In this article, we profile the 30 best online Christian colleges.
Christian colleges provide students the opportunity to earn an accredited undergraduate or graduate degree from an institution that focuses on faith. But what do we mean by accredited? Regional accreditation is important even if you’re planning to earn a religious degree. If a school isn’t regionally accredited there is a danger it might be a degree mill.
For decades, students have earned degrees on traditional campuses while participating in religious activities with their instructors and peers. However, the easy availability of online degrees has muddied the accreditation waters a little bit. Some schools have begun offering “degrees” online before they meet regional accreditation standards.
Featured Programs
The good news is that many faith-based institutions now offer online options to earn a degree that is also regionally accredited. If you want a religious studies degree taught by your denomination, you might just find what you’re looking for in our ranking. Follow this link if you’re wondering what you can do with a theology degree.
Best Online Christian Colleges Methodology
We reviewed over 150 accredited Christian colleges and universities listed by the Center for Educational Statistics (NCES) College Navigator and reputable online sources.
We narrowed our original pool of schools by applying the following criteria: accreditation, online bachelor’s degree offerings, and institution and/or program rankings with U.S. News and World Report. We then ranked our findings according to raw affordability.
Below are the resulting selections for our 30 best online Christian colleges.
Ranking the Best Christian Online Colleges Available
#30 – American University
Washington, District of Columbia
Undergraduate Tuition: $49,889
Located in the heart of Washington, DC, American University is a private institution recognized among the best online Christian colleges in the United States. With an undergraduate enrollment of 8,287 and a location in the political hub of the country, American University offers a vibrant atmosphere.
However, even online students thrive with American University’s large selection of online degree programs. The school offers one undergraduate certificate program and several online undergraduate classes. However, the online graduate programs are plentiful.
In addition to the school’s online offerings, American University also ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, rankings include #77 in best national universities, #47 in best colleges for veterans, and #61 in best undergraduate teaching.
#29 – Baylor University
Waco, Texas
Undergraduate Tuition: $47,364
One of the most recognized across the globe as a top-ranked private school and one of the best Christian online colleges is Baylor University. This nationally ranked Christian university offers a large number of online courses for undergraduates and programs and degrees for grad students.
While most of the online degree programs offered appeal to graduate students, individuals graduating from Baylor as undergraduate students find a seamless transition into any one of the online programs. Through online graduate professional education programs, students may earn degrees in business, nursing, or public health. Professional master’s and doctoral degrees and certifications are also available online.
Baylor’s name is synonymous with academic prestige. In fact, Baylor ranks with U.S. News and World Report as the 79th best national university in the country. Also, several online graduate programs offered by Baylor rank among the top 20 and top 40 programs.
#28 – Biola University
La Mirada, California
Undergraduate Tuition: $41,976
Ideal for undergraduates seeking Christian colleges online, Biola University offers a high-quality education that adheres to biblical principles. Available bachelor’s degree programs delivered online include BS degrees in applied psychology, biblical ministries, business management, and public relations and reputation management.
By taking online classes that fit your schedule, it is not uncommon for students to work while earning their undergraduate degree. In addition to offering high-quality programs, Biola ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report as the 185th best national university.
Other rankings include #138 in Best Colleges for Veterans and #61 in Best Undergraduate Teaching Programs.
#27 – Anna Maria College
Paxton, Massachusetts
Undergraduate Tuition: $38,630
Anna Maria College, a private institution in suburban Massachusetts, is a top pick for online Christian colleges. Not only does the school follow Christian standards, but also offers two online programs designed to fit the needs of busy, working students.
The online bachelor’s in fire science and the online MPA are both available at Anna Maria. Five additional specializations for the MPA degree allow students to tailor their degree to align with their interests or to meet career goals. All programming is offered online, with courses taught by the same esteemed faculty who teach on campus.
In addition to offering online programs for both undergraduate and graduate students, Anna Maria College offers rankings and accreditation. In fact, rankings from U.S. News and World Report include best regional university in the North.
#26 – Bethel University
Saint Paul, Minnesota
Undergraduate Tuition: $38,460
Looking for online Christian colleges with world-class academics taught from a Christian perspective? Bethel University offers both online undergraduate and graduate degrees. The wide selection of bachelor’s degrees available online is just one of the reasons Bethel lands a spot on our list of best online Christian colleges.
Degree offerings include accounting, business management, Christian ministries, human services, nursing, organizational leadership, psychology, and special education. Several online certificates and even an AA/AS degree are also available online.
For those seeking online graduate programs, Bethel offers several master’s degrees in education and other disciplines. Bethel ranks with U.S. News and World Report as the 197th best national university.
#25 – Alvernia University
Reading, Pennsylvania
Undergraduate Tuition: $36,350
One of the top Christian online colleges on our list is the small private institution known as Alvernia University. Offering both undergraduate and graduate degree programs online, Alvernia provides students with a flexible and convenient method for earning a degree.
Online bachelor’s degrees available from Alvernia include addictions and mental health treatment, business management, communication, criminal justice administration, healthcare administration, healthcare science, psychology, and RN to BSN. Online master’s programs include the M.Ed. in special education.
In addition to offering accredited programs, Alvernia has received rankings from U.S. News and World Report. In fact, rankings include #94 in best regional universities in the North and #117 in top performers on social mobility.
#24 – Abilene Christian University
Abilene, Texas
Undergraduate Tuition: $36,300
Abilene Christian University is deeply rooted in Christian values and fueled by innovation. One innovative tool offered by this institution is the number of online programs available, making it one of the top Christian colleges online on our list.
From bachelor’s to doctoral degrees, ACU offers online access to courses and a seamless distance learning platform that leads to degree completion. Bachelor’s programs include information technology administration, integrated studies, and psychology. You won’t need to commute or relocate while earning your undergraduate degree, but you will need internet access.
In addition to the school’s online offerings, Abilene Christian University ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, rankings include #12 in best regional universities in the West.
#23 – California Baptist University
Riverside, California
Undergraduate Tuition: $34,882
Individuals seeking online bachelor’s degrees can choose from over 40 online programs available at one of the best online Christian colleges on our list – California Baptist University.
CBU Online gives students options. Bachelor’s programs are available online in accounting, business administration, Christian ministries, communication studies, early childhood studies, English, liberal studies, marketing, psychology, public administration, public health, and more.
Whether you’re a working professional or balancing the needs of family life, CBU has flexible degrees to fit your needs. In addition to the flexible online programs, CBU offers rankings with U.S. News and World Report. These rankings include #43 in best regional universities in the West and #52 in best online bachelor’s programs.
#22 – Centenary University
Hackettstown, New Jersey
Undergraduate Tuition: $33,492
Top online Christian colleges offer quality online programs, are accredited and ranked with major publications like U.S. News and World Report. Centenary University meets all of the above criteria.
The large selection of online undergraduate programs is designed to provide students with a solid liberal arts background, backed with the foundation needed for career success.
Online undergraduate programs include accounting, business administration, fashion design, film studies, management, marketing, and psychology, to name a few. Online graduate programs include the online MBA.
Centenary University also ranks with U.S. News and World Report as the 119th best regional university in the North.
#21 – Gardner-Webb University
Boiling Springs, North Carolina
Undergraduate Tuition: $32,340
Gardner-Webb University ranks among the top online Christian colleges due to the sheer number of programs available. Bachelor’s and master’s degrees can both be completed online at Gardner-Webb.
In fact, some of the disciplines offered include accounting, business administration, computer information systems, elementary education, entrepreneurship, fire service administration, healthcare management, organizational leadership, nursing, and wealth and trust management. Programs offer convenient course delivery and access from anywhere in the world.
Gardner-Webb ranks with U.S. News and World Report as a top national university. Other rankings include #204 in top performers on social mobility.
#20 – Cardinal Stritch University – No longer open.
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Website
Undergraduate Tuition: $31,798
Cardinal Stritch University is one of the leading Christian online colleges. Students have the option of enrolling in an online degree program or taking an online course. Bachelor’s and master’s degree programs are available online, though they are few in number compared to other online Christian colleges.
However, the programs available accommodate student needs and offer flexible course delivery. Some of the online programs include bachelor’s degrees in business administration, management, respiratory therapy, and RN to BSN.
Online master’s programs include business administration (MBA) and educational leadership. Cardinal Stritch also ranks with U.S. News and World Report. These rankings include #293-#381 in best national universities and #260-#345 out of 1,200 surveyed online bachelor’s degree programs.
#19 – Cedarville University
Cedarville, Ohio
Undergraduate Tuition: $31,322
One of the best online Christian colleges on our list is Cedarville University. The school’s quality online programs make it possible for students to experience a Christian learning community even while learning from a distance.
Convenient courses fit your busy schedules and allow working students to earn a degree online. Some of Cedarville’s programs include certificates in cybersecurity, global public health nursing, and healthcare administration.
Master’s programs are also available and lead to degrees in business, ministry, and nursing. In addition to these degree programs, online courses are also available for high school students through the institution’s College Now program.
In addition to offering accredited programs, Cedarville University ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report. Recent rankings include #25 in best regional universities in the Midwest.
#18 – LeTourneau University
Longview, Texas
Undergraduate Tuition: $31,270
LeTourneau University, one of the top Christian colleges online, offers programs for busy and working students. Undergraduate programs available online include bachelor’s degrees in accounting, computer information systems, criminal justice, education, health care management, human services, and psychology.
For those interested in theology and vocation, several online bachelor’s degree programs are available in biblical studies and ministry, Christian ministry, scripture and theology, and theological studies.
In addition to the quality programs offered by LeTourneau, the school ranks with U.S. News and World Report as the 25th best regional university in the West. Other rankings include #14 in best colleges for veterans and #14 in best value schools.
#17 – Carlow University
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Undergraduate Tuition: $30,528
Carlow University, one of the top online Christian colleges on our list, offers full online programs, including bachelor’s and master’s degrees. The online bachelor’s programs are also accredited and accommodate the needs of busy and working students.
These programs include business management, corporate communication, health management, and nursing (RN to BSN). The online master’s programs include business administration (MBA), education, and nursing.
Students enrolled at Carlow also have the option to take online courses while earning a traditional bachelor’s degree.
In addition to flexible options, Carlow is accredited and ranked with major publications. In fact, Carlow ranks #75 among the best regional universities in the North.
#16 – Dallas Baptist University
Dallas, Texas
Undergraduate Tuition: $30,320
Recognized as a leader among Christian online colleges, Dallas Baptist University offers many different degree programs that are available online. For those seeking undergraduate programs, DBU offers selections in arts, business, and social science.
Some of the online bachelor’s degree programs include biblical studies, business administration, Christian studies, criminal justice, interdisciplinary studies, health care management, psychology, and sociology. DBU is an accredited institution that has received rankings from U.S. News and World Report. In fact, DBU ranks #281 in the best national universities.
Also, the online bachelor’s programs rank #208 out of more than 1,200 programs surveyed by U.S. News.
#15 – Andrews University
Berrien Springs, Michigan
Undergraduate Tuition: $30,158
Andrews University, one of the best online Christian colleges on our list, offers online programs through its School of Distance Education. Online bachelor’s degree programs from Andrews include general studies (BA or BS), nursing (BSN), and religion (BA). AA degrees in Christian leadership are also available, as well as several certificates.
The online certificates include Christian discipleship, discipleship, missions, and Spanish ministry. Andrews promises a self-paced, faith-based curriculum and programs that accommodate busy and working students. Andrews University ranks with U.S. News and World Report as the 293rd to 381st best national university in the country.
Also, the online bachelor’s programs rank #192 out of more than 1,200 programs surveyed by U.S. News.
#14 – Barry University
Miami, Florida
Undergraduate Tuition: $30,014
Barry University, one of the top Christian colleges online on our list, is a private Catholic institution located near the Atlantic coast and the Everglades. The online programs are designed for working adults and nontraditional learners looking for a unique way to earn their degrees.
Many times, due to work schedules or family obligations, students require online access for class attendance. Barry offers both online courses and degree programs. Bachelor’s programs that are available online include administration, emergency management, health services administration, and public administration.
The school also offers a selection of online master’s degrees in areas like educational leadership and public administration. Barry is accredited and ranked with major publications. In fact, U.S. News and World Report ranks Barry #293-#381 in the top national universities.
#13 – Baker University
Baldwin City, Kansas
Undergraduate Tuition: $29,880
While researching the top Christian online colleges, Baker University offers both individual online courses and degree programs for undergraduates and graduates alike. Undergraduate programs at Baker University include bachelor’s degrees in business administration, criminal justice, and psychology.
These programs are offered fully online and designed to equip students for entry-level careers in their area of study. In addition to bachelor’s programs, online master’s programs and an associate of arts in business are also available entirely via distance learning. All online courses are taught by Baker’s experienced faculty.
Baker is fully accredited to offer online programs. In addition to accreditation, Baker ranks with U.S. News and World Report as the 254th best national university.
#12 – Canisius College
Buffalo, New York
Undergraduate Tuition: $29,428
Canisius College is one of the best online Christian colleges for undergrads looking for online classes to complement their traditional pathway to their degree or graduate students seeking online programs. Canisius offers over 13 unique and fully online programs that are built on Jesuit values and real-world experiences.
Also, the programs offer the same quality instruction and rigor in the virtual classroom as in the traditional classroom. Online programs include degrees in anthropology, community and school health, physical education, sports administration, and teaching English to speakers of other languages (TESOL).
In addition to quality instruction, Canisius offers accreditation and rankings with U.S. News. These rankings include #19 in the best regional universities in the North.
#11 – Anderson University
Anderson, South Carolina
Undergraduate Tuition: $29,230
One of the best Christian colleges online, Anderson University offers a robust selection of online undergraduate and graduate programs. First, the online bachelor’s programs are designed to accommodate the needs of working and busy students.
These programs are available in a number of disciplines including business administration, Christian studies, human services, liberal studies, management, criminal justice, healthcare management, and nursing (RN to BSN). Online graduate programs also cover a wide number of disciplines and include business, ministry, nursing, and organizational leadership.
Anderson ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report as the 50th-best regional university in the South and 32nd-best value school. In addition to school rankings, Anderson’s online bachelor’s programs rank #80 out of more than 1,200 programs surveyed by U.S. News.
#10 – Carson-Newman University
Jefferson City, Tennessee
Undergraduate Tuition: $28,900
Carson-Newman University, a private school founded in 1851, is recognized among the best online Christian colleges on our list. Not only is the institution accredited, but also ranked with major publications like U.S. News and World Report.
In fact, recent rankings include #293-#381 in best national universities and #119 in top performers on social mobility. In addition to school rankings, the online bachelor’s programs rank #260-#345 out of more than 1,200 programs surveyed by U.S. News. So, what online programs are available at Carson-Newman? Two bachelor’s programs are offered.
The bachelor’s in business administration (BBA) and the bachelor’s in organizational leadership (BSOL). Several online master’s programs, including business (MBA) and education, are also available.
#9 – Bryan College
Dayton, Tennessee
Undergraduate Tuition: $27,900
Bryan College is one of the top online Christian colleges on our list due to the large number of program offerings. Online programs are offered at all levels and designed to fit the needs of adult learners. Students may earn an associate’s in business, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees – all online!
Undergraduate degrees include a bachelor’s in applied psychology, business administration, criminal justice, or interdisciplinary studies. The online master’s programs include business administration, Christian ministry, education, and human services. Resources for veterans and military personnel are also available.
Bryan College ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, rankings include #47 in best regional universities in the South and #30 in best value schools.
#8 – Bluefield College
Bluefield, Virginia
Undergraduate Tuition: $27,036
Bluefield College, among the top Christian online colleges, is a small private institution that provides distance learning resources to online degree students. Whether you are taking a class or earning a degree online, Bluefield provides accommodations that make learning convenient.
Also, for students with appropriate transfer credit, an accelerated completion pathway allows online students to earn their bachelor’s degree in just 13 months.
Bluefield is recognized among major publications as a top regional institution. In fact, U.S. News and World Report ranks Bluefield #46 in the best regional colleges in the South and #83 among top performers on social mobility.
In addition to school rankings, Bluefield’s online bachelor’s programs rank #123 out of more than 1,200 programs surveyed by U.S. News.
#7 – Belhaven University
Jackson, Mississippi
Undergraduate Tuition: $26,202
Belhaven University is one of the more affordable online Christian colleges on our list. Programs designed for working adults are offered at all levels, including associate, bachelor, master, and doctoral degrees.
For those seeking online bachelor’s programs, disciplines include accounting, applied psychology, biblical studies, business administration, health administration, hospitality management, interdisciplinary studies, management, and nursing (RN to BSN).
The online master’s programs offered at Belhaven include biblical and theological studies, business administration, education, and public administration to name a few.
Belhaven ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report and is fully accredited. Rankings include #47 in the best regional universities in the South and #192 out of more than 1,200 surveyed online bachelor’s programs.
#6 – Clarks Summit University
South Abington, Pennsylvania
Website – No longer offering classes.
Undergraduate Tuition: $26,082
Recognized among private Christian colleges online as offering quality and accredited programs, Clarks Summit University is a top choice for online degrees. Whether you are looking to jump-start your personal or professional development, the school offers online courses and programs at all levels.
Online bachelor’s degrees are offered for those seeking disciplines like addiction counseling, Bible and theory, business administration, Christian ministries, counseling, and criminal justice. Those with transfer credit are in luck.
Clarks Summit accepts up to 90 transfer credits, which may be applied to the bachelor’s degree of your choice. As indicated above, Clarks Summit is recognized by major publications like U.S. News and World Report as a top faith-related school.
#5 – Campbellsville University
Campbellsville, Kentucky
Undergraduate Tuition: $25,400
The best online Christian colleges, like Campbellsville University, offer degrees at all levels, including associate, bachelor, master, and more.
For those seeking undergraduate programs, Campbellsville offers bachelor’s degree programs in business administration, criminal justice administration, general business, leadership and missions, liberal arts and sciences, pastoral ministries, and social work.
Online associate and master’s degree programs are also available. These flexible, online programs are designed to fit the needs of working and busy students.
Campbellsville also ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report as the 92nd-best regional university in the South. In addition to school rankings, the online bachelor’s programs rank #143 out of more than 1,200 programs surveyed by U.S. News.
#4 – Central Methodist University
Fayette, Missouri
Undergraduate Tuition: $25,070
As far as top Christian online colleges go, Central Methodist University offers affordable tuition and conveniently designed programs for those challenged by distance or a busy schedule. The sheer number of online bachelor’s degree programs available at CMU puts the school on our list of best online Christian colleges.
Students may choose to major in over 20 disciplines. These majors include accounting, applied behavior analysis, business, child development, communication studies, computer science, educational studies, math, nursing (RN to BSN), and psychology, to name only a few.
Online graduate degrees are also available and include master’s programs in math and nursing. CMU ranks with U.S. News and World Report as the 78th best regional university in the Midwest.
#3 – Liberty University
Lynchburg, Virginia
Undergraduate Tuition: $22,747
Liberty University is one of those online Christian colleges that offers a large selection of online degree programs. In fact, there are 114 online bachelor’s programs and 248 online master’s programs available at Liberty.
Overall, the school boasts a whopping 531 online degree programs, making it the largest provider of online degrees among Christian institutions.
For those seeking a bachelor’s degree, options include business administration, criminal justice, information technology, paralegal studies, and social work, to name a few. Liberty also offers online associate degree programs and both undergraduate and graduate certificates.
In addition to offering a large supply of online programs, Liberty also ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, U.S. News ranks Liberty #293-#381 in the best national universities. The online bachelor’s programs also rank #223 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.
#2 – Ashland University
Ashland, Ohio
Undergraduate Tuition: $21,980
Affordability earns Ashland University at the top of our list of Christian colleges online. The school’s College of Online and Adult Studies provides online programs and resources for adult learners looking to acquire degrees at all education levels.
Not only does Ashland offer associate’s degrees online, but bachelor’s and graduate programs are also available.
For those seeking a bachelor’s degree from Ashland, online programs include business, communication studies, criminal justice, multidisciplinary studies, and nursing (RN to BSN). Ashland University ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report as the 53rd-best regional university in the Midwest.
Also, the online bachelor’s programs rank #143 out of more than 1,200 programs surveyed by U.S. News.
#1 – Blue Mountain College
Blue Mountain, Mississippi
Undergraduate Tuition: $14,100
Our #1 pick for online Christian colleges is Blue Mountain College in Blue Mountain, Mississippi. This online Christian college offers affordable tuition and two online programs for undergraduates seeking degrees in business administration or psychology. These programs are offered fully online with accelerated eight-week classes.
Six start dates per year make the programs even more flexible, as students can jump in and begin earning their degrees when they are ready.
Blue Mountain College is a fully accredited institution that has received recognition and rankings from major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, Blue Mountain ranks #14 in best regional colleges in the South and #1 in best value schools.
Additionally, the online bachelor’s programs rank #217 out of more than 1,200 programs surveyed by U.S. News.
CVO Staff
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