New Saint Andrews College: An Overview

New Saint Andrews College (NSA) is a private, classical Christian college located in Moscow, Idaho. Founded in 1994 by Christ Church, NSA offers a unique educational experience rooted in a Christian worldview and a commitment to graduating leaders who will shape culture while living faithfully under the Lordship of Jesus Christ.

A Distinctly Christian and Classical Approach to Education

NSA distinguishes itself through its distinctly Christian and thoroughly Reformed (Calvinist) approach to education. The college's curriculum is built upon the classical Trivium and Quadrivium, emphasizing the study of great books and the development of lifelong learning skills. Instead of relying on textbooks, students engage directly with primary works from classical and Christian literature of Western civilization. The New Saint Andrews board, faculty, and staff are confessionally Reformed (Calvinist). Board members are affiliated with the Communion of Reformed Evangelical Churches (CREC).

The Importance of Language and Comprehensive Study

NSA emphasizes the importance of language, echoing Martin Luther's sentiment that "We will not long preserve the gospel without the languages." This focus aligns with the broader classical education model, which values a comprehensive understanding of various disciplines. As Hugh of Saint Victor stated, "Study everything. Later, you will see that nothing is superfluous." This commitment to a broad and deep education aims to cultivate critical, creative, and versatile minds.

Mentorship and Community

NSA fosters a close-knit community where education happens within a tight-knit group of friends, church communities, and student clubs. With a 14:1 student/faculty ratio, professors mentor students rather than simply instructing them, ensuring that students don't get lost in large crowds. This personalized approach is a hallmark of the NSA experience.

Academic Structure and Programs

NSA operates on a quarter-term academic calendar, with four terms per year. In the first year, all freshmen take the same foundational courses. As students progress, they have the opportunity to take a greater number of electives and specialize in disciplines of their choice.

Undergraduate Program

NSA offers associate's and bachelor's degrees, with a single, integrated classical liberal arts curriculum. The college limits new student enrollment to 105 new undergraduate students each year.

Graduate Programs

NSA also offers master's degrees in theology and letters and classical Christian studies. Graduate student enrollment is limited to 10-15 students per year.

Unique Learning Environment

NSA utilizes "Oxford-style" small group recitations, where six to eight students meet with faculty members to discuss assigned readings. Students undergo examinations every eight weeks, many of which are conducted orally. Seniors are required to write theses and defend them before a faculty panel.

Campus Life and Activities

NSA is located in downtown Moscow, Idaho, in the historic Skattaboe Block (built in 1892). The college purchased a second building, a former nightclub, with plans to develop it into a music conservatory.

Community Engagement

NSA students actively engage with the local community. For example, they organize the annual Fall Carnival as a way to bless the families of Moscow.

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Student Body

The student body numbers about 300 students (full-time equivalent) from approximately 30 states, five foreign countries, and more than 20 Christian denominations. The college provides a wireless computer network and offers special programs such as independent study, advanced placement credit, and part-time undergraduate degree programs. The number of computers available is 4.

No Dorms or Food Services

By board policy, NSA does not provide dormitories or food services.

Accreditation and Affiliations

NSA is a fully accredited member of both the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU) and the Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools (TRACS). NWCCU awarded the college full accreditation in July 2023, and TRACS awarded it a second 10-year Reaffirmation of Accreditation in May 2020. NSA is also a charter member of the Association of Classical and Christian Schools (ACCS) and a member of the Association of Reformed Institutions of Higher Education (ARIHE).

Shaping Culture and Careers

NSA aims to graduate leaders who shape culture with wisdom and courage. The college maintains a principled and clear voice, championing the truth of God’s word. While pursuing academic excellence, NSA fosters a culture of spiritual devotion and gratitude toward Jesus Christ.

Leaders in Careers with Skill

NSA seeks to prepare students for careers by developing critical, creative, and versatile minds. The college recognizes the workforce's need for graduates with liberal arts skills who can understand the big picture, synthesize disparate parts of a project, and lead with joy and confidence. President Ben Merkle emphasizes that 93% of employers value critical thinking and communication skills more than the name of a degree.

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Historical Context and Founding Principles

Founded in 1993 and officially opened in 1994, New Saint Andrews College began with four students and graduated its first two students in 1998. Roy Atwood served as president until 2014, followed by Ben Merkle. The college's mission is rooted in the belief that "There is no knowing that does not begin with knowing God," as John Calvin stated. This foundational principle guides the college's commitment to integrating faith and learning.

Upcoming Events

NSA hosts various events, including candidate forums, debates, and lectures. Examples include:

Candidate Forum: Friday, October 24, 2025
Debate on Smashmouth Incrementalism vs. Abolitionism: Saturday, October 25, 2025
Build, Fight, Govern: The Christian’s Civic Calling: Friday, October 31, 2025
Justification Debate - Harmon | Kraszewski: Friday, November 7, 2025

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