Named after sixteenth century protestant reformer John Calvin, Calvin College is a Christian academic community located in the city of Grand Rapids, Michigan.
Founded in 1876, the institution was originally a seminary for purpose of training church ministers. Gradually more study programs were added and in 1901 the first female students started at the college.
Today Calvin College is located on a 400-acre campus, noted for its scenic atmosphere.
Among the notable campus buildings are the Hekman Library, which houses more than 2.1 million volumes, as well as the 5000-seat Van Noord Arena and the Hiemenga Hall, home a significant proportion of the Calvin College academic departments.
There are seven residence halls on campus, and the annual Chaos Day is an opportunity for the residents of each of the halls to dress up and compete against each other in a range of events. Almost all first and second year students live on campus, and there are over 70 clubs and organisations on offer for the students to join.
There are more than 100 majors, minors and programs on offer, with popular choices including business, nursing, education, kinesiology, engineering and psychology. Calvin College has also established 11 study abroad programs, allowing students to study in a different culture for a proportion of their degree course.
Famous Calvin College graduates include film art director Jeannie Oppewall, philosopher Alvin Plantinga, businessman and entrepreneur Wayne Huizenga and Amway Corporation cofounder Jay Van Andel.
