Colorado Christian University Earns Top “A” Rating from NCTQ for Elementary Math Teacher Prep
LAKEWOOD, Colo. – Colorado Christian University’s Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts with Elementary Education Licensure has earned an “A” grade in the National Council on Teacher Quality’s (NCTQ) 2025 Teacher Prep Review: Solving for Math Success. This top-tier rating recognizes CCU among the state’s and nation’s best programs for dedicating substantial instructional hours to both math content and pedagogy.
“Earning an ‘A’ across the board from NCTQ validates our vision for rigorous, Christ-centered preparation,” said Dr. Debora Scheffel, Dean of the School of Education. “We strive to equip future teachers not just with step-by-step procedures, but with deep conceptual understanding and the confidence to inspire excellence in every classroom.”
President Eric Hogue added, “At CCU, our mission is ‘Christ-centered higher education transforming students to impact the world with grace and truth.’ We believe academic excellence and spiritual formation go hand in hand. This recognition affirms our commitment to preparing educators who understand the ‘why’ behind every solution and who will lead with integrity and compassion.”
Math Matters — and So Do Our Teachers
NCTQ’s review evaluates whether teacher preparation programs provide at least 135 instructional hours across five key areas — Numbers & Operations, Algebraic Thinking, Geometry & Measurement, Data Analysis & Probability, and Math Pedagogy. CCU not only met but exceeded these targets, ensuring graduates enter the classroom ready to deliver exceptional instruction that helps all students build a strong foundation in mathematics. By combining robust math pedagogy with our Christ-centered values, we equip our students to be excellent teachers who go on to shape the next generation of thinkers and problem-solvers.
About Colorado Christian University
Founded in 1914, Colorado Christian University (CCU) is a private, interdenominational Christian university headquartered in Lakewood, Colorado, with regional centers in Colorado Springs and a robust online campus.
Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and a member of the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities and the National Association of Independent Colleges and Universities, CCU’s mission is “Christ-centered higher education transforming students to impact the world with grace and truth.”