Williamette University, traditionally considered a church-related institution, was examined by comparing it with the definitions set forth by several authors as to what constitutes a church-related or Christian college and also comparing it with the seven steps that generally occur as a church-related college becomes secularized, as established by W. C. Ringenberg in 1984. Analysis of available information from the history of Willamette has led to the conclusion that the institution is secular as seen through Ringenberg's characteristics of secularization, yet Willamette is not deemed a good case study of Ringenberg's secularization model because (1) there was an early emphasis on non-sectarianism; (2) there has never been a recognized effort to secure a faculty that entirely professed the Christian faith; and (3) there has been an ebb and flow involving its mission declarations, the importance placed on the Bible and Christianity in the curriculum, and budget decisions related to Christian programming. Despite this mismatch, Ringenberg is felt to have provided a valuable checklist for those church-related colleges which are concerned about becoming increasingly secular in curriculum, lifestyle, and reputation. Contains 52 references. (GLR)