Best Christian Colleges & Universities 2023
Our nation was born on the boats of faithful Protestants as they braved a daunting trans-Atlantic journey toward freedom and the great unknown. America’s Founding Fathers believed that as “one nation, under God,” this country would ultimately find success. Christian values are embedded within our country’s defining documents and scattered throughout our history textbooks. Because Christianity lies at the heart of our convictions, it is only natural for it to underpin our educational system. The most prestigious post-secondary institutions in America began as faith-based universities. Puritans founded Harvard and Yale, and Princeton was strictly Presbyterian at the time of its establishment. However, all but a rare few have since transitioned to strictly secular institutions. Notre Dame, Brigham Young University, Georgetown, and several others have withstood the winds of change and held fast to their Christian roots.
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Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.Students at these and other faith-based schools have the opportunity to take religion courses, attend campus-based church services and devotionals, and enjoy the spiritual growth that comes with living and learning in a supportive community of faithful students. Attending a college that supports your faith and values can help you grow spiritually and academically. There is a level of comfort found in attending a college that supports your fundamental values, and surrounding yourself with other students who believe and live their beliefs only makes it easier for you to continue living and believing yours.
The integration of religious and secular education offers many benefits. Learning opportunities include study-abroad programs, service-based learning experiences, and faith-focused activities. Religion courses are required at many Christian schools as part of their general education requirements. Christian schools’ programs are consistently ranked among the top in the country, a testament to their quality.
Dedicated Christians can attend any school they want, but for students whose priority is to continue being strengthened in their faith, there are fantastic opportunities all across America to attend Christian colleges and universities.
Rankings
EDsmart assesses Christian colleges based on data that covers four main areas:
- Cost (average net price)
- Academic quality (graduation rate)
- Student satisfaction (retention rate)
- Salary After Attending (the median earnings of former students who received federal financial aid, at 10 years after entering the school)
All data was gathered from the U.S. Dept of Education websites College Scorecard and College Navigator.
This ranking aims to help students assess the affordability and value of top Christian colleges so they can make informed decisions about which college to attend.
Best Christian Colleges & Universities for 2023
1. Wheaton College – Illinois
Score: 100.0
Average Net Price: $25,692
Retention Rate: 91%
Graduation Rate: 88%
Salary After Attending: $53,473
This non-denominational private Christian school in Wheaton, Illinois, just 25 miles from Chicago, was founded in 1860 and emphasizes uniting faith with scholarship. Wheaton is a co-ed liberal arts school where English, Managerial Economics, and Health Service Preparation majors are popular. A few notable Wheaton alumni include the late Reverend Billy Graham and former Speaker of the House Dennis Hastert, and Wheaton Thunder, the school’s athletics department, is part of Division III of the NCAA. As part of a Wheaton tradition, four cornerstones are viewed as the key to a successful “Wheaton” experience: class participation, chapel service attendance, extracurricular activities, and on-campus living.
With an acceptance rate of about 85%, Wheaton’s student population totals just over 2,300. The average annual cost of Wheaton’s tuition and fees is $25,000. Financial aid helps most first-year students cover this cost. Students are required to live on campus but have the choice of dormitory living, campus apartments, or campus houses; room and board at the college averages $10,100 per year. Wheaton continues a well-known Christian tradition of learning and scholarship, which is important to students who put their faith and education first.
2. Pepperdine University
Score: 96.3
Average Net Price: $38,846
Retention Rate: 88%
Graduation Rate: 84%
Salary After Attending: $72,035
Pepperdine University was founded as a private four-year Christian school in 1937. Pepperdine encourages students to live the teachings of the New Testament and the Church of Christ. Graduate studies are offered at several auxiliary campuses in the Los Angeles area. The Pepperdine Waves are part of the West Coast Conference and NCAA Division I. In all, the school ranks at #55 among national universities and #49 in Best Value Schools according to US News.
First-year students and sophomores live on an alcohol-free campus in residential dorms with live-in spiritual advisors. Pepperdine graduates 84% of students in popular majors such as Psychology, Business, and Public Relations, and the average starting salary for many alumni is around $62,508. Pepperdine is recognized nationally for its high academic standards and praised globally for its international programs.
3. Baylor University
Score: 95.5
Average Net Price: $37,309
Retention Rate: 89%
Graduation Rate: 76%
Salary After Attending: $60,512
A hundred miles from Austin and Dallas lies Waco, Texas, home to Baylor University, a private Christian institution. Waco is known for its local hiking trails and other outdoor recreation opportunities. Founded in 1845, Baylor University prides itself on a campus community bonded by faith and service and grounded in Baptist principles. The school has an average of about 15,000 undergraduate students, despite only accepting 57% of applicants. But the ratio of students to teachers is only 1 to 16, which means that students can get personalized feedback and work together with their teachers.
In the world of academia, Baylor is highly respected. Some of the school’s cutting-edge research programs work with businesses in Waco on long-term projects. With a 76% graduation rate, the school is both tough academically and very competitive. According to Niche.com, it ranks #8 in Best Christian Colleges in America and has an overall grade rating of A. Popular majors at Baylor include nursing and accounting. At Baylor University, the mission is to educate men and women through service and faith to help them develop leadership skills and enduring spirituality.
4. Luther College
Score: 94.8
Average Net Price: $25,538
Retention Rate: 81%
Graduation Rate: 79%
Salary After Attending: $51,981
Luther College was founded in 1861 by Norwegian immigrants in rural northeastern Decorah, Iowa. It is an undergraduate liberal arts college whose principles align with the teachings of the Lutheran Church. Averaging 1,700 students with a student-to-faculty ratio of 10 to 1, Luther accepts 60% of applicants. Out of the 60 majors offered, the most popular include business, music, and biology. The majority of seniors also participate in different academic and community internships before graduating.
Of those who graduated, 86% express contentment with their job prospects, while the mean annual salary for alumni stands at $47,000. Luther College’s foundational principles of community leadership, faith-based engagement, and academic integrity foster lifelong values within students and enable them to achieve lasting success.
5. Harding University
Score: 94.3
Average Net Price: $19,456
Retention Rate: 86%
Graduation Rate: 65%
Salary After Attending: $47,520
Harding University is a private Christian university located in Searcy, Arkansas. Harding University was founded in 1924 and is affiliated with the Church of Christ. Harding University is a private university with a beautiful campus in the Ozark Mountains. The college utilizes a semester-based academic calendar, and popular majors include Humanities, Business, and Elementary Education. The school’s athletic team, the Harding Bison, competes in the NCAA Division II-Great American Conference.
Harding University has gained national recognition for distinguished academic achievement and annually admits high numbers of National Merit Scholars. It is known for providing academic opportunities that encourage personal and intellectual development at the highest level. Over 30% of Harding students have studied abroad in places such as France, Italy, Greece, and Zambia. Harding alumni report salaries of $40,900 at six years post-graduation, with 91% employment just two years after graduation.
6. Indiana Wesleyan University-Marion
Score: 94.0
Average Net Price: $21,204
Retention Rate: 80%
Graduation Rate: 65%
Salary After Attending: $54,411
This private evangelical university, located in Marion, Indiana, was established in 1920 based on Wesleyan Christian teachings. As a Christian school, IWU offers several faith-based degrees, such as Biblical Literature and Youth Ministries. The college also offers non-religious degrees in accounting, computer science, and more. Adult students can earn degrees at satellite campuses in other parts of Indiana, Kentucky, and Ohio. The Indiana Wesleyan Wildcats compete against various private Christian colleges participating through the Mid-Central College Conference of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA).
The most selected majors at IWU include Pastoral Counseling, Nursing, Elementary Education, and Liberal Arts. IWU accepts 93% of applicants, and has a student population of nearly 3,000 undergraduates. Indiana Wesleyan University’s mission is to facilitate world change by educating future leaders and building a faith-based community.
7. Calvin University
Score: 94.0
Average Net Price: $26,082
Retention Rate: 86%
Graduation Rate: 75%
Salary After Attending: $49,930
Calvin College was established in 1876 in the suburban city of Grand Rapids, Michigan. It is a small, private school founded on the doctrines of the Christian Reformed Church. A wide variety of new student orientations, such as Quest Week, help to acclimate incoming first-year students to the college experience and create an “intentional Christian community” among the student body. With 21 Varsity Division III NCAA teams, Calvin College Knights have garnered 11 national titles. Student scholars have earned 126 All-American Academic Awards. A few popular majors include Nursing, Business, and Engineering. Calvin College ultimately aims to bring world rehabilitation through service for Jesus Christ.
Student enrollment averages around 3,257. Of the students polled, 84% were confident they would be prepared to pursue careers in their chosen fields. The school graduates 75% of its student body. Calvin students are encouraged to excel in all areas of life through hard work and determination.
8. Point Loma Nazarene University
Score: 94.0
Average Net Price: $34,575
Retention Rate: 86%
Graduation Rate: 76%
Salary After Attending: $59,862
Established in 1902 with a heritage of rich academic tradition, Point Loma Nazarene University is a highly-esteemed private, Christian university. The campus sits on 90 urban acres of the city of San Diego, offering a spectacular view of the Pacific Ocean. With an acceptance rate of 76%, it enrolls about 3,000 undergraduates in total. Some of the most popular majors include Nursing, Psychology, and Health Professions. The school’s graduation rate is 76%, and alumni report earning starting salaries of $40-$44,000/yr, averaging at around $51,000/yr just six years after graduating. Point Loma focuses on the personal development of individuals through faith-based education and service opportunities.
Students can earn degrees in over 60 majors and 40 minors. This historic institution is surprisingly forward-thinking, yet has managed to retain focus on Nazarene-based principles through the years. Point Loma’s mission is ultimately to prepare students to take on their “God-given vocation” and contribute to the betterment of society.
9. Messiah University
Score: 93.3
Average Net Price: $26,864
Retention Rate: 88%
Graduation Rate: 77%
Salary After Attending: $48,883
This private Christian college was established in 1909 just 12 miles from Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, by scholar and philanthropist R.S. Smith. Messiah College is a private liberal and applied arts and sciences school. Messiah College was founded on Anabaptist, Pietist, and Wesleyan Christian teachings. The school’s academic and community mission emphasizes service and leadership in both religious and worldly aspects of life. Students can volunteer to be part of local and international service opportunities. They can also contribute to academic problem-solving projects that serve non-profits, government agencies, and global businesses. Students are required to sign a Community Covenant, promising to uphold academic integrity, Christian-based faith practices, and responsible decision-making.
With an acceptance rate of 77%, enrollment sits at upwards of 3,300 students. The faculty-to-student ratio is 1 to 12. Students frequently select majors including engineering and business, but there are over 80 available.
10. Bethel University (MN)
Score: 92.8
Average Net Price: $28,178
Retention Rate: 84%
Graduation Rate: 71%
Salary After Attending: $55,159
Bethel University, a small private Christian university in Arden Hills, Minnesota, was founded in 1871. The university has an acceptance rate of over 80%. The university has an acceptance rate of over 80%. Popular majors include Nursing, Communications, and Business.
With over 100 traditional and religious majors available, students can earn degrees in a variety of unique fields, such as Reconciliation, Mission Ministries, and Biblical Languages. Following the principles set forth by the university’s founder John Alexis Edgren, Bethel should “measure our performance by what God accomplishes through our graduates after they have been prepared at Bethel to go out into the world to serve.” Bethel’s mission is to build a well-rounded community of believers who can think critically and take leadership positions and serve others.
11. Samford University
Score: 92.8
Average Net Price: $30,072
Retention Rate: 88%
Graduation Rate: 70%
Salary After Attending: $53,223
Having survived two fires, two relocations, and even the Civil War, Samford ranks as the no. 1 university in Alabama. Initially founded in 1841 in Marion, the institution’s campus is now located in Homewood, Alabama. Samford is a Christian university with a global reach. Its 5,700 students come from over 40 states and 25 countries. Art, divinity, and education are just a few of the undergraduate programs of study available to Samford students, but the most common degree choices include pharmacy, nursing, and journalism. The Samford Bulldogs are also part of the NCAA Division 1 competing in the Southern Conference.
Samford graduates 70% of its students, 97% of whom find employment within six months of graduation. At six years post-grad, many alumni have yearly salaries averaging on $49,900. Among the over 50,000 alumni, there are several Nobel Peace and Pulitzer Prize winners, U.S. Supreme Court Justices, and numerous Grammy and Emmy award recipients.
12. Taylor University
Score: 92.3
Average Net Price: $24,628
Retention Rate: 87%
Graduation Rate: 79%
Salary After Attending: $44,550
Set on 250 acres of rural Upland, Indiana, Taylor University is an evangelical Christian university that was initially established as a private institution in 1846. About 1,900 students are enrolled with the school’s acceptance rate of 73%.
With faith-based ministry and service as foundational cornerstones of the university, most Taylor students work with community churches or the campus pastor by volunteering with campus services. The twin spires of the Rice Bell Tower serve to represent the union of learning and faith. Taylor University is home to the following three schools:
The School of Humanities, Arts, and Biblical Studies
The School of Natural and Applied Sciences
The School of Social Sciences, Education, and Business
Depending on their major, students attend one of these three schools. Popular majors include Psychology, Kinesiology and Exercise Science, and Biology. A vast majority of graduating seniors are optimistic about their future career prospects.
13. Central College
Score: 91.0
Average Net Price: $21,099
Retention Rate: 77%
Graduation Rate: 70%
Salary After Attending: $49,741
Established in 1853 on 169 acres of rural Pella, Iowa, Central College is a private Christian institution just forty minutes from the state capital. Central College’s mission is to develop students with global perspectives on academics, community service, cultural diversity, and environmentalism. Central seeks to place its students ahead of its peers by providing them with a comprehensive education. Central has a 75% acceptance rate. Several academic and major-based scholarships and grants are available to help offset costs. Popular majors include Exercise Physiology, Business, and Biology. To encourage campus engagement, Central has over 100 student organizations, and the school’s Big Red team competes nationally in the NCAA Division III-Iowa Intercollegiate Athletic Conference.
All curriculum incorporates real-world applicability that prepares students for the global business world. Before they graduate, over 75% of Central undergraduates participate in internship opportunities with organizations such as the Kennedy Space Center, the White House, the Detroit Lions, and the Mayo Clinic. With a student-to-faculty ratio of just 11 to 1, students at this campus enjoy highly interactive learning and first-hand mentorship from professors.
14. Franciscan University of Steubenville
Score: 91.0
Average Net Price: $23,415
Retention Rate: 87%
Graduation Rate: 72%
Salary After Attending: $43,769
The Franciscan University of Steubenville was founded in 1946 by the Franciscan Friars of the Third Order Regular to be a private, Catholic school. Steubenville, Ohio’s suburban campus enrolls approximately 2,600 undergraduates each year, with an acceptance rate of 75%. Popular majors include Theological and Ministerial Studies, Liberal Arts and Humanities, and Nursing. Franciscan also competes in the NCAA Division III.
Franciscan programs develop professional skills and guide spiritual growth. The university offers more than 40 undergraduate and seven graduate degree programs. Their 43,000 square foot World-class science facility houses some of the most state-of-the-art equipment in the region. Franciscan U bases campus life around Catholic principles, such as Works of Mercy and Festivals of Praise. Over 90% of graduates gain successful employment and enter graduate school, the priesthood, or other religious life within the first year after graduation.
15. College of the Ozarks
Score: 90.3
Average Net Price: $7,195
Retention Rate: 81%
Graduation Rate: 68%
Salary After Attending: $38,780
College of the Ozarks is a private, Christian institution that was founded in 1906 in rural Oliver Township, Missouri. With an extremely competitive acceptance rate of 19%, Ozarks’ annual enrollment averages around 1,500 students annually. This school’s unprecedented tuition-free programs require all students to indicate a need for financial assistance before admission. After factoring in grants and scholarships, all costs of attendance are covered. Popular majors include Business, Public Relations, and Agricultural Business. The College of the Ozarks Bobcats also plays in the NAIA Division II-Midlands Collegiate Athletic Conference.
Deeply rooted in traditional Christian values, College of the Ozarks is a strictly substance-free campus that provides a wide variety of extracurricular activities for students. College of the Ozarks ranks #1 on US News’ list of Regional Colleges Midwest. Ozarks’ mission is to foster civically-minded alumni of Christian morals and lifelong achievement.
16. Belmont University
Score: 89.0
Average Net Price: $30,489
Retention Rate: 83%
Graduation Rate: 72%
Salary After Attending: $49,950
Established in 1890, Belmont University is a private, Christian institution set on 75 acres of forested Tennessee landscape, just two miles southwest of Nashville. With an 88% acceptance rate and an average total enrollment of almost 8,600, the student-to-faculty ratio is only 14 to 1. Nashville is widely known as “Music City,” and because it is so close to the urban music capital itself – many students choose majors related to that field of industry. Alumni report 94% employment just two years post-graduation. The Belmont Bruins also compete in the NCAA Division II-Ohio Valley Conference. Famous alumni include Brad Paisley and Trisha Yearwood.
With a fundamental “Belief in Something Greater,” Belmont co-eds experience a diverse, Christian learning environment while preparing to improve the world using intellect, bravery, empathy, and faith. Belmont professors are innovators in facilitating personalized education and mentorship for their students. Both faculty and students are committed to volunteer cooperation, with students providing over 200,000 hours of active service per year. Belmont students graduate prepared to serve in faith and lead lives of active Christian service.
17. Covenant College
Score: 88.8
Average Net Price: $25,389
Retention Rate: 84%
Graduation Rate: 70%
Salary After Attending: $46,183
Initially founded in 1955, Covenant College is a small, Presbyterian institution specializing in liberal arts education. Located on the southern Tennessee border suburb of Lookout Mountain, Georgia, Covenant students can enjoy visits to Chatanooga and beautiful views of the surrounding Smoky Mountains. Students are required to live in mixed-grade, on-campus housing for their first three years at Covenant, and in each residence hall, discipleship coordinators conduct Bible study and serve as spiritual mentors. The Covenant College Scots have 13 varsity athletic teams who play in the NCAA Division III of the USA South Athletic Conference.
Covenant’s motto is, “In all things Christ preeminent.” Based on this vision, all students are encouraged to pursue educational excellence and value hard work. Its acceptance rate of 89%, brings the college a small enrollment of just around 1,000 undergraduates. Along with traditional degrees, students can also major in religious studies, such as Mission Concentration and Music, with a concentration in Church Music.
18. Seattle Pacific University
Score: 88.8
Average Net Price: $26,714
Retention Rate: 79%
Graduation Rate: 68%
Salary After Attending: $57,097
Seattle Pacific University is a private, Christian institution located within 10 minutes of downtown Seattle. Though it is considered an urban school, massive oak, and maple trees cover the 94-acre campus. Founded in 1891, SPU is a small school that accepts 92% of applicants and enrolls an average of 2,640 undergraduates each year. A few of the more popular majors are Business, Education, and Nursing.
Students can choose from over 72 academic undergraduate majors and can attend graduate school to earn master’s degrees in 28 different areas, including education and business. All students and alumni of Seattle Pacific have access to the Center for Career and Calling for assistance with resume writing, creation of portfolios, and other help with facilitating job searches. Having over 50 student associations and an extensive network of volunteer organizations, SPU undergraduates can begin building personal and professional relationships during their freshman year. The Seattle Pacific Falcons compete within the NCAA Division II Great Northwest Athletic Conference. Seattle Pacific’s mission for its graduates is for them to have a global impact by living and exemplifying true Christian values.
19. George Fox University
Score: 88.8
Average Net Price: $30,839
Retention Rate: 84%
Graduation Rate: 74%
Salary After Attending: $49,472
George Fox University is a suburban school located on 108 acres of Pacific Northwest coastal scenery in Newberg, Oregon. The location encourages outdoor recreation, and the campus is located within two hours of Portland. GFU’s acceptance rate of 93% brings the school around 4,200 students. A few of the most frequently selected majors are Business, Nursing, and Social Work. The George Fox Bruins also compete in the NCAA Division III-Northwest Conference.
GFU centers its educational experience on Christian values, creating an environment where students can develop both spiritually and academically while also receiving mentorship from professors of similar faith. The GFU motto emphasizes the fact that all students have value and can access the tools for success. All students are recruited to participate in the campus-wide Serve Day as volunteers. Even school breaks offer additional service opportunities for students, helping them develop a long-lasting framework of Christian charity and selflessness.
20. Northwest Nazarene University
Score: 87.8
Average Net Price: $21,647
Retention Rate: 80%
Graduation Rate: 61%
Salary After Attending: $47,908
Northwest Nazarene University’s 90-acre campus is located in Nampa, Idaho, just 20 minutes outside Boise. Founded in 1913 as a private, Christian institution, NNU is firmly rooted in Nazarene traditions. In this part of Idaho, outdoor recreation opportunities can be found around every corner. With an acceptance rate of 88%, enrollment sits at around 2,049 in total, and the student-to-faculty ratio is 17 to 1. The NNU Nighthawks also compete in NCAA Division II of the Great Northwest Athletic Conference.
NNU students receive real-world experience that prepares them to pursue degrees at the nation’s premier graduate institutions and excel in their fields. Northwest Nazarene’s mission is to foster Christlike habits of the spirit, mind, and heart. Students are challenged to be global change agents for God. They carry a message of innovation, honesty, fellowship, and action.
21. Houghton College
Score: 87.8
Average Net Price: $23,764
Retention Rate: 83%
Graduation Rate: 72%
Salary After Attending: $43,767
Houghton College is a private institution that was established in 1883 on a 1,300 rural-acre campus in western New York. As a Christian school rooted in the Wesleyan traditions, Houghton is committed to providing high-quality academics in the fields of arts and sciences. The curriculum is infused with strong Christian principles, enabling graduates to have a global influence. Alumni serve worldwide in 70 different degree areas, primarily in legal, medicinal, and educational fields. Houghton also encourages studying abroad, and honor students can qualify for the program as early as freshman year. With an acceptance rate of 79%, average enrollment sits at around 1,000 full-time, residential students and a student-to-faculty ratio of 11 to 1. Popular majors include Communications, Liberal Arts and Humanities, and Business.
View all of Houghton College’s majors and programs here.
22. Northwest University-Washington
Score: 87.3
Average Net Price: $20,729
Retention Rate: 78%
Graduation Rate: 61%
Salary After Attending: $48,096
Northwest University-Washington is a private, Christian university set on 56 suburban acres of Kirkland, Washington. With a 96% acceptance rate, this school has a total enrollment of 1,083 students. NUWA ranks #50 on the U.S. News and World Report annual list of Regional Universities West for 2022. Established initially as a Bible college in 1934, NUWA now offers over 70 degree programs in a wide range of fields. Nursing, Business, and Psychology are some of the more popular degree options available. The Seattle area is known for its excellent job opportunities, scenic forests, and vibrant city life. The NUWA Eagles also play competitively in NAIA Division II-Cascade Collegiate Conference.
NUWA students can earn associate and doctoral-level degrees, publish in peer-reviewed journals, and even earn their degrees online. Nursing students can spend up to one month at clinics abroad, in places like Taiwan, India, and Mexico. The university considers spiritual development to be preparation for a faith-guided career. Students enhance their faith through chapel worship, missionary service, and interaction with their Christian peers. Since its founding, Northwest University has stayed true to its Christian roots and its mission to build “a learning community dedicated to spiritual vitality, academic excellence, and empowered engagement with human need.”
23. Mount Vernon Nazarene University
Score: 86.3
Average Net Price: $21,089
Retention Rate: 78%
Graduation Rate: 61%
Salary After Attending: $47,631
Mount Vernon Nazarene University was founded in 1968 on 327 acres of rural Ohio scenery. The private university’s acceptance rate is 87% and enrollment sits at around 2,064 in total. It is rooted in Nazarene principles, follows a traditional semester-based calendar, and promotes traditional Christian values. The MVNU Cougars also compete athletically in the NAIA Division II-Crossroads League.
Mount Vernon educates a blend of younger undergraduates, graduate students, and older adults, and its mission is to provide opportunities to learn in a Christian academic environment rooted in faith. Mount Vernon Nazarene ultimately seeks to encourage students to pursue lifelong learning and perform service for others.
24. Azusa Pacific University
Score: 86.0
Average Net Price: $30,744
Retention Rate: 78%
Graduation Rate: 68%
Salary After Attending: $57,796
Azusa Pacific University’s private 103-acre campus is located in suburban Azusa, California, about 26 miles northeast of Los Angeles. At its founding in 1899, the academic vision of APU was on building knowledge, creating faith-based diversity, and fostering worldwide engagement. Providing over 100 undergraduate and graduate degree options, APU academics are rooted in evangelical Christian beliefs. Popular majors include Biblical Studies, Nursing, Psychology, and Business.
With 17 varsity teams, the Azusa Pacific Cougars compete in the Pacific West Conference of the NCAA Division II. Cougar football has earned 31 PacWest Conference and 4 Great Northwest Athletic Conference championships. Ultimately, APU students are encouraged to seek higher education in order to serve God and live a life of Christian honor.
25. Mississippi College
Score: 84.8
Average Net Price: $18,190
Retention Rate: 78%
Graduation Rate: 52%
Salary After Attending: $45,183
Established in the suburban town of Clinton in 1826, Mississippi College is a private, Christian institution with a highly competitive admission rate of 45%. Mississippi College’s enrollment is 4,200 students. 99% of students receive financial aid to cover the $29,000 annual cost of attendance. The MC Choctaws also compete in the NCAA Division II-Gulf South Conference. Students receive degrees in popular majors like Nursing, Business, and Kinesiology.
Focused on upholding its high academic standards, Mississippi College also promises an environment immersed in Baptist beliefs. The goal at MC is to develop students who value faith-based learning and exhibit high standards of scholarship and will ultimately become faithful world leaders. Students choose to attend Mississippi College because of both the excellent academic experience and the Christian student community. Graduates often select careers where they can work in the service of God.
26. Judson University
Score: 84.3
Average Net Price: $19,331
Retention Rate: 65%
Graduation Rate: 63%
Salary After Attending: $49,210
Judson University is a small, private Christian college in Elgin, Illinois, that was founded in 1963. The liberal arts college accepts approximately 61% of all applicants, annually enrolling about 1,175 in total. Judson follows a traditional, semester-based academic calendar. With a graduation rate of 63%, students earn degrees in programs like Business, Psychology, and Architecture. The Judson Eagles also compete in NAIA Division I of the Chicagoland Collegiate Athletic Conference.
27. Northwestern College (IA)
Score: 84.3
Average Net Price: $22,410
Retention Rate: 78%
Graduation Rate: 66%
Salary After Attending: $44,904
One hundred acres of rural Orange City, Iowa is home to Northwestern College, a private Christian school established in 1882 and rooted in the principles of the Reformed Church in America. With an enrollment of 1,500 students in total, Northwestern accepts 83% of applicants on average. The small student-to-faculty ratio of 11 to 1 produces a personalized educational experience. Students can earn degrees in programs such as Business, Nursing, and Elementary Education. The Northwestern Red Raiders also compete in the NAIA Division II of the Great Plains Athletic Conference.
Northwestern College offers students more than 40 major options. All students have access to tutoring and writing workshops at the Peer Learning Center. Affordable international study programs in countries like Oman and Romania are also available to students. Their costs averaging the same as regular on-campus tuition. Students can also study off-campus in Minneapolis, Des Moines, and Kansas City, all just a few hours from Northwestern’s main campus. Undergraduates can interact with their peers in over 50 student organizations, merging faith with individualized learning and collectively developing a sense of Christlike service.
28. LeTourneau University
Score: 84.0
Average Net Price: $23,665
Retention Rate: 79%
Graduation Rate: 51%
Salary After Attending: $52,123
LeTourneau University is a leading Christian polytechnic school located in Longview, Texas. It is a non-denominational, faith-based school with a total undergraduate enrollment of approximately 3,200 students. The private campus is set on 160 acres of pine-forested hills in East Texas. Offering both conventional and online classes, LeTourneau is a community of students building their futures in the most convenient way possible. The school’s mission, as envisioned by founder R.G. LeTourneau in 1946, is to weave faith and innovation to find practical solutions for global problems. Popular majors include Business, Mechanical Engineering, and Elementary Education.
More than 140 undergraduate and graduate degree programs are offered in traditional and virtual class arrangements, and Dallas and Houston both host auxiliary education sites for off-campus students. LeTourneau prepares students for success in a wide range of fields including aviation, criminal justice, biblical studies, and health care administration. LeTourneau alumni are providing solutions every day in global businesses such as Google, Garmin, Apple, and more. As it merges faith and innovation, LeTourneau is successfully fostering faithful leaders of the future.
29. Bethel University-Indiana
Score: 83.0
Average Net Price: $18,542
Retention Rate: 69%
Graduation Rate: 66%
Salary After Attending: $43,417
The South Bend suburban area of Mishawaka, Indiana, is home to Bethel College of Indiana, just two hours outside Chicago. Bethel was originally founded as a private, Christian institution. The school’s 98% acceptance rate brings in about 1,300 first-year students each year. Popular degrees include Ministry, Business, Nursing, and Liberal Arts. Bethel College ranks #46 on US News’ 2023 annual list of “Best Colleges: Regional Universities Midwest,” and the Bethel College Pilots compete in the NAIA Division II-Crossroads League.
In accordance with Missionary Church principles, BC-I aims to foster well-rounded, Christian leaders equipped to bring practical solutions to global problems. Students at Bethel can choose from more than 50 areas of study, and the many internship programs give them early access to professional networking opportunities and teach them important skills for building their careers. Indonesia, Israel, and Mongolia are just a few destinations in Bethel’s study-abroad program, where students can expand their worldviews while serving others on a global level. Students at Bethel also take part in service projects in the Mishawaka/South Bend area, which is closer to home. Spiritual development, mentorship, and faith-based academics are the core values of Bethel College.
30. Biola University
Score: 83.0
Average Net Price: $33,269
Retention Rate: 80%
Graduation Rate: 70%
Salary After Attending: $47,704
Set on 95 acres of the sunny Southern California suburb of La Mirada, Biola University was founded as a private institution in 1908. Biola’s undergraduate enrollment sits at about 3,500 on-site students, with an additional 2,000 as graduate students. An acceptance rate of 61% makes Biola a relatively competitive school, with a faculty-to-student ratio of 1 to 13. Some of the most frequently chosen majors include Business, Psychology, and Biblical Studies. Biola’s graduation rate is 70%.
Biola University is a world-class Christian college that empowers students to live lives of meaningful determination rooted in Christian values through its educational opportunities. The university requires all undergraduates to take 30 credits-worth of Bible study and theology courses. Biola has nine schools of study, offering over 150 major programs designed to guide students through their bachelor programs and toward doctoral degrees. Of graduating seniors, 91% are confident they will find fulfilling employment in their respective fields.
31. Asbury University
Score: 82.3
Average Net Price: $22,376
Retention Rate: 81%
Graduation Rate: 62%
Salary After Attending: $41,352
Spanning 65 acres of Lexington, Kentucky suburbs, on the banks of the scenic Kentucky River, Asbury University is a private, Christian college in the town of Wilmore. Asbury was founded in 1890. With an acceptance rate of 98%, average enrollment sits at around 1,700 students. Some of the most popular programs at Asbury are Radio and Television, Business, and Communications. The Asbury University Eagles also play competitively in the NAIA Division II of the River States Conference.
Asbury offers a liberal arts-based education that includes Wesleyan-Holiness teachings, instilling academic integrity and encouraging spiritual development within the student body. The goal of AU is to prepare all students to become lifelong learners and leaders in Christ. Asbury students value family, community, spirituality, and the world around them. Listed as a top US character-building school by The Templeton Foundation, Asbury sends graduates around the world prepared to serve as Christian influences for good.
32. California Baptist University
Score: 82.3
Average Net Price: $26,719
Retention Rate: 77%
Graduation Rate: 61%
Salary After Attending: $52,941
Set on 160 suburban acres in the Magnolia Avenue district of Riverside, just outside of LA, California Baptist University was established in 1950 by the Southern Baptist Convention. With an acceptance rate of 64%, total enrollment sits at around 11,491 students annually, and the faculty-to-student ratio is 1 to 18. CBU offers a wide selection of majors, which include Business, Nursing, and Psychology. The CBU Lancers also competes in NCAA Division I of the Pacific West Conference.
The university is regarded as one of the top Christian colleges in Southern California. Offering bachelor, master’s, and doctoral degrees, California Baptist provides a wide range of higher-education options. Traditional classes are available at the Riverside campus, but CBU also offers online courses, in addition to its off-campus learning sites in Rancho Cucamonga, Temecula, and Brea. Cal Baptist students can choose from over 105 undergraduate majors, 40 master’s programs, and 7 doctoral programs. CBU’s faculty and staff are composed primarily of Christian instructors who value each individual student’s spirituality and share their same beliefs. While at CBU, students seek academic excellence and Christlike service opportunities.
33. Columbia International University
Score: 82.0
Average Net Price: $18,222
Retention Rate: 69%
Graduation Rate: 70%
Salary After Attending: $36,834
Columbia International University is a private Christian university that has been educating students since 1923. The university campus is a full 400 acres in the suburbs of Columbia, South Carolina. With a very high acceptance rate of 51%, there are 2,300 undergraduates at the school. A few of the more popular majors are Biblical Studies, Non-Profit Management, and Humanities. Alumni report employment rates at 86% just two years after graduation. The CIU Rams also compete in NAIA Division II. Columbia ranks #38 among US News’ “Best Colleges”—Regional Universities-South.
More than two-thirds of students say that Columbia International is a strong and loving community. Rooted in spiritual non-denominational tenets, CIU fosters values of scripture-based evangelical living. CIU graduates pursue church roles, missionary service, and non-profit management vocations.
34. Abilene Christian University
Score: 81.5
Average Net Price: $28,051
Retention Rate: 78%
Graduation Rate: 64%
Salary After Attending: $49,294
Set on 262 urban acres of Texas panhandle, Abilene Christian University was founded in 1906 as a private institution in affiliation with the Churches of Christ. With an acceptance rate of 70%, ACU’s average enrollment sits between 3,500 and 5,300 students annually. Abilene Christian University graduates over 64% of students that earn degrees in Business, Psychology, and Marketing. The ACU Wildcats also compete in NCAA Division I-FCS-Southland Conference.
ACU faculty, students, and alumni collaborated on the Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory (LIGO) project. Alumni have gone on to be Christian writers, Congressional leaders, judges at all levels, mayors, movie producers, and many other types of professionals. Abilene’s ultimate aim is to improve society by developing future leaders of faith.
35. Bushnell University
Score: 81.3
Average Net Price: $20,318
Retention Rate: 69%
Graduation Rate: 57%
Salary After Attending: $46,847
Bushnell University is a Christian university in Eugene, Oregon. The Free Methodist Church started it in 1895. It now offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in several fields. Bushnell University believes that experiential learning is essential for preparing students for the real world. The school provides internships, service-learning projects, and other hands-on activities in its curriculum.
One of the unique aspects of Bushnell University is its commitment to the integration of faith and learning. The university is a Christian school that encourages students to integrate their faith with their studies. The university offers a variety of opportunities for spiritual growth and development such as chapel services, mission trips, and other programs. In terms of academics, Bushnell offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in business, education, ministry, social work, and more.
36. Simpson University
Score: 81.3
Average Net Price: $24,482
Retention Rate: 69%
Graduation Rate: 74%
Salary After Attending: $43,846
Simpson University is a private Christian institution set on 85 scenic Pacific Northwest suburban acres in the city of Redding, California. It accepts approximately 67% of applicants and enrolls about 600 students annually. The class sizes are small but an intimate setting contributes to their outstanding graduation rate of 74%, students earn degrees in popular fields of study such as Business, Psychology, and Nursing. The SU Red Hawks also compete in the NAIA Division II of the California Pacific Conference.
Simpson University offers bachelor, graduate, and teacher credential degree programs. The university’s mission is to actively engage students both spiritually and intellectually, encouraging them in their individual quests for the truth. Simpson graduates bring service to the world through genuine acts of Christian compassion and strong leadership.
37. Oral Roberts University
Score: 80.8
Average Net Price: $19,355
Retention Rate: 80%
Graduation Rate: 47%
Salary After Attending: $42,161
Founded as a private, Christian university in 1963 by televangelist Oral Roberts, ORU is located in urban Tulsa, Oklahoma. The school’s 88% acceptance rate brings in its 4,100 undergraduates annually. With over ninety degree programs available, majors in Nursing, Business, and Divinity are some of the more popular choices among undergraduates. The Oral Roberts Golden Eagles also compete in NCAA Division I-Summit League.
Professors often begin classes with prayer, and worship services are available everywhere on campus. Students younger than 25 are required to live on campus. Oral Roberts teams with the National Hispanic Christian Leadership Conference to foster cultural diversity on campus. Students produce e-Portfolios to demonstrate campus and community development progress, as well as academic and spiritual growth, and faculty are required to provide regularly-collected student feedback about the quality of academic progress. Oral Roberts’ students make a positive impact on the Tulsa community through service-based initiatives in impoverished areas, building tenant organizations in low-income projects, and teaching occupational computer skills to low-income Tulsa residents. Beyond Tulsa, counseling and healthcare outreach programs extend to the Osage Nation of Pawhuska and the Tar Creek community.
38. Tennessee Wesleyan University
Score: 80.5
Average Net Price: $11,776
Retention Rate: 74%
Graduation Rate: 54%
Salary After Attending: $42,004
A private, Christian university located in rural Athens, Tennessee, Tennessee Wesleyan University, sits in the Great Appalachian Valley on 40 acres. With an acceptance rate of 60%, enrollment sits at over 1,100 students, and the faculty-to-student ratio is only 1 to 10. A few of the more popular majors are Business, Nursing, and Physical Education-Teaching and Coaching. 90 percent of prospective graduates feel confident that they will find rewarding employment in their chosen field of study. The TWU Bulldogs also play in the NAIA Division II of the Appalachian Athletic Conference.
TWU was established in 1857 as a strictly Methodist college focused on providing students with excellent education and building a compassionate community. The school offers both Bachelor’s and Master’s degree programs, and non-traditional adult students can pursue their degrees at off-campus learning centers in both Athens and Knoxville. Service learning is an integral part of the TWU experience. Student volunteers tutor at local K-12 schools and provide countless hours of other community and global service. Tennessee Wesleyan takes pride in upholding traditions, maintaining small class sizes, and fostering faith-based fellowships between followers of God.
39. Warner Pacific University
Score: 80.5
Average Net Price: $19,900
Retention Rate: 67%
Graduation Rate: 46%
Salary After Attending: $50,574
Founded in 1937 on 17 urban acres in southeast Portland, Oregon, Warner Pacific University is a small, private Christian university. With an acceptance rate of 76%, enrollment sits at just over 400 students. The campus follows a standard semester calendar, and class sizes have a student-to-faculty ratio of 13 to 1. Warner’s graduation rate is 46%, awarding degrees in majors such as Business, Human Development, and Biology.
Warner Pacific’s mission is to build a holistic, faith-based community that reflects the demographics of its home city and contributes to the ever-diversifying and developing cultures. It provides equal opportunity, values representation, and champions the diversification of educational institutions. Warner Pacific’s First-Year Learning Communities (FYLCs) bring together groups of mixed-demographic students to engage in learning experiences together. Utilizing Portland’s myriad of vibrant and colorful neighborhoods as real-world classrooms, FYLCs participate in several hands-on service opportunities. They tackle challenges like poverty, homelessness, and social justice.
40. Anderson University-South Carolina
Score: 80.3
Average Net Price: $21,732
Retention Rate: 82%
Graduation Rate: 55%
Salary After Attending: $39,593
Set on 271 acres of scenic Appalachian foothills in Upstate South Carolina, Anderson University-South Carolina is a small, private university that was established in 1911 by the South Carolina Baptist Convention. AU-SC has an acceptance rate of 50%, enrolling around 4,000 students annually. The student-to-faculty ratio is 15 to 1. The AU-SC Trojans also play in NCAA Division II of the South Atlantic Conference.
With over 50 undergraduate majors to choose from, Anderson University students can expect excellent learning opportunities with instructor-mentors who contribute individualism and expertise to the academic experience. AU-SC offers three different Master of Education degrees, a Master’s in Ministry, and a Master’s of Business Administration, as well as highly-regarded programs of study in business, arts, and education. Founded only five years ago, the nursing program at AU-SC is the fastest-growing field of study on campus. In the near future, Anderson is expected to launch an intensive Physical Therapy degree program. Together as an inclusive and supportive Christian community, Anderson students cultivate life skills and academic experience, developing as leaders guided by faith in Christlike service.
41. Dallas Baptist University
Score: 80.3
Average Net Price: $25,301
Retention Rate: 74%
Graduation Rate: 55%
Salary After Attending: $50,033
Founded in 1898 on 292 suburban acres of beautiful lakeside country, Dallas Baptist University is a private institution that works in close affiliation with the Baptist Church. With an acceptance rate of 94%, undergraduate enrollment averages around 4,300 students in total. Overall, DBU graduates 58% of its students, offering popular degree plans such as Humanities, Business, and Psychology. The DBU Patriots compete in the NCAA Division II of the Heartland Conference. For an easy urban experience, downtown Dallas is just 15 minutes from campus. Notable alumni of DBU include Christian performers Kari Jobe and Chris Clayton, as well as Jason LaRue, the former St. Louis Cardinals catcher.
Every aspect of campus life is rooted in faith at Dallas Baptist University, and Christian beliefs are integral to academics. The Baptist Student Ministry organizes a variety of enriching campus activities, and students can also attend Bible studies, serve on mission trips, or attend annual conferences like the “Live-pure” exhibition. DBU offers over 250 majors at the Associate, Bachelor, Accelerated Bachelor/Master, Dual Master, and Doctoral levels. Online classes are also conveniently available for working adults who want to pursue higher education. All students at Dallas Baptist University are expected to be role models and selfless leaders, uniting academic inquiry with Christian values.
42. The Baptist College of Florida
Score: 79.5
Average Net Price: $11,764
Retention Rate: 73%
Graduation Rate: 62%
Salary After Attending: $34,075
The Baptist College of Florida is a private, Christian school located on 250 acres in rural Graceville, Florida. With an acceptance rate of 100% and an enrollment of just 400 students, BCF is one of the smallest colleges in America. Its small student-to-faculty ratio ensures strong mentorship and provides students with lasting support networks. BCF’s priority is to foster interest in ministerial service, so some of the most popular degree programs are Theological and Ministerial Studies, Psychology, and Missionary Studies.
BCF provides students with a strong Christian framework, preparing them to lead their own ministries and serve worldwide. The school offers both associate’s and master’s degrees. Students focus on specialized areas of theological study to establish successful individual ministries. In recent years, degrees in Education and core Humanities have been added to provide alternatives to traditional ministry service programs. The Baptist College of Florida prepares graduates for real-world service by fostering a love for knowledge, developing cultural insight, and helping students to mature socially, emotionally, and spiritually.
Further Reading: Best Christian Colleges in Florida
43. North Greenville University
Score: 78.3
Average Net Price: $20,058
Retention Rate: 74%
Graduation Rate: 58%
Salary After Attending: $40,031
Set on 330 rural acres of Tigerville, South Carolina, North Greenville University was founded in 1892 as a private, Christian institution. NGU’s 70% acceptance rate brings in an average enrollment of 1,900 to 2,200 students per year. Students frequently choose to major in Humanities, Business, and Elementary Education. The Crusaders of NGU also compete in NCAA Division II of the Gulf South Conference.
North Greenville University is a Christian university that was founded in accordance with the South Carolina Baptist Convention. The university provides students with a faith-based education that prepares them for a life of service and leadership. Building a strong spiritual character in a Christian community is at the core of North Greenville University’s educational experience.
44. MidAmerica Nazarene University
Score: 77.5
Average Net Price: $29,757
Retention Rate: 66%
Graduation Rate: 67%
Salary After Attending: $50,243
MidAmerica Nazarene University is a private institution set on 105 acres among the quiet Kansas City suburbs of Olathe. MidAmerica follows a traditional semester calendar and, with an acceptance rate of 65%, enrolls around 1,500 students annually. The school has a graduation rate of 67%. Over 80% of students feel confident that they will find rewarding work with their degrees. The MidAmerica Pioneers also compete in the NAIA Division I of the Heart of America Athletic Conference.
MidAmerica Nazarene University is a liberal arts school affiliated with the North Central Region of the International Church of the Nazarene. All degree programs focus on fostering personal, academic, and spiritual growth in students. MidAmerica’s mission is clearly stated in its motto: To Learn, To Serve, To Be. Students and alumni are expected to serve with conviction, compassion, and a Christlike spirit.
45. Evangel University
Score: 76.8
Average Net Price: $23,719
Retention Rate: 80%
Graduation Rate: 50%
Salary After Attending: $42,793
Founded in 1955 in affiliation with the Assemblies of God Church, Evangel University is a small Christian institution set on 80 acres of historic Springfield, Missouri. Its 67% acceptance keeps the student number at about 2,000, with a student-to-faculty ratio of 15 to 1. Popular programs include Business, Biblical Studies, and Psychology. The Evangel Crusaders also participate in NAIA Division I of the Heart of America Conference.
Evangel University seeks to develop “spirit-empowered servants of God who impact the Church and society globally.” EU affords students a first-rate education that enables them to become successful ministers and community leaders. Faculty strive to provide useful direction and applicable instruction, helping students develop the intellectual and spiritual skills necessary to build a successful career and fulfill their Christian callings. Evangel offers more than 70 programs of study, meaning students can interact with a wide array of people with diverse interests and specialties. Campus life is rich with opportunities for students to develop lifelong friends and relationships. With over 40 student organizations to choose from, everyone can find their niche. The Evangel Center for Compassion helps guide students as they discover their unique purpose in God’s plan.
46. Carson-Newman University
Score: 76.8
Average Net Price: $17,982
Retention Rate: 68%
Graduation Rate: 50%
Salary After Attending: $42,546
Established in 1851 on 90 acres of rural Jefferson City, Tennessee, Carson-Newman is a small Christian institution affiliated with the Baptist church. With an acceptance rate of 79%, the university has a total enrollment of 2,800 students annually and has a student-to-faculty ratio of 14 to 1. The majority of undergraduates live in campus dormitories or apartment complexes. CNU offers degrees in many fields, including Business, Psychology, and Nursing. The Carson-Newman Eagles also compete in NCAA Division II of the South Atlantic Conference.
Carson-Newman students can expect an excellent, faith-based academic experience. CNU is one of only two colleges to have received the Presidential Award in General Community Service for its community outreach programs and student service organizations. Numerous clubs, organizations, intramural athletics, and performance activities provide students the opportunity to engage with their peers in an inclusive Christian community.
47. Kuyper College
Score: 76.8
Average Net Price: $18,297
Retention Rate: 71%
Graduation Rate: 58%
Salary After Attending: $36,681
Grand Rapids, Michigan is home to the small, private, non-denominational Kuyper College. The 59% acceptance rate provides an enrollment of just 152 students. The faculty-to-student ratio is 1 to 11. A few of the most frequently chosen majors are Social Work and Youth Services, Business, and Religious Vocations. All students before graduation are required to complete an internship to gain real-world experience.
Biblical principles are the key focus of academics and social life on campus. Provided with an inclusive education based on Reformed Christian values, Kuyper students are expected to use their skills to become officers of global innovation and service. With alumni taking mission services to over 50 countries, Kuyper graduates successfully spread their Christian light across the world. Students and alumni know their places in God’s plan and apply their academic skills to create lives of meaning and Christian connection.
48. Campbell University
Score: 76
Average Net Price: $26,169
Retention Rate: 76%
Graduation Rate: 47%
Salary After Attending: $49,601
Rural Buies Creek, North Carolina is home to private Christian Campbell University with Fayetteville and the state capital both less than 30 minutes from campus. With an 87% acceptance rate, CU enrollment averages around 5,600 students. Popular choices for majors include Business, Lab Technology, and Psychology. The school’s world-class research institutions are also conveniently located in Durham and Chapel Hill. Since its founding in 1887, Campbell’s mission has been to develop students’ intellect, personality, and performance. Christian principles are embedded in every aspect of campus life, helping students develop productive habits in their daily routines and throughout their lives.
49. Oklahoma Baptist University
Score: 75.8
Average Net Price: $21,668
Retention Rate: 71%
Graduation Rate: 53%
Salary After Attending: $53,596
Centrally located in the urban city of Shawnee, Oklahoma Baptist University is a private Christian institution, established in 1910. With a relatively competitive acceptance rate of 56%, annual enrollment is only about 1,500 students. Students earn degrees in programs like Counseling, Psychology, Nursing, and Elementary Education, and OBU graduates 53% of students. The OBU Bison have also won over 30 national championships playing in the NAIA Division II- Great American Conference.
Students can easily visit nearby Oklahoma City or participate in exciting on-campus recreation options, all of which contribute to the faith-based learning community. Church service activities are an elemental aspect of campus culture and include missionary outreach both locally and worldwide in countries like Mexico, Japan, and Brazil. Graduate study options include Business Administration and Nursing, but there are over 80 undergraduate areas of study in total. Alumni are prepared to provide global Christian leadership through thoughtful service by consolidating faith and scholarship. Oklahoma Baptist University is among the leading Baptist schools in the country, providing worldwide missionary outreach and fostering life-long learning enhanced by faith, service, and global action.
50. Palm Beach Atlantic University
Score: 74.5
Average Net Price: $26,530
Retention Rate: 75%
Graduation Rate: 53%
Salary After Attending: $46,413
Established in 1968, Palm Beach Atlantic University is a private, non-denominational Christian school set on 100 urban acres of scenic West Palm Beach, Florida. With a 90% acceptance rate, enrollment totals 3,600 students. The student-to-faculty ratio is 12 to 1. Some of the more popular programs include Psychology, Organizational Behavior Studies, and Nursing. With over 50 undergraduate and graduate degree programs offered, students actively intertwine their faith with their academic careers. The PBA Sailfish also play in the NCAA Division II of the Sunshine State Conference.
Palm Beach Atlantic University is centrally located, providing access to internships at global conglomerates and networking experience in the rapidly expanding field of biotechnology. PBA students also enjoy the unique art community that can be found in West Palm Beach. Students must also attend at least 24 chapel services each school year. Mission trips and academic courses combine faith with intellectual inquiry to encourage continuous spiritual development. The Workshop community service program allows students to engage in service through Christlike acts of compassion, both locally and globally. Overall, Palm Beach’s campus vision encourages students to apply themselves in all aspects of life.
51. Bethel College-Kansas
Score: 74
Average Net Price: $22,456
Retention Rate: 69%
Graduation Rate: 47%
Salary After Attending: $46,099
Bethel College has a rich history and a strong commitment to providing a quality education to students from diverse backgrounds. It is one of the oldest colleges affiliated with the Mennonite Church USA, and has a long-standing reputation for academic excellence and a commitment to service.
The undergraduate program at Bethel College offers a variety of majors including business, education, nursing, social work, biology, psychology, and more. The college also offers graduate programs in education and nursing. The curriculum is designed to provide students with a strong foundation in their chosen field, while also encouraging them to think critically and engage in lifelong learning. Bethel College places a strong emphasis on service and community engagement. It encourages students to participate in mission trips and service-learning opportunities, both locally and internationally. The college also has a number of partnerships with community organizations, which provide students with opportunities to work with and learn from people from diverse backgrounds.
52. East Texas Baptist University
Score: 70.3
Average Net Price: $21,789
Retention Rate: 61%
Graduation Rate: 37%
Salary After Attending: $45,717
Established in 1912, East Texas Baptist University is a small, private institution, sprawling 250 suburban acres of Marshall, Texas. ETBU enrolls just over 1,600 undergraduate coeds annually and has an acceptance rate of 64%. The student-to-faculty ratio is 14 to 1, making for a more individualized college experience overall. Students have the option of choosing from over 40 undergraduate majors, such as Business and Humanities, and graduate students can choose from 11 master’s programs like Kinesiology and School Counseling. The East Texas Baptist Nursing program ranks #1 in Texas, with students earning pass rates of 100% on the NCLEX. Nursing graduates have a 100% employment rate. Overall, East Texas Baptist ranks #80 on US News’ annual list of Best Colleges in the Regional Colleges-West.
53. Liberty University
Score: 69.8
Average Net Price: $29,382
Retention Rate: 81%
Graduation Rate: 34%
Salary After Attending: $42,394
In 1971, the late Dr. Jerry Falwell helped begin Liberty University. It has grown to span 7,000 acres of centrally-located Lynchburg, Virginia woodlands. The university features 16 different schools of study, such as graduate programs in law and osteopathic medicine. Even though LU’s acceptance rate is only 50%, the school’s total enrollment is beyond 95,000 students. A few of the most popular majors are Business Management, Health Professions, and Psychology. The LU Flames also play in NCAA Division I of the Big South Conference. Famous alumni include ESPN host Samantha Ponder, as well as NFL running back for the NY Giants and the Jacksonville Jaguars, Rashad Jennings.
Liberty University graduates develop the strength of character, intellect, and abilities to act in service to God worldwide. Each week, students attend conferences that bring in inspirational speakers from the world of journalism, politics, sports, and many other fields. Liberty recruits over 80 speakers each year, creating an environment of inspiration and authentic discipleship. The Campus Community worship service is also held each week, engaging students in regular spiritual reconnection. Liberty’s emphasis on non-secular education produces graduates with skills that enable them to influence global change and promote Christian values while living a life of service and Christlike love.
54. Williams Baptist University
Established in 1941 in rural College City, Arkansas, Williams Baptist University is a small Christian institution. With an acceptance rate of 63%, the private college enrolls 630 undergraduates annually. A few of the more popular majors include Liberal Arts, Psychology, and Biology. The WBU Eagles also compete in NAIA Division I of the American Midwest Conference.
Williams Baptist focuses on providing a first-rate, collaborative educational experience that benefits both students and instructors. Small class sizes make for a highly individualized and enriching academic environment. A wide variety of extracurricular activities such as performing arts, athletics, and student organizations provide a social setting where students can create faith-based bonds with student peers and establish lifelong friendships. Through regular prayer and worship services, The Office of Campus Ministries supports students through their spiritual journeys. With the assistance of the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities, Williams Baptist students have the opportunity to participate in service worldwide through a wide variety of study abroad programs.
55. Faulkner University
Score: 68
Average Net Price: $20,500
Retention Rate: 61%
Graduation Rate: 42%
Salary After Attending: $39,437
Established in 1942 in Montgomery, Alabama, Faulkner University is both an urban university and a Christian community. The school usually enrolls around 3,000 students annually. Because its acceptance rate is only 13%, Faulkner is considered a private institution. Students often major in programs like Business, Human Resources, and Criminal Justice. Faulkner’s graduation rate sits at around 42%. The Faulkner Eagles also compete in the NAIA Division I of the Mid Southern Conference.
Faulkner University is committed to providing students with a comprehensive academic experience while also facilitating the development of individual character. Offering over 60 campus-based majors and over 20 online degree plans, Faulkner provides countless opportunities for non-traditional students to earn degrees and advance their careers. The school emphasizes education based on critical thinking, investigation, and knowledge acquisition. Living in the heart of the South, Faulkner students are exposed to numerous historical sites that foster an appreciation for groups like the Creek Indians and Early American Settlers, as well as the leaders and events of the Civil Rights Movement. Faulkner ultimately endeavors to prepare its students to impact their communities through Christian service and public leadership.
56. Montreat College
Score: 67.5
Average Net Price: $23,643
Retention Rate: 68%
Graduation Rate: 45%
Salary After Attending: $42,166
Set on 89 acres of beautiful North Carolina countryside, Montreat College is a small, non-denominational Christian school that was established in 1916. Students can expect small class sizes and access to popular programs such as Business, Psychology, and Humanities. The Cavaliers of Montreat College also compete in NAIA Division II of the Appalachian Athletic Conference.
Montreat offers a premiere, faith-based education, and the institution is held in high regard by employers and graduate schools throughout the country. The unique, one-on-one mentorship available at Montreat enriches its academic atmosphere, and an immersive Christian culture helps expand learning and promote student spirituality. Montreat’s internships and individualized research projects provide their students with the skills they need to build successful careers. Montreat’s multi-cultural, international student body opens up discussions on diversity and promotes global perspectives. Additionally, students can easily take advantage of the beautiful Appalachian Mountains right outside their door, or spend time serving in Montreat’s nursing homes, shelters, and surrounding community centers.
57. Bluefield College
Score: 67.3
Average Net Price: $22,442
Retention Rate: 57%
Graduation Rate: 35%
Salary After Attending: $43,825
Set on 82 rural acres of western Virginia woodlands, Bluefield College is a small, private, Christian institution that was founded in 1922. Today, it operates under the principles of the Baptist General Association of Virginia. Some of the more popular programs include Business, Human Services, and Nursing, but the school offers degrees in over 24 various fields of study. The BC Rams also play competitively in NAIA Division II of the Mid-South Conference.
Bluefield College provides a Christ-centered learning environment, ultimately aiming to develop agents of positive change in the world. Faculty and staff hope to inspire and mentor students on their spiritual journey, becoming closer to God. The school is well-regarded for its innovative use of technology in the classroom, individualized instruction, excellent value, and opportunities for mission service, BC also offers seven online degree programs and a Master’s in Education. It encourages students to explore and find their passion and apply it in their communities. For example, the Ruth School of Bluefield helps to provide education and school supplies to children in European countries who suffer ethnic persecution. Ultimately, Bluefield College graduates know how to pursue and apply their passions, remaining committed to lifelong service in Christ.
58. Southwestern Christian University
Score: 66.5
Average Net Price: $17,655
Retention Rate: 49%
Graduation Rate: 31%
Salary After Attending: $36,198
Southwestern Christian University was founded in 1946 as a private Christian institution. Built on 10 acres of suburban Bethany, Oklahoma, the school is just half an hour outside of Oklahoma City. With an acceptance rate of 54%, the school enrolls about 500 students annually and has a student-to-faculty ratio of 11 to 1. Southwestern offers majors in Religious Vocations, Business, and Sports-Fitness Management fields. The SCU Eagles also compete in the NAIA Division I of the Sooner Athletic Conference.
Observing the tenets of the Pentecostal Holiness Church, SCU is committed to producing Christian graduates who assume responsibility in every aspect of their lives. The familial culture of Southwestern Christian University encourages students to develop lifelong bonds that will sustain them as they pursue their careers and provide Christ-centered service in the world.
59. Point University
Score: 65.5
Average Net Price: $22,433
Retention Rate: 64%
Graduation Rate: 46%
Salary After Attending: $38,533
Established in 1937 in the suburbs of West Point, Georgia, Point University is a private, liberal arts institution about an hour’s drive from Atlanta, set almost directly on the Alabama border. The school awards degrees in fields such as Business, Biblical Studies, and Counseling Psychology to 45% of its undergraduates. The Skyhawks of Point University also play competitively in NAIA Division II of the Mid-South Conference.
Rooted in the principles of the Churches of Christ, Point University’s mission is to foster steadfast individuals who are prepared to have a powerful impact in all areas of life. The university’s inclusive curriculum strives to educate future leaders in their selected vocations, offering degrees that range anywhere from Church-based studies to Business studies. Non-traditional and adult students can earn associate and undergraduate degrees by studying through the Access Program at five different distance learning sites in both Georgia and Alabama, as well as online. Additionally, Point University has recently expanded its professional field options by opening master’s degree programs.
Further Reading: Best Christian Colleges in Georgia
60. Kentucky Christian University
Score: 65.3
Average Net Price: $20,709
Retention Rate: 56%
Graduation Rate: 27%
Salary After Attending: $38,662
Established in 1919 on 121 rural acres of the scenic Appalachian foothills, Kentucky Christian University is a small, private, Christian institution that enrolls about 500 students in total. Some of the more popular fields include Biblical Studies, Business, and Humanities. KCU has a graduation rate of 27%, and alumni report salaries on average of about $62,579/yr. The KCU Knights also compete in NCAA Division II of the Mid-South Conference.
This school offers bachelor’s degrees in fields like Bible Ministry, Music and offers professional credentials in Teaching, Nursing, and Social Work. Kentucky Christian University aims to transform students through their participation in a faith-based educational experience and immersion in a Christian atmosphere. Graduates leave KCU equipped with the skills necessary to achieve professionally and lead globally, all with a focus on Christian values.
61. Arizona Christian University
The Arizona Christian campus spans 10 acres of urban Phoenix suburbs. It was founded as a private Christian university that was founded in 1960. Today the school enrolls on average 1,000 students each year with its 76% acceptance rate. Some of the more frequently chosen majors focus on fields like Business, Religious Vocations, and Counseling. The ACU Firestorm also plays in the NAIA Division I of the Central States Football League. ACU ranks #11 on US News’ 2023 annual list of Best Colleges in Regional Colleges-West.
All graduates at Arizona Christian University minor in Biblical Studies. As a non-denominational Christian school, students are offered numerous opportunities for growth and service. Student organizations such as Urban Outreach, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, worship bands, and study abroad mission service, all contribute to Arizona Christian’s atmosphere of selfless giving and camaraderie. ACU’s mission is to foster well-rounded Christlike individuals who have the capacity to lead and serve others.
Honorable Mention:
Northwest Christian University
Northwest Christian University was founded in the city of Eugene, Oregon, in 1895 as a private Christian institution. It admits 69% of applicants and enrollment totals 800 students on a small 8-acre campus. The faculty-to-student ratio is only 1 to 15, making for a highly personalized college experience. Graduation rates average over 50%, with students earning degrees in popular majors like Business, Humanities, and Elementary Education.
Northwest Christian University values intellect, service, and spiritual engagement in a Christ-centered community. Students are encouraged to engage in academic inquiry through the “one Source of All Truth: God.” This university fosters a diverse community of inclusion, compassion, and social justice, and aims to prepare future leaders to seek guidance and inspiration from the Word of God. Students overcome challenges with wisdom, patience, and practical application.
Online Programs That Might Interest You
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
