The Best Online Christian Colleges

by TBS Staff

Updated October 20, 2022

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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.

Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, 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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Featured Online Schools

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The Best Online Christian Colleges

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#1 The Best Online Christian Colleges

Mississippi College

  • Clinton, MS
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Mississippi College provides one of the best online college experiences available. Remote degrees at the graduate and undergraduate levels are available to enrollees at this private school. The school has a strong reputation for its academics and substantial experience in online education.

The school hosts academic and career service specialists at its Clinton campus, which online learners can also take advantage of. Programs like academic advising and virtual job fairs help degree-seekers plan for their academic and professional futures. The school's internship program gives students a chance to gain hands-on field experience. Program graduates are awarded a bachelor's degree with full accreditation upon completing all requirements.

Reach out to the school with any questions about what programs are available online and how to apply to them.

Mississippi College at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 2,635

Online Bachelor's Programs: 7

Online Master's Programs: 23

Percent of Programs Offered Online: 28%

Admission Rate: 42%

Average Tuition
In-state
$17,550
Out-of-state
$17,550
Retention Rate
76%
Admission Rate
42%
Students Enrolled
4,733
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
56% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#2 The Best Online Christian Colleges

Calvary University

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

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 Tuition
In-state
$10,276
Out-of-state
$10,276
Retention Rate
63%
Admission Rate
78%
Students Enrolled
430
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
77% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#3 The Best Online Christian Colleges

Clarks Summit University

  • South Abington Township, PA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Those looking for an online college program should consider Clarks Summit University. Students who enroll at the private institution can choose from 11 online offerings at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Distance learners benefit from the school's track record in online education and its strong academic reputation.

The school hosts academic and career service specialists at its South Abington Township, Pennsylvania, campus, which online learners can also take advantage of. Programs like academic advising and virtual job fairs help degree-seekers plan for their academic and professional futures. Many students also prepare for future careers by gaining hands-on experience in internships. The academic programs grant graduates an accredited degree upon completion.

Further information about the application process and specifics of online programs is available by contacting the school.

Clarks Summit University at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 490

Online Bachelor's Programs: 3

Online Master's Programs: 5

Percent of Programs Offered Online: 28%

Admission Rate: 41%

Average Tuition
In-state
$26,082
Out-of-state
$26,082
Retention Rate
78%
Admission Rate
41%
Students Enrolled
771
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
64% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#4 The Best Online Christian Colleges

Lincoln Christian University

  • Lincoln, IL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Lincoln Christian University offers online programming that ranks highly among similar options. Learners who wish to study remotely at this private school can choose from six online programs at the graduate and undergraduate levels. Distance learners benefit from the school's track record in online education and its strong academic reputation.

The school hosts academic and career service specialists at its Illinois campus, which online learners can also take advantage of. Academic advisors and virtual job fairs help set degree-seekers up for long term success. Internships are available to help students gain hands-on experience. The degree that graduates are awarded reflects the school's full accreditation.

Prospective applicants can get in touch with the school for additional details about program availability and the application process.

Lincoln Christian University at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 289

Online Bachelor's Programs: 2

Online Master's Programs: 3

Percent of Programs Offered Online: 19%

Average Tuition
In-state
$13,590
Out-of-state
$13,590
Retention Rate
77%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
672
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
43% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#5 The Best Online Christian Colleges

Crown College

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

A quality online college education is available at Crown College. Those who choose to enroll at this private college can choose from 29 different programs at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. These remote programs benefit from the school's reputation for strong academics and track record in online course offerings.

Academic and career service professionals based out of the Saint Bonifacius, Minnesota, campus are available to help online learners. Career-planning events like virtual job fairs are available to degree-seekers who connect with these advisors. Students can also take advantage of internship programs to gain hands-on experience. An accredited degree is awarded to graduates upon completing their program.

Further information about the application process and specifics of online programs are available by contacting the school.

Crown College at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 1,030

Online Bachelor's Programs: 10

Online Master's Programs: 9

Percent of Programs Offered Online: 51%

Admission Rate: 50%

Average Tuition
In-state
$26,480
Out-of-state
$26,480
Retention Rate
64%
Admission Rate
50%
Students Enrolled
1,522
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
68% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#6 The Best Online Christian Colleges

LeTourneau University

  • Longview, TX
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

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 Tuition
In-state
$30,520
Out-of-state
$30,520
Retention Rate
76%
Admission Rate
45%
Students Enrolled
3,150
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
60% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#7 The Best Online Christian Colleges

North Greenville University

  • Tigerville, SC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

North Greenville University provides one of the best online college experiences available. Those who enroll at the private institution remotely have 18 online degree opportunities to choose from at the graduate and undergraduate levels. These remote programs benefit from the school's reputation for strong academics and track record in online course offerings.

Online learners are also able to work with academic and career services professionals located at the Tigerville, South Carolina, campus. Degree-seekers benefit from virtual job fairs other career-planning services, as well as academic advising. Internship programs give students the opportunity to develop tangible, real-world skills in their area of interest. Completing their program grants graduates an accredited degree.

Further information about the application process and specifics of online programs are available by contacting the school.

North Greenville University at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 396

Online Bachelor's Programs: 7

Online Master's Programs: 11

Percent of Programs Offered Online: 30%

Admission Rate: 63%

Average Tuition
In-state
$21,120
Out-of-state
$21,120
Retention Rate
72%
Admission Rate
63%
Students Enrolled
2,426
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
16% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#8 The Best Online Christian Colleges

Dallas Baptist University

  • Dallas, TX
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Dallas Baptist University's online degree offerings rank highly among similar programs. Remote programs at both the graduate and undergraduate levels are available at this private institution. The school has experience facilitating online classes and a reputation for strong academics, attracting many remote students.

Online learners can benefit from the academic advisors and career services professionals at the Texas campus. Degree-seekers also have the option to connect with academic advisors and participate in virtual job fairs, helping set them up for scholastic and professional success. The school also facilitates internships to help students gain hands-on experience. The degree that graduates receive upon completing their program is fully accredited.

Anyone interested in learning more about available online programs and how to apply should contact the school directly.

Dallas Baptist University at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 2,034

Online Bachelor's Programs: 14

Online Master's Programs: 10

Percent of Programs Offered Online: 28%

Admission Rate: 90%

Average Tuition
In-state
$29,220
Out-of-state
$29,220
Retention Rate
72%
Admission Rate
90%
Students Enrolled
4,487
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
45% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#9 The Best Online Christian Colleges

Geneva College

  • Beaver Falls, PA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Geneva College is a fantastic choice for online learners. Those who choose to enroll at this private college can choose from 10 different programs at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. The school's substantial track record in online education and good academic reputation attract many distance learners.

The school offers additional support to online learners through the academic and career services offices at its Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania, campus. Academic advisors and virtual job fairs help set degree-seekers up for long term success. Hands-on learning through internship programs help many students prepare for work in their field. 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.

Geneva College at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 202

Online Bachelor's Programs: 7

Online Master's Programs: 2

Percent of Programs Offered Online: 12%

Admission Rate: 53%

Average Tuition
In-state
$27,670
Out-of-state
$27,670
Retention Rate
73%
Admission Rate
53%
Students Enrolled
1,432
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
14% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#10 The Best Online Christian Colleges

Azusa Pacific University

  • Azusa, CA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Azusa Pacific University is a leader in online education. The 18 online programs offered by this private institution consist of both undergraduate and graduate offerings. The school has a track record in academic success through online coursework.

The school offers additional support to online learners through the academic and career services offices at its California campus. Online offerings from academic advisors and career-planning events like virtual job fairs help degree-seekers plan for success. The school also emphasizes hands-on learning through its internship programs. Upon completing their academic program, graduates receive an accredited degree.

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

Azusa Pacific University at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 2,750

Online Bachelor's Programs: 1

Online Master's Programs: 11

Percent of Programs Offered Online: 20%

Admission Rate: 67%

Average Tuition
In-state
$39,640
Out-of-state
$39,640
Retention Rate
80%
Admission Rate
67%
Students Enrolled
9,297
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
30% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission

#11 The Best Online Christian Colleges

Bethel University

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

Bethel University's online degree offerings rank highly among similar programs. The private institution makes 36 of its degrees available online, with offerings at the undergraduate and graduate levels. The school's experience with online education and strong academic reputation make it a great choice for distance learners.

Career and academic service associates located at the Saint Paul, Minnesota, campus also assist online learners. Programs like academic advising and virtual job fairs help degree-seekers plan for their academic and professional futures. The school also facilitates internship opportunities that help students gain real-world experience. The degree that graduates receive upon completing their program is fully accredited.

For more information on how to apply and what programs are available online, contact the school directly.

Bethel University at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 1,569

Online Bachelor's Programs: 8

Online Master's Programs: 12

Percent of Programs Offered Online: 38%

Admission Rate: 79%

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

#12 The Best Online Christian Colleges

Johnson University

  • Knoxville, TN
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

A quality online college education is available at Johnson University. A total of 21 online undergraduate and graduate programs are available 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.

From its Knoxville, Tennessee, campus, the school supports online learners with academic and career services. Degree-seekers benefit from virtual job fairs other career-planning services, as well as academic advising. Hands-on experience through the school's internship programs also benefits many students. After learners complete their program, the school grants graduates an accredited degree.

More information about which programs are available online and how to apply is available by contacting the school.

Johnson University at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 496

Online Bachelor's Programs: 7

Online Master's Programs: 4

Percent of Programs Offered Online: 30%

Admission Rate: 53%

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

#13 The Best Online Christian Colleges

Presbyterian College

  • Clinton, SC
  • 4 years
  • Campus

Presbyterian College's online degree offerings rank highly among similar programs. Many distance learners choose to study at this school because of its track record in online education and reputation for academic quality.

Online learners can benefit from the academic advisors and career services professionals at the Clinton, South Carolina, campus. These advisors facilitate career-planning events like virtual job fairs for interested degree-seekers. Many students also prepare for future careers by gaining hands-on experience in internships. Graduates receive an accredited degree upon completion of their program.

Additional details regarding program availability and application processes are available by contacting the school.

Presbyterian College at a Glance:

Admission Rate: 75%

Average Tuition
In-state
$36,300
Out-of-state
$36,300
Retention Rate
76%
Admission Rate
75%
Students Enrolled
1,353
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#14 The Best Online Christian Colleges

Olivet Nazarene University

  • Bourbonnais, IL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Olivet Nazarene University offers a high-quality online college experience. The private institution makes 21 of its degrees available online, with offerings at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Many distance learners choose to study at this school because of its track record in online education and reputation for academic quality.

Online learners benefit from support through academic and career services offices at the school's Bourbonnais, Illinois, campus. Online offerings from academic advisors and career-planning events like virtual job fairs help degree-seekers plan for success. The school's internship programs give students a chance to gain hands-on field experience. The institution's programs grant graduates an accredited degree upon completion.

More information about which programs are available online and how to apply is available by contacting the school.

Olivet Nazarene University at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 2,505

Online Bachelor's Programs: 5

Online Master's Programs: 9

Percent of Programs Offered Online: 21%

Admission Rate: 58%

Average Tuition
In-state
$36,080
Out-of-state
$36,080
Retention Rate
77%
Admission Rate
58%
Students Enrolled
4,317
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
58% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#15 The Best Online Christian Colleges

Toccoa Falls College

  • Toccoa Falls, GA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Toccoa Falls College is one of the best options available to online degree-seekers. The 15 online programs offered by this private institution consist of both undergraduate and graduate offerings. Distance learners often choose this school because it has a proven track record in online education and a reputation for academic strength.

Online learners benefit from support by academic and career services offices at the school's Georgia campus. Degree-seekers benefit from virtual job fairs other career-planning services, as well as academic advising. The internship programs that the school offers help many students prepare for their future careers. The degrees that graduates are awarded reflect the school's full accreditation.

Additional details regarding program availability and application processes are available by contacting the school.

Toccoa Falls College at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 1,189

Online Bachelor's Programs: 10

Percent of Programs Offered Online: 42%

Admission Rate: 60%

Average Tuition
In-state
$22,414
Out-of-state
$22,414
Retention Rate
64%
Admission Rate
60%
Students Enrolled
1,833
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
65% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#16 The Best Online Christian Colleges

Indiana Wesleyan University

  • Marion, IN
  • 4 years
  • Online

Indiana Wesleyan University is a popular choice among those seeking a degree online. Remote enrollees at this private college can choose between 78 online programs at both the graduate and undergraduate levels. Distance learners often choose this school because it has a proven track record in online education and a reputation for academic strength.

Career and academic service associates located at the Marion, Indiana, campus assist online learners. Academic advisors and virtual job fairs help set degree-seekers up for long term success. The school also facilitates internship opportunities that help students gain real-world experience. The degree that graduates receive is fully accredited.

Anyone interested in learning more about available online programs and how to apply should contact the school directly.

Indiana Wesleyan University at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 11,075

Online Bachelor's Programs: 18

Online Master's Programs: 29

Percent of Programs Offered Online: 100%

Accepts Transfer Credits: Accepted

Average Tuition
In-state
$8,453
Out-of-state
$8,453
Retention Rate
Not provided
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
11,410
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
97% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#17 The Best Online Christian Colleges

Belmont University

  • Nashville, TN
  • 4 years
  • Campus

Belmont University offers online programming that ranks highly among similar options. The school has experience facilitating online classes and a reputation for strong academics, attracting many remote students.

Online learners can receive assistance from career and academic service associates located at the school's physical campus in Nashville, Tennessee. Virtual career fairs, academic advising, and other programs invest in the long-term success of degree-seekers. Internship programs give students the opportunity to develop tangible, real-world skills in their area of interest. Those who complete all program requirements receive an accredited degree upon graduation.

Additional details regarding program availability and application process are available by contacting the school.

Belmont University at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 1,729

Admission Rate: 84%

Average Tuition
In-state
$34,000
Out-of-state
$34,000
Retention Rate
83%
Admission Rate
84%
Students Enrolled
8,440
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
20% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#18 The Best Online Christian Colleges

Huntington University

  • Huntington, IN
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Huntington University provides one of the best online college experiences available. Learners who wish to study remotely at this private school can choose from 13 online programs at both the graduate and undergraduate levels. The school's experience with online education and strong academic reputation make it a great choice for distance learners.

From its Huntington, Indiana, campus, the school supports online learners with academic and career services. Academic advisors and virtual job fairs help set degree-seekers up for long term success. The school's internship programs give students a chance to gain hands-on field experience. A degree with full accreditation is awarded to all enrollees upon completing their program.

Ask the school directly for more information about online degree options and how to apply.

Huntington University at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 259

Online Bachelor's Programs: 6

Online Master's Programs: 5

Percent of Programs Offered Online: 16%

Admission Rate: 75%

Average Tuition
In-state
$25,956
Out-of-state
$25,956
Retention Rate
82%
Admission Rate
75%
Students Enrolled
1,384
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
19% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#19 The Best Online Christian Colleges

Northwest Nazarene University

  • Nampa, ID
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Northwest Nazarene University offers a high-quality online college experience. Remote students at both the undergraduate and graduate levels have 25 options through this private institution. The school attracts many remote learners because of its solid reputation for academics and experience in offering online education.

The physical campus in Nampa, Idaho, employs academic and career service professionals who are also available to assist online learners. Virtual career fairs, academic advising, and other programs invest in the long-term success of degree-seekers. Many students also gain hands-on field experience through the school's internship programs. Graduates are awarded a fully accredited degree upon completing their program.

Further information about the application process and specifics of online programs are available by contacting the school.

Northwest Nazarene University at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 1,052

Online Bachelor's Programs: 6

Online Master's Programs: 11

Percent of Programs Offered Online: 31%

Admission Rate: 86%

Average Tuition
In-state
$30,550
Out-of-state
$30,550
Retention Rate
82%
Admission Rate
86%
Students Enrolled
2,111
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
50% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

#20 The Best Online Christian Colleges

Roberts Wesleyan College

  • Rochester, NY
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Roberts Wesleyan College's online degree offerings rank highly among similar programs. The nine online programs offered by this private institution consist of both undergraduate and graduate offerings. The school has a strong reputation for its academics and substantial experience in online education.

The academic and career advisors located at the Rochester, New York, campus are also available to assist online learners. Academic advisors and virtual job fairs help set degree-seekers up for long-term success. The school also helps facilitate internships to allow students to gain hands-on experience. Upon program completion, the college gives graduates an accredited degree.

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

Roberts Wesleyan College at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 329

Online Bachelor's Programs: 3

Online Master's Programs: 6

Percent of Programs Offered Online: 11%

Admission Rate: 67%

Average Tuition
In-state
$31,350
Out-of-state
$31,350
Retention Rate
79%
Admission Rate
67%
Students Enrolled
1,780
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
18% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education
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Best Online Colleges

Online Christian Colleges Ranking Guidelines

We ranked these degree programs based on quality, curricula, school awards, rankings, and reputation.

Our Methodology

Here at TheBestSchools.org, we take the trust and welfare of our readers very seriously. When making our school and program rankings, our top priority is ensuring that our readers get accurate, unbiased information that can help them make informed decisions about online education. That's why we've developed a rigorous ranking methodology that keeps the needs of our readers front and center.

Our proprietary, multi-criteria ranking algorithm analyzes key data indicators — as collected by the federal government — for each school or program. What data we use depends on the focus of each specific ranking, but in all cases, our ranking methodology is impartial: Schools cannot buy better rankings at TBS.

While specific criteria under consideration can vary by ranking, there are a few data points that we value most highly. They are affordability, academic quality, and online enrollment. Below, we break down our algorithm to help you understand what you're getting when you use one of our rankings.

  • Academics
  • Affordability
  • Online Enrollment

Data Sources

The data used in TBS rankings comes primarily from the federal government, and much of it is provided by the schools themselves. We aggregate and analyze this data to build our rankings.

The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) is our primary source. Its data comes from annual surveys conducted by the U.S. Department of Education's National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). Every college, university, or technical school with access to federal financial aid must participate in these surveys, which include questions about enrollment, graduation rates, finances, and faculty qualifications. This is publicly available data, which you can access yourself through the College Navigator.

Additionally, because we value a personal touch and the professional experience of our staff and Academic Advisory Board, we vet all results and adjust rankings as necessary based on our collected knowledge of schools and degree programs. Depending on the ranking, we may obtain additional input from AcademicInfluence.com, subject matter experts, prior TBS ranking lists, or other sources we deem relevant to a particular ranking.

Breakdown of Our Rankings Methodology

About Our Ranking Factors

Here at TBS, we value what you value: quality education, affordability, and the accessibility of online education. These factors guide all of our program rankings.

Each of these factors are further broken down into weighted subfactors. For example, retention rates are weighted more heavily than availability of program options because they are a better indicator of student success.

We chose the following factors for our rankings because of their influence on learning experiences and graduate outcomes. However, students should always balance our rankings against their personal priorities. For instance, a learner who needs a fully online program may prioritize online flexibility more than our rankings do. Our rankings are designed to help you make a decision — not to make a decision for you.

Academics - 75%
Affordability - 15%
Online Enrollment - 10%

In all our school rankings and recommendations, we work for objectivity and balance. We carefully research and compile each ranking list, and as stated in our advertising disclosure, we do NOT permit financial incentives to influence rankings. Our articles never promote or disregard a school for financial gain.

If you have questions about our ranking methodology, please feel free to connect with our staff through contact page.

We thank you for your readership and trust.
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What Is a Christian College?

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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.

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Choosing an Online Christian College

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Academic and Professional Goals

When considering an online Christian college, students should ensure that the institution offers programs that align with their academic and professional goals. Determining the types of degrees and coursework offered by an online Christian institution helps learners decide if the school will provide them the skills and credentials they need to succeed after graduation.

Faith

Because many Christian colleges maintain affiliation with specific churches, prospective enrollees should consider whether they want to attend a school that adheres to their personal religious beliefs and practices. Not all Christian colleges offer the same level or amount of religious coursework or programs. Similarly, some Christian colleges stress the presence of faith among the student body and campus community more than others.

Career Services

Colleges and universities provide resources for students as they move toward graduation and enter the job market. Career services at Christian institutions may offer specific guidance for individuals seeking positions that allow them to continue their religious and spiritual journeys.

Full-Time/Part-Time Options

Online Christian colleges typically offer full-time and part-time programs to accomodate learners with different needs. Individuals who work full time or have personal obligations can earn degrees on a part-time basis, while others can enroll in full-time programs.

Synchronous vs. Asynchronous Delivery

Institutions deliver online programs synchronously, asynchronously, or through a combination of the two. Synchronous content involves specific meeting times, deadlines, and sequential classes, which may make it hard for students to successfully take part in the program while working around their schedules. Asynchronous learning allows for more flexible, self-guided study, but still with regular deadlines. It requires students to be more self-motivated.

What to Look for in an Online College
How to Pick a College
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Accreditation for Christian Colleges

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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.

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Christian Professional Organizations

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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. ​
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Frequently Asked Questions

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How Much Does Online Bible College Cost?

Online Bible college costs are comparable to those found at other private online colleges and universities. Students should always check if in-state or out-of-state status factors into online tuition price before enrolling in a program.

Can You Go to a Christian University if You're Not Christian?

You can attend a Christian university if you are not Christian. Most institutions welcome all students regardless of their religious affiliation or spiritual beliefs, though there are some schools that require a specific faith practice.

How Many Christian Colleges Are There?

Per the National Center for Education Statistic, the CCCU reports that there are roughly 1,000 religiously affiliated colleges and universities in the United States. All institutions directly linked to any faith are private schools; public institutions in the United States are secular.


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