Rochester Christian University will begin offering a prison education program at the Thumb Correctional Facility in Lapeer, Michigan, in the spring 2026 semester, expanding access to higher education and advancing the university’s mission-driven commitment to societal good.
“As a Christian institution of higher education, RCU views prison education as central to its commitment to innovative, relevant and values-driven education that empowers students to lead lives of personal and professional significance,” said Dr. Remylin Bruder, provost and vice president of academic affairs.
Through extensive planning and collaboration with the Michigan Department of Corrections, the Michigan Consortium for Higher Education in Prison, and Mott Community College, RCU and Mott developed a 2+2 curriculum that enables students to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in behavioral science with a social work track.
“The degree is designed to prepare graduates to impact the lives of individuals, families, groups and communities through a strong foundation in human behavior and social welfare,” Bruder said.
Dr. Richard Ray, chair of MiCHEP’s Steering Committee, said the organization is pleased to welcome RCU as its 14th member institution, continuing to expand its mission to serve students incarcerated in Michigan’s prisons and provide them with a life-changing college education.
“When incarcerated people earn degrees, they not only improve their own lives, but also their families and the communities to which they will return. Even other residents and staff of the prison are advantaged. RCU is helping create a more humane and prosperous Michigan through its efforts at Thumb Correctional Facility,” Ray said.
In 2023, Bruder convened a team of RCU academic leaders to explore the development of a prison education program. She credits the work of faculty and staff who guided the development of the curriculum and operational procedures, including Dr. Jessica Matyas, program and psychology department chair; Kara Miller, director of student financial services; and Mary Sauger, prison education program liaison.
“Their leadership reflects RCU’s ongoing commitment to expanding educational access and promoting positive social impact through higher education,” Bruder said.
In October 2025, the Higher Learning Commission, RCU’s accrediting body, granted official approval for RCU to offer the prison education program at the Thumb Correctional Facility. The initiative was approved by the Michigan Consortium for Higher Education in Prison on Dec. 12, 2025. To learn more about MiCHEP, go to www.michep.org.
