Built for More Than a Job: The Power of Work in Christian Education

Built for More Than a Job: The Power of Work in Christian Education

From Biblical Higher Ed Talk by ABHE

March 31, 2026 · 33 min

About this episode

Dr. Brad Johnson discusses the impact of the work college model at College of the Ozarks on students' education and character development.

Dr. Brad Johnson, president of College of the Ozarks , shares how the school’s distinctive work college model shapes students academically, spiritually, and personally. Known by many as “Hard Work U,” the college requires every student to work as part of their education, helping them graduate debt free while building character, responsibility, and a biblical understanding of work. This conversation explores the dignity of work and how Christian higher education can form students for lives of leadership, citizenship, and faithful service. 🎧 Tune In to Discover How students at College of the Ozarks graduate debt free Why work builds dignity, character and lifelong habits How Christian colleges can resist reducing education to job training What it means to form students for citizenship and calling 🎙️Inside the Episode 02:26 - What a work college is and how the model works 06:00 - How the college's work program allows students to graduate debt free 08:40 - Serving students who arrive with significant financial challenges 15:49 - Why education must form leaders, not just prepare workers 18:48 - The dignity of work and the character it builds in students 29:11 - A leadership lesson…

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Guest: Dr. Brad Johnson

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Organizations: College of the Ozarks

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