Top 10 Best Online Bible Colleges for Theological Studies

Have you ever dreamed of going full-time into ministry? If so, enrolling in an online Bible college and pursuing theological studies is a good choice. Even those who want to pursue careers unrelated to religion might gain much from theological education.

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What Is a Bible College?

Bible colleges are higher education institutions with a theology and Christian-related curriculum that emphasizes biblical courses and often includes studying a language like Latin, Greek, or Hebrew.

Many Bible colleges also have seminaries to prepare Christian leaders for ordination and careers in ministry or theology. These Bible colleges, such as the Moody Bible Institute and Dallas Theological Seminary, are renowned for offering Christian degrees at the associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and postgraduate levels and many online Christian colleges also offer online degree programs.

Best Online Bible Colleges for Theological Studies

1. #1

   Moody Bible Institute

   Chicago , IL

   #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 #2 Best Online Bachelor’s in Biblical Studies

   Other Rankings

   • #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

   What is Moody Bible Institute known for?

   Moody Bible Institute’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

   • Religious Studies
   • Social Work
   • Education
   • Medical

   Most Influential Alumni

   • Bart D. Ehrman
   • Mary McLeod Bethune
   • Daniel Everett
   • Wilbur M. Smith
   • John H. Walton
   • Gary Chapman
   • Tim Walberg
   • Sadie Lea Weidner

   Moody Bible Institute has an online Bachelor of Science in Theological Studies that is accredited by the Association for Biblical Higher Education. Students at this Bible college can attend the Moody Theological Seminary at the Chicago main campus and explore more courses to know the Bible, apply biblical truth, and better communicate the Scriptures.

   Students participate in various classes at Moody Bible Institute that allow them to articulate their beliefs better. Coursework involves research, writing, studying, and teaching the Bible. Students receive an online education that matches the rigor of on-campus degree programs.

   Prospective students should submit their high school transcripts, autobiographical essays, and two reference letters and pay a non-refundable application fee. SAT or ACT scores are optional.

   100% Online | Self-Paced

   Credits to Graduate: 120

   Average Cost per Credit

   • In State: $399
   • Out of State: $399

   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

   More

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2. #2

   Lancaster Bible College

   Lancaster , PA

   Tuition + fees

   $28K

   Acceptance

   97%

   Graduation

   68%

   Student body

   3K

   Median SAT/ACT

   1115/22

   Career Outlook for Theological Studies degree at Lancaster Bible College

   Cost of Degree: $28,460

   Expenses: $14,540

   Starting Salary: $24,498

   Salary after 4 years: $30,291

   Cost Recoup Time: 20 years

   Paid back at 15% of annual salary

   What is Lancaster Bible College known for?

   Lancaster Bible College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

   • Social Work
   • Religious Studies
   • Psychology
   • Education
   • Criminal Justice
   • Communications
   • Medical

   Lancaster Bible College prepares students for theology careers through their online Bachelor of Arts degree in Biblical Studies This Bible college is accredited by the Association for Biblical Higher Education.

   Students at Lancaster Bible college can choose to blend online courses with on-campus intensives to gain more hands-on learning experience from the faculty with years of experience in pastoral ministry. This is one of the few web-based programs in Biblical Studies offering various minors, including Business Administration, Human Services, Ministry Leadership, and Criminal Justice.

   Interested Christian students must submit official transcripts from previously attended institutions, standardized test scores, and local church or religious organization referrals.

   100% Online | Fast-Paced

   Credits to Graduate: 120

   Average Cost per Credit

   • In State: $375
   • Out of State: $375

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3. #3

   The King's University

   Southlake , TX

   #16 Best Online Associate Degrees in Texas 2024 #17 Best Online Associate in Christian Ministry #21 Best Online Bachelor’s in Biblical Studies #22 Best Online Master's in Theology

   Tuition + fees

   $13K

   Acceptance

   94%

   Graduation

   52%

   Student body

   <1K

   Career Outlook for Theological Studies degree at The King's University

   Cost of Degree: $12,720

   Starting Salary: $30,445

   Salary after 4 years: $37,644

   What is The King's University known for?

   The King's University ’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

   • Religious Studies
   • Medical
   • Social Work

   King’s University is a top-ranked Bible college to obtain a high-quality education in Christian studies. The online Bachelor of Biblical and Theological Studies equips students with the necessary abilities to become part of various Christian ministries.

   Students can develop Christian leadership skills by concentrating their studies on the land of the Bible, Israel. The program aims to help students gain a strong biblical education and be ready to examine the key individuals, locations, and events in the Old and New Testaments. In addition to online courses, students must complete Practicum Prep and Junior Ministry Practicum courses.

   Applicants should submit official high school transcripts with a minimum 2.5 GPA or the equivalent, and official SAT, ACT, or CLT scores.

   100% Online | Self-Paced

   Credits to Graduate: 120

   Average Cost per Credit

   • In State: $475
   • Out of State: $475

   Average Tuition

   • In-state: $12,720
   • Out-of-state: $12,720

   Accreditation: Commission on Accrediting of The Association of Theological Schools

   The King's University ’s Online Degrees

   BA in General Christian Studies

   • Required Credits: 124
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BA in Christian Ministries

   • Required Credits: 124
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   BA in Biblical and Theological Studies

   • Required Credits: 124
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

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4. #4

   God's Bible School and College

   Cincinnati , OH

   Tuition + fees

   $7K

   Acceptance

   64%

   Graduation

   45%

   Student body

   <1K

   Career Outlook for Theological Studies degree at God's Bible School and College

   Cost of Degree: $7,546

   Expenses: $9,988

   Starting Salary: $16,031

   Salary after 4 years: $19,821

   Cost Recoup Time: 15 years

   Paid back at 15% of annual salary

   What is God's Bible School and College known for?

   God's Bible School and College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

   • Religious Studies
   • Education
   • Business

   God’s Bible School and College, another top-ranked Bible college, offers an online Bachelor of Arts in Biblical & Theological Studies that is rooted in the rich tradition in Wesleyan-Arminian theology. The Association for Biblical Higher Education has accredited GBSC.

   Students in the program must complete various courses designed to hone their leadership abilities and prepare them for ministry roles. Students will comprehensively understand traditional Christian theology and the unique Wesleyan theology.

   Applicants must submit their official transcripts with a minimum GPA of 2.5. Students with lower GPAs can be considered but will have a conditional status.

   100% Online | Self-Paced

   Credits to Graduate: 120

   Average Cost per Credit

   • In State: $250
   • Out of State: $250

   Average Tuition

   • In-state: $7,046
   • Out-of-state: $7,046

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5. #5

   Summit Christian College

   Gering , NE

   Tuition + fees

   $8K

   Acceptance

   67%

   Graduation

   57%

   Student body

   <1K

   What is Summit Christian College known for?

   A top-ranked Bible college, Summit Christian College, offers a BA and BS in Biblical Studies. The Association for Biblical Higher Education accredits both programs. SCC also offers a low student-faculty ratio. Furthermore, the college offers one of the most affordable tuition rates of any of the Christian schools in our ranking.

   Students who want to focus on the original languages of the Bible should opt for the BA degree, while those interested in training for the clergy should choose the BS degree program. Students can also pursue seminar and certificate programs while pursuing their bachelor’s degree.

   Students interested in applying for the Bible studies program should submit official high school or college transcripts with a minimum 2.0 GPA, ACT/SAT scores, and character references.

   100% Online | Self-Paced

   Credits to Graduate: 120

   Average Cost per Credit

   • In State: $230
   • Out of State: $230

   Average Tuition

   • In-state: $7,958
   • Out-of-state: $7,958

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7. #6

   Ozark Christian College

   Joplin , MO

   #20 Best Online Bachelor’s in Biblical Studies #25 Best Online Colleges in Missouri 2024

   Tuition + fees

   $15K

   Acceptance

   94%

   Graduation

   53%

   Student body

   <1K

   Career Outlook for Theological Studies degree at Ozark Christian College

   Cost of Degree: $14,680

   Expenses: $10,850

   Starting Salary: $21,913

   Salary after 4 years: $27,094

   Cost Recoup Time: 15 years

   Paid back at 15% of annual salary

   What is Ozark Christian College known for?

   Ozark Christian College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

   • Religious Studies

   The Association for Biblical Higher Education fully accredits Ozark Christian College’s online Bachelor of Arts in Biblical Studies. The program at this Bible college comprises many Bible and professional education courses and a strong biblical emphasis designed with adults in mind.

   Like the other traditional degrees at OCC, this online degree requires students to complete academically rigorous courses. Additionally, this program allows online students to train for various ministry and community service positions.

   Online students must only submit their official high school or college transcripts. There are no GPA and standardized test scores requirements and no application fee.

   100% Online | Self-Paced

   Credits to Graduate: 120

   Average Cost per Credit

   • In State: $456
   • Out of State: $456

   Average Tuition

   • In-state: $21,138
   • Out-of-state: $21,138

   Ozark Christian College’s Online Degrees

   BA in Biblical Studies

   Degree Concentrations

   • Biblical Education
   • Professional Education
   • General Education

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

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9. #7

   St. Louis Christian College

   Florissant , MO

   #20 Best Online Associate Degrees in Missouri 2024 #24 Best Online Associate in Biblical Studies

   What is St. Louis Christian College known for?

   Another Bible college for students who want to enroll in traditional academic programs is Saint Louis Christian College’s Associate of Arts in General Studies. The Association for Biblical Higher Education has accredited this Christian College.

   This degree program uses an investigative approach to help students relay their ideas and points better. This on-campus program allows students to question life and God. Students study various fields, including Bible and Theology, Personal Finance, American History, and many other biblical courses.

   Applicants must submit official transcripts from accredited high schools or have high GED scores. There’s no minimum GPA requirement.

   Average Cost per Credit

   In State: $415

   Out of State: $415

   Credits to Graduate: 120

   Average Tuition

   In-state: $13,280

   Out-of-state:$13,280

   St. Louis Christian College’s Online Degrees

   BS in Christian Ministry

   • Required Credits: 54
   • Completion Time: None Reported
   • Format: Online

   Compare school
10. #8

    Davis College

    Pottersville , NY

    #5 Best Online Bachelor's in Christian Counseling Degree Programs #6 Best Online Bachelor's in Religious Studies Degree Programs for 2024 #11 Best Online Bachelor's in Music Degree Programs Ranked for 2024 #15 Best Online Associate in Christian Ministry

    Other Rankings

    • #16 Best Online Associate in Biblical Studies

    Tuition + fees

    $17K

    Acceptance

    50%

    Graduation

    43%

    Student body

    <1K

    Career Outlook for Theological Studies degree at Davis College

    Cost of Degree: $17,200

    Expenses: $10,000

    Starting Salary: $21,590

    Salary after 4 years: $26,695

    Cost Recoup Time: 16 years

    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    What is Davis College known for?

    Davis College ’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    • Religious Studies
    • Education

    The Online Bachelor of Religious Education degree at Davis College is a part of the Association for Biblical Higher Education and is accredited to train Christian students for Christian ministry positions. It is one of the best online degree programs for students seeking a Bible college with an option for specialized study.

    Students can major in Christian Counseling, Christian Ministries, Intercultural Ministries, Organizational Leadership, Pastoral Studies, Teaching English as a Second Language, or Youth Ministries.

    To apply, you need to submit your official transcripts. There is no GPA cut-off. SAT and ACT scores are optional.

    100% Online | Self-Paced

    Credits to Graduate: 121

    Average Cost per Credit

    • In State: $325
    • Out of State: $325

    Average Tuition

    • In-state: $17,150
    • Out-of-state: $17,150

    Davis College ’s Online Degrees

    BRE in Religious Education

    Degree Concentrations

    • Christian Counseling
    • Christian Ministries
    • Intercultural Ministries
    • Music/Worship Leader
    • Organizational Leadership
    • Pastoral Studies
    • Teaching English as a Second Language
    • Youth Ministry

    • Required Credits: 121
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online

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11. #9

    Lincoln Christian University

    Lincoln , IL

    #17 Best Online Associate in Biblical Studies #23 Best Online Colleges in Illinois 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $15K

    Graduation

    63%

    Student body

    <1K

    Career Outlook for Theological Studies degree at Lincoln Christian University

    Cost of Degree: $14,920

    Starting Salary: $23,917

    Salary after 4 years: $29,572

    What is Lincoln Christian University known for?

    Lincoln Christian University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    • Nursing
    • Religious Studies
    • Philosophy
    • Medical
    • Communications
    • Education

    Students who want to study on-campus at a Bible college should opt for Lincoln Christian University’s traditional Bachelor of Arts in Biblical and Theological Studies. This degree program provides an intensive scholarly study of scripture to prepare future religious leaders in the 21st century.

    Students enroll in courses that provide linguistic, historical, and theological information. This degree program is also designed to help students pursue their master’s degrees and develop more competency in leadership positions in the community.

    Applicants are expected to have a minimum 3.0 GPA in English, math, science, and social studies. Standardized test scores are required for applicants below 23 years of age.

    On-Campus

    Credits to Graduate: 120

    Average Cost per Credit

    • In State: $484
    • Out of State: $484

    Average Tuition

    • In-state: $15,300
    • Out-of-state: $15,300

    Lincoln Christian University’s Online Degrees

    BA in Business Administration

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

    BA in Christian Ministry

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

    BA in Psychology

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

    Compare school

What To Expect From an Online Bible College Degree in Theological Studies

Theological studies cover more than just studying online Bible. Coursework may also include methodical examinations of customs, observations, and ideas from different periods within history and different people groups.

Outside of general online Bible courses, Bible colleges allow students to study a specific aspect of the Christian faith and explore courses that delve deep into a specific subject. Examples include how individuals express their religion through music or how the church has interacted with marginalized groups throughout history.

Students may also choose to explore other religions through the prism of their Christian faith. This gives students a context for interfaith connections by assisting them in comprehending the moral and ethical conundrums encountered in other religions.

During their online Bible studies, students develop critical thinking, lucid writing, and problem-solving skills. Additionally, they will develop a capacity to understand historical and social patterns. Courses may include a linguistic component such as Latin, Hebrew, or Ancient Greek, so that students have a better understanding of the original languages that were used in writing the scriptures.

Students are also encouraged to discuss tough historical topics in Christianity, explore unsettling realities about the past, present, and future of the faith, and ask difficult questions.

Online Bible colleges offer majors in many fields outside of pure theological studies. The thing that sets a Bible college apart from a traditional college or university is that an online Bible college interweaves a student’s faith with the major they are interested in studying. Students may explore aspects of the Christian faith and how they interact and relate to areas of study such as:

• Architecture
• Art
• Business
• Cultural criticism
• Economics
• Education
• Healthcare
• Law enforcement
• Linguistics
• Literature
• Music
• Politics
• Psychology
• ...and many more!

Cost

The average cost of tuition for online Bible colleges with theological programs for the academic year 2022–23 was $30,060 for undergraduate programs and $17,338 for graduate programs.

Admission Requirements

While many pieces go into a Bible college application, you should focus on some critical things:

GPA requirements: The minimum GPA required to apply at most Bible colleges is 2.5, however some schools may be open to accepting students with a GPA lower than 2.5.

Testing requirements: Standardized testing requirements vary from school to school. The SAT or ACT are required at most Bible colleges, and some schools may also demand SAT subject tests.

Many Bible colleges look for a composite SAT score of 1070 out of 1600, and an ACT score of at least 21.

Background Check Authorization: Since Bible colleges seek students who have placed their faith in Jesus Christ and aim to live a life that pleases God through service, many require a background check.

Other requirements may include the following:

• Official transcripts
• Personal essays
• Letters of recommendation from church leaders
• Application fee

How long does it take to earn a degree at a Bible college?

The length of time that it takes to earn an online degree in theological studies for a Bible college depends on a variety of factors, but in general:

Careers for Online Bible Colleges Graduates in Theological Studies

Getting a Christian education through a degree in theology is a great option if you want to pursue a career in a Christian field, such as Christian ministry, Christian leadership, or Christian counseling, among others. But, it can also be an excellent choice for students seeking a career in sectors outside religion.

Some of the most common career paths you can pursue after completing a degree from the best online Bible colleges, aside from clergy, with a theological studies degree include:

• Postsecondary Religious Educator: If you’re interested in helping other people understand spiritual texts, you can become a university professor. Postsecondary religious educators provide students in Bible colleges with theological-based learning and facilitate conversations about how theology has influenced the world.

In this capacity, you might be teaching those who, like yourself, wish to pursue theology as a profession or others taking the course as a part of a larger education. This position, however, will require students to continue in graduate programs.

Average Annual Salary: $79,640

• High school teacher: If you cannot pursue a doctorate but still want to impart knowledge to like-minded people, you can obtain a master’s degree and become a high school teacher in a private Christian school. As a theology instructor, you will discuss the origins of religion, its evolution, and its effects on adherents to its practices.

It is important to note that a master’s degree in theological studies from an online Bible college alone will not qualify you for a teaching position in a public school system. An additional teacher certification would be required in order to teach in a public school setting.

Average Annual Salary: $61,820

• Youth counselor: Perhaps working with our country’s future leaders— children—is your passion. You are, therefore, ideal for a profession as a youth counselor. You’ll have the opportunity to have a direct impact on a child’s life. You can help them overcome family issues, mental health challenges, or substance addiction issues, among others.

Average Annual Salary: $32,944

Financing Your Online Bible College Study

Because many online Bible colleges are private institutions, they often do not accept or receive federal funds from the government. This means that their students are usually not qualified for the federal financial aid. You should enroll in online Bible colleges with regional accreditation if you want higher chances of obtaining federal financial aid and student loans.

So, what are your options?

You can apply for academic scholarships.

Online Bible colleges often give students academic scholarships using private funds. However, scholarships of this type are difficult to obtain.

You need stellar academic performance or participation in a particular field of study. Your school’s financial aid office should have a list of the scholarships offered and instructions on submitting an application.

You can apply for scholarships and grants from private organizations.

Students actively involved in their local church or other private organizations may qualify for special grants and scholarships available to members of those organizations. These groups frequently work to grow their membership and congregation by offering educational opportunities that inspire students to pay back the financial aid with the skills they acquire in school.

These financial aid opportunities, however, might not be enough to finance your degree.

You can obtain private loans.

You can obtain private loans if you’re ineligible for federal student loans. But unlike federal loans, private student loans have higher interest rates and often have strict repayment schedules.

The interest rate on private loans is determined by the student’s or their parents’ credit and financial position. Following the terms stated in the loan agreement, these loans must be repaid after graduation.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the differences between online Bible schools and Christian colleges and universities?

A Christian education and study of the Bible are both emphasized in online Bible schools and Christian colleges. The distinct difference between the two is that online Bible schools will equip students to serve Christ in the context of church administration—your coursework and campus life will be steeped in spirituality. You’ll also need to adhere to a strong moral code. The student body in an online Bible college is typically smaller than that at most Christian colleges.

On the other hand, on-campus and online Christian colleges and universities integrate biblical principles into your online coursework, but they won’t be the sole focus. The student body in Christian colleges will likely be large, and the rules will be less stringent.

Why study theology?

The benefits of studying theology go far beyond potential employment opportunities, whether arguing matters of religious ethics, evaluating claims that God exists, or reflecting on a protracted metaphysical debate.

What’s the difference between religious studies and theological studies?

Theological studies at online Bible schools analyze religion through the prism of a single religion. It challenges students to reflect on and engage in philosophical discussion of the existence of the divine and the meaning of life. On the other hand, religious studies at online Bible schools are excellent for those with an academic interest in world religions since they take a much more objective approach to faith.

Are Bible Colleges worth it?

The worth of Bible colleges depends on a person’s interest. But if you feel called to enter the Christian ministry, then Bible colleges are worth it.

Make sure to find traditional colleges or online schools that are accredited by colleges and schools commission agencies to be sure of the quality of education being delivered. If you’re unsure, consider your options and ask the Lord how you might best serve him. After all, serving God doesn’t require one to attend a Bible or Christian school to obtain a degree.