Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Legacy of Biblical Education in Clearwater, FL
Clearwater Christian College was established in 1966 with a mission to uphold biblical standards in higher education. Founded in response to perceived declines in doctrinal rigor among evangelical institutions, the college emphasized personal soul-winning and academic excellence. It received regional accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges in 1984, maintaining this status until its closure. The institution offered undergraduate and graduate programs, including a Master of Education degree approved in 2007. Despite its closure in 2015, the college's legacy continues through partnerships with Cedarville University for transcript services.The administration prioritized spiritual and educational training aligned with historic Christian faith throughout its 49-year history. Leadership transitions included Dr. Arthur E. Steele, Dr. George D. Youstra, Dr. Richard A. Stratton, and Dr. John F. Klem. The college expanded its campus and programs under successive presidencies while maintaining doctrinal consistency. Its closure followed a unanimous decision to cease operations after prayerful consideration. Alumni and academic institutions continue to access historical records and catalogs through designated channels.
Services
Christian liberal arts education
Teacher education program
Graduate studies (M.Ed.)
Transcript services
Alumni support
Details
- Year established: 1966
Highlights and features
- 49 years of ministry as a Christian liberal arts college
- Regionally accredited by SACS COC from 1984-2015
- Approved teacher education program with state certification
- Commitment to historic Christian doctrine and standards
- Continued alumni support through Cedarville University partnerships
Associations and certifications
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Services
Christian liberal arts education
Offered undergraduate programs grounded in Christian doctrine and liberal arts. Maintained accreditation while emphasizing personal evangelism and doctrinal integrity. Served students seeking faith-based academic training aligned with historic Christian values.
Teacher education program
Provided state-approved teacher training with reading endorsement options. Prepared graduates for K-12 education roles while maintaining biblical standards. Maintained partnerships for program validation until closure.
Graduate studies (M.Ed.)
Offered Master of Education degree in Educational Leadership approved by Florida Department of Education. Focused on developing Christian educators for leadership roles in schools and academic institutions.
Transcript services
Maintains alumni access to academic transcripts through Cedarville University partnership. Provides verification services for former students and institutions evaluating CCC credits.
Alumni support
Continues to serve alumni through catalog archives, yearbook access, and transcript coordination. Maintains historical records for academic and personal verification purposes post-closure.
People
Dr. Arthur E. Steele
Founder and First President
Established Clearwater Christian College in 1966 with a vision for biblically grounded education. Led the institution through its formative years and initial accreditation process.
Dr. George D. Youstra
Second President
Succeeded Dr. Steele in 1987, expanding enrollment and campus facilities. Brought extensive Christian education experience during his leadership tenure.
Dr. Richard A. Stratton
Third President
Assumed presidency in 2002, establishing graduate programs including the M.Ed. degree. Combined educational and business expertise to advance institutional goals.
Dr. John F. Klem
Fourth President
Led from 2012 until closure in 2015, focusing on Great Commission alignment. Maintained doctrinal consistency through final years of institutional operation.
Questions
Is Clearwater Christian College still operating?
No, the college closed permanently in 2015 after 49 years of ministry. Academic records are now managed through Cedarville University.
How do I request transcripts?
Visit Cedarville University's transcript request portal or contact their Registrar's Office at 937-766-7700 for CCC records.
Was the college accredited?
Yes, Clearwater Christian College held regional accreditation from SACS COC from 1984 until closure in 2015.
What programs were offered?
The college provided undergraduate degrees, teacher education programs, and a Master of Education in Educational Leadership approved in 2007.
How can I access historical catalogs?
Digital copies of all catalogs from 1966-2015 are available through the CCC Catalogs link on our website archive.
