HistoryThroughout our 8-decade history, our students have distinguished themselves in the fine arts and in public speaking, and many graduates have become leaders in business, the arts and ministry.
Our story begins in 1927 with Bob Jones Sr., a well-known American evangelist with a burden for Christian education. Bob Jones Academy opened in Lynn Haven, Fla., with 47 students in grades 7 through 12, sharing many resources with the fledgling college by the same name.
In 1947 the two schools—Bob Jones Academy and Bob Jones University—moved to Greenville, S.C., where the Academy gained its own facilities, an increasing enrollment, and a growing number of dedicated faculty members. An elementary school division was added in the 70s, and within just the first 6 years, enrollment increased fourfold.
In 2011 it was announced that the school, previously operating as semi-independent divisions (including Bob Jones Elementary and Bob Jones Junior High), would be unified under the name Bob Jones Academy, thus creating the largest Christian school in South Carolina.
Educational PhilosophyChristian education at Bob Jones Academy is a spiritual ministry designed to teach students to know God and to imitate Him in His character and His works. Knowledge of the written Word of God remains at the center, but biblical truth is not confined to Bible courses. The commitment to our students’ spiritual development embraces all that is done in and out of the classroom.
To know God implies more than just knowledge about God, but a personal knowledge that begins with repentance of sin and faith in Jesus Christ as Savior. To know God is to be born into His family and grow in obedience to and in fellowship with Him. With this knowledge as the starting point, Christian education then encourages the student to develop a biblical worldview in all academic pursuits.
Growing in Christ is a process in which a believer learns to imitate God’s character and serve others. BJA faculty members encourage students in this process and provide an environment designed to nurture spiritual growth.
* For an expanded statement of our philosophy of education, please refer to the Bob Jones University Press title
DirectionsBob Jones Academy is located in Greenville, S.C., on Wade Hampton Boulevard. Reference the map below to see the location of our various classroom buildings and to get directions. We’d love for you to visit us!