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The 20 Best Online Christian Colleges

Best Online Christian Colleges - featured image

Online Christian colleges provide non-traditional students and adult learners with convenience and flexibility, in pursuing religious education while completing their academic programs.

Their academic programs feature distance education programs where learners participate in accelerated, asynchronous, and synchronous programs through online learning.

Non-Christian learners, who prefer not to attend service requirements and dress codes in on-campus Christian online colleges, can also benefit from an online Christian school’s online programs.


Quick Summarization:
Various online Christian colleges and universities, sometimes known as online Bible colleges, offer non-traditional students academic programs integrated with a religious curriculum. These schools benefit students seeking to deepen their religious understanding and belief while pursuing their preferred academic disciplines. As part of the general education requirements, students will take religion courses aside from the core courses regardless of their field of study. Although online Christian colleges hold affiliations with religious organizations or churches, being a Christian is not a mandatory requirement to enroll.


Is there a variety of options for online Christian colleges and universities?

It can be challenging for Christian students to pursue the best online Christian college that supports their academic and faith-based goals with several Christian colleges to choose from.

Here we list the best online Christian colleges, including some of the most common questions and an overview of what to expect from online Christian colleges and their academic offerings.

Best Online Christian Colleges - fact

20 Best Online Christian Colleges

Dallas Baptist University

Dallas Baptist University - Online Christian Colleges

Dallas Baptist University is a comprehensive, global Christ-centered university headquartered in Texas. Formerly known as Decatur Baptist College, DBU became the first junior college in the state and had affiliations with the Baptist General Convention of Texas to promote Christian education.

With an average of 11:1 student-to-faculty ratio for distance learning, DBU’s online classes are taught by the same faculty who educates its on-campus students. Dallas Baptist University is a member of the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements. The university also has received exemplary status from the Online Learning Consortium Quality Scorecard Endorsement

Since 1998, the university has been a frontrunner in distance learning, with more than 70 online academic programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Online undergraduate degrees at DBU range from Associate, Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Business Studies, Bachelor of Arts and Sciences, and Bachelor of Arts. 

Graduate learners and working professionals can pursue various online master’s programs at DBU, with academic disciplines in Professional Development, Ministry, Liberal Arts, Leadership, Education, and Business.

The university also has accelerated programs that allow undergraduates to complete their online bachelor’s degree programs and graduate education. Through accelerated, combined programs, students can earn their dual degrees in less time.


Mississippi College

Mississippi College - Online Christian Colleges

Established in 1926, Mississippi College is the oldest university in Mississippi known in the United States for academic excellence in offering Christian education.

Although it is the oldest college in the state, Mississippi College offers a variety of online academic programs for non-traditional students and professionals. Aspiring students at MC can choose from its undergraduate, graduate, certificate, and accelerated program offerings. 

The majority of academic programs at MC Online are in healthcare, cybersecurity, education, criminal justice, business, and communication. Some online programs have multiple start dates throughout the year, featuring courses with 8-week terms. Distance learners utilize Moodle as the school’s online degree learning management platform.

A set of coursework has a combination of asynchronous and synchronous learning formats. Synchronous learning allows virtual meetings to facilitate discussions and engagements with faculty and colleagues. The Moodle platform also allows students to access their projects, quizzes, and other learning resources.

Although students complete their courses 100% online, Mississippi College offers similar student support services as its on-campus learners, including career services, IT support, a writing center, and an online library.


Liberty University

Liberty University - Online Christian Colleges

Liberty University is one of the largest Christian universities in Virginia, with 15 schools and colleges and more than 700 academic programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Its program offerings are one of the most comprehensive programs in the US.

All online academic programs are offered at LU Online, with various online degree completion plans for undergraduates and graduates.

Most undergraduate and graduate programs at LU are in business, criminal justice, healthcare, aviation, information technology, and religious studies. Most online academic programs at Liberty University have courses in a convenient 8-week format, with start dates in the fall, spring, and summer semesters. 

Online students will have comprehensive access to a diverse range of student support services like on-campus learners. Each program has an asynchronous learning format, and the set of coursework is taught through Canvas. Quizzes, projects, exercises, and assignments are also hosted via Canvas. 

The university also has a dedicated Instructional Media Team that creates various tutorial videos, webinars, and other helpful instructional media tools and resources to increase students’ quality of academic experience.


Barclay College

Barclay College - Online Christian Colleges

Barclay College welcomes non-traditional and traditional students from all evangelical beliefs seeking high-quality academic programs with a solid biblical core. Barclay College accepts applicants with official transcripts and references only with a straightforward enrollment process.

It has a flexible open enrollment process, allowing students to start at the beginning of any session during any semester. Classes open every six weeks. 

Distance learners can complete assignments on their schedule with flexible and asynchronous learning. Each class has requirements throughout the week, and students can take their coursework any time of the day. Distance learners can expect to spend 15 to 20 hours weekly on class discussions and assignments. The flexible schedule allows many adult students to work full-time while pursuing their studies.

The school has six online degree programs and five online certificates. Barclay College offers distance learners a transformational Christian community. Each course is taught from a Christian global perspective.

Biblical studies are part of the curriculum of each academic program. Every week, students will participate in writing a spiritual reflection that will be shared virtually with colleagues and instructors. 


Indiana Wesleyan University

Indiana Wesleyan University - Online Christian Colleges

Indiana Wesleyan University is a comprehensive Christian university with affiliations with the Wesleyan Church. It is a Marion-based university and is the largest private university in the state. Apart from that, Indiana Wesleyan University is the largest member of the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities.

With more than 160 online academic programs, Indiana Wesleyan University has been a prominent Christian university offering distance learning for two decades. Each program doesn’t have any commitments and ties to fixed class schedules, with classes that are five to eight weeks in duration.

The university offers a similar high-quality online degree programs as its on-campus learning environment. Students can choose from various academic disciplines, including education, computer science, theology & ministry, health science, business, nursing, and psychology & social work. 

Distance learners enjoy many student support services, including the Off-Campus Library Services, curriculum support via Brightspace, and academic tutoring services through tutor.com. The university also offers affordable and accessible academic programs with various financial aid options. Students can apply for veteran benefits, loans, scholarships, and grants.


Clear Creek Baptist Bible College

Clear Creek Baptist Bible College - Online Christian Colleges

Headquartered in Pineville, Kentucky, Clear Creek Baptist Bible College has affiliations with the Kentucky Baptist Convention.

The College has been distinguished as KBC’s academic institution since 1946. CCBBC offers a variety of online academic programs taught by experienced online faculty members. It provides students with God-centered, convenient, and affordable alternatives to traditional learning.

Clear Creek Baptist Bible College offers several online classes through the LAMP Schools consortium, with an online classroom built on Sakai’s open-source platform. It is a web-based platform that can be accessed on any mobile device or computing equipment.

To help save on tuition expenses, CCBBC has a variety of scholarships, grants, awards, work-study programs, and other forms of financial aid for distance learners.

Aspiring students seeking an online academic degree at CCBBC can enroll in their academic programs, namely Master of Arts in Ministry, Bachelor of Arts in Ministry, Bachelor of Arts in Ministry – Worship & Music, Bachelor of Arts in Ministry – Church Planting, Associate of Arts in Ministry, Bivocational Ministry Certificate, and Certificate in Bible programs.


LeTourneau University

LeTourneau University - Online Christian Colleges

LeTourneau University is a Christian polytechnic university located in Longview, Texas. While it is a Christian university, it is home to more than 3,000 students from 53 religions or denominations.

It is a nationally accredited university that offers 140+ undergraduate and graduate programs in arts & sciences, aviation & aeronautical sciences, business, engineering & engineering technology, education, nursing, psychology & counseling, and theology & vocation.

Each online academic program features an asynchronous learning format, making it flexible for adult students and non-traditional learners to complete their studies. Each online program will have a faith-based curriculum focusing on Christian beliefs and philosophies.

Apart from the 100% online program, students can also enroll in any of the accelerated learning programs. The university also provides distance learners with a comprehensive online tutoring service via Tutor.com.

Distance learners can participate in chapel services virtually three times per week. All learning content and resources, including examinations, lectures, discussion boards, and projects, are hosted via Canvas. The university accepts prior learning academic credits for examination experience, military service, and professional credentials to help students save on tuition expenses.


Crown College

Crown College - Online Christian Colleges

A private academic institution in Minnesota, Crown College is distinguished as one of the most prominent online Christian colleges in the US. The school has affiliations with the Christian and Missionary Alliance and is a proud member of the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities.

Crown College has a diverse range of online undergraduate and graduate programs for non-traditional students. Every major at Crown College is built on the foundation of Jesus, integrating faith with students’ passion.

Aspiring undergraduates at Crown can pursue one out of various academic disciplines, including human services, disaster & emergency management, Christian ministry, global and cultural studies, and general studies.

Like undergraduate programs, Crown College also has a diverse range of online graduate education programs across numerous disciplines.

Each undergraduate and graduate education program links to accelerated online program offerings for aspiring graduates seeking combined bachelor’s and graduate education credentials within five years.

Graduates at any school’s program offerings become proficient in integrating faith with their professional endeavors, completing their degree through flexible coursework. They build strong ties with their academic advisors, colleagues, and professors, engaging in collaborative learning experiences.


King University

King University - Online Christian Colleges

Formerly called King College, King University was established in 1867. Today, the Presbyterian-affiliated Christian university offers non-traditional students a robust liberal arts core and has several specializations in a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

Seventeen online degree programs are offered at the university, with most programs offered at the undergraduate level.

All prospective students at King University must submit their accomplished online application, including personal statements or writing samples, letters of recommendation, current certifications or licenses, and official transcripts.

All online academic programs have the same academic excellence and engaging community as their on-campus equivalents. King University Online has multiple start dates annually, with flexible online courses available all year. Most online academic programs can be completed in as little as 16 months, depending on the student’s pace and commitments.

King University has an easy credit transfer, allowing students to transfer up to 76 academic credits for all online bachelor’s degree programs. With competitively priced tuition fees, students at King University can enjoy accelerated graduation with more economical tuition expenses.


Toccoa Falls College

Toccoa Falls College - Online Christian Colleges

Toccoa Falls College is a private, non-profit, Christian liberal arts university headquartered in Georgia. The school partners with various evangelical Christian groups and affiliates with the Christian and Missionary Alliance denomination.

Several online undergraduate and graduate programs are offered through TFC’s four major schools: the Fetterman School of Nursing, the School of Professional Studies, the School of Christian Ministries, and the School of Arts & Sciences.

Online undergraduate programs cover various areas of study, including cross-cultural studies, psychology, biblical studies, sports management, business, and criminal justice. With a 15:1 student-to-faculty ratio, TFC’s online learning experience has an open-door policy and provides students with personalized advising from faculty.

Distance learners receive the same high-quality education as their on-campus equivalents. They can also participate in special events, chapel services, and other religious activities. Students can join in any sporting event if they reside within 40 miles of the Toccoa Falls College campus.


Azusa Pacific University

Azusa Pacific University - Online Christian Colleges

With steadfast ties with the Wesleyan-Arminian doctrinal philosophies, Azusa Pacific University is one of the top online Christian colleges in Southern California. The university has a community of scholars and disciples advocating to impact the world for Christ.

Azusa Pacific University offers more than 20 online academic programs for distance learners. Students will experience a Christ-centered education and engage with colleagues and expert faculty who are equally passionate about faith-based studies.

Distance learners can access dedicated support to help them succeed academically in their preferred academic program. APU features one-stop-shop resources for online students, including the Writing and Speaking Center, Canvas Help, 24/7 Technical Support, Academic Success Center, and Library Resources.

Azusa Pacific University’s online learning community is supported by Canvas, where students can collaborate with their colleagues, participate in virtual discussions, complete homework and projects, and interact with their professors and academic advisors.

Fully online coursework introduces various teaching and learning methods with colleagues and professors, including group projects, video conferencing, multimedia presentations, and asynchronous discussions.


Manhattan Christian College

Manhattan Christian College - Online Christian Colleges

Manhattan Christian College is a top online Christian college headquartered in Kansas. Apart from its regional accreditation, MCC has received accreditation from The Association for Biblical Higher Education.

This private Christian college offers rigorous academic programs rooted in the Bible, helping students receive an education that strengthens their faith and knowledge of God’s Word.

MCC has a non-traditional campus consisting of Distance Education degree programs only, hosted through Thunder Online. Through Thunder Online, students can choose how many classes they’ll take in a semester and set the pace of their completion.

They can attend classes via a web conference or watch a recording of their classes. Both students and professors can interact with one another throughout the week while pursuing their professional routines.

With MCC’s steadfast commitment to educating students as Christian leaders, the school has the Leadership Education for Adult Development completion program. Non-traditional students will study, analyze, and evaluate management and ethical problems in the workplace from a Christian perspective.

After completing the program, graduates are qualified to sit for the College Level Examination Program and the DANTES Subject Standardized Tests.


Clarks Summit University

Clarks Summit University - Online Christian Colleges

Clarks Summit University was established in 1932 as a private Bible college in Pennsylvania. The university has a diverse range of online degree programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels.

Aspiring students at Clarks Summit can choose from six associate’s, 12 bachelor’s degrees, three master’s, three BBS-Master’s, and three BBS-Doctorate degree programs. 

All online academic programs feature flexible class schedules with asynchronous learning formats. Distance learners have no fixed live classes, and they can complete their degrees in as few as 24 months.

Clarks Summit University’s online academic programs have at least five start dates per academic year that students can choose from and start whenever it best fits their schedules. Most academic programs have 8-week sessions, with students earning three academic credits in an 8-week session.

Distance learners will participate in virtual discussions and interact with their colleagues and instructors through a worldwide learning community. Since the university highlights a personalized learning experience, students will build their degree upon their schedule and aspirations.


Geneva College

Geneva College - Online Christian Colleges

Founded by the Reformed Presbyterian Church of North America in 1848, Geneva College is a private, 4-year comprehensive Christian college of professional studies, arts, and sciences. The College is one out of 121 North American colleges and one out of four colleges in Pennsylvania to become a member of the Council for Christian Colleges & Universities. 

Apart from that, Geneva College is one of the top affordable online Christian colleges with a College of Distinction award, affirming its dedication to high-quality academics rooted in the truth of God’s word.

Geneva College offers five 100% online academic programs, namely:

  • Associate of Arts in General Studies
  • Bachelor of Professional Studies in Child and Family Services
  • Bachelor of Professional Studies in Human Resources
  • Bachelor of Professional Studies in Management
  • Bachelor of Professional Studies in Organizational Leadership

All online academic programs can be completed in as few as 16 months. Students pursuing the associate of arts program can transfer up to 24 academic credits, while online bachelor’s degree programs accept a maximum of 84 eligible transfer credits.

For bachelor’s programs, academic advisors will work with students to develop a custom degree plan considering their financial aid eligibility, transfer credits, and schedule of classes. Geneva College provides distance learners with free access to a comprehensive Microsoft Office Suite.


Warner University

Warner University - Online Christian Colleges

Warner University is a Florida-based university founded in 1968 as Warner Southern College. The university has affiliations with the Church of God and is a private, Christian liberal arts university offering more than 20 academic programs, including online options for non-traditional and adult students.

Distance learners can pursue one of the following fully online academic programs at Warner:

  • Associate of Arts in General Studies
  • Associate of Science in Agricultural Studies
  • Associate of Science/Bachelor of Science in Christian Ministry
  • Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration
  • Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice
  • Bachelor of Arts in Educational Studies
  • Bachelor of Science in Hospitality and Management

Online students complete two classes every eight weeks. Although part-time learning is available, most students enroll in a full-time option. All course content, projects, assignments, quizzes, and other learning essentials are accessible via Moodle. 


Culver-Stockton College

Culver-Stockton College - Online Christian Colleges

Culver-Stockton College was founded by the Disciples of Christ Church members in 1853. The school has more than 160 years of historical and academic experience, withstanding the Great Depression and Civil War. Today, the school is home to 1,000+ students completing their academic programs in a low student-to-faculty ratio of 14:1.

The College offers ten online academic majors in digital marketing, human resources management, sports management, supply chain management, professional sales, marketing, esports & gaming administration, criminal justice, business administration, and accountancy.

Culver-Stockton College has rolling admission start dates every eight weeks, with sessions starting in January, March, May, August, and October. Distance learners enjoy a diverse range of resources to succeed, including comprehensive career services, library collections, and free peer tutoring.

Culver-Stockton College is a member of the Online Consortium of Independent Colleges and Universities, which hosts many online courses for non-traditional learners. Students can enroll in any online classes offered through the consortium.

The school is also a member of the Low-Cost Model Consortium of schools, providing students the option to complete innovative degrees.


North Greenville University

North Greenville University - Online Christian Colleges

North Greenville University has affiliations with the South Carolina Baptist Convention and is a co-educational liberal arts university, providing opportunities for higher learning in a Christ-centered setting. The university advocates the work of the Southern Baptist Convention and the evangelical community.

A total of six 100% online undergraduate programs are offered at NGU, namely the following:

  • BGS in General Studies
  • Bachelor of Arts in Christian Ministries
  • Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice
  • Bachelor of Science in Applied Psychology
  • Bachelor of Science in Business & Leadership
  • Cybersecurity
  • Elementary Education

While all programs can be completed 100% online, some courses have blended options that allow students to meet with their colleagues and professors.


Trinity Bible College & Graduate School

Trinity Bible College & Graduate School - Online Christian Colleges

Trinity Bible College & Graduate School has affiliations with the General Council of the Assemblies of God. It is a fully accredited institution with an excellent reputation with the Association of Biblical Higher Education.

Trinity Bible College & Graduate School offers a variety of online academic programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels through MyTrinity Online.

Students can choose among Trinity Bible College’s five associate programs, five bachelor’s programs, three graduate programs, and one certificate program. All online programs are in the field of theology or ministry. The school offers two main options to help distance learners complete their degrees easily.

Depending on students’ credentials, they can receive Credit for Prior Learning to allow students to transfer any previous credits obtained at other schools.

Students can also obtain credits for what they’ve already learned outside the classroom, utilizing the Assessment of Prior Learning portfolio that provides students with the option to earn credit for learning outside the traditional classroom.


Concordia University, St. Paul

Concordia University, St. Paul - Online Christian Colleges

Concordia University, St. Paul is a Christ-centered, comprehensive liberal arts academic institution headquartered in St. Paul, Minnesota. It was established in 1893 and had affiliations with The Lutheran Church.

It is one of the members comprising the Concordia University System. With more than a century of academic excellence, Concordia University, St. Paul advocates a Christ-centered community.

The university has many online academic programs designed to develop marketable skills for non-traditional learners and adult students. Students can choose from more than 50 fully online degree programs in social science, nursing & healthcare, IT, human services, general studies, education, criminal justice, communication, and business. 

All online programs feature a career-focused curriculum with experiential learning and flexible learning formats. Through experiential learning, distance learners can apply the theories and concepts they’ve studied to real-world challenges.

Apart from CSP’s academic excellence, the university offers numerous corporate partnerships, college transfer agreements, and a Colleague Advantage Partnership.


Johnson University

Johnson University - Online Christian Colleges

Tennessee-based Johnson University was established in 1893 as the School of Evangelists. It is a top online Christian university with various online academic programs. Distance learners can pursue one out of 20+ fully online programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels.

Apart from high-quality academic degrees, Johnson University also boasts affordable and accessible online Christian programs in the country. 

With reasonably priced tuition, distance learners have several opportunities to nurture their faith while completing their academic degrees. The university supports students’ learning by offering holistic student services, including a comprehensive writing center, online library, and 24/7 help desk. 


Difference Between Online Christian Colleges Vs. On-Campus Christian Colleges

Like on-campus Christian colleges, most affordable online Christian colleges incorporate Christian philosophies and bible teachings into the curriculum of every academic program. 

In many Christian colleges and universities, online and on-campus academic programs share the same faith-based requirements and curriculum. Online faculty members and academic advisors have the same faith requirements and commitments as on-campus employees.

Many Christian schools have faculty members who can teach both on-campus students and distance learners. Many affordable online Christian colleges and universities utilize state-of-the-art technologies to facilitate virtual discussions and meetings.

Numerous academic programs at on-campus Christian colleges require students to participate in church-related or religious activities once per week. Although online programs have similar attendance requirements, distance learners aren’t required to participate regularly.

Alternatively, online degrees may include capstone requirements related to faith-based services and Christian ministry. Students must have approval from school personnel and facilitate service works with community centers, shelters, and churches.

Accreditation For Online Christian Colleges: Here’s What You Should Know

Many online Christian colleges and universities have national or regional accreditations. Accreditations are important factors that influence academic standards, transfer options, and financial aid.

Therefore, students must always do comprehensive research on their prospective schools. The majority of non-vocational degrees prefer regional accreditation.

According to the Council for Higher Education Accreditation, online Christian colleges and universities may hold additional accreditations through accrediting agencies responsible for religious institutions. The three main accrediting organizations include the Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools, the Association of Theological Schools, and the Association for Biblical Higher Education.

CHEA also acknowledges the AARTs or Association of Advanced Rabbinical and Talmudic Schools, Accreditation Commission, responsible for evaluating schools with the Jewish faith. Additionally, online Christian schools may also be distinguished by the Council for Christian Colleges & Universities (CSU). Although the CU is not an accrediting organization, it awards memberships to schools based on academic merits.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an online Christian college or university? Should I choose to enroll in one?

An online Christian college is a post-secondary and degree-granting academic institution that provides distance learners with academic programs, integrating Christian philosophy, biblical teachings, and other faith-based philosophies into the curriculum.

A variety of Christian colleges offer online degrees and concentrations in one specific denomination, including Catholic, Presbyterian, or Jesuit. Other schools are non-denominational. Unlike secular colleges and universities that provide Christ-centered studies to learners pursuing Christianity-related programs, online Christian colleges require all students to take program requirements related to the institution’s religious faith and beliefs.

Apart from Christian-related courses, distance learners may participate in online activities or events that unify the campus community in their practices, ideologies, and beliefs.

Do I need to be a Christian to enroll in an online Christian college?

In many instances, students don’t necessarily have to be Christian to attend an online Christian college or university. Many of these institutions encourage non-Christian students to enroll since they have a culture of diversity and inclusion, accepting students and employees regardless of differences in religion.

On the contrary, Christian and non-Christian students in a particular Christian school must comply with the same faith-related coursework and policies. Some Christian schools with more rigorous admission requirements may have to turn down non-Christian candidates.

Aspiring non-Christian students must contact their prospective Christian schools’ admission offices to learn more about admission and program requirements.

How much does an online degree (tuition and other fees) typically cost at an online Christian college?

According to the Education Data Initiative, undergraduates at online private colleges can pay more than $60,000 on average for tuition expenses. The figure doesn’t include miscellaneous expenses that students will incur over completing their degrees.

Students interested in pursuing their studies at an online Christian college can save money on tuition expenses by completing low-division courses at a community or junior college. Degree-seekers planning to transfer can also enjoy lower tuition fees at in-state public colleges or universities.

Several affordable online Christian colleges offer various financial aid options, including need-based grants and merit-based scholarship programs. Like most schools, many Christian colleges screen all applicants for financial aid.

Other online degrees also require a separate application for every student who wants to avail their financial aid options. Applicants also become eligible for federal loans and grants by completing their FAFSA annually.

What are some of the most common courses in the academic programs offered at an online Christian college?

Every online Christian college has different program requirements for their online degrees, including course selection. However, many of these schools offer similar faith-based courses in their general education requirements.

Some of the most common faith-based courses integrated into the academic program’s requirements include but are not limited to the following:

Introduction To Theology

Theology refers to the study of religious beliefs and God. From a Christian perspective, Theology will highlight the philosophies behind different biblical teachings, including the evolution of Christian beliefs.

Courses discussing the introduction to theology provide students with foundational skills and knowledge for advancing theology studies.

New Testament 

The New Testament examines the life and death of Jesus Christ, including his birth. It follows the birth of the modern Christian church. Students will explore the differences and similarities between the Old Testament and the New Testament.

Old Testament

Old Testament studies early biblical history, including the beginning of the world as described in the Book of Genesis. Students will learn how Old Testament dogmas have influenced ethics and laws throughout the world, including differences between the New Testament and 46 books of the Old Testament.

Religions of the World

The Religions of the World course will explore the fundamental similarities and differences between Hinduism, Judaism, Islam, Christianity, and other major religions. Emphasis revolves around different practices, polytheism vs. monotheism, scriptural differences, and regions where specific religions are dominant.

What is the difference between online Christian schools and online Catholic schools?

Examining the differences between online Christian schools vs. online Catholic schools will help students find their ideal academic programs. Here are some of the significant differences between these faith-based schools:

Religious Education

There are various approaches to religious studies among many online Christian and Catholic schools. Some schools have numerous religious courses as mandatory requirements, while others have fewer courses.

Some schools incorporate religious studies with secular education, while others have separate components. It applies to both public and private Catholic and Christian schools.

One significant difference is that online Catholic schools emphasize Catholicism in their religious studies. These schools may include Catholic doctrines, including the body’s seven sacraments, communion, and theology, as part of their curricula. On the contrary, online Christian schools don’t integrate Catholic doctrines or focus less on the topics.

Denomination

Catholicism is a part of a Christian denomination. Methodism, Unitarianism, Baptism, Anglicanism, and Protestantism are some of the other Christian denominations. By default, all Catholic schools are considered Christian schools.

However, some Christian schools aren’t considered Catholic schools since they don’t have any affiliation with the Roman Catholic church. Instead, some of these Christian schools belong to another sector of Christianity or are considered non-denominational Christian colleges or universities (within Christianity).

Secular Education

Online Catholic and Christian schools and secular institutions differ widely in learning and teaching methods. These schools may or may not incorporate secular with religious studies. Although some schools utilize a more traditional approach to teaching, other schools have a discovery-based approach or inquiry.

However, both Catholic and Christian schools emphasize more on secular studies. They include a diverse range of more demanding coursework, including science, mathematics, and language arts.

Key Takeaways

Academic requirements and types of classes will vary by Christian colleges and universities. Before pursuing an online college program at a Christian school, students must visit schools’ official websites and student handbooks to set their academic expectations. Academic advisors can also guide students regarding what to expect from their online programs. 

The good news is that many prominent affordable online Christian colleges offer undergraduate and graduate academic programs for distance learners. Some online colleges highlight individual courses and career-centered online certificate programs.

Other schools also include academic programs with asynchronous and synchronous learning formats. However, students pursuing accelerated programs can earn their degrees quickly. Prior learning credits can also help students graduate ahead of schedule.

Malcolm Peralty
Chief Editor