Earning a degree online has become so popular in recent years. The best online Christian colleges are no exception. Unlike other secular colleges, most are private Christian colleges owned by or joined with churches. Regardless, students of these schools can maintain their faith while pursuing academic goals.
The following article answers questions about Christian universities online. Like the difference between a Christian college and a bible college. Also, how to choose the best online program for you. Read on to learn more about these excellent programs!
Article Navigation: What is a Christian College Online? | Christian College vs Bible College | Online Christian College Accreditation | How to Choose an Online Christian College | 5 Cheapest Online Christian Colleges | 20 Best Affordable Online Christian Colleges | How to Pay for Online Christian College Degree | Top 5 Scholarships for Online Christian Students | Application Process | FAQs | Find the Best Online Christian Colleges Here
What is a Christian College Online?
Online Christian education upholds Christian values as an integral part of the college experience. These schools offer degree and certificate programs and a variety of majors. Much like other colleges, students can find associate through doctoral level programs. There are some key differences between Christian and non-Christian schools. For example, the student community may be different. Also, at a Christian school, professors promote spirituality and integrate it into their curriculum.
Are Christian Online College Degrees Legitimate?
Christian education online is widely recognized and accepted by employers. There is still plenty of research to do on any particular school. One thing to make sure of is that an accrediting body recognizes your program or school (which we’ll go over later).
GetEducated's Picks
- American Public University System Bachelor of Arts in Religion
- Liberty University Bachelor of Science in Religion / Apologetics
- Colorado Christian University Bachelor of Arts in Applied Apologetics
What will Students Learn at Christian College?
The requirements of a Christian degree differ by college. Generally, they must offer programs of Christian philosophy and biblical teachings into their modules.
The best online Christian colleges emphasize faith-based values. They also promote faith-based teaching while providing students with a solid academic foundation. The curriculum is meant to help you understand your faith and how it cuts across various spheres of life and learning. Overall, you become part of a Christian community that graduates with employer-sought skills. You may be required to take several courses in religion, even if you choose a non-religious major. If your aim is an online religion degree, you’ll have plenty of excellent degrees to choose from in the following majors:
- Christian Ministry
- Christian Education
- Biblical Studies
- Theological Studies
Online Christian College vs Bible College
Many people think bible colleges and Christian colleges are the same. However, they have several differences.
Accreditation
Generally, Bible colleges are not accredited. Since they are mostly for religious studies, accreditation is difficult to achieve. But a regional or national accrediting body will accredit online Christian colleges.
Why is this important? Non-accredited schools hinder students from financial loans. Also, employers prioritize accredited degrees. In short, accredited online Christian colleges are evaluated by government and non-government bodies. They’re guaranteed to offer high-quality education.
Curriculum & Religious Approach
Generally, Christian colleges offer a broader curriculum that covers faith-based and secular subjects. The focus is to graduate with workable skills in a Christian environment. On the other hand, Bible College will center on religious studies. The main goal of bible college is very spiritual.
Degree Options
Bible colleges prepare students for ministry. They primarily offer undergraduate diplomas and certificates in biblical training.
GetEducated's Picks
- Campbellsville University Certificate in Christian Ministry
- Liberty University Certificate in Biblical Studies
- Colorado Christian University Certificate in Biblical Studies
On the other hand, students at Christian colleges also may study for secular careers. The program options might include nursing, business, engineering, music, and more. Many online Christian colleges will also offer religion degrees in various majors.
Career Outcomes
There are broader career opportunities for graduates of online Christian education. Most employers widely recognize their degrees. On the other hand, Bible College graduates may may find a smaller range of career opportunities, such as:
- Missionaries
- Pastors
- Church administrators
- Religious teachers
Accreditation of Online Christian Colleges
There are two major types of accrediting bodies. Namely, national and regional. National accrediting bodies examine entire institutions, including online Christian colleges. Regional accrediting bodies are the most recognized and often the most pursued.
Accredited vs Non-Accredited Christian Schools
Accreditation is a great tool to determine a college’s legitimacy. As stated earlier, accredited programs lead to better employment. Also, students pursuing accredited degrees can receive financial aid. Other benefits include transferring credits, formal peer recognition, and an indication of quality.
Best Christian College Accreditation
How to Choose an Online Christian College
Location, cost, major, religious affiliation, and transfer credits are major factors in your college choice. In addition, a few Christian online colleges may have residency requirements or run hybrid programs. Therefore, it is essential to consider the factors below.
Location
Online colleges are not always limited by location. However, some programs may require in-person attendance. Hence, research the program policies regarding this. In-person requirements could include labs, field work, internships, and seminars.
Cost
The cost of a Christian online degree varies by college. Some of the cheapest online Christian colleges, like Luther Rice College and Seminary, ask $6,800. On the other hand, more expensive programs like those at Liberty University may cost over $21,000. Search for a school that fits your budget. Also, consider financial aid options such as FAFSA, grants, and scholarships. Some Christian universities online may support military/veteran tuition discounts.
Major
Consider your path of study while you research programs. The top online Christian colleges offer a variety of majors that lead to excellent careers. For example, you could pursue a ministry career at a Christian school, of course. However, you can also pursue majors like:
Religious Affiliation, Practices
The religious affiliation of a Christian school doesn’t always have to align with your belief system. However, some students prefer that it does. The most notable sects affiliated with Christian-centric colleges today include:
- Lutheran
- Baptist
- Catholic
- Methodist
- Mennonite
- Church of the Nazarene
- Assemblies of God
- and more
Transfer Credits
Students transfer college credits for many reasons. Some change to a school with a better program. They also transfer to complete a degree, or leave an on-campus program for an online option. Suppose you have previously earned college credit (an associate’s degree) and want to transfer those to a 4-year school. Each college has particular transfer policies and accreditation standards. Work with a college’s admissions advisors to sort out where you can take your credits.
Format
There are different types of formats for online Christian education. For instance, synchronous or asynchronous. Some programs are a combination of the two. Another factor to consider is whether a program is 100% online, or hybrid or blended. In the case of hybrid or blended, there is generally an in-person requirement. Any program in the GetEducated degree database is offered at least 80% online, with most available 100% online.
GetEducated's Picks
- Colorado Christian University Bachelor of Arts in Biblical Studies
- Colorado Christian University Bachelor of Science in Applied Psychology / Biblical Studies
- Liberty University Bachelor of Science in Bible / Humanitarian Action & Human Rights
5 Cheapest Online Christian Colleges
So, what are the cheapest online Christian colleges? The average cost of these schools (under $15k) is around $9,510 for a bachelor’s degree. The list below outlines the best online Christian colleges with the most affordable rates. This information includes location, acceptance rate, accreditation, and program description.
Grace School of Theology
Acceptance rate: N/A
Accreditation: Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools (TRACS)Grace School of Theology equips students for spiritual leadership. There are 100% online programs in theology, counseling, and ministry. While it is religiously all-inclusive, it has a Baptist affiliation.
Amridge University
Acceptance rate: 100%
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)Amridge University offers Christian online degrees for working adults. The school provides associate through doctoral programs in areas from human services to business. Amridge also offers general studies degrees. Check out the Turner School of Theology to find ministry, divinity, and Biblical studies programs. This school is interdenominational. Online programs currently have no residency requirements.
Holy Apostles College and Seminary
Acceptance rate: N/A
Accreditation: New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC)The Holy Apostles Colleges and Seminary is another affordable Christian college. The private, non-profit school offers online associate through master’s degrees in theology and ministry. Other areas of study offered online include:
– Philosophy
– Pastoral counseling
– Bioethics
– General studies
– and more.They also provide a professional degree and several graduate and post-master’s certificates online. The college is a Catholic institution.
Luther Rice College & Seminary
Acceptance rate: N/A
Accreditation: TRACSAll Luther Rice College & Seminary distance degrees are 100% online. It is a Baptist institution without residency requirements. The school offers certificates, bachelor of arts degrees, master, and doctoral programs. There are a lot of majors to choose from, such as:
– Apologetics
– Biblical counseling
– Theology
– Ministry
– Organizational leadershipThe Baptist College of Florida
Acceptance rate: N/A
Accreditation: SACSCOCThe Baptist College of Florida has excellent accredited online degrees. Plus, it’s one of the most affordable Christian colleges online. The private nonprofit college offers associate through master’s degrees in this flexible format. Programs include business, education, theology, music and worship, and more.
20 Best Online Christian Colleges
Online education is flexible and convenient. Especially for students working full-time or with other personal obligations. And for people seeking a Christian education, there are plenty of affordable rates. The average cost of a Christian online college for a bachelor’s degree is about $23,848. Below are the best affordable online Christian colleges based on that rate.
Lee University
Acceptance rate: 83%
Accreditation: SACSCOC
Religious Affiliation: Church of GodLee University offers liberal arts and professional education. Online degree levels range from associate to master levels. Asynchronous 7-week courses allow students to progress weekly toward degree completion.
Programs are offered through the College of Arts and Sciences, Education, and the School of Music. Some possible majors include:
– Ministry
– Theology
– Business administration
– Marriage and family studies
– and more.Lee also offers online certificates. These best serve students pursuing Christian education, leadership, pastoral ministry, etc.
Spring Hill College
Acceptance rate: 71.5%
Accreditation: SACSCOC
Religious Affiliation: Roman CatholicThis private, not-for-profit school offers 100% online programs. Online students have direct access to professors, alumni network, and engaging coursework. Degree levels include:
– Undergraduate certificate
– Bachelor’s degrees
– Post-baccalaureate certificate
– Master’s degrees
– Post-master’s certificateMany Spring Hill College online degrees are accelerated. Students can pursue MBA degrees, healthcare programs, computer science, and more. The school even offers online MSN and RN to BSN degrees online. A Jesuit Catholic college, Spring Hill College promises a well-rounded education that forms a student’s values.
Faulkner University
Acceptance rate: 64.6%
Accreditation: SACSCOC
Religious Affiliation: Churches of Christ
Membership: National Association of Intercollegiate AthleticsFaulkner University offers 100% online associate through doctoral degree programs. General subjects range from liberal arts to computer science, business, education, etc. Specific to this online Christian college, students may pursue subjects like:
– Biblical studies
– Family life ministryAlthough most courses are asynchronous, some programs have synchronous components. These can occur via web conferencing or teleconferencing platforms. All programs are inspired by Faulkner’s mission and values. Check to see that the program you pursue is hybrid and has on-campus components.
Point University
Acceptance rate: 47%
Accreditation: SACSCOC
Religious Affiliation: Christian Churches and Churches of ChristPoint University offers over 50 online associate, bachelor, and master’s programs. Examples of majors include business, psychology, child development, and ministry.
Courses take place in a 100% online format which helps students set their study schedule.
Interactive online learning fosters connections between students and faculty. Other benefits of this online Christian college include small class sizes and excellent financial aid stats. This is a global program, so expect a diverse network of peers. You can enroll at Point University on an individual basis or enroll through your current employer.
Brescia University
Acceptance rate: 53%
Accreditation: SACSCOC
Religious Affiliation: Roman CatholicBrescia University prepares students for impactful careers through high-quality education. Specifically, BUonline offers a flexible, affordable alternative to nontraditional students. There are several online options, from certificates and associate degrees to bachelor and master programs. Online programs have asynchronous components.
This school also boasts a simple, maximized transfer policy. As of 2023, there are two schools Brescia has an articulation agreement with for transferring credits:
– Kentucky Community Technical College System
– Chatfield College, OhioSoutheastern University
Acceptance rate: 45%
Accreditation: SACSCOC
Religious Affiliation: Assemblies of God ChurchSoutheastern University has a flexible learning system. Online degree programs are available at the bachelor, master, and doctoral levels. Online students qualify for campus amenities like tutoring, library, and career assistance. Courses are offered in 8-week increments. This timeline allows students to focus on one or two classes at a time.
SEU is one of the best Christian online colleges with a great transfer policy. Professional experiences may also be assessed for college credits. Here are some degree options available to online students:
– Ministerial leadership
– Education
– International family ministry
– Kinesiology
– Sports management
– Human services
– BusinessOhio Christian University
Acceptance rate: N/A
Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation of the Association for Biblical Higher Education (CAATE); Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Religious Affiliation: Other ProtestantOhio Christian University supports a strong 100% online school. Each degree program boasts career-centric, accredited coursework offered in a flexible format. Students may pursue associate through master’s degrees online. Some examples of majors include:
– Pastoral care and counseling
– Business Administration
– Education
– Global Missions
– Information Technology
– Criminal Justice
– and moreOnline students have access to free services such as tutoring and mentoring. Students also benefit from interactive forum sessions with peers and professors. Earn a marketable Christian education online with Ohio Christian University.
Liberty University
Acceptance rate: 99%
Accreditation: Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools (TRACS); SACSCOC
Religious Affiliation: Evangelical ChristianLiberty University offers online degree programs in three different ways, which are:
– Students complete their program 100% online without stepping foot on campus
– Online programs with required intensives that allow students to attend campus for a week per semester
– Optional intensives. These allow students to complete the program online or visit campus for intensive study.Liberty is a private, not-for-profit school offering hundreds of degree programs in various fields. Currently, there are bachelor, master, and doctoral degrees available to online students. There are plenty of subjects to choose from. Consider LU online for degrees in religion, psychology, social work, business, education, and more. Also, Liberty University has a simple admission process. This makes their flexible, affordable, credible degrees even more accessible.
Missouri Baptist University
Acceptance rate: 62%
Accreditation: HLC
Religious Affiliation: BaptistMissouri Baptist University offers online programs that are accessible and affordable. This is especially true for transfer students, as MBU boasts a generous transfer policy. MBU has programmatic accreditations as well as HLC accreditation. Students may choose from many kinds of degrees, such as:
– Liberal arts
– Ministry
– Psychology
– Business administration
– Education
– Mental health counseling, etc.Online degrees are flexible, fast, and affordable for undergrad and graduate students. MBU is affiliated with the Missouri Baptist Convention.
Oklahoma Wesleyan University
Acceptance rate: 54%
Accreditation: HLC
Religious Affiliation: WesleyanOklahoma Wesleyan University’s online Christian education model is focused. Students can expect a transformative experience as they pursue their degrees. Originally, in the early 1900s, OKWU was a Bible college. After several changes, the school became Oklahoma Wesleyan University by 2001. Currently, OKWU offers online associates through master’s degrees in varying subjects. Students can pursue fields from nursing and psychology to business, ministry, and more.
These degrees are 100% online and led by dedicated faculty. They are an excellent alternative to full-time schooling.
Ouachita Baptist University
Acceptance Rate: 74%
Accreditation: HLC
Religious Affiliation: Southern BaptistOuachita Baptist University has online bachelor’s and master’s degrees. The programs benefit working professionals who need flexible schedules with challenging material. Courses are eight weeks long, and there are multiple start dates throughout the year. Online students receive the same level of dedication and experiential learning as is offered on-campus. They also receive the same level of spiritual and academic support. Bachelor’s degree fields include:
– Christian studies
– Organizational leadership
– RN to BSN
– Interdisciplinary studiesWhile master’s programs include:
– Nutrition
– Exercise science
– Business administration
– Applied behavior analysis
– Curriculum and instructionOral Roberts University
Acceptance Rate: 85%
Accreditation: HLC
Religious Affiliation: Other ProtestantOral Roberts University offers fully accredited online degrees, too. Their College of Theology and Ministry offers certificates, bachelor’s, and master’s programs. But ORU also has schools of:
– Arts
– Business
– Education
– Nursing
– Science and EngineeringStudents can expect to gain practical tools for professional and personal endeavors throughout their studies. Also, 100% online and hybrid programs are perfect for working adults who want to earn a degree. Courses are flexible and tailored for student goals.
Trevecca Nazarene University
Acceptance Rate: 78%
Accreditation: SACSCOC
Religious Affiliation: Church of NazareneTrevecca Nazarene University offers associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees online. Students may pursue fields such as business, Christian ministry, data analytics, and more. This online Christian university is military-friendly. There are plenty of financial aid opportunities for online students. Also, not all programs are 100% online, so consider hybrid requirements when applying.
Trevecca distance learning programs offer flexible options. Asynchronous classes, 18-month programs, cohort formats, etc. Prepare for excellent career prospects at this top online Christian college.
Clarks Summit University
Acceptance Rate: 58%
Accreditation: The Association for Biblical Higher Education (ABHE); Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
Religious Affiliation: BaptistClarks Summit University is one of the best Christian online colleges. Online students can expect Bible-centered programs that are interactive and flexible. These degrees are totally asynchronous. From online associate degrees to bachelor, master, and doctoral programs, this school has every level covered. Explore a huge list of majors and minors, including fields like:
– Counseling
– Apologetics
– Divinity
– Business administration
– Integrated studies
– and moreThere are many start dates throughout the year. Another great perk of this school is that each degree is tailored for individual student goals.
Montreat College
Acceptance Rate: 90%
Accreditation: SACSCOC
Religious Affiliation: InterdenominationalMontreat College hosts a School of Adult and Graduate Studies online. This School incorporate undergraduate as well as graduate level programs. Some degrees are completely online, while others are hybrid. Students may explore a wide range of majors. For example, public administration, public health, communication sciences, and more. There are not many options for specific Christian studies online. However, Montreat College is a Christ-centered school and promotes spiritual formation overall. Every student is encouraged to sharpen their minds, apply their faith, and expand their careers.
Multnomah University
Acceptance Rate: 59%
Accreditation: CAATE; Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NCCU)
Religious Affiliation: Non-denominationalAlthough Multnomah University is non-denominational, it centers its mission on personal faith. Students are encouraged to find their life’s calling in a close-knit community of peers. Overall, the school promotes Christian leadership in all its graduates.
Consider online bachelor’s degrees in areas from business management to Bible and theology. Or master’s programs in counseling, nonprofit management, justice, and more. This online Christian college also offers seminaries in Biblical studies, Divinity, etc. Consider Multnomah online if you are a transfer student. The school even offers credit for life experience as well. Equip yourself with challenging academics in a flexible format with Multnomah University online.
Southwestern College-Kansas
Acceptance Rate: 69%
Accreditation: HLC
Religious Affiliation: United MethodistSouthwestern College-Kansas offers excellent online degrees for working adults. Students can transfer a generous number of credit units from their previous college. Furthermore, online students can apply for financial aid. This is a very military friendly school.
Students may explore bachelor and master level degrees online. This format also supports a number of doctoral programs and certificates. Program majors might include:
– Computer science
– Healthcare administration
– Operations management
– Special education
– Business administration, and moreEach degree is available 100% online, affordable, and accredited. This makes Southwestern College-Kansas one of the best online Christian colleges.
Campbellsville University
Acceptance rate: N/A
Accreditation: SACSCOC
Religious Affiliation: BaptistCampbellsville University online degrees are tailored to your career prospects and academic goals. Currently, there are over 70 online programs available at the associate through post-master’s levels. Students can expect a well-rounded, flexible education at an affordable price.
It’s easy to transfer credits with CU. Plus, the college is military-friendly. Consider degree fields ranging from education to pastoral ministry, social work, nursing, and more.
This Christian college online also offers non-credit technical programs and certificates. When it comes to fostering excellence in a Christ-centered academic community, CU pulls all the stops.
Chaminade University of Honolulu
Acceptance rate: 90%
Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission
Religious Affiliation: Roman CatholicThe Chaminade University of Honolulu offers online undergrad programs. There are several bachelor and associate degrees 100% online. However, some, like those in education, require fieldwork seminars/in-person requirements. Each online program is tailored for working adults. Also, online students have access to all school faculty and academic support. This way, every student can succeed in their pursuits.
This is one of the best online Christian colleges, as it hosts a generous program for financial aid. Join an inclusive and innovative academic community with Chaminade University of Honolulu online.
Saint Leo University
Acceptance rate: 71%
Accreditation: SACSCOC
Religious Affiliation: Roman CatholicIf you’re searching for a Christian college’s ranking, Saint Leo has a nationally ranked online program. The online degrees are career-focused, led by dedicated faculty with real-world experience. In addition, distance learning students will join a worldwide peer network. There are plenty of online clubs and associations to explore as well.
Choose from associate, bachelor, master, and doctorate degrees online. There is a vast selection of majors, including but not limited to:
– Business
– Theology
– Cybersecurity
– Liberal arts
– HumanitiesSaint Leo University boasts a rich history of inspiring students to succeed and lead. It is one of the oldest Catholic colleges in Florida. The school hosts a large student population, including a substantial number of military students.
How to Pay for an Online Christian College Degree
Getting a higher education can be demanding. But you can reach your goals with the right resources. There are different options available to help you pay for college. Below are the most common ways to pay for a Christian online college degree. This list includes student loans, FAFSA, military/veteran benefits, and scholarships.
Student Loans
Student loans are a standard option to pay for college. Most Federal student loans are given by the government and have lower interest rates. They also have better loan forgiveness options and flexible repayment terms. Banks and other financial institutions issue private student loans. Generally, they have higher interest rates and more strict repayment terms.
FAFSA
FAFSA is the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. It’s an application that students must fill out to be considered for federal student aid. Federal student aid includes grants, scholarships, student loans, and work-study programs. Your family’s income, assets, etc. are considered to determine if you are eligible for federal student aid. Basically, completing the FAFSA is a great way to take advantage of funds available to you.
Military/Veteran Benefits
Military veterans or those currently serving may also be eligible for various benefits. These will aid you in paying for your education or even make it more affordable. Some widespread benefits include the Post-9/11 GI Bill, Tuition Assistance Program, and the Montgomery GI Bill. You may notice that many online Christian colleges are very military-friendly.
Scholarships
Another good way to pay for your education is via scholarships. They are financial awards given to students based on merits, such as:
- Academic performance
- Athletic ability
- Community service
- Military scholarships
There are several available scholarships, particularly for online Christian students. Some are particular to a student’s denomination. Overall the categories, like academic merit, athletics, music, etc. are the same as secular school scholarships.
Application Process for Online Christian Colleges
You must meet certain requirements to apply for a Christian online college degree. These requirements differ from college to college, but some of the most popular include the following:
Previous Education
You may need to achieve a GED for an associate’s or bachelor’s degree. Also, to get admission to a master’s program, you will need a bachelor’s degree. Another required credential to look out for is the GMAT or GRE. These are usually required for admission to master’s programs.
Statement of Faith
Some colleges may require a statement of purpose from you. The statement should include your beliefs and commitment to your faith.
Letters of Recommendation
Most colleges require letters of recommendation from people close to you, such as mentors, teachers, or bosses.
Essay
Some schools also require an essay to help them understand your academic goal and your plans for achieving them.
FAQs
What are the benefits of earning a Christian online degree?
Earning a Christian degree online provides a solid foundation in your faith and a well-rounded education. Also, you can balance your education with family obligations or work.
How long does completing a Christian online college degree take?
The duration of a degree will depend mainly on the program. For example, the number of course credits, or if the degree is accelerated. Other factors to consider are full- or part-time degrees, and self-paced programs.
Are scholarships and financial aid available for students at Christian online colleges?
Scholarships and financial aid are available for students at Christian online colleges.
How do online classes at a Christian college differ from those at a secular college?
Christian college online classes usually have a faith-based component. This could include theology courses or biblical studies. It could be a general mission the school promotes through its faculty and staff.
How do I know if a Christian online college is accredited?
You can verify the accreditation of a Christian online college. First, check the school’s website for its accreditation. Then check the database of accredited colleges under the United States Department of Education. You can also visit particular accrediting bodies’ websites. They generally have a search option so you can find your school.
What are the cost implications of enrolling in a Christian online college?
The cost of Christian online college differs from school to school. But generally, all costs include tuition, fees, technology, and book expenses. Scholarships and other financial aid may be available to ease the costs.
Find the Best Online Christian Colleges Here
So now you’ve learned the various aspects of the best Christian colleges. To assist in your search for more accredited Christian colleges, we recommend visiting GetEducated.com. Our site is a trusted resource for researching and comparing online degrees. GetEducated.com provides comprehensive information to help you make informed decisions about your future.