Why does ICU have the word “Christian” in its name?

ICU holds as its mission the education, based on Christian ideals, of individuals of conscience, internationally cultured and with a strong sense of citizenship in a democratic society, who will serve God and people and contribute to the establishment of lasting peace. This mission is embodied in three commitments, namely its international, Christian, and academic commitments, as clearly expressed in the name of the institution, International Christian University.

We believe a Christian institution of higher learning has a distinct contribution to make to the world. Although differences may arise in explanation, interpretation, or proposed solutions to certain human conditions, our scientific and descriptive tools are the same as those used by scholars at other institutions. We believe in responsible scholarship.

Winning adherents to the Christian faith is not ICU's goal. But we encourage our students to open their eyes to the presence and power of God in their lives and in society. Through this environment, students learn that acquiring knowledge is not an end in itself: we believe in the essential unity of knowledge, faith and action.