Best Online Christian Colleges 2023

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Updated March 1, 2023

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Online Christian colleges provide degree-seekers with a religious curriculum. Students take religion, general education, and major classes.

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Are you ready to discover your college program?

Online Christian colleges provide degree-seekers with a religious curriculum. Students take religion, general education, and major classes. Christian colleges' online programs may include a bachelor's in computer mathematics, interdisciplinary studies, and healthcare informatics.

Online Christian colleges consider applicants with a GED or high school diploma. Some schools may require a statement of faith, recommendation letters, or an essay. The following sections answer typical questions, cover online learning, and show the latest tuition figures. The final section highlights five popular undergraduate degrees. Prospective students can learn more by researching schools' websites or contacting an admissions advisor.

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Questions About Online Christian Colleges


What Christian colleges are online?

Applicants pick from many online Christian colleges, including LeTourneau University and Johnson University. Other examples include Liberty University and Mississippi College. Schools may affiliate with a specific Christian denomination.

How much does online Christian college cost?

Christian colleges' online programs charge a tuition rate similar to secular private schools. Learners pay more for a degree than students at in-state public colleges.

Is an online degree a real degree?

Yes. Top online Christian colleges hold accreditation. Schools with this credential offer quality education to both on-campus and online learners. Employers do not discriminate against applicants who attended an accredited online school.

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.

Featured Online Theology Programs

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

Online Christian Colleges 2022

#1 Best Online Christian Colleges 2023

Liberty University

  • Lynchburg, VA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Liberty University's online degrees provide affordable education to virtual learners. Distance learners can pursue various undergraduate and graduate degrees at the Virginia school. Students receive preparation for entry-level jobs and career advancement. Distance learners can enroll on a full- or part-time basis. Degree-seekers benefit from the online programs' flexible course schedules. Hybrid degrees offer the best of both worlds with in-person and online sessions. Degree candidates receive individualized instruction in smaller classes.

Students pursuing undergraduate degrees can choose from 16 associate and 91 bachelor’s programs. Learners choose from 67 online master’s and nine doctoral programs. Online enrollees can use financial aid to pay for their degrees.

Liberty University Fast Facts:

Institution Status: private

Total Online Learners: 78,511

Programs Available Online: 161

Bachelor’s Available Online: 30

Average Cost Per Credit: 750

Percent of Learners Receiving Aid: 99%

Average Tuition
In-state
$15,417
Out-of-state
$15,417
Retention Rate
81%
Admission Rate
51%
Students Enrolled
85,586
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
92% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#2 Best Online Christian Colleges 2023

Brigham Young University-Idaho

  • Rexburg, ID
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

A private institution, Brigham Young University-Idaho operates a Rexburg, Idaho, campus. Many of the school's accredited programs are available online and in person. Online enrollment at the college totals 27,540 students. Fully virtual bachelor's degrees appeal to many learners.

Degree-seekers can choose from several top-choice majors. Learners enjoy the flexibility that the online classroom setting gives them. A degree from the school can help working professionals move up the corporate ladder. The institution offers 12 online bachelor's programs.

Degree candidates usually need four years to complete a bachelor's. Students with prior college experience can transfer their credits toward a four-year degree to graduate sooner. Visiting the school's website may help applicants find more information on admission requirements and application deadlines.

Average Tuition
In-state
$4,208
Out-of-state
$4,208
Retention Rate
70%
Admission Rate
96%
Students Enrolled
39,145
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
70% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

#3 Best Online Christian Colleges 2023

Mount Vernon Nazarene University

  • Mount Vernon, OH
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Located in Mount Vernon, Ohio, Mount Vernon Nazarene University offers a catalog of 78 affordable online programs. Distance learners enjoy flexible learning in the school's several bachelor's programs. Online learning lets students earn a degree while juggling other responsibilities. Learners receive access to some of the nation’s top-ranked degrees at the school. Working professionals complete a bachelor’s degree in less time with transfer credit. Degree candidates can complete master’s degrees in a variety of fields. Learners develop practical skills during community field experience in some graduate programs.

Online learners benefit from the school’s affordable education. Students submit school transcripts for admission. Students at Mount Vernon Nazarene University earn degrees regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Mount Vernon Nazarene University Statistics:

Number of Programs: 78

Number of Online Bachelor’s Degrees: 6

Two-Year Programs Available Online: 4

Number of Master’s Degrees Available Online: 10

Average Cost Per Credit: Not Known

Price of In-State Tuition for Undergrads: $21,047

Average Tuition
In-state
$21,047
Out-of-state
$21,047
Retention Rate
79%
Admission Rate
73%
Students Enrolled
2,205
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
41% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#4 Best Online Christian Colleges 2023

Manhattan Christian College

  • Manhattan, KS
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

A Kansas institution, Manhattan Christian College offers in-person and online degrees from its private campus in Manhattan. The school's online programs enroll students countrywide. With in-demand degrees in business, healthcare, and STEM, the online school helps graduates reach their professional goals.

Remote learners can enroll in the school's undergraduate and graduate programs. For undergraduate programs, degree-seekers attend general education and foundation courses. They also take advanced coursework in their major. Participation in seminars and online classes help degree-seekers build advanced skills.

Prospective students can contact the school to find out more about admission requirements, application deadlines, and start dates. The accredited institution connects enrollees with opportunities for financial aid.

Manhattan Christian College Facts:

Total Online Students Enrolled: 17

Available Online Bachelor's Programs: 2

Percent of Applicants Accepted: 44%

Student Graduation Percentage: 59%

Average Cost Per Credit: Not Known

Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No

Average Tuition
In-state
$15,950
Out-of-state
$15,950
Retention Rate
61%
Admission Rate
44%
Students Enrolled
171
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
10% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#5 Best Online Christian Colleges 2023

Rosemont College

  • Rosemont, PA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Rosemont College offers 44 programs from its campus in Rosemont, Pennsylvania. Learners at the private institution choose from both on-campus and online programs. The flexible, accessible format of the online degrees benefits degree-seekers. Learners also benefit from a 12-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio. The school's top-ranking programs especially appeal to busy students and working professionals.

Remote classroom spaces let distance learners interact with teachers and peers in their online programs. Enrollees develop key skills to help them in their future careers. In general education classes, students learn critical thinking and problem-solving, both in-demand skills in today's workforce. The online school offers academic advising, tutoring services, and career counseling to support distance learners. Degree-seekers graduate with a degree that meets accreditation standards.

Rosemont College At a Glance:

Associate Programs Available Online: Unknown

Online Bachelor's Programs Available: Unavailable

Total Online Master's Programs: 1

Average Cost Per Credit: Not Known

Percent of Students Accepted: 92%

Average Tuition
In-state
$19,500
Out-of-state
$19,500
Retention Rate
74%
Admission Rate
92%
Students Enrolled
902
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
40% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#6 Best Online Christian Colleges 2023

Columbia College

  • Columbia, MO
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Working students studying online receive the same education as on-campus enrollees at Columbia College. The private school offers 33 online degrees, including some of the nation’s best online programs. Nontraditional learners can pursue a variety of bachelor’s and graduate degrees. The benefits of online learning include recorded video classes and reduced costs.

The school’s online programs offer benefits such as asynchronous learning and affordability. Students save time and money when they transfer credits. Degree-seekers need not submit test scores to many institutions. The school has been accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Columbia College Statistics:

Institution Status: Private

Students Attending Classes Online: 7,568

Programs Available Online: 33

Number of Online Bachelor’s Degrees: 23

Average Cost Per Credit: Not Known

Undergraduate Students Pay: $10,912 a year

Average Tuition
In-state
$10,912
Out-of-state
$10,912
Retention Rate
64%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
9,913
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
76% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#7 Best Online Christian Colleges 2023

Clear Creek Baptist Bible College

  • Pineville, KY
  • 4 years
  • Online

A private institution located in Pineville, Kentucky, Clear Creek Baptist Bible College ranks among the best online schools. The institution's online enrollment in distance learning courses totals 91.

Remote learners complete coursework in a virtual classroom environment during an online degree. Students often meet in-person requirements with local internships or clinical practicums. Many schools provide their online learners with student services such as academic advising, career counseling, and online tutoring. Graduates transition to the workforce smoothly because of the knowledge and skills gained through the institution's many experiential learning opportunities.

Enrollees pay an affordable tuition rate for their online degree. Qualifying degree-seekers can use federal aid and scholarships at the accredited institution.

Average Tuition
In-state
$8,700
Out-of-state
$8,700
Retention Rate
57%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
123
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
74% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#8 Best Online Christian Colleges 2023

Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary

  • Kansas City, MO
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, a private college, enrolls students on campus in Kansas City, Missouri. The college offers undergraduate and graduate degrees on campus and online. Distance learners can choose from 32 programs. Students receive a comprehensive education in the liberal arts and professional education. 

The school’s programs blend classroom learning and practical experience such as internships. Online students meet faculty and peers during in-person requirements such as residencies. Most online programs require no on-campus visits. Faculty teach using real-world examples. The school’s web-based services include academic tutoring. The rate of admittance at the institution is 100%. The school’s affordable tuition and financial aid help students pay for their education. Online learners pay the same tuition regardless of residency status.

Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary has been accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Average Tuition
In-state
$7,920
Out-of-state
$7,920
Retention Rate
80%
Admission Rate
100%
Students Enrolled
3,038
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
49% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#9 Best Online Christian Colleges 2023

Bethel University

  • Saint Paul, MN
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Set in Saint Paul, Minnesota, Bethel University offers a comprehensive catalog that includes 96 online degrees. The school’s virtual platform allows students to earn eight bachelor's degrees and 12 online degrees. Nontraditional learners enjoy the flexibility of online schools. Students can pursue some of the nation’s top-ranked degrees at the school. Online learners can transfer credits to accelerate completion of a bachelor’s. Degree-seekers can enroll in master’s programs in a variety of fields. Some graduate programs require field experience in the community.

The school’s affordability is a key factor in student enrollment. The institution requires school transcripts for admission. Students earn degrees that have received regional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission.

Bethel University Statistics:

Number of Programs: 96

Online Bachelor’s Degrees: 8

Total Associate Degrees Available Online: 2

Total Master’s Degrees Available Online: 12

Price per Credit: 426

Average In-State Tuition for Undergraduates: $38,300

Average Tuition
In-state
$38,300
Out-of-state
$38,300
Retention Rate
83%
Admission Rate
79%
Students Enrolled
4,005
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
39% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#10 Best Online Christian Colleges 2023

University of Mary

  • Bismarck, ND
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

A private Bismarck, North Dakota, institution, University of Mary ranks among the best online schools. Students who attend the accredited school can choose from seven online bachelor's programs. The institution's distance learning courses currently enroll 1,682 students.

Degree candidates complete coursework in a virtual classroom environment. Programs often let students meet any in-person requirements, such as an internship or clinical practicum, in their local area. Online learners get access to student services such as academic advising, career counseling, and online tutoring. The institution also offers several experiential learning opportunities to help graduates transition into the workforce.

Enrollees can earn their online degree at an affordable tuition rate. Federal aid programs and scholarships are available to qualified online students.

Average Tuition
In-state
$17,350
Out-of-state
$17,350
Retention Rate
80%
Admission Rate
74%
Students Enrolled
3,779
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
45% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#11 Best Online Christian Colleges 2023

Johnson University

  • Knoxville, TN
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

A private Tennessee institution, Johnson University operates from a campus in Knoxville. In addition to on-campus programs, the accredited institution offers multiple online programs. The college enrolls a total of 496 online students. Degree-seekers can also earn a bachelor's in a fully online format.

The school offers college degrees in a variety of popular majors. Learners benefit from the flexibility of an online learning environment. Many of the school's programs appeal to working professionals looking to advance their careers. Distance learners can choose from seven online bachelor's programs and four online master's programs.

Degree-seekers typically earn their bachelor's in four years. Transfer students graduate faster by transferring previous college credits. Prospective applicants who want to know more about admission requirements can contact the school.

Average Tuition
In-state
$15,480
Out-of-state
$15,480
Retention Rate
74%
Admission Rate
53%
Students Enrolled
1,037
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
48% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#12 Best Online Christian Colleges 2023

Manna University

  • Fayetteville, NC
  • 4 years
  • Online

Online enrollees can pursue liberal arts and professional studies programs offered at Manna University, a nonprofit school. Students can conveniently earn accredited degrees online while they work.

A 120-credit bachelor's program typically takes four years to complete. Students complete a master’s program in about 24 months. Learners complete their degree using live and recorded classes. Degree candidates learn through classroom instruction and experiential learning such as internships or practicums. Degree-seekers complete assignments within a set timeframe.

At the school, students can begin their education with certificates or associate degrees. Distance learners receive support from online services such as tutoring and career advising.

The school charges affordable online tuition. Applicants can expect a 95% admission rate.

Manna University is accredited by the Association for Biblical Higher Education, an independent, national accrediting agency.

Average Tuition
In-state
$6,000
Out-of-state
$6,000
Retention Rate
80%
Admission Rate
95%
Students Enrolled
187
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
90% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Association for Bibical Higher Educaiton

#13 Best Online Christian Colleges 2023

Heritage Christian University

  • Florence, AL
  • 4 years
  • Online

Located in Florence, Alabama, Heritage Christian University is a leader in online learning. In total, 66 distance learners study at the school. Coursework fosters reliable analytical and critical thinking abilities. Student organizations provide professional development opportunities to help enrollees prepare for their career.

Degree-seekers can begin their education with a bachelor’s or associate degree. The school’s website provides details about how to pursue different options. The institution admits students at a rate of 24%. 

Undergraduate students gain knowledge and skills to impress employers. Degree-seekers can access support services such as tutoring from the institution. The school is accredited by the Association for Bibical Higher Educaiton, a national accrediting body.

Heritage Christian University at a Glance:

Average Cost Per Credit: Unavailable

Average Net Price: Not Known

Students Receiving Financial Aid: 100%

Students Receiving Loans: 4%

Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No


Average Tuition
In-state
$10,152
Out-of-state
$10,152
Retention Rate
100%
Admission Rate
24%
Students Enrolled
86
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
77% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Association for Bibical Higher Educaiton

#14 Best Online Christian Colleges 2023

Barclay College

  • Haviland, KS
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Students can pursue liberal arts and professional studies programs at Barclay College, a nonprofit school. Nontraditional learners can conveniently earn accredited degrees while they work.

Enrollees typically complete a 120-credit bachelor's degree in four years. Students complete the school’s master’s programs in about two years. Students view live and recorded classes. Degrees require classroom lectures and practical experience such as internships. Degree-seekers view lectures and submit assignments on schedule.

Online learners at the school can begin their degree with certificates or associate degrees. The school administers online support services such as tutoring and career advising. Students pay competitive tuition for online degrees. Online learners can expect an admission rate of 51%.

The school is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Average Tuition
In-state
$16,000
Out-of-state
$16,000
Retention Rate
65%
Admission Rate
51%
Students Enrolled
225
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
53% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#15 Best Online Christian Colleges 2023

Grace College and Theological Seminary

  • Winona Lake, IN
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Grace College and Theological Seminary's top-ranked online programs make it one of the best online schools. Distance learners can enroll in the private institution's programs in business, healthcare, STEM, and social science. Students get their college degree entirely online through many programs. Doing class assignments from home lets remote enrollees skip commuting to the Winona Lake, Indiana, campus.

Online learners interact with their peers and teachers through a virtual learning environment during their online program. The institution's experiential learning opportunities help participants transition into the workforce. The school's academic advising, financial aid counseling, and career counseling all support distance learners.

The accredited online institution's undergraduate and graduate program offerings meet the different needs of a diverse group of students. The flexible format makes completing graduation requirements easier for degree-seekers.

Grace College and Theological Seminary Statistics:

Average Cost Per Credit: Not Known

Total Virtual Learners: 389

Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 5

Total Available Online Master's Programs: 10

Percentage of Students Receiving Aid: 98%

Percentage of Students Receiving Loans: 58%

Average Tuition
In-state
$24,078
Out-of-state
$24,078
Retention Rate
84%
Admission Rate
80%
Students Enrolled
1,957
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
20% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

Why Get an Online Degree?

Online degrees appeal to recent high school graduates and working professionals. Benefits include attending an out-of-state college without relocating. Online students enjoy many cost savings, such as not paying for on-campus housing. These degree-seekers get the same career and academic advising services as on-campus learners.

Many students turn to online education for academic flexibility. Many distance learners cannot attend synchronous classes at set times due to family or work obligations. Online asynchronous classes let them view lectures and do assignments at any time. This benefit opens up higher education to many people who otherwise could not earn a degree.

How Much Does an Online Degree Cost?

According to The Education Data Initiative, in 2021, a bachelor's student at an online private college paid over $60,000 on average in tuition. This figure does not include other expenses learners incur over four or more years. Prospective students interested in online Christian colleges can save money by taking low-division classes at junior or community colleges. Degree-seekers planning to transfer also get lower tuition rates at in-state public schools.

Online Christian colleges may offer institutional aid, such as merit-based scholarships and need-based grants. Some schools screen all incoming students for financial aid. Others require a separate application. Degree-seekers may qualify for federal grants and loans by submitting the FAFSA annually.

Additional Online Student Fees

Some Christian colleges' online programs charge other fees, such as lab fees. Completing labs may require visiting campus or buying extra materials. Many online students must buy a new computer to meet their school's technology requirements. Degree-seekers should budget for textbooks and any technology fees.

Some professions require more than a degree. Candidates may need a professional certification. A certification shows employers that a job candidate mastered one or more skills. Certification classes and exams may cost hundreds of dollars. Many organizations that award them offer a discount to members.

Available Degrees at an Online Christian College

Top online Christian colleges offer bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees. Some feature career-aligned certificate programs and individual classes. Other options may include degrees with a synchronous and asynchronous track. Students wanting to graduate quickly should research schools with accelerated classes. They should also look for schools that offer prior learning credit.

The information below introduces five Christian colleges' online bachelor's degrees. Exact classes and other degree requirements vary by school. Student handbooks and school websites show class offerings and academic expectations. Admissions advisors can also answer prospective degree-seekers' questions.

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