5 Cheapest Christian Colleges in Illinois

Attending a Christian college is a great way to combine higher education with spiritual growth and community involvement. Illinois is home to many Christian colleges, and finding an affordable option can be a hassle for many students. Even if you find one, accreditation issues can put off some potential students.

Well, don’t worry. We have compiled a list of the cheapest Christian colleges in Illinois. These will help you in making an informed decision about your future.

5 Cheapest Christian Colleges in Illinois

The decision of which institute to choose depends on many things, including the cost, program availability, quality of education, accommodation, mode of learning, and the institute’s environment.

However, to give you a general idea, we have five options in the Prairie State. You should pick the one that best suits your interests and financial condition.

1. #1

   Trinity Christian College

   Palos Heights , IL

   Tuition + fees

   $34K

   Acceptance

   71%

   Graduation

   69%

   Student body

   1K

   Median SAT/ACT

   1010/24

   Career Outlook for degree at Trinity Christian College

   Cost of Degree: $34,325

   Expenses: $14,500

   Starting Salary: $44,600

   Cost Recoup Time: 17 years

   Paid back at 15% of annual salary

   Overview of Trinity Christian College

   • Acceptance rate: 71%
   • Graduation rate: 67%
   • Accreditation: HLC
   • Financial aid: Yes
   • Focus Study Area: Elementary Education, Psychology, Special Education and Teaching, Social Work.

   What We Love About This College?

   Founded in 1823, Trinity Christian College ranks 15th in Regional Colleges Midwest rankings. It offers students an environment where they experience personal, professional, and spiritual growth. Trinity Christian College offers around 70 academic and professional programs, and students can choose the one that best suits their interests.

   The curriculum of each program is designed in such a way that students can connect their faith and learning. In addition, open discussion on faith and participation in chapel services create a sense of awareness in students.

   • Trinity Christian College is Best for Students Who: Students who want to be involved in community work, faith research, internships, and real application of classroom knowledge find Trinity Christian College an attractive option.
   • Trinity Christian College isn’t Suitable for Students Who: The college doesn’t offer too many extracurricular activities, which may not attract students who love to party and enjoy their campus life.

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2. #2

   Moody Bible Institute

   Chicago , IL

   #1 Top 10 Best Online Bible Colleges for Theological Studies #1 Best Online Bachelor's of Theology Degree Programs in 2024 #1 Best Online Associate in Biblical Studies #2 Best Online Associate Degrees in Illinois 2024

   Other Rankings

   • #2 Best Online Bachelor’s in Biblical Studies
   • #6 Best Online Bachelor’s of Christian Ministry Degree Programs for 2024
   • #10 Best Online Colleges in Illinois 2024
   • #19 Best Online Master's Programs in Illinois 2024

   Tuition + fees

   $16K

   Acceptance

   94%

   Graduation

   61%

   Student body

   3K

   Overview of Moody Bible Institute in Chicago

   • Acceptance rate: 94%
   • Graduation rate: 41%
   • Financial aid: Yes
   • Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation of the Association for Biblical Higher Education
   • In-state tuition cost: $13,898
   • Out-of-state tuition fee: $13,898
   • Focus Study Area: Theological and Ministerial Studies, Religious Education, Youth Ministry, Religious/Sacred Music

   What We Love About This College?

   With a minimal tuition fee and a high acceptance rate, Moody Bible is an amazing option on the list. The college, founded in 1886, equips students with biblical and ministry knowledge to empower them to impact their surroundings through Christianity.

   With a lower student-faculty ratio, students become part of a close-knit community that gives them the chance to nourish their Christian faiths.

   The institute features a library, gymnasium, and student centers, providing students with facilities for academic study and community engagement. On top of this, there are various labs to equip students with practical ministry training.

   • Moody Bible Institute is best for students who: Students looking for an immersive biblical and practical ministry experience find Moody Bible Institute a good choice.
   • Moody Bible Institute isn’t suitable for students who: The academic programs aren’t as diverse as in other Christian colleges, so students who want to explore various academic options may not find this an ideal spot.

   Moody Bible Institute’s Online Degrees

   BS in Biblical Studies

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BS in Integrated Ministry Studies

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BS in Ministry Leadership

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BS in Theological Studies

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

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3. #3

   Judson University

   Elgin , IL

   Tuition + fees

   $31K

   Acceptance

   58%

   Graduation

   53%

   Student body

   1K

   Median SAT/ACT

   1025/21

   Career Outlook for degree at Judson University

   Cost of Degree: $30,910

   Expenses: $15,090

   Starting Salary: $47,200

   Cost Recoup Time: 16 years

   Paid back at 15% of annual salary

   Overview of Judson University

   • Acceptance rate: 59%
   • Graduation rate: 44%
   • Financial aid: Yes
   • Accreditation: HLC
   • Focus Study Area: Architecture, Psychology, Human Services, Speech Communication and Rhetoric

   What We Love About This College?

   Judson University was established in 1963 in Illinois. It empowers students to focus on their personal development through educational and spiritual training. Students can be involved in research work, internships, and other community work that help them make a positive impact beyond the campus boundaries.

   The university offers diverse academic programs such as business, psychology, arts, and architecture, which make it the right choice for students who want to explore various fields.

   • Judson University is best for students who: Judson University has a 10:1 student-faculty ratio, which makes it a perfect fit for students looking for close interactions with educators.
   • Judson University isn’t suitable for students who: There aren’t a lot of extra-curricular activities, which may put off students seeking a vibrant social scene outside of academics.

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5. #4

   Greenville University

   Greenville , IL

   #13 Best Online Bachelor’s in Agribusiness and Agriculture Degree Programs

   Tuition + fees

   $31K

   Acceptance

   94%

   Graduation

   58%

   Student body

   1K

   Median SAT/ACT

   1009/21

   Career Outlook for degree at Greenville University

   Cost of Degree: $30,548

   Expenses: $13,454

   Starting Salary: $39,900

   Cost Recoup Time: 17 years

   Paid back at 15% of annual salary

   Overview of Greenville University

   • Acceptance rate: 94%
   • Graduation rate: 45%
   • Financial aid: Yes
   • Accreditation: HLC
   • Focus Study Area: Elementary education and Teaching, Business Administration and Management, Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration, Organizational Behaviour Studies, Psychology, Social Work, and Digital Arts

   What We Love About This College?

   Founded in 1892, Greenville University provides students with spiritual knowledge along with proper academic education. The faculty at the university is popular for giving extra attention to individual students to offer them personalized guidance. They aim to create an environment where students receive education as per their unique needs.

   There are special cultural events that allow students to participate in community services. Campus life at this university includes academic clubs, honors societies, and community work.

   • Greenville University is best for students who: Students who love experiential learning with a focus on teamwork and character development prefer Greenville University.
   • Greenville University isn’t suitable for students who: GU has one of the highest tuition fees on the list, which may not be a financially viable option for many students.  

   Greenville University’s Online Degrees

   BS in Agribusiness

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BS in Business Management

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BS in Organizational Leadership

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BS in Criminal Justice

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BS in Liberal Studies

   • Required Credits: 120
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

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6. #5

   Eureka College

   Eureka , IL

   #10 Best Christian Colleges in Illinois 2024

   Tuition + fees

   $28K

   Acceptance

   87%

   Graduation

   54%

   Student body

   <1K

   Career Outlook for degree at Eureka College

   Cost of Degree: $28,380

   Expenses: $12,553

   Starting Salary: $40,500

   Cost Recoup Time: 16 years

   Paid back at 15% of annual salary

   Overview of Eureka College

   • Acceptance rate: 87%
   • Graduation rate: 41%
   • Financial aid: Yes
   • Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
   • Focus study area: Business Administration and Management, Psychology, Kinesiology and Exercise Science, Special Education and Teaching, English Language and Literature, Communication.

   What We Love About This College?

   The Eureka College, founded in 1855, ranks at 41 positions in the Regional Colleges Midwest. One famous program that helps students positively impact society is the Ronald W. Reagan Leadership Program. It helps in building ethical leaders who can lead society in an exemplary way.

   In addition, students also get a liberal arts education as part of the Disciples of Christ tradition that enhances their intellectual growth and gives them the spirit to serve the community.

   • Eureka College is best for students who: The learning environment at Eureka College is supportive and inclusive, which is best for students who want to connect with teachers and alumni for a better learning experience.
   • Eureka College isn’t suitable for students who: Lower graduation rate at Eureka College indicates competitive education, which may not be suitable for students with average academics.  

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Related Questions

Which is the toughest religious college in Illinois?

With about a 5% graduation rate, Hebrew Theological College is one of the toughest colleges in Illinois to graduate. However, it’s worth mentioning that Hebrew Theological College is a Jewish-centric institute in Illinois.

What types of ministry opportunities are available for students at Judson University?

At Judson University, students have various ministry opportunities, including mission trips, local outreach programs, campus ministries, and volunteering with community organizations. These avenues allow students to apply their faith in practical ways.

Do cheap Christian colleges in Illinois offer high-quality education?

Yes. Being a cheap Christian college doesn’t necessarily mean low-quality education. That’s why it’s important to consider other factors, such as state ranking, student-to-faculty ratio, mode of learning, financial aid, and availability of your desired program.

Conclusion

Illinois is home to a variety of Christian schools. You should opt for the one that offers the program that suits your interests and allows you to participate in community services. This way, you can have a quality education while nurturing your spiritual growth.