By: OCC Staff
Proverbs 18:15 says that “The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge, for the ears of the wise seek it out.” In that vein, this list of the top 30 most affordable online Bible colleges was compiled to help you as you seek out that knowledge. Some schools on this list concentrate on religious degrees, while other schools branch out and offer degrees in diverse topics. But all share a Christ-centered view of the world.
Online education is very similar to traditional education, but there are some key differences. The skillset required for successful online study can be assessed quickly in an online test, and you are on your way. As to the technical requirements of digital schooling, if you accessed this article without help, you probably have that aspect handled.
Several factors were assessed when rating the schools on this list of the top 30 most affordable online Bible colleges. Tuition cost was primary (15 points), student to faculty ratio was considered as an indicator of the amount of individual attention you can expect to receive (10 points), and the diversity of degrees offered online by a school (5 points). A bonus of five points was awarded for national recognition of the school’s educational endeavors. Schools that tied on points were ranked in order of decreasing tuition.
All enrollment, tuition, and student-to-faculty ratio figures are courtesy of the National Center for Education Statistics, a service of the US government. Information listed below is accurate as of November 2020. Please refer to a college’s official website for the most up-to-date information about tuition, fees, and degrees.
30 University of Northwestern-St Paul
Saint Paul, MN
School Website
The University of Northwestern-Saint Paul believes that the Bible is inerrant in its original writings and is the infallible authority for human behavior. They are a member of the National Association of Evangelicals. With a student to faculty ratio of 18:1, this affordable online bible college offers one associate degree and one bachelor’s degree 100% online, including a degree in Biblical studies. The University of Northwestern-St. Paul is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
| Points | Enrollment | Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| 16.5 | 3,493 | $29,460 |
29 Clarks Summit University
South Abington Township, PA
School Website
Clarks Summit University is an independent Baptist University. They are committed to providing a world-class, faith-based education that will help you use your God-given skills to shape your world. With a student to faculty ratio of 11:1, this accredited online bible college offers four bachelor’s degrees and four associates degrees 100% online, including degrees in the fields of Christian ministry and counseling. Clarks Summit University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education and the Association for Biblical Higher Education.
| Points | Enrollment | Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| 17.5 | 804 | $22,510 |
28 The Master’s University
Santa Clarita, CA
School Website
The Master’s University abides by the principle of Biblical fidelity, as evidenced by their willingness to defend the inerrancy and sufficiency of the written word of the Lord. They are affiliated with the Association of Christian Schools International which provides aid in their educational ministry. With a student to faculty ratio of 10:1, this online bible college offers five bachelor’s degrees and one master’s degree 100% online, including degrees in Christian ministries and Biblical counseling. The Master’s University is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.
| Points | Enrollment | Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| 18 | 1,713 | $31,970 |
27 Indiana Wesleyan University
Marion, IN
School Website
Indiana Wesleyan University is a well-respected, nationally known evangelical university that is committed to making education affordable and accessible to all. They are a comprehensive university of the Wesleyan Church. With a student to faculty ratio of 15:1, they offer many bachelor’s degrees and master’s degrees 100% online, including in the fields of ministry and theological studies. Indiana Wesleyan University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
| Points | Enrollment | Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| 18 | 14,730 | $25,346 |
26 Regent University
Virginia Beach, VA
School Website
Regent University sees its mission as offering “Christian leadership to change the world.” They are non-denominational in affiliation and espouse tolerance of diverse perspectives. With a student to faculty ratio of 28:1, they offer an associate degree and three bachelor’s degrees 100% online, including in the fields of Biblical and theological studies and Christian ministry. Regent University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
| Points | Enrollment | Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| 18 | 6,950 | $16,438 |
25 LeTourneau University
Longview, TX
School Website
A non-denominational Christian university founded for students with full-time jobs who want an education, LeTourneau University believes that Biblical revelation and scientific inquiry are not contradictory. With a student to faculty ratio of 12:1, they offer numerous bachelor’s degrees, five master’s degrees, and one associates degree, including in the fields of counseling and psychology, 100% online. LeTourneau University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
| Points | Enrollment | Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| 19 | 2,795 | $28,480 |
24 Dallas Baptist University
Dallas, TX
School Website
At DBU, 82.8% of the faculty hold doctorates or terminal degrees. They offer a distinctly Christian approach to education. Dallas Baptist University is affiliated with the Baptist General Convention of Texas. With a student to faculty ratio of 13:1, this online Baptist Bible college offers four associates degrees, 16 bachelor’s degrees, and many master’s degrees 100% online, including degrees in Biblical studies and Christian ministry. Dallas Baptist University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
| Points | Enrollment | Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| 19 | 5,319 | $26,180 |
23 Liberty University
Lynchburg, VA
School Website
Liberty University is the largest Christian University in the world. They believe that the Bible is inerrant in the originals and authoritative in all matters. With a student to faculty ratio of 18:1, they offer seven religious areas of focus for the bachelor’s and eight master’s degrees in religious areas with multiple specializations 100% online. Liberty University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
| Points | Enrollment | Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| 19 | 80,494 | $21,292 |
22 Lancaster Bible College
Lancaster, PA
School Website
Lancaster Bible College is a member of the Evangelical Training Association, which promotes higher standards in the training of church teachers and educators. They believe that the Bible is the final authority in life and in faith. With a student to faculty ratio of 14:1, they offer four bachelor’s degrees 100% online, including in the fields of Biblical studies and business administration. Lancaster Bible College is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education and the Association for Biblical Higher Education Commission on Accreditation.
| Points | Enrollment | Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| 19.5 | 1,913 | $21,500 |
21 Colorado Christian University
Lakewood, CO
School Website
Colorado Christian University believes the Bible to be the only infallible, authoritative Word of God. They are non-denominational, independent, and one of the top Christian universities in Colorado and the only evangelical institution of higher learning in the Rocky Mountain region. With a student to faculty ratio of 15:1, they offer eleven associates degrees, 24 bachelor’s, and 21 master’s degrees 100% online, including in the fields of Biblical studies and early childhood education. Colorado Christian University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
| Points | Enrollment | Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| 20 | 6,879 | $29,360 |
20 Moody Bible Institute
Chicago, IL
School Website
From the very beginning in 1870, they have been focused on applying God’s word to individual lives. The Moody Bible Institute holds that the Bible is a document without error. With a student to faculty ratio of 17:1, they offer one associates degree and four bachelor’s degrees, 100% online, including degrees in ministry leadership and theological studies. The Moody Bible Institute is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools and the Association for Biblical Higher Education.
| Points | Enrollment | Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| 20 | 3,922 | $12,630 |
19 Manhattan Christian College
Manhattan, KS
School Website
Manhattan Christian College is affiliated with independent Christian Churches and Churches of Christ of the Restoration Movement. Manhattan Christian College was founded in 1927 and has operated continuously as a Christian institution of higher learning. With a student to faculty ratio of 17:1, they offer two bachelor’s degrees available 100% online in the fields of Biblical leadership and management and ethics. Manhattan Christian College is accredited by both the Higher Learning Commission, a commission of the North Central Association, and by the Association for Biblical Higher Education.
| Points | Enrollment | Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| 20.5 | 308 | $14,986 |
18 Southwestern Assemblies of God University
Waxahachie, TX
School Website
Southwestern Assemblies of God University believes that the Bible is the ultimate source of truth and that the Lord has revealed Himself in scripture. These eight Assemblies of God districts join together in ownership of the school: Arkansas, Louisiana, New Mexico, North Texas, Oklahoma, South Texas, Mississippi, and West Texas. With a student to faculty ratio of 14:1, they offer 13 associates, 32 bachelor’s, and 28 master’s degrees 100% online. Southwestern Assemblies of God University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
| Points | Enrollment | Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| 21 | 1,974 | $19,560 |
17 Clear Creek Baptist Bible College
Pineville, KY
School Website
Clear Creek Baptist Bible College offers God-centered education with the principles of convenience and affordability at the forefront. They are the official Bible college of the Kentucky Baptist Convention. With a student to faculty ratio of 12:1, this cheap online Bible college offers an associates degree and a bachelor’s degree 100% online, in the field of ministry. Clear Creek Baptist Bible College is accredited by the Association for Biblical Higher Education and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
| Points | Enrollment | Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| 21 | 151 | $7,220 |
16 Barclay College
Haviland, KS
School Website
Barclay College is an evangelical Friends school that accepts people of all evangelical faith traditions. They believe that the Bible was inspired by God and that the Holy Spirit is the one true interpreter of the text. With a student to faculty ratio of 11:1, they offer one associate’s degree, and four bachelor’s degrees offered 100% online, including degrees in the fields of Biblical studies and Christian ministry leadership. Barclay College is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of the Association for Biblical Higher Education.
| Points | Enrollment | Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| 21.5 | 273 | $15,990 |
15 Toccoa Falls College
Toccoa Falls, GA
School Website
Toccoa Falls College believes in the verbal inspiration of the original Holy Scripture. They are an independent, non-sectarian school that conducts itself according to the principles of the Christian and Missionary Alliance denomination. Toccoa Falls College consists of four schools: professional studies, arts and sciences, Christian ministries, and the Fetterman School of Nursing.
With a student to faculty ratio of 13:1, they offer three associates degrees and ten bachelor’s degrees 100% online, including degrees in the fields of ministry leadership and counseling psychology. Toccoa Falls College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
| Points | Enrollment | Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| 22 | 937 | $21,414 |
14 Nazarene Bible College
Colorado Springs, CO
School Website
Nazarene Bible College is one of two institutions charged by the Nazarene denomination with the preparation of ministers. They see their mission as preparing adults to evangelize, disciple, and minister. With a student to faculty ratio of 9:1, they offer one associate and one bachelor’s 100% online, in the field of ministry. Nazarene Bible College is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission and the Commission on Accreditation of the Association for Biblical Higher Education.
| Points | Enrollment | Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| 22 | 783 | $11,520 |
13 John Wesley University
High Point, NC
John Wesley University is an inter-denominational university which instructs in the fundamental doctrines of evangelical Christianity. According to their website, they offer biblically-based education that is flexible, accessible, accredited, and affordable. With a student to faculty ratio of 15:1, they offer eight bachelor’s degrees and two master’s degrees, 100% online, including the fields of Christian ministry and religious studies. John Wesley University is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of the Association for Biblical Higher Education.
| Points | Enrollment | Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| 22 | 158 | $11,230 |
12 Mid-Atlantic Christian University
Elizabeth City, NC
School Website
The vision of Mid-Atlantic Christian University is to be a growing community of high-quality Biblical education. Mid-Atlantic Christian University is an independent institution of higher learning from congregations and individuals of the Christian Churches and Churches of Christ.
With a student to faculty ratio of 12:1, they offer one associates degree and two bachelor’s degrees, 100% online, in the fields of Biblical studies and Christian ministry. Mid-Atlantic Christian University is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
| Points | Enrollment | Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| 23 | 204 | $13,600 |
11 Piedmont International University
Winston-Salem, NC
School Website
Since 1945, Piedmont International University has been proud to offer biblically based higher education to North Carolina and the world. They believe in the literal understanding in the teaching and application of the Bible. With a student to faculty ratio of 9:1, they offer two associates degrees and eight bachelor’s degrees 100% online, including the fields of Biblical studies and ministry. Piedmont International University is accredited by the Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools.
| Points | Enrollment | Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| 23 | 740 | $9,650 |
10 Central Baptist College
Conway, AR
School Website
Central Baptist College is owned and operated by the Baptist Missionary Association of Arkansas. They believe that the Bible is God’s complete and inerrant revelation to man. In operation under its current name since 1962, they remain committed to their mission of Christ-centered education for all their students. With a student to faculty ratio of 11:1, they offer two associates degrees and five bachelor’s degrees, 100% online, including degrees in the fields of psychology and counseling and missions. Central Baptist College is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.
| Points | Enrollment | Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| 24 | 881 | $15,000 |
9 Luther Rice College and Seminary
Lithonia, GA
School Website
One of the core values of Luther Rice College and Seminary is devotion to the word, will, and ways of God. All of the degrees offered by the college are available online and on campus. With a student to faculty ratio of 23:1, they offer four bachelor’s degrees and five master’s degrees 100% online, including degrees in Biblical studies and apologetics. Luther Rice College and Seminary is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of the Association for Biblical Higher Education.
| Points | Enrollment | Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| 24 | 1,154 | $6,800 |
8 Lee University
Cleveland, TN
School Website
Lee University is a Christian school operated by the Church of God, firmly committed to conservative, Pentecostal, and evangelical principles. They have been listed as a “Top Tier (Regional)” university by US News and World Report. With a student to faculty ratio of 17:1, they offer a bachelor’s in Christian studies and Bible and Theology, 100% online. Lee University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
| Points | Enrollment | Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| 25 | 5,041 | $15,770 |
7 Amridge University
Montgomery, AL
School Website
Amridge University is an independent institution dedicated to Christian ideals and principles. They are composed of five schools: the college of business and leadership, the college of general studies, the school of human services, the Turner school of theology, and the school of continuing education. With a student to faculty ratio of 10:1, they offer over thirty online programs at the associate, bachelor’s and master’s levels, 100% online, including in the fields of ministry and marriage and family counseling. Amridge University is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
| Points | Enrollment | Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| 26 | 627 | $7,180 |
6 Southeastern Baptist College
Laurel, MS
School Website
Southeastern Baptist College is operated by the Baptist Missionary Association of Mississippi. Their motto is “Serving Christ with a Biblical worldview in a Christian atmosphere.” With a student to faculty ratio of 6:1, they offer three associates degrees and one bachelor’s degree, 100% online, including degrees in church ministry and business. Southeastern Baptist College is accredited at the state level by the Mississippi Commission on College Accreditation, and by the Association For Biblical Higher Education nationally.
| Points | Enrollment | Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| 26 | 38 | $4,790 |
5 Shasta Bible College and Graduate School
Redding, CA
School Website
Shasta Bible College and Graduate School believes in the verbal inspiration of the scriptures. They hold membership in the Association of Christian Schools International and are approved to offer courses toward teacher certification through that organization. With a student to faculty ratio of 5:1, they offer two associates degrees, five bachelor’s degrees, and twelve master’s degrees, 100% online, including in the fields of Christian professional studies and Christian teacher education. Shasta Bible College and Graduate School is accredited by the Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools.
| Points | Enrollment | Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| 26.5 | 50 | $12,060 |
4 Heritage Christian University
Florence, AL
School Website
Heritage Christian University provides biblically based education in the tradition of the Churches of Christ. They offer access to lists of preacher vacancies to their graduates. With a student to faculty ratio of 8:1, they offer one associate degree, one bachelor’s degree, and three master’s degrees, 100% online, including degrees in Biblical studies and ministry. Heritage Christian University is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of the Association for Biblical Higher Education.
| Points | Enrollment | Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| 26.5 | 92 | $9,792 |
3 God’s Bible School and College
Cincinnati, OH
School Website
God’s Bible School and College believes that the Bible is the inspired and inerrant word of God. They espouse the principles of Wesleyan-Arminian theology and have been pursuing the mission of the teachings of Jesus for more than one hundred years. With a student to faculty ratio of 11:1, they offer four associates and four bachelor’s degrees, 100% online, including in the fields of Biblical and theological studies and ministerial studies. They are accredited by the Association for Biblical Higher Education, and by the Higher Learning Commission.
| Points | Enrollment | Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| 27 | 280 | $7,040 |
2 Carolina College of Biblical Studies
Fayetteville, NC
School Website
Carolina College of Biblical Studies believes that the Bible is the inerrant word of God and is of supreme authority in all matters of life and faith. They are approved, through the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements, to offer distance education in 47 states and the District of Columbia. With a student to faculty ratio of 8:1, they offer two associates degrees and two bachelor’s degrees, 100% online in the fields of Biblical studies and leadership and ministry. Carolina College of Biblical Studies is accredited by the Association for Biblical Higher Education.
| Points | Enrollment | Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| 27 | 117 | $5,325 |
1 Virginia Baptist College
Fredericksburg, VA
School Website
Virginia Baptist College believes in Scripture as the only infallible and authoritative guide in faith and practice. They see their mission as preparing individuals for lay and professional ministry. With a student to faculty ratio of 5:1, they offer two associates degrees, two bachelor’s degrees, and three master’s degrees, 100% online, including degrees in the fields of ministry and Christian education. They also offer a one-year Bible certificate. Virginia Baptist College is a member of the Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools.
| Points | Enrollment | Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| 29 | 108 | $5,560 |
Source:
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