What is an Online Christian College?
An Online Christian college is a school that blends Christian values and traditional academics. You could study the same subjects taught at other colleges. But with a major difference. Courses in an Online Christian college are taught from a Christian viewpoint. In a Christian college, you may have the chance to prepare for your future through a biblical lens. That means you could learn how Christianity informs fields like philosophy, science, and the arts. You could get involved in clubs and activities that weave in faith. And you could study with classmates who share your spiritual beliefs.
What Will I Learn in an Online Christian College?
Christian colleges may teach much of the same coursework as other schools. Like, math, science, and liberal arts courses. And, they award the same degrees. Like, Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science degrees. The main difference is that you’ll apply Christian values to your general studies.
For instance, a biology major at an Online Christian college could expect to study botany, genetics, ecology, and more. An organizational leadership major could study business and finance. Pretty much the same as a secular student. The difference is that at an Online Christian college, faith informs these subjects. In a biology program, that could mean looking at topics like Creationism. Or, the meaning of life. Along with secular scientific views, you could give serious attention to biblical views.
Courses in theology and scripture are also the norm. Yes, secular colleges may have courses on world religions. But in a Christian college, you’ll likely take several required courses about your faith. And, you may have access to different majors. Like:
- Christian ministry
- Christian education
- Biblical studies
- Theological studies
Learning goals at an Online Christian college could include:
- Gaining a better understanding of the Bible
- Handling moral dilemmas in your life and career
- Defining and building a Christian character
- Serving others in your career, home, and community
- Weaving your faith into your life and work
- Navigating the secular world and the challenges it brings
Online colleges are often much the same. In some cases, online programs at a Christian college have a curriculum that’s the same as traditional programs at the same school. In other cases, the online program may have slight changes. Like, fewer theology courses. But, you’ll likely still touch on topics like the Bible and living a Christian life. And your online courses in any subject could factor in faith. Choosing online education may not change what you learn.
Is an Online Christian College Perfect for You?
If you are hoping to explore your faith along with your academic major, a Christian college may be ideal! Let’s review some pros and cons.
Potential Pros to Choosing an Online Christian College
- You could learn more about your faith. It’s always possible to be a better informed Christian. At a Christian or Bible college, you might learn to gain more meaning from scripture. You could deepen your knowledge of Christian life. After all, the way you practiced faith in high school may need to evolve as you get older. College could help you learn to follow Christ into adulthood.
- You could bring faith to your field. Wondering how Christian views could inform your academic major? Choosing a Christian college may bring the chance to ask questions rooted in faith. At a secular college, you may not be able to study biblical views on subjects like chemistry or criminal justice.
- You could find community. The faculty, staff, and students will likely share your Christian faith. You may worship together, volunteer together, and support each other. And, you could learn from diverse Christian viewpoints.
- You could prepare for the life you want to live. If you aren’t sure how to blend faith and your career, going to a Christian college could shed some light. You could learn how to live your values on the job. And how to serve others in a godly way.
Potential Cons to Choosing a Christian College
- It may ask a lot of your faith. Many Christian colleges ask for a deep commitment. You may need to attend regular chapel or bible study. For many students, that’s a plus. But if you practice your faith more casually, that might not be the perfect fit.
- There’s the potential for less diversity. College can be a great time to learn about other world views. You’ll find plenty of different opinions at a Christian college. Many Bible colleges are nondenominational. Or interdenominational. So Lutheran students could study with Presbyterian or Nazarene students, etc. But, the school may not have as much diversity as a public college.
- Faculty and students may hold conservative views. There are Christians across the political spectrum. Some take a conservative stance on many issues. If that doesn’t describe you, ask whether the Christian college you’re considering is the ideal fit.
- Online degree programs bring faith to the web. For many, that’s great news. You could strengthen your faith from the comfort of home. But, if you’re not as tech savvy, you may find it hard to get used to some things. Like virtual prayer meetings.
Professional Organizations for Christian College Students
After earning an online degree from a Christian college, you may want to join a professional org. This may be a great way to seek support in your field. Here are a few to consider:
- The American Scientific Affiliation (ASA). This is a network for Christians in science fields. Its mission is supporting good science. And, practicing faith. Members are committed to scientific inquiry. And, they believe God created the universe.
- The Association of Christian Librarians (ACL). Faith and ministry can inform librarian jobs. That’s what’s behind this org for library science pros. They have an annual meeting and offer other resources.
- Christian Association for Psychological Studies (CAPS). This is a fellowship for those in the psych field. Members are from all Christian branches. Founded by mental health pros, CAPS brings together faith, research, and practice.
- Christian Educators Association International (CEAI). CEAI is an org for education pros. It supports them in their mission to teach by their faith. CEAI promotes a biblical approach to teaching. So, it offers counsel and advocacy to that end.
- Christian Legal Society (CLS). CLS is a fellowship for legal pros. Members serve Jesus Christ as they practice law. And, they may look at law as a form of Christian ministry.
- Christian Pharmacists Fellowship International (CPFI). This org is a worldwide ministry of pharmacy pros. They support and encourage each other in their career paths. And, they practice faith as it relates to their lives and pharma work.
- The Christian Medical & Dental Associations (CMDA). CMDA strives to keep the faith in health care. They offer resources for Christians in medical and dental fields. These include networking, education, and advocacy.
Accreditation for Christian Colleges
Several organizations accredit Christian colleges. These include:
- Association for Biblical Higher Education Commission on Accreditation (ABHE). This org accredits Christian colleges in the US and Canada. Schools can offer certificates and diplomas. Plus, associate degree, bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and doctorate programs. These programs may prepare students for Christian ministries.
- Commission on Accrediting of the Association of Theological Schools (ATS). ATS accredits seminaries. In other words, schools with graduate degree programs in theology. These programs could be in ministry, research, and other areas.
- Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools Accreditation Commission (TRACS). TRACS accredits Christian colleges in the United States and beyond. These can offer undergraduate programs, graduate programs, and diploma / cert programs. That includes Christian schools that offer distance education. So, online students may want to look for schools accredited by TRACS.
Scholarships for Christian Colleges
- Colorado Christian Scripture Memory Scholarships. Eligibility entails committing an entire book from the Bible to memory. The scholarship sums awarded fluctuate contingent on the chosen book. The pinnacle amount attainable is $8,000, designated for the book of Matthew. An essential prerequisite is being enrolled as a student at CCU. It’s crucial to note that the application deadline displays variability.
- Dr. James Earl Massey Intercultural Leadership Scholarship. Applicable exclusively to incoming freshmen at Anderson University, this opportunity mandates demonstrating active engagement in both serving God and fostering connections across cultural boundaries within your community. Successful candidates stand a chance to secure $10,000 annually. The deadline for submissions exhibits variability.
- Lettie Pate Whitehead Scholarship Program. This program grants money to female Christian students. They must live in select southern states. Most funds go to undergraduate programs and health education. Amounts and deadline vary.
- Mary E. Bivins Foundation Scholarships. This initiative aims to facilitate the education of Christian ministers, focusing on those pursuing either a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree. Prospective participants are required to be dedicated to the practice of preaching the Christian faith. The program extends its eligibility to individuals within the Texas Panhandle region. The scholarship amounts exhibit diversity, with the most substantial sum of $28,000 designated for graduate students. As for the application deadline, it falls on February 23, 2024.
- The Christian Missionary Scholarship Foundation. This foundation helps children of missionaries. Missionary families may make financial sacrifices. So, they can’t always afford college. Each year, this program helps 100 missionary kids at six Christian colleges. The next deadline is in February 2024. Awards vary.
- Hubler Endowed Scholarship. This is for ministry students at Baylor University. You could receive $5,000 per semester for Spring and Fall. Students need to have a divine call for vocational ministry. They must also have a GPA of 3.25. And, other guidelines apply. Next yearly deadline is March 15.
- Gordon and Eleanor Spykman Memorial Scholarship. This is for juniors or seniors at Calvin University. You must have a major or minor in religion and theology. And, other rules apply. The award is $2,300. Next deadline is in February 2024.
20 Christian Colleges
Using data from the NCES and College Scorecard we have created a list of the top 2023-2024 Christian Colleges in the US. These schools were ranked based on the number of total enrolled students for the 2022 / 2023 school year.
Based in Lynchburg, Virginia, Liberty is a large, Evangelical Christian university. It offers over 700 programs from the certificate to the doctoral level. These are rooted in the liberal arts. The school is also known for its online degree programs. It strives to be one of the best online Christian colleges. Liberty began offering distance education degree options way back in 1985.
Liberty University strives to train “champions for Christ.” With a focus on faith and service, every student is called on to worship. All students attend regular convocations. They gather (or watch online) as guest speakers talk about faith and other topics.
2022/23 Tuition & Fees
Undergrad: $22,511
2021/22 Financial Aid
$12,471
Grad Rate
36%
Columbia College is a private institution joined with the Disciples of Christ. It’s based in Columbia, Missouri. And has over 30 other locations to choose from. Evening and online degree programs are also available. The school offers 10 Associate’s degree programs and over 30 Bachelor’s degree programs. Plus, 8 Master’s degree programs.
CC was founded in 1851 as Christian Female College. Today, it’s coed but keeps its Christian ties. Students can choose from Christian groups, too. Like, Chi Alpha Christian Fellowship. CC is nonsectarian. And, students of all faiths are welcome.
2022/23 Tuition & Fees
Undergrad: $24,326
2021/22 Financial Aid
$13,725
Grad Rate
28%
3 Indiana Wesleyan University
Visit School
Indiana Wesleyan is a Christian comprehensive university of the Wesleyan Church. It is based in Marion, Indiana. It is the largest member of the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities. Along with traditional programs, it offers adult ed and online learning.
IWU’s goal is to be a Christ centered community. Students from all faith backgrounds can attend. But, Christian ideas are woven into every area of student life. Service and fellowship are a big part of that experience.
2022/23 Tuition & Fees
Undergrad: $8,120
2021/22 Financial Aid
$6,179
Grad Rate
70%
Duke is a top research university in Durham, NC. It has ties with the United Methodist church. Duke serves 15,634 learners in undergrad, grad, and professional programs. Students come from around the world to attend.
At the graduate level, Duke is home to a Divinity School. Its students seek to answer God’s call to serve. Seven grad programs are available. Like, a Master of Divinity (M.Div.) program.
2019/20 Tuition & Fees
Undergrad: $62,688
2021/22 Financial Aid
$57,444
Grad Rate
96%
Baylor is a Baptist, doctoral university. It is based in Waco, Texas and serves 16,000 students. Students benefit from chances to do inter disciplinary research. Choose from over 127 undergraduate degree programs. Plus, many grad degree programs.
Baylor’s mission is to prepare students for leadership and service. Christian values are at the center of it all. Chapel is a chance for students and faculty to gather two days per week. Baylor is also home to the George W. Truett Theological Seminary. While Baylor is a Baptist college, students from all faiths are welcome.
2022/23 Tuition & Fees
Undergrad: $51,738
2021/22 Financial Aid
$22,553
Grad Rate
78%
Emory is a private, doctoral research university. Based in Atlanta, it is tied to the United Methodist Church. Emory is known for its liberal arts colleges. And, its health care degree programs and leading health care system.
At Emory, there are many ways to practice your faith. Christian orgs on campus offer various services and ministries. While Emory is Methodist, other denominations are represented. The Candler School of Theology at Emory is one of 13 United Methodist seminaries.
2022/23 Tuition & Fees
Undergrad: $57,948
2021/22 Financial Aid
$48,914
Grad Rate
92%
Based in Washington, D.C., American is a well known research university. It is a United Methodist school. AU serves over 14,000 students. And, it offers 71 Bachelor’s, 87 Master’s, and 10 doctoral degree programs. Including distance learning.
AU strives to live up to its Methodist values. You can do just that at the Kay Spiritual Life Center. Kay offers many ways to practice your faith. Like, chapel and service projects. The school also offers degree programs in Religion, Religious Studies, and more.
2022/23 Tuition & Fees
Undergrad: $53,889
2021/22 Financial Aid
$27,138
Grad Rate
79%
8 Azusa Pacific University
Visit School
Azusa Pacific is a doctoral research university in California. It is a Christian institution. But, it is undenominational. Its focus is on preparing students to serve the world for Christ. Choose from a range of undergrad and grad programs. Plus, online degree programs for distance learners.
Azusa Pacific is a Christ centered school. It brings together faith and learning. So, all academic majors include religion in the curriculum. Faculty and staff are Christian. And, students can practice their faith through chapel, service, mission trips, and more.
2022/23 Tuition & Fees
Undergrad: $42,330
2021/22 Financial Aid
$27,474
Grad Rate
68%
9 Southern Methodist University
Visit School
Southern Methodist is a doctoral research university. It teaches in the liberal arts tradition. SMU serves over 12,000 students, some from around the world. Based in Dallas, the school is at the heart of culture and cutting edge research.
SMU is nonsectarian, and all faiths are welcome. There are plenty of ways for Christian students to get involved. That includes Wednesday Worship, a weekly Christian service. The Office of the Chaplain and Religious Life offers spiritual guidance.
2022/23 Tuition & Fees
Undergrad: $61,980
2021/22 Financial Aid
$35,344
Grad Rate
80%
10 Texas Christian University
Visit School
Texas Christian is a private, doctoral university in Forth Worth. It has ties with the Christian Church. Offering a 295 acre urban campus, it’s right in the heart of culture. TCU serves 9,445 undergrad students, plus grad students.
TCU is the largest of 21 schools that has a covenant with the Disciples of Christ. This is a protestant denomination. It has Presbyterian and Baptist roots. That said, students of all faiths attend TCU.
2022/23 Tuition & Fees
Undergrad: $53,980
2021/22 Financial Aid
$28,048
Grad Rate
81%
11 Wayland Baptist University
Visit School
Wayland Baptist is a private, Southern Baptist university. It is based in Plainview, Texas. Choose from over 65 programs, with a liberal arts focus. The school serves over 1,400 students. Plus, 3,600 students on 13 other campuses. These are located across the Southwest. And, in Hawaii, and Alaska.
Education at Wayland has a Christian world view. That means you’ll study in a Christian setting and prepare to serve God in your work and life. There are many ways to get involved – like the Baptist Student Ministry. Or the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA).
2022/23 Tuition & Fees
Undergrad: $22,368
2021/22 Financial Aid
$13,608
Grad Rate
44%
12 California Baptist University
Visit School
CBU is a private, Southern Baptist university. It calls Riverside, California home. The school offers over offers more than 80 undergraduate student majors. From business administration to the sciences. Plus, choose from 30 master’s degree programs and 5 doctoral programs.
As a Christ centered school, CBU integrates faith into academics and social activities. CBU offers many ways to serve God and others. These range from service projects to inter national programs.
2022/23 Tuition & Fees
Undergrad: $38,058
2021/22 Financial Aid
$22,757
Grad Rate
61%
Chapman is a private university in Orange, California. You’ll find it just 15 miles from the beach. Founded in 1861, it is linked with the Disciples of Christ. Chapman serves around 10,000 learners. It’s proud of its diverse student body.
Chapman has Christian roots, but you don’t have to be Christian to go here. The Fish Interfaith Center serves everyone. It offers a wealth of ways to enrich your spiritual life. There are also many Christian groups on campus. Like, Campus Crusade for Christ. And YoungLife. And InterVarsity Christian Fellowship.
2022/23 Tuition & Fees
Undergrad: $60,672
2021/22 Financial Aid
$33,510
Grad Rate
81%
Bethel is a comprehensive Christian school. This private university is based in McKenzie, Tennessee. It offers 100 academic programs in two colleges. Plus, a school for graduate studies. And a seminary. Bethel has Cumberland Presbyterian ties. But, it is interdenominational.
Faith is at the center of living and learning at Bethel. As a student, you can take part in chapel, evening vespers, and more. The Office of Campus Ministries supports students as they explore their beliefs. And, there are many service and outreach programs.
2022/23 Tuition & Fees
Undergrad: $17,482
2021/22 Financial Aid
$13,396
Grad Rate
38%
15 Concordia University-Wisconsin
Visit School
Concordia University in Wisconsin is a private, doctoral school. Campus is located next to Lake Michigan and is noted as the safest in Wisconsin. (In school rankings.) It offers over 70 majors and programs across 6 schools.
2022/23 Tuition & Fees
Undergrad: $33,062
2021/22 Financial Aid
$23,477
Grad Rate
54%
16 Pepperdine University
Visit School
Pepperdine is a private, doctoral university in Malibu, CA. It is tied to Churches of Christ. The school offers 73 education programs across 5 undergrad and grad schools. Located just 35 miles from LA, its in an ideal location for fun, sun, and culture.
Over half of the students at Pepperdine are Christian. The rest come from other faith backgrounds. Pepperdine values diversity but is built on Christian values. Service, worship, and learning come together at this school. Every undergrad dorm has a Spiritual Life Advisor.
2022/23 Tuition & Fees
Undergrad: $63,142
2021/22 Financial Aid
$32,348
Grad Rate
84%
Based in Ashland, Ohio, this university has ties to the Brethren Church. It was founded in 1878. Today, it serves over 6,600 students – each one valued as an individual. Choose from traditional or online degree programs.
Ashland is guided in all things by its Christian heritage. Faith in God and Christian values are key to its identity. The Office of Christian Ministry offers many ways to worship, serve, and grow in your faith. This school is also home to the Ashland Theological Seminary.
2022/23 Tuition & Fees
Undergrad: $24,140
2021/22 Financial Aid
$18,290
Grad Rate
66%
Belmont is a private, doctoral university in Nashville. It has Baptist heritage but is inter denominational. Belmont focuses on liberal arts and professional education. It serves over 8,400 students in more than 130 programs of study.
Belmont provides a student centered Christian community. In fact, it is the largest ecumenical Christian college in the United States. Faculty and staff try to include Christian ways of thinking in every part of life at Belmont. There are many ways to get involved. From worship services to mission trips.
2022/23 Tuition & Fees
Undergrad: $39,850
2021/22 Financial Aid
$22,080
Grad Rate
72%
19 Colorado Christian University
Visit School
CCU is a private university based in Lakewood, Colorado. In fact, it is the state’s flagship Christian university. CCU is inter / un denominational. And, it is evangelical. Besides its main campus, the school has centers in six cities throughout CO. And, it offers online learning.
Colorado Christian does not separate faith and learning. All faculty and staff embrace the school’s Statement of Faith. Chapel attendance is required for all undergrad students. It’s a chance for the whole campus to worship together. And, students must sign a Lifestyle Covenant.
2022/23 Tuition & Fees
Undergrad: $37,432
2021/22 Financial Aid
$25,200
Grad Rate
31%
Campbell University is a private, Baptist college. It was founded by the Baptist minister J.A. Campbell in 1887. You’ll find this school in Buies Creek, NC. It serves 6,800 students in an inclusive Christian setting.
Students can take part in worship at the beautiful Butler Chapel. Ministries and mission trips offer ways to serve others. And, the Office of Spiritual life can guide you as you grow in your faith. Upperclassmen and grad students serve as Resident Chaplains (RCs).
2022/23 Tuition & Fees
Undergrad: $39,230
2021/22 Financial Aid
$33,425
Grad Rate
47%
