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History

Our History

Bushnell University first opened its doors in 1895 and remains committed to preparing students for purpose-driven lives within a Christ-centered environment. 

Our roots in delivering life-changing education within a Christian environment reach back over 100-plus years to what was then a small town in western Oregon. Founded by resourceful, forward-thinking leaders such as pastor-educator Eugene C. Sanderson and pioneer businessman and church leader James A. Bushnell, our institution has always rested on the underpinnings of wisdom, faith, service, and preparing students for fulfilling purpose-driven lives.

Originally founded as Eugene Divinity School in 1895, the university has undergone a number of transformations in our storied history—all reflecting changing realities and aspirations. 

From its time as Eugene Bible University to Eugene Bible College to Northwest Christian College to Northwest Christian University, our institution has remained devoted to a foundation of optimism, academic excellence, service to others, and strong Christian faith. 

Bushnell University honors our school’s first president of the Board of Regents, James A. Bushnell, and his steadfast faith, grit, determination, community-mindedness, and visionary spirit. Today, with record enrollments and more academic programs than ever, Bushnell University remains committed to encouraging the intellectual and spiritual discovery that prepares students for successful, fulfilling lives in career, faith, family, and community. 

Through Bushnell University’s openhearted character, proud heritage, and dedication to student success, we ignite passions for lifelong learning, serving those around us, and the positive, transformative power of faith. 

Black and white historical photo of faculty and students in front of campus building

Explore our History

Eugene Divinity School – 1895-1908

Eugene Bible University – 1908-1930

Eugene Bible College – 1930-1933

Northwest Christian College – 1934-2008

Northwest Christian University – 2008-2019

Bushnell University – 2020-present

Bushnell University was founded in Eugene in 1895 by Eugene C. Sanderson, a preacher and educator in the Christian Church. He served as its first president from 1895 to 1929. The school has been known by several names, including Eugene Divinity School (1895-1908), Eugene Bible University (1908-1930), Eugene Bible College (1930-1934), Northwest Christian College (1934-2008), and Northwest Christian University (2008-2020). Sanderson was a prominent preacher and educator in the Christian Church, having pastored many churches in the Pacific Northwest.

 

Credit: Oregon Encyclopedia

Eugene Claremont Sanderson was a Christian minister and educator who founded Eugene Divinity School (now Bushnell University), where he was president for thirty-four years. He also was a founder of Pacific Christian Hospital (present-day Sacred Heart Medical Center) in Eugene and four Christian colleges in other states.Credit: Oregon Encyclopedia 

James Addison Bushnell was a Junction City businessman and an active member of the Christian Church. He worked with Eugene C. Sanderson to found the Eugene Divinity School (EDS) in 1895 and served as president of the Board of Trustees from 1895 until his death in 1912. To learn more about James Bushnell visit the Oregon Encyclopedia.

Bushnell University holds regional accreditation from the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU), affirming that it meets high standards of institutional quality and integrity. Additionally, Bushnell’s business, nursing, and clinical mental health counseling programs are accredited by specialized organizations such as the International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE), the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), and the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP). Teacher education and counseling programs are also approved by the Oregon Teachers Standards and Practices Commission (TSPC).

Bushnell University participates in the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (NC-SARA), which allows for broader access to online learning for students in participating states. The university is also approved for the use of veteran’s benefits and authorized as a degree-granting institution by the Oregon Office of Degree Authorization. For more information on specific accreditations or certifications, please contact us directly.

Aerial view of Bushnell University campus with academic buildings, green spaces, and the Eugene hills in the background.

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