5 Cheapest Christian Colleges in South Carolina

5 Cheapest Christian Colleges in South Carolina
By Dr. James Barham
Reviewed By Dr. Jed Macosko
Published:
Updated:

Key Takeaways

  • A majority of the cheapest Christian colleges in South Carolina offer state grants and scholarships to assist students financially.
  • To ensure that you get a quality education at an affordable price, pay attention to financial aid, accreditation, and graduation rates at the college you are interested in attending.
  • It is important that the affordable Christian college you choose in South Carolina not only aligns with your faith, but also with your learning and career goals and schedule preferences.

Cheapest Christian Colleges in South Carolina in 2025

  1. Bob Jones University
  2. Anderson University
  3. Charleston Southern University
    +2
  4. Newberry College
    –1
  5. Southern Wesleyan University
    –1

2025 Ranking Update

Our Influence Ranking Engine™ leverages machine learning to track the real-world influence of colleges and universities over time. Below you’ll see which schools gained or lost ground for the 2025 school year.

Bob Jones University remains in the top spot in our 2025 ranking of the most affordable Christian colleges in South Carolina. Charleston Southern University jumped 2 positions to move up to number 3.

While Bob Jones didn’t make any specific changes to their programming for this school year, the school is continues to receive recognition for their long-term strategies that help their students maintain an affordable education. Key factors include offering a high level of financial aid, with nearly half of its students receiving Pell Grants, and an average aid package of approximately $15,800.

Charleston Southern University has expanded its scholarship offerings, specifically for students pursuing ministry degrees, making it one of the cheapest Christian colleges in South Carolina. The school has also developed new student support services, such as providing free or low-cost healthcare visits with local partner organizations, further enhancing the affordability for students.

Most Christian colleges in SC offer top-notch faith-based programs. However, tuition fees, quality of education, and accreditation usually keep some potential students from pursuing their dreams. After thorough research, we have rounded up the cheapest Christian colleges in South Carolina that’ll nurture your faith, intellect, and goals.

Woman wearing a backpack and headphones while holding a binder with both of her hands

Top 5 Cheapest Christian Colleges in South Carolina

Luckily, South Carolina has some excellent yet affordable faith-based colleges that help you gain a solid Christian education. To make it on the list, the schools identify as Christian, are fully accredited, and offer many bachelor’s degree programs with multiple financial assistance options.

The good news is that we have done the legwork and put together the best Christian colleges and the key factors to consider.

  1. #1

    Bob Jones University

    Greenville , SC
    #9 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Doctoral Degrees 2025 #1 Best Christian Colleges in South Carolina 2025 #1 Best Small Colleges in South Carolina 2025 #2 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $22K

    Graduation

    69%

    Student body

    4K

    Overview of Bob Jones University

    • Financial aid: Yes
    • Graduation rate: 65%
    • Acceptance rate: 89%
    • Accreditation: SACSCOC
    • In-state tuition: $11,140 per semester
    • Out-of-state tuition: $11,140 per semester
    • Focus areas: Religious Studies, Theological and Ministerial Studies, Political Science, Criminal Justice, Literature, and History.

    What Do We Love About Bob Jones University?

    Founded in 1927, Bob Jones University is an accredited Christian Liberal Arts University that has thrived by building faith for its students since its establishment.

    At BJU, classes are taught from a biblical worldview to help students know God and imitate him. With a 12:1 student-to-faculty ratio, the university fosters close relationships between professors and students for a better religious understanding.

    • Bob Jones University is great for students who: Prefer a less competitive Christian school with strong Biblical programs. The 89% acceptance rate means you can easily secure a spot at BJU.
    • Bob Jones University might not be the best fit for those who: Prefer a more relaxed environment since alumni of BJU often call it a relatively “stricter” university compared to others.

    Bob Jones University’s Online Degrees

    BS in Business
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Professional Studies
    Degree Concentrations
    • Marketing
    • Exercise And Sport Science
    • Liberal Arts
    • Marketing
    • Social Science
    • Exercise And Sport Science
    • Liberal Arts
    • Social Science
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BSN in Nursing Rn To Bsn
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  2. #2

    Anderson University, South Carolina

    Anderson , SC
    #4 Best Private Colleges in South Carolina 2024 #4 Best Christian Colleges in South Carolina 2025 #6 Best Grad Schools in South Carolina 2025 #8 Best Small Colleges in South Carolina 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $32K

    Acceptance

    45%

    Graduation

    60%

    Student body

    5K

    Career Outlook for degree at Anderson University, South Carolina

    Cost of Degree: $33,580
    Expenses: $17,450
    Starting Salary: $38,400
    Cost Recoup Time: 19 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Overview of Anderson University 

    • Financial aid: Yes
    • Graduation rate: 26%
    • Acceptance rate: 45%
    • Accreditation: SACSCOC
    • In-state tuition: $18,075 per semester
    • Out-of-state tuition: $18,075 per semester
    • Focus areas: Exercise Science & Psychology, Social Work, Pastoral Ministry, Nursing, Apologetics, and Biblical Studies.

    What Do We Love About Anderson University?

    Founded in 1911, Anderson University offers 59 major degree programs, 38 concentrations, 46 minors, and 18 cheap master’s programs and doctoral degrees. The university’s mission is to make you win in three core aspects – family, community work, and church.

    Professors at AU are authors and pastors who have joined hands with some of the leading Evangelical world’s men and women of God. Plus, the 10:1 student-to-faculty ratio makes sure you can approach your professors for frequent biblical or spiritual discussions.

    • Anderson University is great for students who: Thrive in a competitive environment and prefer a diversity of program choices.
    • Anderson University might not be the best fit for those who: Seeking cheaper college alternatives in SC for pursuing their Christian studies. For its vibrant campus life and facilities, some might find Anderson University pricey.

    Anderson University, South Carolina’s Online Degrees

    BS in Business Administration
    Degree Concentrations
    • Management
    • Marketing
    • Supply Chain Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BOLS in Organizational Leadership
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Organizational Leadership
    Degree Concentrations
    • Human Resource Administration
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Homeland Security And Emergency Services
    Degree Concentrations
    • Emergency Services Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Christian Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BIS in Interdisciplinary Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
    3. Rosary in between the pages of an opened Bible
  4. #3

    Charleston Southern University

    Charleston , SC
    #5 Best Christian Colleges in South Carolina 2025 #9 Best Small Colleges in South Carolina 2025 #4 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in South Carolina #5 Best Online MBA Programs in South Carolina
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $30K

    Acceptance

    87%

    Graduation

    44%

    Student body

    4K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1055/20

    Career Outlook for degree at Charleston Southern University

    Cost of Degree: $31,030
    Starting Salary: $40,600

    Overview of Charleston Southern University

    • Financial aid: Yes
    • Graduation rate: 34%
    • Acceptance rate: 87%
    • Accreditation: SACSCOC
    • In-state tuition: $515 per credit hour
    • Out-of-state tuition: $515 per credit hour
    • Focus areas: Christian Discipleship, Church History, Systematic Theology, Hermeneutics, Communications, Literature, and Criminal Justice.

    What Do We Love About Charleston Southern University?

    Founded in 1964, Charleston Southern University (CSU) is a private Baptist university in North Charleston, South Carolina. It is affiliated with the South Carolina Baptist Convention and is deeply committed to Christian values and principles, which non-Christians might find hard to attend.

    The university aims to promote academic excellence in a Christian environment. Offering 60+ undergraduate programs and 20 graduate degree programs, CSU promotes diversity based on personal interests. Their 12:1 student-to-faculty ratio facilitates greater interactions between professors and students.

    • Charleston Southern University is great for students who: Are seeking a supportive Christian environment since eligible military and veteran students can have up to 100% of their tuition covered.
    • Charleston Southern University might not be the best fit for those who: Prefer networking since CSU is a small school with a smaller alumni network.

    Charleston Southern University’s Online Degrees

    BS in Hospitality And Tourism Management
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Human Resources
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Management
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Supply Chain Management
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Computer And Information Sciences
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BT in Computer Science
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Criminal Justice
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Professional Studies
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Healthcare Administration
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  5. #4

    Newberry College

    Newberry , SC
    #10 Best Private Colleges in South Carolina 2024 #10 Best Christian Colleges in South Carolina 2025 #20 Best Online Colleges in South Carolina 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $29K

    Acceptance

    75%

    Graduation

    49%

    Student body

    1K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1015/19

    Career Outlook for degree at Newberry College

    Cost of Degree: $30,050
    Expenses: $16,725
    Starting Salary: $37,600
    Cost Recoup Time: 18 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Overview of Newberry College

    • Financial aid: Yes
    • Graduation rate: 37%
    • Acceptance rate: 75%
    • Accreditation: SACSCOC
    • In-state tuition: $15,025 per semester
    • Out-of-state tuition: $15,025 per semester 
    • Focus areas: Arts & Communication, Business Administration, Political Science, Military Science Leadership, History, and Mathematics.

    What Do We Love About Newberry College?

    Newberry College, located in Newberry, South Carolina, offers value-based learning experiences. With 24 majors, 31 minors, and a 13:1 student-to-faculty ratio, it’s hardly surprising why NC tops the list for many students.

    With a deep focus on religious studies, Newberry College also shares affiliation with the Evangelical Lutheran Church Faith. Once here, you can understand the heritage of Christianity more deeply and strengthen your faith.

    • Newberry College is great for students who: Are looking for a college with a deep sense of community. It’s also best for those who thrive in smaller classes and want to stand out.
    • Newberry College might not be the best fit for those who: As a smaller institution, Newberry College has fewer facilities, resources, and extracurricular opportunities.

    Newberry College’s Online Degrees

    BA in Criminal Justice
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BSN in Nursing Rn To Bsn
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Respiratory Therapy
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
    6. Students talking to each other inside a classroom while waiting for their class to start
  6. #5

    Southern Wesleyan University

    Central , SC
    #10 Best Grad Schools in South Carolina 2025 #1 Best Online Associate Degrees in South Carolina 2025 #7 Best Online MBA Programs in South Carolina #11 Best Online MBA Programs in South Carolina
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $28K

    Acceptance

    51%

    Graduation

    60%

    Student body

    1K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1086/21

    Career Outlook for degree at Southern Wesleyan University

    Cost of Degree: $27,870
    Expenses: $14,039
    Starting Salary: $46,200
    Cost Recoup Time: 15 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Overview of Southern Wesleyan University 

    • Financial aid: Yes
    • Graduation rate: 52%
    • Acceptance rate: 52%
    • Accreditation: SACSCOC 
    • In-state tuition: $26,520 per year 
    • Out-of-state tuition: $26,520 per year 
    • Focus Areas: Christian Ministry, Youth & Children Ministry, Christian Worship, Church Music, Business Administration, Criminal Justice Studies, and Religion.

    What Do We Love About Southern Wesleyan University?

    Southern Wesleyan University is a vibrant community centered around Christ and transforming lives. Founded in 1906, SWU aims to impart Christian values and principles and shape students into dedicated scholars and servant-leaders.

    The campus spans 350 acres in the historic town of Central. Here, students engage in spiritual and character development alongside academics. Also, most students at SWU are members of the National Christian College Athletic Association (NCCAA) and the South Region.

    • Southern Wesleyan University is great for students who: Wish to earn while being enrolled in their degree of interest. This is because SWU’s online degree programs are recognized for their Christian values and relevance to today’s job market.
    • Southern Wesleyan University might not be the best fit for those who: Prefer a relaxed learning environment, as SWU offers 18-month-long programs with no break between courses.

    Southern Wesleyan University’s Online Degrees

    BS in Business Administration
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Early Childhood And Family Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Early Childhood And Family Studies Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Human Services
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school

Related Questions

How Many Christian Colleges Are in South Carolina?

In South Carolina, a total of 17 Christian colleges and universities enroll around 24,143 students, offering religious programs and biblical viewpoints on life. Most colleges are affiliated with Christian churches, faiths, or other Christian organizations.

Are There Any Specific Majors or Programs of Study for Which These SC Colleges Are Known?

Yes, many colleges on the list specialize in different programs, offering students the flexibility to choose their areas of interest. For instance, Anderson University and Charleston Southern University are known for their diverse faith-based programs and rigorous theological training.

Are Any Scholarship Opportunities or Financial Assistance Options Available at Christian Universities in SC?

Yes, in South Carolina, Christian colleges offer special scholarships based on academics, leadership, and community service. For added financial feasibility, they also offer loans, grants, and work-study programs. Before you step in, it’s best to reach out to the financial aid office of each college for more details on aid.

Conclusion

Whether you want a close-knit Christian community or personalized religious programs, colleges in South Carolina have it. The best part? Their generous scholarships make spiritual education more accessible! So, explore these options and take the first step toward Christianity that prepares you for a meaningful life ahead.

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