Top 8 Online Christian History Degree Programs in 2025

Christian history stretches back over 2,000 years, encompassing the events of the Bible, the division and strife of the medieval period, the transformational Reformation, and all of the later events that shaped the modern church into what it is today. Students in Christian history degree programs will gain a thorough knowledge of history and theology, preparing them for Christian teaching and speaking roles.

Earning your degree in Christian history from an accredited Christian school or seminary allows you to explore this rich history through a Biblical lens. Below, we will list ten of the best options.

Best Christian Colleges That Offer Christian History Programs

Below are some of the best Christian colleges for history. There are many degree options, and several schools offer both in-person and online classes.

1. Spurgeon College

Spurgeon College does not offer a degree in Christian history; however, its general history degree program incorporates many aspects of Christian history. Students pursuing a bachelor's degree will take 36 credit hours of Biblical core classes, including church history I and II, introduction to hermeneutics, and studies of both the Old and New Testaments.

Along with classes on American history and politics, students will take courses in church and state and Christian political thought. Graduates are prepared to pursue academic leadership positions or continue into a master's program.

• Estimated tuition cost: $390 per credit hour
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

2. Liberty University

Liberty's Master of Arts (MA) in religion and church history is available 100% online and is presented in eight-week courses. Students can transfer up to 50% of the required 60 credit hours.

Students will explore the core foundations of the church, including the Reformation and the history of evangelicalism. Coursework blends studies of the Old and New Testaments, sermon writing, hermeneutics, and systematic theology. This program is ideal for those hoping to work as missionaries, associate pastors, or in Christian education.

• Estimated tuition cost: $410 per credit hour
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

3. Regent University

You can earn a Master's in Theology (MTh) in church history at Regent University. The 24-credit program is available entirely online and gives students a greater understanding of theological research.

Students will take courses like the early church and renewal, the Reformation and renewal, and studies on Pentecostal and charismatic movements. Interested students must already have a master's degree with an overall grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 or higher; the student must also be proficient in at least one Biblical language.

• Estimated tuition cost: $670 per credit hour
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

4. Oral Roberts University

Oral Roberts University (ORU) offers a Master of Arts in theological and historical studies. The program prepares students to effectively communicate the doctrines of Christianity, as well as the theological and historical origins of the faith.

As they work to complete their thesis project, students will participate in detailed research projects, interact with people of many different creeds, and build critical thinking skills. Before graduating, all students must be proficient in theological German or French.

• Estimated tuition cost: $720 per credit hour
• Accreditation: HLC

5. Wheaton College

Wheaton College's History of Christianity MA is available in a hybrid format and takes about two years to complete. Students will learn from expert faculty and have opportunities for hands-on learning. There are 20 tuition discounts available for graduate students.

This program integrates historical research and writing with critical analysis — all through a Christian lens. After studying the core foundations of church history, students will be able to specialize in the specific areas of Christianity that appeal to them most.

• Estimated tuition cost: $875 per credit hour
• Accreditation: HLC

6. Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary

Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary offers a Master of Arts in Theological Studies (MATS) with a concentration in church history. The degree program is available on campus or online and takes two years for full-time students to complete.

Graduate students will take courses in ethics, church history, and both testaments of the Bible. Applicants should be interested in or already serving in a ministry role, and they should have a bachelor's degree with a 3.0 overall GPA.

• Estimated tuition cost: $875 per credit hour
• Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education

7. The University of Chicago Divinity School

You can earn a Master of Arts degree from the University of Chicago Divinity School. Students can specialize in church history, a program that studies the faith from the first century onward. Students will research ancient and medieval Christianity, the Reformation, the Puritan movement, and the many facets of current American Christianity.

All master's students must be proficient in a modern research language. Applicants should submit a personal statement, three letters of recommendation, and a writing sample.

• Estimated tuition cost: $10,000 per quarter
• Accreditation: HLC

8. The Catholic University of America

The Catholic University of America offers an MA in the History of Christianity and Church History. This 30-credit program allows students to perform in-depth research on original texts as they study church history from ancient times to the present day. To that end, students must be proficient in French and German.

As part of the program, students will complete two comprehensive exams, one in general historiography and one in the student's specialty. Interested students should already have a Bachelor of Arts degree.

• Estimated tuition cost: $1,280 per credit hour
• Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)

Benefits of Attending a Christian School for Christian History

Several of the schools on our list are well-known Christian schools and seminaries. Students will have the opportunity to learn from experts in the field with decades of ministry and teaching experience. This can be especially helpful in a field like Christian history.

Many secular schools offer degrees in history or religion; however, the institutions on our list give students a thorough education in theological foundations and historiography, helping them build critical thinking, research, and language skills along the way. All of this is completed through a faith-based curriculum that prepares graduates for a successful ministry or teaching career.

Admissions Requirements for Christian History Schools

The schools on our list offer various degree options, from Bachelor of Arts to Master of Theology. As such, admissions requirements vary. However, common requirements include:

• a completed high school diploma or bachelor's degree
• a GPA between 2.5 and 3.0
• interest in or experience with ministry work

Some schools may also require letters of recommendation, an essay response, or a statement of faith. Many programs require students to be able to read in French or German, so foreign language experience is helpful.

FAQs About Christian History Colleges

There's a lot to consider when pursuing a degree in Christian history. Below, we'll answer some of the most common FAQs.

How Much Does a Degree in Christian History Cost at a Christian College?

The cost of your diploma depends on several factors. Generally, a bachelor's degree is cheaper than a master's degree, but there are many ways to make an MA affordable. The cheapest master's on our list is available at Liberty University for just $410 per credit hour. Taking classes online at a public institution and applying for financial aid can also help make tuition more affordable.

Do I Need To Believe in the Same Faith To Attend a Christian Institution?

Some schools and seminaries, like Gordon-Conwell, specify that students must demonstrate a strong Christian faith to attend. However, this is not a requirement at every school. A study of Christian history will involve several theology and Bible classes, but depending on the school, open-minded students of any faith are welcome to apply.

What Can I Do With a Christian History Degree From a Christian College?

A degree in Christian history prepares you for many different faith-based teaching jobs. Graduates can work as associate pastors, Christian school administrators, or missionaries. Graduates who obtain a teaching license can also work as Bible teachers at K-12 schools. Students who are interested in furthering their education can apply for a Master of Divinity or doctoral program.

What Is the Study of Christian History Called?

The study of Christian history can also be called historical theology or ecclesiastical history. These programs may take a broad look at all of Christian history, from the first century on through the Middle Ages, the Reformation, and into the modern era. They may also allow students to tailor their studies to focus on one specific time period.

Is a Religious Studies Degree Worth It?

A religious studies degree can lead to many rewarding jobs, both in ministry and in the local or international community. If you feel the call to ministry work, then this job can be incredibly rewarding. Low-cost online degree options, scholarships, and financial aid make it easier and more affordable than ever to complete your Christian history degree and get to work fast.

Explore Online Colleges

A Christian history degree is a fascinating opportunity to study how historical events have molded and shaped the modern church. More Christian schools and degree programs are featured on Learn.org. Contact a school that meets your needs today.