Faith, formation, and college credit meet in an immersive year-long experience rooted in discipleship and discovery.
Cairn University is thrilled to announce a new academic partnership with Planted Gap Year, a nine-month, Christ-centered discipleship program located in the rolling hills of northern Pennsylvania. Starting in Fall 2025, students who enroll in Planted will have the opportunity to earn up to 24 college credits through Cairn University, weaving together the richness of biblical education with hands-on experience in farming, outdoor adventure, and intentional community.
For both institutions, this partnership is more than academic—it’s deeply missional. Planted Gap Year was created for young adults eager to step away from the noise and rush of modern life and grow deeply in their knowledge and love of Jesus. Set on the peaceful grounds of His Thousand Hills Christian Camp near Wellsboro, PA, the program invites students aged 18–24 to live intentionally, serve joyfully, and grow spiritually. Each day blends practical and spiritual habits, from studying Scripture and practicing hospitality to tilling soil and working with livestock.
“Planted is a place where students experience God’s revelation together in his Word and in His world,” said David Feister, co-founder and executive director of Planted. “Partnering with Cairn University allows us to reinforce the academic value of that growth, equipping students for future study without compromising the immersive, formational experience we offer.”
Through the Cairn–Planted partnership, students will receive:
- Up to 24 college credits from Cairn University, transferable to all of the 70+ undergraduate programs that Cairn offers.
- Eligibility for federal financial aid, including loan and grants, by completing the FAFSA
- An affordable, accredited path forward—Planted’s base cost is $14,500 for the 2026-27 year, with an additional $2,625 for academic credit
“This collaboration is a natural extension of our mission,” said Dr. Adam Porcella, Cairn’s senior vice president and provost. “Cairn’s commitment to biblical integration, academic excellence, and whole-life education aligns beautifully with Planted’s desire to ground students in Christ before they take their next steps into college or career.”
At its core, Planted helps young adults cultivate what truly matters: a resilient faith, an identity rooted in Christ, and the practical skills to engage the world with wisdom and grace. By adding college credit to this foundation, Cairn University and Planted Gap Year are empowering students to continue cultivating their knowledge and skills after Planted.
To explore how Planted Gap Year and Cairn University can help launch your journey of faith, formation, and college readiness, visit plantedgapyear.org or cairn.edu/gap-year-programs.
