Calvin Announces Partnership with Compass College of Film and Media

Calvin University and Compass College of Film and Media announced on June 29 that they have signed a letter of intent to develop a partnership in which students from Compass College’s innovative and nationally recognized film and media-arts programs are being invited to become part of Calvin University’s award-winning Department of Communication.

“Calvin and Compass are uniquely aligned in our missions to equip students to use their gifts to the glory of God,” said Wiebe Boer, president of Calvin University. “After an impressive year of student awards and faculty accomplishments in Calvin’s film and media major, the integration of Compass College’s in-depth technical program will add a new dimension as we continue to evolve our vision for faith-centered storytelling across traditional and emerging platforms and mediums.”

“We are absolutely thrilled to select a faith-based partner that shares a commitment to reimagining the future of storytelling through cutting-edge film-studies programming, knowledge, and skills,” said Joanna Hogan, president of Compass College.

“Calvin’s incredible film and media program, robust course offerings in other subjects, strong on-campus community, and extensive resources in student life, housing, health services, fitness, and more will be a tremendous asset to our students’ academic and personal development.”

Students who are currently enrolled in Compass College or  have been slated to begin coursework in the fall 2023 semester are guaranteed spots at Calvin University, where they can major in Calvin’s film program as transfer students or direct-admission students, depending on their current status.

Calvin has committed to ensuring that credits earned at Compass transfer to Calvin, and the university will match tuition to what students expected to pay this year and will honor their financial-aid award packages in subsequent years.

“Our goal is to ensure students’ transition from Compass College to Calvin University is as seamless as possible,” said Lauren Jensen, vice president for enrollment strategy at Calvin University. “We are working hand in hand with Compass College staff to create a framework for this partnership that serves the best interests of students, faculty, and staff of both institutions.”

When complete, this planned partnership will unite two institutions with complementary strengths in film and media education to create a richer educational experience for students.

It will also create a physical presence for Calvin University in downtown Grand Rapids at Compass College’s 29,000-square-foot building at 41 Sheldon Avenue SE. Calvin will continue to use the building as a learning facility for film studies and other areas of learning that serve Calvin’s vision for deeper engagement with other communities and partners in the city.

The partnership and closure of Compass College’s degree program are expected to be finalized before the fall 2023 semester, pending completion of a comprehensive framework for the transition of assets, regulatory approvals, and the approval of the boards of both institutions.