Eastern University is deeply committed to "student development" as an essential element of our educational mission as a Christian liberal arts college. While our academic program develops the ability to communicate effectively, both in writing and speaking to think analytically, critically and independently, our Student Development Program is designed to challenge and support students in their intellectual, physical, interpersonal, and spiritual development.

We are concerned that our students not simply accumulate credits that will earn them a degree. Rather, we desire that our students become integrated persons who think and behave intentionally as Christians in all of their endeavors. We believe that both the curricular and co-curricular dimensions of the University are critical in this regard. In the academic realm, students are challenged to explore the various theories current in philosophy, psychology, biology, etc. In the student life realm, students are challenged to explore their own values and beliefs so as to come to a world and life view to which they can be committed.

Eastern University is committed to an educational philosophy that will bring students to the point in which their intellectual, spiritual, and value commitments will be internalized and integrated into their very being. The process of coming to a personal identity requires a wide variety of experiences which help students clarify their interests, skills, attitudes and beliefs so as to come to a genuine sense of commitment. Providing students with both significant challenges and tangible support is essential to the mission of student development at Eastern.