Our History

Christian leaders in Central Oregon gathered in 1997 to address the lack of Christian higher education opportunities in the growing Central Oregon region. Their shared vision led to the formation of Central Oregon Bible Institute (COBI) whose purpose was to provide biblically-related subjects to interested lay persons. Sixteen enrolled in courses during the initial 1997-1998 year.

Upon reconsideration of its vision the college’s board voted to change the direction of the school into an accredited, degree-granting Christian liberal arts college in 1999. At the same time a new name was adopted, High Desert Christian College. The school received its non-profit 501(3)(c) status from the state of Oregon in 2000.

Enrollment continued to increase. In 2002-2003, 52 students participated in various courses. In spring 2003, HDCC was approved by the Oregon Department of Degree Authorization to award the Associate of Arts degree. This recognition enabled students to more easily transfer HDCC credits to other regional Christian colleges.

It became apparent during the 2003-2004 year that the vast majority of students were more interested in Bible-related courses than general education courses. Recognizing this fact, the HDCC board decided in spring 2004 to return to the original purpose of the college as a Bible/Christian Leadership Development institution.

Efforts were immediately directed at restructuring the curriculum and shortening the course scheduling period from 16-week semesters to 6-week sessions. Emphasis was placed on providing a variety of Bible courses and practical Christian service workshops primarily for the layperson.

2004-2005 was a year of significant growth. Course enrollment figures reached 227 and individual enrollment grew to 188 of which 96 were first-time participants at HDCC. A Christian Studies Certificate program was available for individuals wanting either a more structured study program or were considering some form of vocational Christian ministry.

Course and workshop participation continued to increase during the 2005-2006 year reaching a course enrollment figure of 364 and individual enrollment of 334 of which 183 were first time participants. A good deal of this growth was due to an expanded number of teaching centers. Besides Bend, courses and workshops were offered in other Central Oregon communities – LaPine, Powell Butte, Prineville, and Redmond. Further, a new summer program was added.

High Desert Christian College will continue to offer courses and workshops to anyone desiring greater Bible knowledge and practical Christian service skills. However, the college is expanding its program options to interested individuals. As part of a new strategic plan adopted by the Board of Directors in spring 2006, two new programs will be offered beginning fall term 2006.

High Desert Christian College highest commitment will always be to provide students with quality Christian education that prepares them to become effective leaders and disciples of Jesus Christ in the world.