Alliance University to Close After Losing Accreditation

Alliance University, based in New York City, announced its closure following the loss of accreditation. The board of directors voted June 29 to shut down the institution, with the final date set for August 31. The decision came after the school received notification from the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) that its accreditation would be revoked as of December 31, citing financial difficulties.

Leaders expressed sorrow over the closure, stating it is a “tremendous loss” for the community. They emphasized the grief felt by those connected to the university, acknowledging the impact on students, faculty, and staff. The school, which was formerly known as Nyack College, has been a part of the Christian and Missionary Alliance since its founding in 1882.

Alliance University is among at least 18 Christian colleges to close since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, according to Christianity Today. The financial struggles of the institution date back several years, with a reported $10 million deficit in 2019. The pandemic likely exacerbated these challenges, contributing to the school’s inability to sustain operations.

The Christian and Missionary Alliance, which founded the university, is now considering the future of its theological seminary program. The board of directors for the alliance has not yet decided whether to continue the seminary’s operations independently or through another institution.

Alliance University stated it was “surprised” by the accreditation decision, noting that the school had been working to address its financial issues. After evaluating its options and the current state of its finances, the board made the “difficult decision” to cease both on-campus and online operations. The Middle States Commission on Higher Education is a voluntary, peer-based, non-profit organization that accredits public and private universities and colleges.

Current students are being offered the option to graduate by the end of the summer or transfer to partner institutions through “teach-out” agreements. These agreements aim to streamline the acceptance of credits and provide continuity for students affected by the closure. The university has not disclosed the number of students impacted by the decision.

The closure of Alliance University highlights the ongoing challenges faced by Christian institutions in maintaining financial stability and accreditation. As the school prepares to close, the community continues to mourn the loss of an institution that has served the Christian and Missionary Alliance for over a century.

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