Grand View University is a four-year, liberal arts college affiliated with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. Founded in 1896, the college is located in Des Moines, Iowa and hosts 2,000 students in 38 undergraduate majors, seven certificate programs, two post-baccalaureate certificates, five pre-professional preparation programs, and three master's programs. On November 6, 2008, Grand View changed its name from Grand View College to Grand View University in order to better reflect the institution's "key strategic initiatives," and as an effort to shed the perception that Grand View is still a two-year college. Grand View engages, equips, and empowers students to fulfill their ambitions and to serve society. Believing that each person possesses natural strengths and developing abilities which can lead to a full and satisfying life, Grand View admits and educates students who represent a wide range of ages, achievements, and expectations.