, although there is evidence that the Ediacaran period (about 630 to 540 million years ago) saw the evolution of a large number of relatively complex forms of life that probably included the first animals. By the early Cambrian (530 million years ago), animals had already diverged into the major lineages ("phyla") that we know today, although many of those lineages had yet to achieve their modern forms.


There's an immaculate Colonial that has hit the market in Bellport Village.
It's walking distance from 27 Bieselin Road to all the amenities the village has to offer, such as golfing and tennis, the Fire Island ferry to Ho-Hum Beach, and the shops and restaurants.
In the winter there's little reason to leave — other than to fetch bread, milk and eggs from the nearby Cirillo's Market IGA before a storm. Then, just hole up near the wood-burning stove with a bottle of wine. The kids can play Uno in the loft above the kitchen (more photos below).
There's also a hot tub overlooking the manicured gardens, says listing agent Christine Schaeffer of Eileen Green Realty, also in Bellport.
There are 3 bedrooms, 1.5 baths and a garage that's attached through a breezeway.
The asking price is $499,00. Click here to visit the full listing.


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Atlanta – Robin Frazer Clark of Atlanta was installed as president-elect of the 42,000-member State Bar of Georgia on June 4 during the organization's annual meeting at Myrtle Beach, S.C. Clark will be sworn in as the 50th president of the State Bar of Georgia in June 2012, becoming only the second woman to hold that office.
A solo practitioner, Clark represents individuals in matters involving personal injury and employment, automobile and tractor-trailer wrecks, premises safety, elevator and escalator cases, product safety, medical malpractice, legal malpractice and sexual harassment.
Clark is a graduate of Vanderbilt University and the Emory University School of Law and was admitted to the Bar in 1988. A past president of the Georgia Trial Lawyers Association, she moves into her new role with the State Bar having served on the Board of Governors, the Executive Committee and, for the past year, as secretary.
The State Bar of Georgia, with offices in Atlanta, Savannah and Tifton, was established in 1964 by Georgia's Supreme Court as the successor to the voluntary Georgia Bar Association, founded in 1884. All lawyers licensed to practice in Georgia belong to the State Bar. Its more than 42,000 members work together to strengthen the constitutional promise of justice for all, promote principles of duty and public service among Georgia's lawyers, and administer a strict code of legal ethics.


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This is what one teacher said to me when I told them that I was going to spend half a day visiting a school during the school holidays. At the moment it is the Term 3 school holidays in New South Wales, Australia. For me teaching isn't something I can switch off. Don't get me wrong, I still have my down time and I think this down time is important for all teachers' wellbeing. But I personally like to take advantage of the school holidays and use the time to visit schools that are outside the NSW public education system. Especially schools that are drastically different to the one I currently teach in because what I've learnt is that almost every school faces a similar set of challenges whether it is student engagement, student wellbeing or finding ways to develop students higher-order thinking. I find that when I visit schools that have different circumstances than my own, I am exposed to different solutions that I can adapt to my own school and my own classes.
Over the past two years I have been able to visit schools outside of New South Wales and outside of Australia, and they have been some of the best professional learning I have ever had. While some of these visits were done during term time, most visits were done during school holidays. Here are some of the schools I've visited and what I've learnt from them.
During my time with Microsoft's Partners in Learning team in 2012, I was able to travel to Auckland, New Zealand and visit Ferguson Intermediate School and Howick College. These two schools kick-started my journey and my faculty's journey into using the Structured Observed Learning Outcomes (SOLO) framework, learning intentions and success criteria to design learning for the new science syllabus for the Australian Curriculum. Howick College is also where I saw the fantastic Julia Breen and got ideas from her on how to use green screens in student-produced videos.
I took a week of without pay from school in December 2012 and travelled to London and visited ACS International School, Egham. I 'met' the Principal of ACS International School, Egham online via LinkedIn and he was kind enough to take time out to show me his school for half a day. I was also privileged enough to speak to their Head of Science and observed a part of a middle school science lesson. During this visit I learnt more about the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Program and how technology was integrated into the school's middle years science program.
Just last week I was able to visit two schools in Canberra – Brindabella Christian College and Dickson College. I was able to further connect with two passionate educators who are part of my online professional learning network on Twitter, Melanie Spencer and Betty Chau. From these schools I took away ideas for learning space design, how to drive change and how to further develop the digital leaders team at my own school.
Incidentally I am planning to travel to Tokyo, Japan in the April school holidays in 2014. Would love any suggestions of schools in Tokyo that I can visit.
This entry was posted in learning, professional learning, SOLO and tagged education, high school science, learning, ProfessionalLearning, science, technology by Alice Leung. Bookmark the permalink.
Hi Alice..Thanks for the post. Agree wholeheartedly about the learning from others. And I have no doubt that they also learn from you: even at the fundamental level of reflecting on practice to be more able to respond to your curiosity.
I loved the chance to also follow up on a LinkedIn contact, (initially connected as an outcome of a conference keynote in Colorado a couple of years ago), and visit Albemarle County in Virginia this year and spend two days with fabulous leader, Superintendent Dr Pam Moran and a number of the great team and subsequent culture she has gathered around her. And, always great to reflect on our own systems and practice while observing others. It's amazing what leverage that good examples of putting that fulcrum somewhere out there away from where we stand now actually provides, isn't it?
Thanks Roger. I just love seeing completely different school systems because they give you different ideas in how to approach your own challenges. Whenever I get the chance to go overseas, I always try to find a school to visit. Your journeys through USA schools sound really interesting.
Alice – teaching can be a really isolating experience unless we get out and make connections. Our PLNs have sure changed that, but time away from class to visit another classis tough to get.
I applied for an international teaching fellowship for 2014 and will be swapping schools, classrooms, and homes for a year with a teacher from NSW. The chance to spend an entire year in another country in a different school with a different educational system is going to be a real challenge and a great learning experience.
Really looking forward to taking advantage of PD opportunities and hopefully being in the same space at the same time as my Aussie PLN!
How exciting! If I can help you out with anything in your Aussie teaching adventures, let me know. I agree that it's really difficult to take time out of class to visit another class in the same school, let alone a class in another school. That's why I spend a day out of the school holiday blocks to go to other schools. However I also recognise that not all teachers can do this.
Hi Alice, I wish more teachers would do exactly this. It doesn't even have to be in another state or country – simply taking an afternoon or morning as a professional learning session and going down the road could be just as valuable.


Sunday lunch on my little balcony, trying to get freckles.
Wearing my DIY blue dress (used to be white, I dyed it blue), hat from H&M.
Reading a book of Swedish fairytales that Elke gave me.
Drinking my beloved cherry beer.
I've been on an Animal Collective kick since friday so I've had Merriweather Post Pavillion on repeat for a while now.
And you'd smile and say, "I like this song"
Animal Collective - In The Flowers. This song might be one of the more beautiful songs I have everrr heard. The explosion at 2:30 makes me feel so alive.
That was my sunday, tonight I'm going to see The Ruby Suns which I'm fairly excited about. What was your sunday like?
hier in Noorwegen was het grijs en grauw, dus ik heb mooi braaf m'n essay geschreven :).
En wat is je hoed leuk!
Cherry beer? That sounds awesome!
Yes, cherry beer is the best! I love where I live but the only downside of this patio with the gardens is that there's lots of kids who live there and they scream SO LOUD - ALL THE TIME and their parents just let them.
Thanks for the compliments everyone, I really really appreciate it!
hey you have a very nice blog, with good pictures, it's weird you don't have more followers.


I have to apologize for the original poor written style of this particular blog. It was done in a hurry, due to constricted timing, but I'll make an attempt into fixing some of the mistakes. Also, the story- more precisely, the argument- was far longer in real life and in greater detail than presented, but for the sake of keeping your interest fresh, I dramatically shortened it.
Yesterday, Chet and I, went to a neighborhood garage sale, here in Queen Anne. It was the type of garage sale that spread over many blocks, with loads of cars on the road and people on foot. A sort of fair-event style, with tables full of used goods, chatter and activity. We've walked for a good couple of hours. After a while my brain became a little fuzzy- a sure sigh of fatigue- and, at one particular sale I made the mistake of handing over too much money for my purchase. My gut instinct tolled me something was off. I went over the money in my hand, a $20 bill and a $10 bill for a $15 purchase, but I could not register my mistake. The teen looked confused for just a moment, pocketed the extra and gave me back a $5 bill. We went on our marry way, but something- not quite sure what exactly at the time- bothered me for the rest of the day and well into the evening. After few hours of rest, it hit me. I lost $15. I did it with my own hands and a fuzzy mental status. Yet, my mistake nagged at me in the morning. If rest didn't fix it, it must be addressed.
Why was I still bothered by it? It was only $15.
This is one example of how I process issues that bother me. First I rest. Then, if not gone, I know I have to take care of it right away, otherwise it will fester and it will become worse.
Carmen, it's only $15. Is it the loss of money that bothers you?
Than, what is it? Thinking.
The fact that my brain was tired and I was confused.
Why? Walking as much as you did it's a sure sign of improvement and of health. You should be celebrating. You should be happy.
I should, yet I'm not. What is it? What is it? Thinking. ( I must address right about now a few things: I do battle with a certain amount of guilt over my inability, at the moment and for the past three years, to go to work an bring in an income, as well over the high amount of money my regular treatments require. I was taught to provide, always. Unable to provide, means being an useless eater, thus removed, by all means, from among the living- a Marxist education.) Than I heard the small whisper.
That was it! The old perfectionist, the one not allowing me to make mistakes without a prolonged self-beating that lasted far too long-years in some cases- was trying to take the wheel again.
About a year and a half ago, during some of my weakest moments, God showed me something hard to swallow. Just how harsh I've become agains my own self over the years and how fast I had to let go of such impractical and twisted thinking. And I did, at least partially. Apparently, old habits die hard, and old instincts try their very best to fill the old holes of thinking. Recognizing it, it's the first step to recovery. And most of the time, healing is not needed only in the body but in the emotional/mind level as well. Over my recovery time I became very greatfull to my heart, brain, guts etc for working so hard to make me healthy again, and now that success is real, it will be absolute suicide to go back into beating them down with unrealistic expectations. Us, Eastern Europeans in general, have very high and unrealistic expectation of ourselves. Those expectations both injure and help us. Finding a good balance is the key.
Once I realized the core of my unease (see how far the core of the matter was from just loosing $15?), I remembered God's lesson of being kind toward myself, dropping the unrealistic expectation and just going back to trusting Him. So I'm working towards that goal, and sharing this with you is part of it.


Photoshoppers don't like to pass up a good opportunity. When this picture of a creepy guy staring at Taylor Swift hit the internet, Photoshop experts went to work right away and they did not disappoint.
Seriously, whether it's Taylor Swift or not, any hetero guy (and some homo guys) would check a body like that out as it goes past.


Corkscrew and salt shaker nail tips: Could your nail art become your party trick?
YOU'RE READING Corkscrew and salt shaker nail tips: Could your nail art become your party trick?
With these nails you are guaranteed to be the life of the party.
Nail artists on social media have long shared some of the most innovative and wildest nail art, each more outrageous than the last. These nails transcend vanity, they literally take a more utility based form.
Imagine this; nail art that can open your corked wine, touch up your lipstick or be your bring-and-share snack contribution.
Well these Instagram artists will blow you away with these creative designs.
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Lipstick ?? nails ?? or ???? ?
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This new nail trend is causing a stir on social media – and we're not sure how we feel about it!
Nail artist creates Harry and Meghan-inspired design – and we love it!