About Us
Welcome to Kingdom Ascending University
At Kingdom Ascending University (KAU), we believe education is more than academic achievement — it’s a divine calling to equip global leaders for impact in the Kingdom of God.
Founded in June 2024 in response to the growing need for biblically sound theological education, KAU is a place where faith and learning meet.
Our purpose is simple yet profound:
To educate, equip, and empower students to ascend to their God-ordained purpose.
Our Mission
Kingdom Ascending University exists to prepare Christian leaders who nourish their spiritual lives, confirm their divine purpose, and stand firm in biblical truth.
We are committed to providing excellence in education through a Christ-centered, Spirit-led environment where academic knowledge meets practical ministry.
At KAU, students are taught not only how to lead, but how to live—developing wisdom, character, and a heart to serve in all areas of life and ministry.

Our Educational Philosophy
Rooted in the Word of God and the doctrine of Jesus Christ, our philosophy emphasizes:
- Teaching the principles of Scripture with both spiritual depth and practical application
- Cultivating a biblical worldview that engages the world with truth and compassion
- Encouraging academic excellence through classical and contemporary theological studies
- Integrating insights from multiple disciplines to strengthen ministry effectiveness
- Mentoring students for personal growth, leadership, and global impact
Our motto is simple but powerful:
"Ascend to Win."
We challenge every student to rise above, grow deeper, and impact the world for Christ.
Accreditation and Academic Excellence
We are proudly accredited with the Accrediting Commission International, Inc. (ACI) — an organization dedicated to recognizing excellence in Christian education around the globe. Further, KAU has been acknowledged as EXEMPT under Title 6 CSR 10-5.010(3)(B)5A by the Missouri Department of Higher Education & Workforce Development.
KAU offers comprehensive religious degree programs in theological studies. The degrees granted include:
- Ministerial Diplomas (accepted for application to transfer)
- Associate's Degree
- Bachelor’s Degree
- Master’s Degree
- Doctoral Degree (DM)
- Doctoral Degree (DDTS)
- Honorary Doctorate (for distinguished kingdom contributions)
Accreditation Statement
An accrediting organization is a “watchmen on the wall“. Webster defines accreditation as to give trust or confidence to; to vouch for; to furnish with credentials, as an envoy or ambassador. Every accreditation group is not the same. They are different and focused in different areas of accreditation.
Accrediting Commission International is an international accrediting commission which holds as its primary objective the encouragement and maintenance of sound scholarship and the highest academic achievement in the areas of private education. Quality education is the goal at all times. Its purpose is the preparation of quality education in private schools, colleges, and theological seminaries. It is a non-governmental body and makes no claim to be connected with the government.
A degree covers the major taken with that degree. A student or a potential student must understand that credits taken in one type of program may or may not transfer to another type of program. This is the sole determination of the receiving institution.
The job market is highly competitive. Training is specialized in most fields. A graduate in one field may have difficulty in being hired in a field they are not certified for.
Meet Our Founders, Faculty, & Staff

From left to right: Dr. LaDonia Thomas,
Dr. Patrice Johnson, Dr. Michael Johnson

Dr. LaDonia Thomas

Dr. Patrice Johnson and Dr. Michael Johnson

Dr. Anja Beverly

Dr. Ronald Payne

Dr. Brenda Matthews

Dr. Ralph Franklin

Mrs. Chardae Cogshell
Registrar

