Truett-McConnell College’s roots extend far back into the educational history of Georgia. The college was named to honor George W. Truett and Fernando C. McConnell, cousins who operated a private Christian academy in Hiawassee, Georgia, in the 1880s. They were men of faith and vision—renowned Baptist pastors and educators whose work and influence as joint pioneers in Christian education became well known.
On July 23, 1946, ceremonies at Cleveland, Georgia, heralded the establishment of a new college named for Truett and McConnell to carry on their high standards of Christian education. Truett-McConnell College, operating in temporary quarters, first opened its doors to students in September 1947. The college moved into new facilities in its present location in September 1956.
Since that time, the campus has seen much construction and landscaping. Facilities housing classrooms, offices, residence halls, student activities areas, and recreational complexes have been added to the campus.
Today Truett-McConnell College stands on more than 200 acres of prime mountain land one mile east of the town square in 
Cleveland, Georgia. After more than half a century as a two-year college, in December 2002 the institution was approved by its accrediting agency to offer four-year degrees. The first two bachelor’s degree programs were initiated in the fall of 2003: a Bachelor of Arts in Music and a Bachelor of Arts in Music with a concentration in church music. Enrollment in the two degree programs far exceeded expectations. In December 2005, the college was approved to begin two additional bachelor's degree programs: a Bachelor of Arts in Christian Studies and a Bachelor of Science in Education with a concentration in early childhood education.
Cleveland, Georgia. After more than half a century as a two-year college, in December 2002 the institution was approved by its accrediting agency to offer four-year degrees. The first two bachelor’s degree programs were initiated in the fall of 2003: a Bachelor of Arts in Music and a Bachelor of Arts in Music with a concentration in church music. Enrollment in the two degree programs far exceeded expectations. In December 2005, the college was approved to begin two additional bachelor's degree programs: a Bachelor of Arts in Christian Studies and a Bachelor of Science in Education with a concentration in early childhood education. The college is built on the belief that academic disciplines in the liberal arts can be taught within the context of the Christian faith in order to provide young people with a high quality education which emphasizes what matters most—principles, ideals, ethics, morals, and values.
Truett-McConnell College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award associate and baccalaureate degrees. Contact the Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia 30033-4097 or call 404-679-4500 for questions about the accreditation of Truett-McConnell College.
The institution’s music programs are also accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music. Additionally, all education programs have been approved by the Georgia Professional Standards Commission.
