Best Online Bachelor’s in Biblical Studies Degrees

Are you ready to earn an online degree in Biblical Studies but are feeling a little overwhelmed with all your choices? We understand. The great thing about online programs is that you have so many flexible options right at your fingertips. The hard thing about online programs is that it’s difficult to sort through all the hundreds of options to find the right school for you.

So we did some heavy lifting for you, using a robust set of data points to create a list of the top 15 online bachelor’s programs in Biblical Studies. You’ll probably recognize a few of these names. But there also might be some fun surprises in there that are worth your time and exploration.

Some of these programs are very theoretical in nature, while others include lots of courses in application. Some programs walk through the Bible slowly and meticulously, while others condense biblical courses and focus heavily on theology and doctrine. Some even give you a hearty dose of ancient languages. But don’t worry—we’ll go through all of that in just a minute.

First, let’s take a quick look at how we got our top 15 list.

Methodology

To make sure our ratings are completely objective, we compiled data points from a number of different sources, including the National Center for Education Statistics’ Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System.

Here’s a brief overview of the factors included in our ranking system:

• Accreditation: All the schools on our list are regionally accredited, with most having additional program-specific accreditations.
• Program Costs: While no schools were excluded because of their price point, our calculations reward schools with lower tuitions.
• Student Success: We wanted to make sure that lots of students were enjoying their studies, so we looked at student completions (i.e., how many students finished their program at that university). We examined numbers for both the school in general and for biblical studies programs specifically.
• Graduation Rates: We also wanted to know what percentage of enrolled students were graduating from the university—the higher the graduation rate, the better their score for that ranking factor.
• Reputation & Outside Awards: We looked at US News awards and other forms of outside recognition to find schools that have a consistent reputation for excellence.

All schools have their own strengths and weaknesses, so please do not expect perfection across the board. That said, by taking all these different factors into account within our ranking system, we uncovered schools that perform consistently well across multiple factors. We highlight schools that have served biblical studies students well and are solid choices for aspiring students.

A Note on How to Choose the Best Biblical Studies Degree

One last important thing to remember before diving into our list:

There will never be one top school or program that is right for everyone. While an objective ranking system can help narrow your list of options, you’ll want to prioritize your specific needs and values. In fact, it might be helpful to jot down the things that you are looking for in a program. Maybe it’s a specific concentration, a hybrid option, or a maximum budget. Based on your needs, it may very well be that the #10 program on our list would actually be your #1 best fit—so don’t get too caught up in the numbers.

As you’re reading the list, find a couple of schools that seem to align with your goals and values, and then begin your own process of digging deeper. Talk to faculty, mentors, and students to learn more specifics about the program, school, and student experience. Only you will know the right program for you!

(And for those who want to dig through a full list of all the options, we salute you. Check our full program directory for more online programs!)

Top 15 Online Bachelor’s Programs in Biblical Studies

1. Regent University

BA in Biblical & Theological Studies

• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
• Delivery: 100% online (on-campus available)
• Estimated Tuition: $4,740 per semester

Looking for an award-winning program that walks through the entire Bible? Regent University begins with hermeneutics, an overview of the Gospels, and church history. Then this program rewinds to Genesis and methodically teaches all of Scripture—beginning to end. Two systematic theology courses and a senior project tie everything together.

Regent’s program doesn’t include practical-application courses, but it does leave enough margin in your schedule to add an additional major. This way, students can infuse biblical knowledge into the application area of their choosing.

Founded by popular evangelist Pat Robertson, Regent University offers affordable tuition rates and has a well-earned reputation for its impressively robust core curriculum. It’s also the alma mater of pastor and New York Times bestseller Mark Batterson.

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Regent’s Online Biblical Studies Degree

2. Biola University

BS in Bible, Theology, and Apologetics

• Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission
• Delivery: Fully online (asynchronous)
• Estimated Tuition: $6,375 per semester ($425 per credit)

While Biola’s program offers a good dose of Bible classes, this program also spends a fair amount of time focusing on real-world application. Students get to take compelling courses like “God, Evil, and Suffering” and “Evidence for the Resurrection” alongside more traditional theology courses. The emphasis on apologetics makes it an ideal program for those wanting to learn how to share their faith with a skeptical world.

Biola prides itself on uncompromising Christian standards. In fact, it is the only national university where all faculty, staff, and students are required to be professing Christians, and is often nationally recognized for its theology programs.

And of special note for online students—this degree is entirely asynchronous and can be completed in as little as two years!

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Biola’s Online Biblical Studies Degree

3. The Master’s University and Seminary

BA in Biblical Studies

• Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission
• Delivery: 100% online
• Estimated Tuition: $21,600 average total cost ($450 per credit)

For students wanting to learn how to read and interpret the Bible in its original historical context, the Biblical Studies program at Master’s University may be the perfect fit. Before digging into any specific books of the Bible, this program has two courses about how to read and interpret the Bible, along with courses “Lands of the Scriptures” and “Ancient Israel.” Students are also required to take three courses in Greek, equipping them to read the New Testament in its original language.

Students familiar with the ministry of popular pastor John MacArthur might be excited to learn that he was TMU’s president for over 30 years and currently serves as chancellor. Wildly popular Christian author Francis Chan also earned both his bachelor’s and master’s here.

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Master’s University’s Online Biblical Studies Degree

4. Harding University

BA in Bible & Ministry

• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HCL)
• Delivery: 100% online (partially asynchronous)
• Estimated Tuition: $6,060 per semester

Attention adult learners—this program may be for you. Harding University’s Bible and Ministry program is specifically designed for adults over the age of 24. As part of the “2+2” program, students can transfer two years’ worth of general liberal arts credits from past degrees and then take two years’ worth of Harding’s Bible courses to form a full degree. While this is a perfect fast-track for those with previous education, it’s probably not the right move for recent high school grads.

Because this degree is for Bible and Ministry, there are a lot of application courses like “Christian Counseling” and “Congregational Ministry” alongside the study of the Scriptures. Once again, this makes for a fantastic program for the adult professional looking for additional education.

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Harding’s Online Biblical Studies Degree

5. Union University

BA in Christian Leadership – Biblical Studies Track

• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
• Delivery: 100% online
• Estimated Tuition: $485 per credit

Union University has been active in the world of Christian education for a long time. Founded in 1823, this Baptist school has survived wars, the Depression, and a campus fire—yet it keeps growing stronger in both size and reputation.

This degree is another one designed for adult learners, but with a new twist. Instead of being solely focused on the Bible and ministry, Union offers a broader Christian Leadership degree with a concentration in Biblical Studies. Students alternate between Bible classes like “Acts and Paul” and leadership classes like “Strategic Communication.”

Because of its unique focus on leadership, this program would be amazing for someone already working in a ministry setting. Students wishing merely to dip their toe in the water can choose an associate’s degree in Biblical Studies.

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Union’s Online Biblical Studies Degree

6. Ozark Christian College

BA in Biblical Studies

• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
• Delivery: 100% online
• Estimated Tuition: $465 per credit

Ozark Christian College is a Bible college that focuses exclusively on ministry, Christian leadership, and Bible degrees. Their program comprises 36 hours of general education, 42 hours of Bible education, and 18 hours of professional education.

One thing that sets Ozark apart from the competition is that they offer some pretty generous merit-based scholarships for adult learners. Students who have a GPA of 3.5 or above receive a $2,000 per-year scholarship. It can be a lot more challenging to find scholarships as an online adult student, so we love the integration of these merit-based scholarships.

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OCC’s Online Biblical Studies Degree

7. Moody Bible Institute

BS in Biblical Studies

• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
• Delivery: 100% online
• Estimated Tuition: $399 per credit

Moody is easily one of the most well-known Bible schools in the country, and it’s certainly not a newcomer when it comes to distance learning. In fact, its first distance learning program was established in 1901 under the name “Moody Correspondence School.” Today the internet has made distance learning much simpler, and the school now boasts over 30 online programs.

Because this is a bachelor of science degree, this program has more research-based courses than some of the other schools on our list. Along with studying the books of the Bible, theology, and Jewish history, students also take classes like “Research Writing,” “Social and Behavioral Sciences,” and “Critical Thinking and Math.” This makes it a fantastic program for those hoping to conduct their own biblical research.

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Moody’s Online Biblical Studies Degree

8. Lancaster Bible College

BA in Biblical Studies

• Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) and Association for Biblical Higher Education (ABHE)
• Delivery: 100% online or hybrid options available
• Estimated Tuition: $375 per credit for full-time students; $440 per credit for part-time students

Lancaster Bible College allows students to complete their degree completely online or do a hybrid program with some in-person courses. For locals who want a little face-to-face time but need the flexibility of an online degree, this program is sure to please.

While this college offers the typical Bible and theology courses, something that sets it apart is its Christian services mandates. Students are required to have active involvement in a church or para-church organization. The program emphasizes the importance of real-world service and not just classroom knowledge. This experience can also give students a practical leg up when it comes time to apply for jobs.

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LBC’s Online Biblical Studies Degree

9. Colorado Christian University

BA in Biblical Studies

• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
• Delivery: 100% online
• Estimated Tuition: $494 per credit

Even a quick Google search for Christian colleges will probably put CCU on your radar. Fast growing, well-known, and with an award-winning core curriculum, CCU is committed to raising up Christian leaders.

A special feature of its Biblical Studies program is the ability to take several advanced courses that count toward an undergraduate degree and a master’s degree. Students can earn up to nine master-level credits this way. Imagine going into grad school with almost 25% of your degree already completed! We think this program is a slam dunk for those who know they will want to continue their education.

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CCU’s Online Biblical Studies Degree

10. Carolina University

BA in Biblical Studies

• Accreditation: Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools (TRACS)
• Delivery: 100% online (on-campus program also available)
• Estimated Tuition: $6,700 per semester

For over 100 years, Carolina University has taken a “students first” approach to education. It seeks to nurture well-rounded students and intentionally attend to the intellect, heart, and soul. CU also focuses on adaptability and training students to be irreplaceable in a job market increasingly influenced by AI.

Its balanced approach is also reflected in its Biblical Studies curriculum. Students take Bible courses such as “New Testament Survey” and “Pauline Literature,” some doctrinal classes, an ethics course, an evangelism course, and even an introductory missions course. Armed with both theoretical knowledge and understandings of practical application, graduates will be ready to take on any number of ministry roles.

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Carolina University’s Online Biblical Studies Degree

11. Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary

BA in Biblical Studies

• Accreditation: The Association of Theological Schools Commission on Accrediting in the United States and Canada, Higher Learning Commission, Association of Biblical Higher Education
• Delivery: 100% online (on-campus and blended programs also available)
• Estimated Tuition: $335 for qualified SBC, $485 for non-SBC

Spurgeon College exists under the Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary umbrella and hosts the seminary’s undergraduate and associate degree programs. Because of its association with the seminary, this is an amazing choice for students who want to earn their MDiv. Students in the Bachelor of Biblical Studies program can choose to be on an MDiv track and earn both their BA and MDiv in five years flat.

This program is not for the faint of heart, requiring some pretty intense language, theology, and practicum courses. But a diligent student will find it well worth the effort. MBTS does also offer a standard BA degree for students who love the school but don’t want to commit to the MDiv route.

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MBTS’s Online Biblical Studies Degree

12. Clarks Summit University

BS in Bible and Theology

• Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) and Association for Biblical Higher Education (ABHE) Commission on Accreditation
• Delivery: 100% online
• Estimated Tuition: $460 per credit

Clarks Summit is so committed to training students in the Word of God, that every single student who attends this school leaves with a degree in Biblical Studies. Their Biblical Studies degree is actually built into their core general education curriculum, meaning all students double-major biblical studies and another career-focused track.

Students enrolled in this specific program take a few extra theology courses but still have plenty of room in their schedules to add a second major. This is a great opportunity to take advantage of one of their other online programs like Christian Ministries, Counseling, or Business Administration.

CSU has multiple start dates throughout the year with an asynchronous format that allows students to study at their own pace. Courses can be completed in as little as eight weeks, and degrees can be completed in as little as two years!

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CSU’s Online Biblical Studies Degree

13. Oral Roberts University

BA in Biblical Literature

• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
• Delivery: 100% online
• Estimated Tuition: $435 per credit

ORU was founded in 1963 by internationally known evangelist Oral Roberts. Roberts was following a commission from God to “raise up students to hear [God’s] voice.” Now with more than 61,0000 alumni, the vision and mission of this globally recognized school has remained constant.

Its Biblical Literature program goes through the entire Bible and gives students the tools to correctly interpret the Scriptures through appropriate theological-historical frameworks.

Of special note to current high school students—ORU boasts a great dual enrollment program where high schoolers can earn college credits. This is an online program open to any student, offering very generous tuition discounts. High schoolers interested in ORU should definitely take advantage of this money- and time-saving program!

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ORU’s Online Biblical Studies Degree

14. Multnomah University

BA in Bible and Theology

• Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
• Delivery: 100% online (on-campus program available)
• Estimated Tuition: $375 per credit

Within a span of four classes, Multnomah Bible students will go through every book of the Bible. One Old Testament class covers Genesis through Song of Solomon, while a second covers Isaiah through Malachi. Continuing to the New Testament, one class teaches the Gospels, Acts, and Revelation, while another goes over the Pauline Letters and General Epistles. While this might seem pretty jam-packed, this approach gives students lots of opportunities to take upper-division theology courses, allowing them to dive in deeper to their own specific topics of interest.

Multnomah also has a couple of very well-known alumni to its credit. NYT bestselling author Randy Alcorn, international evangelist Dr. Luis Palau, and Jonathan Collins of the BibleProject are all graduates of this reputable Bible college.

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Multnomah’s Online Biblical Studies Degree

15. Lee University

BA or BS in Bible and Theology

• Accreditation: The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
• Delivery: 100% online
• Estimated Tuition: $458 per hour

Last, but certainly not least, Lee University offers students the option to earn either a BA or a BS in Biblical Theology. Both programs are very similar, with the main difference being the number of required electives (the BS track requiring slightly more).

This program includes overview courses in both the Old and New Testaments, and then does a deep dive into some specific books such as “Johannine Literature,” “Hebrews,” and “Minor Prophets.”

Lee is quickly becoming a leader in Christian education in the South and has been named a “Top Tier” school by US News. Another fun claim to fame? Lee University is the alma mater of Jordan Smith, Season 9 winner of the reality talent show The Voice.

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Lee’s Online Biblical Studies Degree