Best Online Christian Colleges of 2024

The best online Christian colleges can offer an educational experience rooted in religious values and provide programs that suit your interests.
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Updated February 27, 2024

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Online Christian universities can provide a comprehensive education that applies Christian teachings, values, and philosophy. These private institutions offer instruction in math, science, and liberal arts while allowing you to maintain or reconnect with your faith.

Choosing an online degree program will allow you to take classes when they fit your schedule. If you find an accelerated program, you may be able to graduate in less time.

We've ranked the best online Christian colleges and evaluated their affordability, course offerings, and student success.

Featured Online Programs

Find a program that meets your affordability, flexibility, and education needs through an accredited, online school.

Best Online Christian Colleges Rankings Summary

Jump to a school below using the links in the "School" column.

Rank School In-State Tuition Out-of-State Tuition Acceptance Rate
#1 Amberton University
Garland, TX
$8,550 $8,550 Not provided
#2 Amridge University
Montgomery, AL
$9,000 $9,000 Not provided
#3 Ashland University
Ashland, OH
$22,000 $22,000 70%
#4 Belhaven University
Jackson, MS
$27,450 $27,450 64%
#5 Bryan College
Dayton, TN
$16,900 $16,900 Not provided
#6 Buena Vista University
Storm Lake, IA
$37,518 $37,518 66%
#7 Bushnell University
Eugene, OR
$32,100 $32,100 68%
#8 Campbellsville University
Campbellsville, KY
$24,900 $24,900 Not provided
#9 Central Methodist University-College of Graduate and Extended Studies
Fayette, MO
$6,240 $6,240 100%
#10 Clarkson College
Omaha, NE
$14,880 $14,880 96%

Best Online Christian Colleges

#1 Best Online Christian Colleges of 2024

Amberton University

  • Garland, TX
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $300
Out-of-State | $300

Credits to Graduate: 120

With a 50-year history of educating working adults, Amberton's online bachelor's programs blend Christian values, affordability, and 10-week courses. Nine bachelor's programs offer fully online coursework. You can also take a blended degree format that combines required visits to the campus in Garland, Texas. 

You can pursue degrees in business administration with various concentrations or interdisciplinary programs that include professional development, applied studies, and human relations and business. 

Amberton’s pay-as-you-go payment plan allows you to defer tuition payments until the end of the session.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,550
Out-of-state
$8,550
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,840
Out-of-state
$6,840
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
1,002
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
85% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#2 Best Online Christian Colleges of 2024

Amridge University

  • Montgomery, AL
  • 4 years
  • Online

Cost per Credit:
Full-Time | $335-$395
Part-Time | $365-$455

Credits to Graduate: 64-128, depending on the undergraduate degree

Amridge's online undergraduate and graduate programs stay faithful to the college's Christian heritage and dedication to distance learning. This Christian college first began offering distance education in 1993 and now exclusively offers online degrees.

You can pursue 17 online associate and bachelor's degrees from the College of Business and Leadership, College of General Studies, Turner School of Theology, or School of Continuing Education.

Amridge makes tuition more affordable by allowing you to pay tuition in payments over several months. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,000
Out-of-state
$9,000
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,800
Out-of-state
$10,800
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
723
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#3 Best Online Christian Colleges of 2024

Ashland University

  • Ashland, OH
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $590
Out-of-State | $590

Credits to Graduate: 60-120, depending on the undergraduate degree

You can pursue affordable online associate and bachelor's programs at AU, a private Christian college founded in 1878. This college offers 10 undergraduate programs and one minor. As an online student, you can study subjects such as business, communication, criminal justice, cybersecurity, homeland security, or nursing.  

AU also offers qualifying students a tuition-free education through its partnership with Say Yes Higher Education Compact. Eligible candidates must meet income and residency requirements.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$22,000
Out-of-state
$22,000
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,972
Out-of-state
$6,972
Retention Rate
72%
Acceptance Rate
70%
Students Enrolled
4,929
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
53% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#4 Best Online Christian Colleges of 2024

Belhaven University

  • Jackson, MS
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $435
Out-of-State | $435

Credits to Graduate: 62-124

Belhaven's online degrees offer a fast pathway to higher education in a Christian environment. Founded in 1833, this college's general education credits integrate biblical coursework. Courses such as "Exploring the Old Testament" span 7 weeks. You can enroll in programs to study accounting, applied psychology, biblical-theological studies, business, or nursing.

Roughly 98% of undergraduates get financial aid from this affordable college. Additionally, students do not pay for literature and math books. Rental books and free resources further cut down on college costs. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$27,450
Out-of-state
$27,450
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,530
Out-of-state
$10,530
Retention Rate
68%
Acceptance Rate
64%
Students Enrolled
4,278
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
69% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#5 Best Online Christian Colleges of 2024

Bryan College

  • Dayton, TN
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $395
Out-of-State | $395

Credits to Graduate: 60-120

Bryan College's online associate and bachelor's programs prepare graduates to spread Christian values in a variety of fields. This private Christian college's mission to offer an accessible Christian education began in 1930, when it admitted its first students.

You can pick from an online catalog that includes majors in applied criminal psychology, business administration, communication studies, criminal justice, interdisciplinary studies, and public administration. 

You can save time and money by earning up to 24 credits for prior learning experiences gained through work or military experience. Credit by examination offers up to an additional seven credits. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$16,900
Out-of-state
$16,900
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,630
Out-of-state
$9,630
Retention Rate
67%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
1,550
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
41% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#6 Best Online Christian Colleges of 2024

Buena Vista University

  • Storm Lake, IA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $465
Out-of-State | $465

Credits to Graduate: 120

BVU's online undergraduate degrees combine a private Christian education with affordable tuition. This 133-year-old college's tradition of online learning dates back 15 years. Today, you can pick from 11 virtual degrees that require no on-campus visits. Bachelor's degree programs include subjects such as agricultural business, elementary education, organizational leadership, psychology, or secondary education.

According to BVU, 99% of graduates from the class of 2021 reported landing a job in their field or enrolling in graduate school within six months of graduating.  

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$37,518
Out-of-state
$37,518
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,936
Out-of-state
$9,936
Retention Rate
73%
Acceptance Rate
66%
Students Enrolled
1,959
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
59% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#7 Best Online Christian Colleges of 2024

Bushnell University

  • Eugene, OR
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $495
Out-of-State | $495

Credits to Graduate: 124

Bushnell University's online programs offer an affordable Christ-centered education. This private college, founded in 1895, blends faith coursework into the general education requirements. If you enroll in online and evening degrees, you complete 65 general education credits, including eight in biblical studies. 

Majors include accounting, business administration, interdisciplinary studies, psychology, forensic psychology, and nursing. You can also pursue a hybrid degree in teacher education.

Bushnell University accepts up to 30 prior learning assessment credits. Additional prior learning credits can come from examinations or military and/or police experience.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$32,100
Out-of-state
$32,100
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$17,640
Out-of-state
$17,640
Retention Rate
74%
Acceptance Rate
68%
Students Enrolled
686
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
69% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

#8 Best Online Christian Colleges of 2024

Campbellsville University

  • Campbellsville, KY
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
RN-to-BSN | $346
Undergraduate programs | $424 

Credits to Graduate: 60-120

CU's online associate and bachelor's degrees prepare you to become a Christian leader in a variety of industries. This private college offers online undergraduate degrees in subjects such as business administration, Christian studies, criminal justice, marriage and family ministry, and social work. You can access the college's CU Service program to participate in community service in the name of Christianity.

You pay for your tuition through various methods such as five- or six-month payment plans and financial aid. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$24,900
Out-of-state
$24,900
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,473
Out-of-state
$8,473
Retention Rate
61%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
10,238
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
70% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#9 Best Online Christian Colleges of 2024

Central Methodist University-College of Graduate and Extended Studies

  • Fayette, MO
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $270
Out-of-State | $270

Credits to Graduate: 60-120

CMU's online degrees give you the freedom to set your class schedule. Virtual courses span eight or 16 weeks. You can earn associate and bachelor's degrees in majors such as accounting, cybersecurity, healthcare administration, middle school education, nursing, and special education. Certain programs, such as early childhood education and elementary education, only meet Missouri certification requirements.

If you meet age and income requirements you can apply for CMU's Fast Track Workforce Incentive Grant that rewards those studying in high-need fields.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,240
Out-of-state
$6,240
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,075
Out-of-state
$6,075
Retention Rate
33%
Acceptance Rate
100%
Students Enrolled
3,242
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
59% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#10 Best Online Christian Colleges of 2024

Clarkson College

  • Omaha, NE
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $651
Out-of-State | $651

Credits to Graduate: 120

Clarkson College's online degrees remain a popular pick for students, with 90% taking at least one course virtually. This Christian college was founded in the 1800s with the mission to promote healthcare education. You can pursue an associate or bachelor's degree in healthcare business management, health information technology, nursing, and radiography.

Clarkson College makes college affordable with deferred payment plans, alternative loans, and work-study opportunities. You can become a student ambassador, receiving $1,000 per semester in exchange for work at the admissions office.  

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$14,880
Out-of-state
$14,880
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$12,294
Out-of-state
$12,294
Retention Rate
59%
Acceptance Rate
96%
Students Enrolled
1,180
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
95% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

Our Ranking Methodology

At Affordable Colleges Online, we use a proprietary ranking system to help you find the best schools for your needs. Our most important metric, affordability, accounts for 60% of our weighted formula. We also consider academic quality, program offerings, online enrollment, and graduation rate.

You can learn more about our school ranking methodology here.


Why Get an Online Degree?

How Much Does an Online Degree Cost?

According to the National Center for Education Statistics, you can expect to pay an average of $37,600 in tuition and fees alone at a four-year private university.

Online programs are often more affordable, especially if you complete your degree with an accelerated schedule. Many online institutions offer enough flexibility to allow you to keep working while attending classes.

If you're a budget-conscious student, you can still earn your degree from one of the many affordable online Christian colleges. You can also explore financial aid and scholarship options —online students often qualify for the same financial aid opportunities as on-campus students.

Scholarships for Christian Colleges

Religious students who attend a Christian college can qualify for unique scholarship opportunities. Scholarships are often based on where you live, your denomination, your community impact, and where you're attending college.

You can also apply for scholarships at the specific Christian college you attend. Many Christian universities award scholarships to students who demonstrate financial need, have earned good grades, or show extensive community service.

6 Scholarships for Christian Students
Scholarship Eligibility Amount Deadline
Excellence in Character Scholarship Graduating seniors in Texas $500 July 22
Christian Connector Scholarship Drawing First-time, full-time students at a Christian college or Bible college $5,000 May 31
Christian Missionary Scholarship Foundation Students whose parents are missionaries Varies February 1
Dora Maclellan Brown Ministry Scholarships Chattanooga-area students who seek to work in vocational Christian services Varies February 15
George and Lynna Gene Cook Scholarship Graduating seniors in Nebraska $1,200 March 15
Lettie Pate Whitehead Foundation Female Christian students attending college in the South Varies Varies

Types of Christian Colleges

You may be looking for a specific type of Christian education based on your career goals and religious interests. While each type of online Christian college has common characteristics, it's important to understand the unique characteristics of each institution.

Private Christian University

Most private universities in the US have a religious affiliation. A private Christian university typically offers the same educational experience, course requirements, and degree offerings as a public college.

The level of religious influence will vary by college. At some Christian universities, faculty will integrate Christian principles and teachings into their courses, and students will be required to take some religion-specific courses.

Bible College

Bible colleges provide focused instruction in theology and Biblical subjects. If you are interested in a four-year degree from a Bible college, you may want to pursue ministerial training alongside your coursework.

Online Bible college courses and training emphasize mission work, counseling, workshop leadership, evangelism, and pastoral care.

Seminary/School of Theology

If you aspire to work in ministry and want an education that goes beyond an undergraduate degree, consider a seminary and theological school.

Seminary and theology students take in-person or online courses in church history, Biblical languages, philosophy, leadership and administration, preaching, and pastoral care. These programs typically last 2-3 years.

Accreditation for Online Christian Colleges

Accreditation verifies that a school upholds standards of academic excellence. Attending an accredited school allows you to apply for financial aid, transfer credits to another college, qualify for professional licenses, and attend graduate school.

If you want a conventional undergraduate degree from an online Christian college, look for one with institutional accreditation from an agency recognized by the US Department of Education or the Council of Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).

If you are interested in a Bible college or seminary degree, look for schools with programmatic, Christian-focused accreditations. Here are some accreditors to look for:

Frequently Asked Questions About Online Christian Colleges

What is the No. 1 Christian college?

Some of the most prestigious Christian colleges include Pepperdine University, Wheaton College, Biola University, Liberty University, Baylor University, and the University of Notre Dame.

Factors like retention rates, graduation rates, and student outcomes often inform a school's prestige. Choosing a reputable Christian college can help ensure a quality education and improve your employment prospects upon graduation.

What is the largest religious college?

The largest religious college is Arizona's Grand Canyon University, with 103,072 students enrolled. Other large religious universities include Liberty University, Columbia College, Indiana Wesleyan University, and Duke University, with over 17,000 students enrolled.

Is an online degree a real degree?

An accredited online degree is just as legitimate as a degree completed on campus. Online programs often follow the same curriculum and coursework requirements as a traditional program. Once you've graduated, your diploma will not specify that your degree was completed online.

Are online colleges worth it?

Depending on your career goals, an online Christian college degree may be well worth the time and expense you put toward your education.

Many distance learners and online college graduates feel that their degrees have a positive return on their investments. If you want to further your education or acquire new skills while maintaining your job, taking online classes can help you accomplish your academic goals.

Is Bible college a real degree?

A degree from an accredited Bible college is a legitimate and credible measure of your skills and knowledge. If you want to be a minister or study theology, a degree from a Bible college may give you an edge when finding religion-based employment.

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AffordableCollegesOnline.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

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