Providing access to higher education in prisons and enhancing the academic experience for all.
At Lipscomb, we seek to provide higher education to anyone who desires it and deepen the spiritual and academic growth of all students. The Lipscomb Initiative for Education (LIFE) is one of the unique ways we accomplish this mission, bringing faith-based education to two Tennessee prisons.
Only 35% of state prisons offer college education, and just 6% of the prison populace take courses. LIFE is one of a growing number of higher education in prison programs in the U.S. We are proud to say this program has celebrated 30 degree completions since 2007 and expects 14 LIFE students to graduate in 2022.
Traditional, campus-based students can participate in the LIFE program by enrolling in relocated classes or tutoring at the prison with LIFE students. This allows both groups the chance to develop the self-confidence, character, knowledge and compassion to pursue their education while serving with others. Fill out this form to be part of this impactful program.
Take LIFE Courses
Undergraduate students may enroll in relocated classes to study with LIFE students. LIFE courses open to undergraduates in the upcoming semesters:
Summer 2025
- BA 3703 Business Communication
- BA 3803 Business Values
- BI 1093 The Story of Israel
- PO 4253 Restorative Justice
Fall 2025
- HI 4013 Religion and American Culture
- BI 2923: Epistles: Prison Epistles
- EN 219V: Special Topics in Literature: Fairy Tales
- PS4113 Mindfulness: History, Science and Practice
Spring 2026
- PO 4253 Restorative Justice
Teach LIFE Courses
Lipscomb faculty across the disciplines are invited to teach LIFE courses at both the men's and women's prisons.
Breakout Chapel
LIFE Breakout Chapel: Thursdays at 10:55 (Fall & Spring)
Contact robbie.spivey [at] lipscomb.edu (Robbie Spivey) for more information.
Qualified candidates from the prisons are admitted as Lipscomb students. Then, they can earn credits toward the following degrees:
- Associate of Arts
- Bachelor of Professional Studies
- Master of Arts in Christian Ministry
In 2021, LIFE announced the Richard C. Goode LIFE scholarship for students who wish to pursue a Lipscomb degree after release from prison. In the first year of the scholarship, recipients have included two graduate students and two undergraduates.
LIFE students receive reduced tuition costs. Meanwhile, the program itself is maintained through state funding, private donations and the Richard C. Goode Endowed LIFE Scholarship for returning students.
If you wish to provide additional aid, please make a gift below.
Give Now
"LIFE gives me a future.
LIFE gives me a community.
LIFE gives me hope."
— Lipscomb LIFE student and resident of the Debra K. Johnson Rehabilitation Center
