The Best Online Christian Colleges

TBS Staff Writers
By
Updated on October 18, 2023

Online Christian colleges blend Christ-centered learning with the flexibility of online education.

Christian colleges benefit students who seek to enhance their religious understanding while also studying educational disciplines. These schools often hold affiliations with specific churches or religious organizations, but being Christian is not always a prerequisite to attend.

Online Christian colleges offer flexibility and convenience for learners who seek to blend religious exploration with academic learning. Online programs allow students to participate in synchronous, asynchronous, and accelerated programs. Non-Christian students, who may not conform to on-campus dress codes or service attendance requirements, can also thrive at online Christian colleges.

Studying at an online Christian college allows students to interact with like-minded peers and instructors safely. Schools associated with the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities (CCCU) expanded their online offerings by joining forces with CampusEDU, and Acadeum has increased online learning opportunities for students at Christian colleges as well.

Read on for our ranking of the best Christian colleges.

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The Best Online Christian Colleges

We use trusted sources like Peterson's Data and the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
from our partners appear among these rankings and are indicated as such.
#1 The Best Online Christian Colleges

Calvary University

  • Location-markerKansas City, MO
  • 4 year
  • Online

For many online degree-seekers, Calvary University is an attractive choice. Remote students at both the undergraduate and graduate levels have 17 options through this private institution. The school has a proven track record in online education and a reputation for strong academics, making it a popular choice for distance learners.

All learners, including those studying online, can take advantage of the academic and career services professionals hosted at the school's Kansas City, Missouri, campus. Programs like academic advising and virtual job fairs help degree-seekers plan for their academic and professional futures. Students can also take advantage of internship programs to gain hands-on experience. The school's programs grant graduates an accredited degree upon completion.

Anyone with additional questions is encouraged to reach out to the school directly.

Calvary University at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 330

Online Bachelor's Programs: 8

Online Master's Programs: 5

Percent of Programs Offered Online: 59%

Admission Rate: 78%

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$12,210
  • Out-of-state$12,210
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$7,830
  • Out-of-state$7,830
  • Retention Rate62%
  • Acceptance Rate71%
  • Students Enrolled262
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment78%
  • AccreditationYes
#2 The Best Online Christian Colleges

LeTourneau University

  • Location-markerLongview, TX
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

LeTourneau University is a leader in online education. A total of 35 online undergraduate and graduate programs are available through this private institution. Many distance learners choose to study at this school because of its track record in online education and reputation for academic quality.

The school hosts academic and career service specialists at its Longview, Texas, campus, whom online learners can also contact. Academic advising, virtual job fairs, and other career preparation services set degree-seekers up for long-term success. Internship programs are also available to students, helping them gain valuable field experience. Graduates receive an accredited degree upon completion of their program.

Prospective applicants can contact the school to learn more about online program options and admission requirements.

LeTourneau University at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 1,884

Online Bachelor's Programs: 19

Online Master's Programs: 13

Percent of Programs Offered Online: 34%

Admission Rate: 45%

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$34,680
  • Out-of-state$34,680
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$16,875
  • Out-of-state$16,875
  • Retention Rate81%
  • Acceptance Rate41%
  • Students Enrolled3,389
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment59%
  • AccreditationYes

What Is a Christian College?

Christian colleges provide academic programs that integrate religious faith and ideas with their curricula. Along with coursework in Christian topics, students also participate in on-campus and online activities that unite the campus community in their beliefs, ideologies, and practices.

While many Christian institutions maintain affiliations with specific churches, denominations, or religious organizations, non-religious learners can still enroll at most Christian colleges. Christian colleges typically welcome enrollees from all walks of life and belief systems.

Christian colleges offer undergraduate and graduate programs in traditional academic disciplines. Many schools also provide opportunities to earn degrees in Bible studies, divinity, and Christian ministry.

Choosing an Online Christian College

Accreditation for Christian Colleges

Most colleges and universities hold regional or national accreditation, which applies to entire institutions. Accreditation status can influence financial aid, transfer options, and educational standards, so students should always research the status of their prospective schools. For most non-vocational degrees, regional accreditation is preferred.

Christian colleges may hold additional accreditation through organizations that review religious institutions, such as the Association for Biblical Higher Education and the Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools. Accreditation from one of these entities indicates that a school meets educational and faith-related standards.

Christian Professional Organizations

Campus Crusade for Christ International

Cru is a community of Christ-centered disciples that promotes faith, growth, and fruitfulness around the world. This organization provides Christian students with opportunities for mission trips, internships, volunteer activities, and future employment.

Chi Alpha Campus Ministries

Represented on college and university campuses worldwide, Chi Alpha connects individuals who want to build their relationships with God. Along with spiritual resources and online events, Chi Alpha provides opportunities for learners to become involved on local, national, and international levels.

Coalition for Christian Outreach

Supporting students who want to dedicate their lives to serving Jesus Christ, CCO partners with local churches to build and support Christian communities on college campuses. Members can access online videos and study materials, opportunities to participate in the CCO Jubilee, and CCO’s fellowship and career resources.

Christianity Today

Established in 1956, Christianity Today promotes evangelical conversations by advocating for the church and its leaders. In addition to its widely distributed magazine, Christianity Today offers a newsletter, access to preaching and Bible study resources, and employment information.

International Fellowship of Evangelical Students

IFES fosters student-led Christian organizations worldwide to help unite Christians from all cultures and traditions. This fellowship provides training and funding for evangelism efforts, engages with universities, and builds student leaders through online resources and in-person events.

InterVarsity Christian Fellowship

This fellowship promotes the presence of Jesus Christ on college campuses, offering retreat programs, published works, and online resources. Opportunities for involvement include mission activities, prayer groups, and interactive online events.

Frequently Asked Questions