Welcome to UCHS!

With the Peace and Love of Christ, We Welcome You!

When University Christian High School was founded in 2009, the school began with just eight students and a plan to provide a Christ-centered education rooted in faith-based traditions and strong academic instruction. The founders knew that the greater Hickory area needed a parochial school that was academically rigorous, building moral character and inspiring students to become servant leaders. Just like the wise man who built his foundation upon stone, these core tenets would compose the foundation for UCHS, all while maintaining a Christ-centered approach.

UCHS partnered with Lenoir-Rhyne University 14 years ago to develop an early-college model school of excellence. UCHS students graduate with an average of 24 college credits which can result in substantial savings in college tuition costs. Students physically navigate classes on the campuses of Lenoir-Rhyne University, Appalachian State University, and Catawba Valley Community College. The in-person learning opportunities on these campuses allow students to interact with professors, manage their time efficiently, and experience college-level assignments to promote personal growth to prepare them for whatever comes next. We find that the majority of our alumni attribute their success in higher education and careers to this exposure. This journey occurs with endless support and guidance from UCHS staff and faculty.

While founded through the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod and with National Lutheran School accreditation, we also hold accreditation from the national accrediting agency, Cognia (formerly SACS).

UCHS also builds the foundations of moral fortitude and servant leadership through our adherence and instruction through the Christian faith. In the tradition of Jesus Christ, we admit students from a wide variety of beliefs and practices and profess the love and dignity of all made in the image of Christ. We require four courses in religious studies, hold regular morning communities that utilize scripture, and have weekly Chapel services. Our Christian identity informs our policies, practices, and the formation of our students.

To this end, we are committed to the intellectual, spiritual, emotional, and physical growth of all our students. We want to produce lifelong learners who can lead, make morally upright decisions, think critically, and utilize their God-given talents for the betterment of their fellow brothers and sisters in Christ. We hope these values and concepts resonate with you and invite you to apply to University Christian High School.

Colin Barrett, Principal