35 BEST ONLINE BACHELOR'S IN THEOLOGY & CHRISTIAN STUDIES
Prepare yourself for a life of holy service and study with one of the 35 Best Online Bachelor's in Theology and Christian Studies.
If you have a passion to serve God and a desire to study the history of Christianity and the Bible, an Online Bachelor's in Theology and Christian Studies may be the right choice for you. Throughout your coursework, you will learn how to integrate various aspects of the humanities. Topics such as sociology, literature, and philosophy, or how to administer pastoral counseling, are all common focal points of studying Theology and Christian Studies.
During your studies, you may engage in chapel services, mentoring, Bible study groups, or other internships to help you develop a deep understanding of religion and its roots. You will be prepared for a career as a religious studies instructor, or to work in development, community-based services like welfare or social care.
Whichever option you choose, you will likely find that a Bachelor's degree in Theology and Christian Studies will prepare you for lifelong, rewarding work. Consider one of these online options for a degree that is flexible and customized to fit your busy schedule.
Selection Criteria
We have developed an in-depth listing of the Best Online Bachelor's Degree in Theology and Christian Studies. While compiling our ranking, we considered which public and private schools offered the most exceptional degrees in conjunction with academic retention and graduation rates.
Ranking Factors
Upon reviewing the myriad online Bachelor's in Theology and Christian Studies, we focused on several characteristics in particular that are important to students when evaluating the quality of a program. As a result, our list ranks schools based on the following qualities:
- Affordability
- Academic Rigor
- Accessibility
- Accreditation
- Recognitions
Want to learn more? Check out our methodology page for a closer look at how we evaluate each school's ranking.
#1 | Arizona State University Phoenix, AZ |
#2 | American Public University Charles Town, WV |
#3 | Florida International University Miami, FL |
#4 | Lee University Cleveland, TN |
#5 | The Baptist College of Florida Graceville, FL |
#6 | Luther Rice University and Seminary Lithonia, GA |
#7 | Liberty University Lynchburg, VA |
#8 | University of the Cumberlands Williamsburg, KY |
#9 | University of Central Florida Orlando, FL |
#10 | Johnson University Knoxville, TN |
Featured Online Programs
Figuring out where to apply? These top, accredited schools offer a variety of online degrees. Consider one of these accredited programs, and discover their value today.
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Arizona State UniversityLocation
Phoenix, AZ
Tuition$13007
Arizona State University's BA in Religious Studies recognizes the crucial role that religion plays as part of human culture. ASU's degree prepares students to navigate religious diversity in, both, domestic and global contexts, while honing in on their professional skills for a professional post-graduate career.
ASU has been ranked as one of the "Most Innovative Colleges," by U.S. News and World Report, making ASU a must-consider option for any student seeking an in-depth education in Religious Studies. In addition, alumni of ASU are among the top 5 for "Best Qualified Graduates," according to Wall Street Journal.
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American Public UniversityLocation
Charles Town, WV
Tuition$11470
The American Public University BA in Religion is designed for students seeking a broad view of religion that encompassing a variety of major world religions. Students will graduate from APU's program with the skills necessary to work in professions involving aspects of human services and pastoral assistance. 120 total credit hours are required for degree completion, with tuition starting at just $270 per credit hour.
Military members pay even less due to undergraduate book grants, educational partnerships with employers and associations, and transferable credit options. Tuition discounts help make APU an affordable option for students studying from a diverse range of backgrounds.
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Florida International UniversityLocation
Miami, FL
Tuition$12966
The online BA in Religious Studies at Florida International University allows students to explore Eastern and Western religions, while developing into researchers, writers, and educators. FIU provides students with an excellent preparation for a Masters degree or broader careers within business, law, or medicine.
Tuition starts at just $212 per credit hour, making FIU an affordable option for any student seeking an online degree. Online students also receive the opportunity to join the school's elite Honors College while interacting with renowned FIU resources for technology support services, application assistance, and student success coaches.
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Lee UniversityLocation
Cleveland, TN
Tuition$16789
Lee University offers a number of degrees in Religion, including those in Ministry Studies, Christian Leadership, Christian Education, and Liberal Studies. The wide variety of degrees offered at Lee makes it easy for students to choose from a number of engaging electives to bolster their careers in theology and ministry.
With small class sizes, and an average student-to-faculty ratio of just 16:1, Lee is a smart choice for any students seeking a close-knit classroom environment. Lee is also ranked as one of the "Best Private Universities," by Great Value Colleges, and among the "Best Schools for Adult Learners," by U.S. News and World Report.
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The Baptist College of FloridaLocation
Graceville, FL
Tuition$11831
As a Christian Studies major at the Baptist College of Florida, you will take a number of preparatory courses, including those in Literature and Humanities, Science and Mathematics, Social and Behavioral Sciences, and Information Technology. Students can choose from a number of practical ministry courses, allowing them to engage in real world application of the foundational skills they've already acquired.
BCF is also an accredited member of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges and specializes in degrees related to theology and religion.
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Luther Rice University and SeminaryLocation
Lithonia, GA
Tuition$6988
The BA in Religion at Luther Rice University and Seminary offers students three distinct minors to enhance their studies and expand worldviews. Students may choose from Biblical Counseling, Ministry, or Christian Worldview. All degrees offered at Luther Rice are nationally accredited and can be earned entirely online.
Luther Rice has a strong student success rate with a career placement emphasis, allowing students to build foundational skills in ministry with the use of advanced technology, and electronic library resources. Luther Rice is highly affordable as well by offering financial aid, and military funding for eligible students.
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Liberty UniversityLocation
Lynchburg, VA
Tuition$24794
Liberty University in Lynchburg's Bachelors in Religion is an online degree offering the broad biblical foundations necessary to serve within the ministry career. Multiple specializations are available and enable students to delve into the word of God through topics such as: Apologetics, Christian Counseling, Evangelism, Global Studies, and Christian Leadership.
LU's degree is built on Christian values and prepares students for success in their future careers. Alumni continue on to graduate studies in seminary or graduate degrees - or to diverse vocational opportunities within ministry, or pastoral leadership. Each course is offered entirely online in eight week segments. Students may transfer in up to seventy-five percent of their credits from other institutions.
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University of the CumberlandsLocation
Williamsburg, KY
Tuition$17619
The online Bachelor's in Missions and Ministry at the University of the Cumberlands provides students with a broad understanding of history, theology, ethics, and biblical literature. An additional minor is also available, giving students the ability to prepare for a lifetime of learning and service.
With a total online enrollment of less than 900 students, UC caters to non-traditional students. In fact, over twenty-five percent of UC attendees are first generation students. UC is ranked amongst the "Best Christian Colleges," by America's Best Christian Colleges.
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University of Central FloridaLocation
Orlando, FL
Tuition$15533
University of Central Florida's BA in Religion and Cultural Studies has a broad focus, allowing students to use contemporary theories and methods to analyze religions from all around the globe. Graduates of UCF go on to work as clergy members, diplomats, missionaries, humanitarian workers, and foreign service officers.
The University of Central Florida is ranked amongst the "Most Innovative Universities," by U.S. News and World Report, as the school is a leader in providing exceptional distance learning opportunities for working professionals. With tuition starting at just $179.19 per credit hour, UCF is also ranked as a "Best Value School," by Kiplinger's and Forbes.
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Johnson UniversityLocation
Knoxville, TN
Tuition$16368
If you're looking for a degree offering task-based coursework in a real world setting, look no further. The Johnson University dual BA/BS in Ministry Leadership, which provides students with the skills necessary to lead churches and ministries. JU incorporates foundational coursework within courses such as Bible and Theology, while offering a three-credit internship for students to engage with their local communities.
JU's BA/BS is also one of the most military friendly online schools, with courses offered at flexible times and with affordable tuition rates. In fact, students of JU's BA/BS graduate with far less debt than the national average, paying less than $6,000 per term.
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Brescia UniversityLocation
Owensboro, KY
Tuition$12181
Brescia University has achieved many accolades for its excellent degrees in religion, while having been ranked amongst the "Best Value Bachelors in Theology," by Affordable Colleges. Brescia's degree is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, and can be completed in as little as two years through the school's accelerated pacing method.
Brescia has offered online courses in theology for well over five years, while employing quality faculty who are dedicated to ensuring student success. Alumni of BU's program work all over the country as youth ministers, catechetical leaders, ministers, and deacons.
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Piedmont International UniversityLocation
Winston Salem, NC
Tuition$15332
The Piedmont International University BA in Bible Studies' diverse degree provides students with in-depth Bible and ministry courses. Offered residentially and online, PIU's BA requires 130 total credit hours of study, with a strong general education core to prepare students for any line of work. PIU's BA is geared toward students who are already active in ministry and are seeking to expand their service abilities.
PIU's affordable degree is taught by talented faculty members, over seventy percent of which are full-time. With low tuition rates and a number of financial aid opportunities, PIU offers a cost comparison ratio of 3:1 - meaning you receive about three years of quality education at PIU for the cost of one year at comparable Christian universities.
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Bethesda UniversityLocation
Anaheim, CA
Tuition$10012
Bethesda University's BA in Religion convenient degree presents aspiring religious leaders with the ability to pursue majors in either Biblical Studies, or Christian Education. Bethesda's BA also encompasses topics such as Pastoral Ministry and Missions, while preparing students to formulate broad biblical worldviews and lifelong mindsets.
Graduates frequently enter into vocational ministry or professional master programs, and are equipped with a solid understanding of the Church and of Scripture. A practicum requirement is also included for most concentrations, requiring students to engage with their local communities to gain a better understanding of how Biblical teachings can be applied to real world settings.
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Moody Bible InstituteLocation
Chicago, IL
Tuition$17942
The BS in Biblical Studies at Moody Bible Institute enables students to spend more time studying the Bible than any other book, while providing them with the skills necessary to serve effectively within a professional ministry career.
Each student is supported by a strong online community of peers and instructors, enabling them to learn from anywhere in the world. Before graduation, students will create a program portfolio that will allow them to have a log of their personal ministry brand when searching for ministry experiences or work. Graduates work all over the world as ministry leaders, lay leaders, volunteers, and staff members.
Students are equipped with the ability to think critically and biblically about the issues facing Christian ministry.
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North Greenville UniversityLocation
Tigerville, SC
Tuition$15864
The Biblical Studies major at North Greenville University allows students to take core Bible and Theology classes right within their first semester of study. Designed for students who are seeking fulfilling careers as christian ministers, NGU's BA provides proper training in key communication, presentation skills, and core Biblical tenets.
NGU's degree offers two concentrations in either Apologetics, or Biblical languages. Multiple minors are also available, including Christian Studies, Business, Linguistic, Marketing, and Music. Each course is taught by a faculty members with experience serving as members of the Evangelical Theological Society.
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Carolina College of Biblical StudiesLocation
Fayetteville, NC
The BA in Advanced Theological Studies at the Carolina College of Biblical Studies is designed for students who wish to pursue a graduate degree following their undergraduate studies. As a result, CC's degree provides these students with foundational training in research, thesis writing, and biblical languages.
Required courses include studies in topics such as Advanced Discipleship, Apologetics, and Biblical Theology. CCBS' BAis rigorous and requires four years of full time studies, or a transferable Associate's Degree. CCBS' affordable degree options make it possible for students to complete their studies from any location, enjoying a Christ-centered education that puts students first.
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Kansas Christian CollegeLocation
McPherson, KS
Tuition$6313
Kansas Christian College offers a number of degrees in Religion and related studies. Courses are broken down into Ministerial, Biblical Studies, Missions, and Leadership and Ministry. Each degree offers students a number of options in how to complete their studies. All students - regardless of the concentration - will learn how to interpret and proclaim biblical teachings, and how to interact with a church community.
KCC has offered Christ-centered degrees since 1938 while allowing students to learn from pastors, missionaries, business leaders, and other exemplary instructors. Tuition is affordable, starting at just $295 per credit hour. With a favorable student-to-faculty ratio of just 12:1, students at KCC earn an elite education at a fraction of the cost of comparable degrees.
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Eastern New Mexico UniversityLocation
Portales, NM
Tuition$10481
The degrees in Religion at Eastern New Mexico University are designed for students who are interested in the philosophy, history, and psychology behind religion, and its interaction with the sciences. ENMU's BA/BS is offered as a stand-alone degree, and with optional minors involving topics such as: Biblical Hebrew, Theology, and BIblical Greek. In fact, ENMU has been recognized for its minors, receiving accolades such as the Zondervan award.
ENMU is also unique for networking students with local affiliation to ensure student participation within community leadership roles. In addition, ENMU provides students with scholarship and financial aid opportunities to help make a degree at Eastern New Mexico University more affordable.
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Midwestern Baptist Theological SeminaryLocation
Kansas City, MO
Tuition$14047
If you're currently working in a ministry setting, but want to further your theological education, the BA in Christian Ministry at Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary might be the right choice for you. The degree is known as Online You, which is a rigorous program of study that is designed for online students engaged in ministry.
MBTS's BA utilizes Canvas, an up to date course delivery software, to help students excel with 24/7 technical support. Students not only learn the foundational skills behind ministry and pastoral counseling, but they also learn the skills necessary for lifelong Biblical study and everyday life. MBTS offers flexible start terms per year, and allows students to interface in a one-on-one setting with their professors from around the world.
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Clarks Summit UniversityLocation
South Abington Township, PA
Tuition$17482
The Clarks Summit University of Pennsylvania Bachelors in Bible and Theology allows students to learn from top notch faculty in an immersive and supportive online setting. Major coursework includes 12 credits of undergraduate Biblical Studies electives, along with six credits of Undergraduate Ministry Communication electives.
CSU's Bachelors' degree offers dual enrollment with Baptist Bible Seminary, which allows students to easily pursue their passions. CSU offers a high level of transferability of previous collegiate studies, and allows for double majoring in Bible and Theology. CSU's Bachelor degree is accredited and takes most students about four years to complete.
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Regent UniversityLocation
Virginia Beach, VA
Tuition$17837
With nearly $24 million a year awarded in institutional scholarships and financial aid, Regent University is one of the most affordable universities on this list. The BA in Biblical and Theological Studies allows students to focus on obtaining solid foundational knowledge in theology, biblical studies, and practical, real world ministry.
Requiring 120 total credit hours of study, Regent's BA includes core courses such as The Old Testament Studies, and Introduction to Christian Theory and Thought. Students learn from mentoring faculty located in Virginia Beach, where over ninety percent of which hold the highest degrees in their field.
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DeSales UniversityLocation
Center Valley, PA
Tuition$25549
The BA in Theology at DeSales is designed in the tradition of Christian Humanism for students who appreciate the existence and nature of human beings. DSU's BA explores what it means to be a Catholic and how to apply those teachings in everyday practice.
DSU's BA is offered on-campus or online in addition to a certificate format and courses are offered in an accelerated format with convenient evening scheduling. Faculty are well respected and attentive to student needs by offering personal advising throughout the duration of every student's studies. Financial aid and tuition deferment programs are available, making DSU an affordable option even more attainable.
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Toccoa Falls CollegeLocation
Toccoa Falls, GA
Tuition$19026
The Biblical Studies major at Toccoa Falls provides students with intensive academic study in selected books of the Old and New Testaments. Students also develop professionally, while gaining the skills needed to succeed in graduate level work, or within pastoral ministry.
While every student completes a major in Biblical Studies, they may also choose from an additional minor involving topics such as: Greek, Hebrew; The New Testament, or The Old Testament, to help complement their learning. TFC's BA is ranked amongst the "Best Online Programs," by Best Colleges for 2018.
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Grace Bible CollegeLocation
Grand Rapids, MI
Tuition$13499
The Grace Bible College BS in Leadership and Ministry program is designed for students who are preparing for ministry as a vocation. Students will learn how to challenge themselves as they begin to think biblically about all aspects of life, and studying a curriculum to blend practical and theoretical knowledge. GBC students also engage in classroom work, real world experience, and research.
GBC's BS includes 30 credit hours of Bible and theology, and excludes residency requirements and application fees. Candidates will additionally enjoy a 14:1 student-to-teacher ratio and low tuition rates. Accelerated options are available - helping students complete their studies quickly - so they can continue to make a profound difference in the world.
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Oral Roberts UniversityLocation
Tulsa, OK
Tuition$21595
Oral Roberts is ranked as one of the country's "Top 30 Online Colleges," and for good reason. ORU offers a "family of instructors" who work with students to ensure they acquire relevant career skills and instruction to benefit their minds, bodies, and spirits. Multiple concentrations are available, including those in Evangelism and Outreach, Local Church Pastor, and Church Administration.
Regardless of the concentration selected, students will develop their understanding of the Bible into their practical ministry skills, enabling them to pursue graduate school in areas like Divinity or Theological Studies. ORU's accredited degree allows students to complete their studies in fewer than four years.
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Palm Beach Atlantic UniversityLocation
West Palm Beach, FL
Tuition$23444
Designed by full-time faculty member sin the school of ministry, the BA in Ministry is designed to assist students in developing the knowledge and skills needed for ministry leadership within organizations like churches and parachurches.
The online curriculum of PBAU's BA allows students access to the biblical, theological, and professional skills necessary for service in a number of careers. Students benefit from small classroom sizes and one-on-one teaching in a Christ-centered environment. Many receive sponsorship to national msissional conference, where they gain experience through worship and service.
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Athens State UniversityLocation
Athens, AL
Athens State University launched its Religion major in 1938, and continues to offer an exceptional BA in Religious Studies and Ethics to this day. The degree is now available for students whose jobs make it difficult for them to travel to campus. Athens students receive an education that is designed to prepare them for any career in theology.
With only about 3,000 students enrolled, Athens offers a close-knit, community feel where students are more than just a number. Students receive access to a number of support services, including financial aid, counseling, tutoring, library services, and career development opportunities - making Athens a smart choice for any student seeking a holistic education.
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Calvary UniversityLocation
Kansas City, MO
Tuition$13904
With tuition starting at just $402 per credit hour, the BA in BIble and Theology at Calvary University is well worth the money. The program is designed with future leaders in mind, requiring students to take a core set of courses in Biblical Education, General Education, and Professional Education.
Calgary is ranked as one of the "Top Christian Colleges," by affiliates such as Best Colleges, SR Education Group, and Online College Plan. These unanimously high rankings are a testament to the school's dedication to student success and close faculty attention. Faculty members are not just involved in academics at Calvary, but also serve as role models. Most classes are small, with an average student-to-teacher ratio of just 14:1.
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Indiana Wesleyan UniversityLocation
Marion, IN
Tuition$20960
Indiana Wesleyan University's BS in Biblical Studies degree is offered at several of Indiana Wesleyan's campuses, including the online campus. IWU's BS offers an in depth degree in the Bible and in the Christian faith, preparing graduates to pursue leadership positions in Christian churches and para-church organizations.
Many graduates also go on to further studies, meeting most academic and practicum requirements for licensing and ordination within many denominations. Upon enrollment, each student is placed in a cohort group, which provides mutual support as students progress through their studies.
Faculty are dedicated and experienced ministry professionals who assist students with their studies and connect them to campus resources such as counseling, advising, and off-campus library services.
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Judson CollegeLocation
Marion, AL
Tuition$17232
Judson College offers a number of online undergraduate degrees, with the BA in Religious Studies as one of the most popular. All Religious Studies classes offered at JC are geared toward students' relationships with God in mind. Many graduates go on to pursue careers as missionaries, within churches, or in other vocational Christian services.
Students will complete 30 credit hours of major credits, which include classes such as Theological Ethics and History of Christianity. Religious Studies students are also required to complete a minor in Religious Studies and Ministry Skills. All students also complete internships in churches, or church related agencies.
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Grand Canyon UniversityLocation
Phoenix, AZ
Tuition$21168
Grand Canyon University provides students with the foundational skills they need to practice Christian ministry in a modern world. GCU's BA in Christian Studies examines the history of Christianity in addition to the development of Christian doctrine.
GCU's BA also covers topics such as: the Gospels and Acts, Christian Ethics, or The Old and New Testaments. GCU's flexible online degree is also affordable, allowing students to achieve an education at minimal expense.
Tuition costs are competitive, allowing a private Christian education to remain within reach for all students. Tuition starts at just $395 per credit hour, with a number of scholarships, grants, and other financial aid opportunities available.
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Warner UniversityLocation
Lake Wales, FL
Tuition$17309
The BA in Biblical Studies at Warner University is designed to provide students with a solid foundation for applying Christian teachings to actual practice. Through a blend of faith-based curriculum, competency leveled examinations, field experiences and networking opportunities - students are granted the experience necessary to enter professional ministry positions or graduate studies.
45 total credit hours of core coursework are required, with basic coursework, including topics such as Communicating the Gospel and Spiritual Formation. Several additional degree options are available, including those in Church Ministry, Interdisciplinary Ministry, and Music Ministry.
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Saint Joseph's CollegeLocation
Standish, ME
Tuition$24875
The BA in Theological Studies at Saint Joseph's College is designed for individuals who currently work for parishes, diocesan agencies, social service agencies, and other organizations. It enables dedicated individuals to complete an online education quickly, offering a fast track to an MA degree.
SJC's BA is offered in a flexible format so that working professionals can complete their studies at their own pace. On-campus residency isn't required, although optional residential summer sessions allow aspiring candidates to complete their degrees more quickly. SJC's degree is rooted in theological Catholic foundations, combining the teachings of Jesus Christ with the heritage of the Sisters of Mercy.
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Mount Vernon Nazarene UniversityLocation
Mount Vernon, OH
Tuition$19235
Mount Vernon Nazarene University's BA in Ministry Leadership is designed for students seeking an engaging curriculum that enables them to become competent, informed leaders who can plan projects and achieve ministry goals.
While attending MVNU, students will learn how to recruit and train volunteers while using their leadership skills within a ministry context. MVNU also actively strengthens students' biblical worldview and encourages personal and professional development. MVNU is ranked as one of the "Top 50 Best Online Christian Colleges of 2018," by Affordable Colleges Online, a testament to the BA's rigorous curriculum and dedicated faculty members.
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Dallas Baptist UniversityLocation
Dallas, TX
Tuition$24669
Dallas Baptist University is a Christian centered education, offering a comprehensive liberal arts education blended with biblical, faith-based degrees. DBU's dual BA/BS prepares students for any career or calling, offering an integrated curriculum that blends Bible study with faith-based practices.
DBU is committed to adult learners, offering a number of locations, semester options, and completion pathways. Students are supported by enriching academic and personal support services while enjoying a small student-to-faculty ratio in a setting.
A number of degree concentrations are available, including Business/Management, Christian Leadership, and Educational Ministry. With 120 total credit hours required, DPU combines the adaptability of a liberal arts education with the practical skills needed for professional practice.
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