Best Online Christian Colleges in Tennessee for 2025

Earning an academic degree from an online Christian college can be quite a unique experience.

Christian colleges often have a faith-based mission. As a result, students typically learn partially or entirely from a religious perspective � though some schools offer mostly liberal arts programs.

If you're interested in attending a Christian school, there are several online Christian colleges in Tennessee. Keep reading to see which one might be best for you.

Featured Accredited Christian Colleges Online in Tennessee

Explore this list of some of the best online Christian colleges for Tennessee students.

1. Belmont University

Belmont University in Nashville is a Christ-centered institution offering traditional academic programs for students interested in learning online.

Degrees include a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in General Business, a Professional MBA, and a Master of Science in Occupational Therapy (MSOT).

Online doctoral degrees are also available. Programs include PhD in Strategic Leadership in Education and a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP).

In addition to top academic experiences, Belmont offers students more than 20 faith-based student organizations.

2. Lipscomb University

At Lipscomb University in Nashville, students can enjoy a Christ-centered academic experience while learning in an online environment.

The university offers flexible online courses at the undergraduate and graduate degree levels.

Bachelor's programs are available in data analytics, hospitality management, public administration, business leadership, supply chain management, and operations management.

At the master's level, students can study professional studies, public administration, and sustainability.

While the programs aren't centered on Christianity, courses offer a faith-based perspective.

3. Carson-Newman University

Carson-Newman University is a Christian university located in Jefferson City.

The university, which is in partnership with churches of the Tennessee Baptist Convention, aims to provide students with a Christ-centered academic experience.

As a liberal arts-based school, its online academic offerings align with traditional programs.

Degree options are available at the bachelor's, master's, and doctoral levels and include accounting, professional studies, business administration, education, nursing, computer science, and marketing.

4. Trevecca Nazarene University

Nashville is home to Trevecca Nazarene University, a school dedicated to providing students with a holistic education.

The university offers a Christ-centered community and delivers coursework via multi-denominational, Christian faculty.

Students interested in learning online can choose from degrees at the bachelor's, master's, and doctoral levels.

Traditional degrees include business, criminal justice, healthcare administration, and management and leadership.

Faith-based programs include African American worship studies, Christian ministry, church and community, and worship and leadership.

5. Welch College

Located in Gallatin, Welch College is a private Christian college founded in 1942 by the National Association of Free Will Baptists.

It continues to operate as a comprehensive Christian college.

Students can choose from two online bachelor's degrees at Welch College.

The Bachelor of Science in General Christian Ministry prepares Christian leaders to perform various ministries.

The Bachelor of Science in Business explores professional business, arts and sciences, and theological studies.

6. Johnson University

Johnson University in Knoxville aims to extend the kingdom of God by educating its students in Christian ministries and other vocations.

The school has two physical campuses � one in Tennessee and one in Florida � but also offers online programs for bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degree seekers.

Traditional online degrees include applied linguistics, business administration, intercultural commerce, and leadership studies.

Faith-based programs include ministry leadership, pastoral care and counseling, and the New Testament.

7. Lee University

Lee University, located in Cleveland, is one of the largest Christ-centered private institutions in Tennessee.

The university was founded in 1918 by the Church of God of Cleveland, TN, and currently provides students with a liberal arts and professional education.

Online programs available at Lee University include bachelor's degrees in Bible and theology, business administration, Christian studies, criminal justice, and ministry leadership.

Online graduate degrees are available in ministry studies, TESOL, business administration, and marriage and family studies.

8. Fisk University

Fisk University in Nashville was originally associated with the American Missionary Association and is now affiliated with the United Church of Christ.

The university was incorporated in 1867 and became the first African-American institution to gain accreditation by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

Fisk offers two online programs. The Bachelor of Science in Elected Studies offers an online Human Development & Leadership concentration.

The university also offers an online Master of Arts in Healthcare Management.

Other Online Christian Colleges

Along with these top online Christian colleges in Tennessee are schools offering Christian academic experiences at the national level.

Liberty University

Liberty University is a Christian college helping to train 'champions for Christ' by offering coursework taught from a biblical perspective.

Students can choose from hundreds of online programs at all degree levels. Academic offerings include traditional educational programs as well as faith-based options.

Traditional areas of study include social work, fashion merchandising, nursing, government, information systems, and sports management.

Individuals interested in faith-based careers can consider programs like theology, divinity, biblical studies, biblical exposition, and religion.

Types of Online Christian Colleges

As you look for online Christian colleges in Tennessee, consider that there are several types to choose from. Here is an overview of Bible colleges, Christian schools, and seminaries.

Online Bible College

The online Bible college places a strong focus on foundational study while also ensuring students get practical training in religious education and ministry so they're prepared to take on service roles.

In online Bible colleges, it's common for students to study biblical concepts and also immerse themselves in online faith-based activities like Bible studies or chapel events.

Online Private Christian Schools

Online private Christian schools are generally more likely to provide students with a liberal arts education found at a traditional private or public college or university.

Oftentimes, Christian schools incorporate the faith-based perspective into their curriculum and offer courses focused on Christian studies, theology, or other religious concepts.

Online Seminary

There are many similarities between the online seminary and Bible college, one of the biggest being their focus on the foundations of theology.

But while a Bible college tends to prepare students for multiple types of ministries through practical training, seminaries more often prepare students to specifically become pastors or ministers.

Is There a Free Christian College in Tennessee?

Currently, there are no free Christian colleges in Tennessee, but that doesn't mean you can't make attending one of the online Christian colleges in Tennessee more affordable.

Many Christian schools accept financial aid, which enables some students to receive federal grants and student loans and possibly qualify for the Federal Work-Study Program.

If you're an active-duty military service member or veteran, consider the benefits of the GI Bill.

Also, apply for military grants and find out if your school offers military tuition discounts.

Students who work while enrolled might qualify for a tuition reimbursement program from their employer through which they can have some or all tuition costs reimbursed each semester.

Scholarships for Christian Colleges in Tennessee

In addition to pursuing financial aid, tuition reimbursement, and military discounts, a great way to lower tuition costs is to secure one or more scholarships.

Scholarships are financial awards granted to students based on criteria like academic standing, talent, and college major.

Students often acquire scholarships from their academic institutions, nonprofit organizations, or private businesses.

In Tennessee, eligible students can take advantage of the Tennessee Hope or Tennessee Promise scholarships � or the Tennessee Reconnect grant.

Christian college enrollees might also qualify for several religious scholarships. A database of scholarships based on religious affiliation can be found at CareerOneStop.org.

Find an Online Christian College Today

Enrolling in one of the best online Christian colleges in Tennessee can open doors to amazing career opportunities.

Review top schools to find the Christian college that aligns with your academic needs.