Historic Christian Liberal Arts Institution in Manhattan Closes Its Doors

The King’s College Shuts Down Permanently Amid Accreditation Loss and Funding Shortfall

After nearly ninety years of operation, The King’s College in New York City is set to close permanently, bringing an end to one of the last evangelical Christian liberal arts institutions in the city. The decision follows prolonged financial instability, declining enrollment, and the loss of accreditation, culminating in the college’s inability to present a viable reopening plan by the 15 July 2025 deadline set by the New York State Education Department.

Despite extensive efforts by the Board of Trustees to identify strategic partners who shared its commitment to Christian higher education, the college confirmed that no sustainable path forward could be secured. The closure marks the conclusion of a legacy that began in 1938 and leaves a notable void in faith-based higher education within Manhattan. According to the official statement, the institution will remain closed and commence dissolution under the supervision of state authorities. The college had ceased enrolling new students after the spring 2023 semester, and its accreditation was formally revoked in August of that year by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. Subsequent attempts to raise the necessary financial support for reopening proved unsuccessful.

In its announcement, the Board expressed gratitude to generations of students, alumni, faculty, staff, parents, and supporters who contributed to the college’s enduring legacy. They acknowledged the lasting impact of the community’s dedication to truth, faith, and academic excellence, and conveyed confidence that this legacy would continue to resonate beyond the institution’s closure. The King’s College may be closing its doors, but its influence on Christian higher education will endure.

Editor’s Note:

The permanent closure of The King’s College in New York City marks the end of nearly 90 years of faith-based education rooted in academic excellence and public engagement. Established in 1938, the college stood out as a rare evangelical Christian liberal arts institution in Manhattan, known for preparing students for principled leadership through its rigorous curriculum and spiritual focus. Its Politics, Philosophy, and Economics (PPE) programme, modelled after Oxford’s, and its location in the heart of New York offered students unique access to internships, civic life, and cultural experiences. Despite its strong mission and influence, The King’s College faced challenges common to many small private institutions: financial instability, declining enrollment, and loss of accreditation. Its closure serves as a reminder that mission alone is not enough; institutions must also maintain financial transparency, diversify income, and build strategic partnerships. Other faith-based colleges like Wheaton, Gordon, and Biola have adapted by investing in online learning and strengthening alumni ties.

Skoobuzz observes that while the loss is significant, The King’s College leaves behind a legacy that offers valuable lessons for other institutions navigating a rapidly changing educational landscape.