College + Vocational Prep

Excellence in education means simultaneously preparing students for the rigors of college and career. All UCA students take the courses necessary for 4-year college applications. This curriculum focuses on building the skills that today's employers value. These skills include effective communication, creative problem solving, leadership, and team collaboration.

4-Year Internship Process

During the UCA internship process, students engage their curiosity with caring teachers and mentors in a field of interest, developing abilities, habits, and interests in a low risk environment. “The workplace is clearly the place to ‘try on’ or test out a career choice. It’s also by far the best venue in which to learn the ‘21st-century skills’ so critical to success in today’s economy.” -Harvard Graduate School of Education.

Dual Credit Courses

UCA is proud to have an official partnership with South Suburban College in South Holland. Dual credit courses are available for students interested in extending or accelerating their learning. Students who have a passion in a particular area can also work with teachers to pursue South Suburban College courses that extend the UCA course catalogue.

The Humanities

When possible, UCA takes an integrated approach with disciplines such as History, Literature, Philosophy, Theology, and Social Sciences.

Faith Formation

At UCA, we seek to be formed by knowledge of the Bible and relationships with God and our neighbor. To this end, we:

• Emphasize formation over information as we study the Bible

• Rethink disciplinary procedures so they’re restorative rather than only punitive

• Build authentic community

• Worship together in all our activities

• Strive to develop a Biblical lens for living in this world

To learn more about faith formation at UCA, click here.

Science, Technology, Engineering & Math

STEM is not a program as much as it is a way of thinking about these content areas. Here are some sample courses available during a student's four years:

• Science: Physics, Biology, Chemistry, electives based on interest

• Technology: based upon interest but will likely include courses in coding, web design, etc.

• Engineering: based upon interest but will likely included courses in robotics, architecture, etc.

• Mathematics: Algebra I, Algebra II, Geometry, and other advanced courses

Wellness

UCA takes a different approach to the traditional health and PE curriculum. Students graduate having learned about fitness, nutrition, emotional health, mental health, as well as many other topics.

World Cultures

The UCA learning community seeks to understand and celebrate cultural diversity. Students have the opportunity to study foreign languages and go on cultural learning expeditions.

Creative Arts

The pursuit and creation of beauty is a necessary part of the UCA experience. All students are encouraged to find their niche in some of the following areas.

• Music education, including instrumental and vocal

• Drama and the performance arts

• Digital art and production

• Fine arts like painting and drawing