Top 10 Online Biblical Studies Certificate Programs

Students can earn an online biblical studies certificate from one of many schools across the country. Bible colleges aren't limited to bachelor's degrees or master's degrees anymore, as students can alternatively complete certificate coursework in a fraction of the time.

Online certificate programs offer in-depth Bible study and insight into the Christian faith, providing students with improved biblical knowledge and stronger discipleship skills. Continue reading to explore the top online biblical studies certificate programs.

Are There Online Biblical Studies Courses With Certificates?

Biblical studies academic programs have traditionally been a part of an associate degree, Bachelor of Arts, or another established degree program. However, there are now dozens of institutions that offer fully online certificate programs in biblical studies and theology.

Certificate program students are typically considered non-degree seeking students, but are otherwise able to access the same online courses and experience as their peers. Certificate programs can vary from one semester to one year in length � and biblical certificate courses can take from a few weeks to a few months of time to finish.

What Will I Learn in an Online Biblical Studies Certificate Program?

Online biblical studies programs explore biblical foundations, interpretations, evangelism, and other topics related to God's word. Students study Christian theology and its applications as well as biblical truths and texts.

Online ministry certificate programs in biblical studies and theology equip students for discipleship, whether inside or outside of church settings. Topics covered include Old Testament and New Testament hermeneutics, biblical events, understanding doctrine, and Christology.

Top Online Biblical Studies Courses and Certificates

Dozens of schools offer biblical studies and ministry certificate programs, and many now offer fully online options for students interested in Christian ministry. Below are some of the top online theology certificate and biblical studies certificate programs, many of which have accreditation at the school and/or programmatic level.

1. Certificate in Biblical Studies � Liberty University

Liberty University offers a fully online undergraduate biblical studies certificate that consists of eight courses, totaling 19 credit hours. The program includes courses in theology, the gospels, and surveys in the Old and New Testaments. Liberty University is fully accredited and accepts relevant transfer credits toward the certificate requirements.

• Cost: $390 per credit
• Program length: Two semesters
• Certificate included: Yes

2. Biblical Studies Certificate or Theological Studies Certificate � Bethel University

The Biblical Studies certificate provides a foundation for learners whether they plan to pursue ministry or another field, while the Theological Studies certificate is designed to prepare those planning to teach scripture. Both programs consist of 12 credits and are entirely online. Bethel University is institutionally accredited, and certificate credits may be transferable.

• Cost: $550 per credit
• Program length: Less than one year
• Certificate included: Yes

3. Certificate in Biblical Studies and Theology � Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary

The online certificate in biblical studies program consists of seven courses, including hermeneutics, Christian theology, New Testament, and biblical ethics. Courses consist of 20-minute private video lessons, five days per week across a six-week term. Students can also pursue certificates in Christian apologetics, New Testament studies, and related areas.

• Cost: $679 total
• Program length: 12 to 42 weeks
• Certificate included: Yes

4. Certificate in Biblical Studies � Moody Bible Institute

The Certificate in Biblical Studies at Moody Bible Institute focuses on the Old Testament and New Testament, while emphasizing biblical interpretation. The 21 credit hours are transferable and the school is fully accredited. Classes include church doctrines, biblical teaching, hermeneutics, and one student-selected course.

• Cost: $425 per credit
• Program length: Two semesters
• Certificate included: Yes

5. Certificate in Bible/Theology � Online Bible Institute

Online Bible Institute (OBI) offers a free, self-paced online certificate program in Bible and theology that consists of 10 courses. Students can complete their coursework in less time if desired, and collaborate with peers in online forums throughout the program. Classes include foundations of faith, ministry, and biblical worldview development.

• Cost: $0 (free)
• Program length: One year or less
• Certificate included: Yes

6. Biblical Studies Certificate � Belhaven University

Belhaven University has an online 18-credit biblical studies certificate program that is delivered via seven-week course terms. Students explore Old Testament prophecies and poetic books as well as Christian doctrine, New Testament teachings, and hermeneutics. The school is accredited and students can apply certificate credits to related programs.

• Cost: $455 per credit
• Program length: One to two semesters
• Certificate included: Yes

7. Certificate in Biblical Studies � Emmaus University

The Emmaus University biblical studies certificate program provides students with enrollment flexibility through eight-week course terms, meaning students can take more or fewer classes as needed.

Coursework includes surveys of the Old and New Testaments, leadership training, Christian worldview, and biblical interpretation. Students can transfer eligible prior coursework into the certificate program.

• Cost: $300 per credit
• Program length: One year or less
• Certificate included: Yes

8. Certificate in Theology � Christian Bible Institute & Seminary

The certificate in theology program consists of 12 credit hours and can be completed in two semesters. Courses include biblical surveys, biblical theology, and doctrines of the Bible, focusing on scriptural truths, theological concepts, and Christian ministry.

The school also offers online certificates in ministry, biblical preaching, Christian leadership, pastoral care, and prayer ministry.

• Cost: $400 per credit
• Program length: Two semesters (part-time)
• Certificate included: Yes

9. Graduate Certificate of Christian Studies � Dallas Theological Seminary

The graduate certificate program consists of 18 credit hours and enables learners to choose one-third of the courses based on their interests. Program classes include biblical studies and theology, hermeneutics, bibliology, and the history of doctrine. Students can add up to six more credits to their program and apply their coursework towards a degree.

• Cost: $680 per credit
• Program length: Two semesters
• Certificate included: Yes

10. Certificate in Biblical Studies � Colorado Christian University

Colorado Christian University (CCU) offers an online 12-credit certificate that can be applied towards a degree or completed on its own. Students explore biblical texts and interpretation and choose an elective class, such as apologetics or spiritual formation.

Classes are offered in five-week terms, enabling students to complete the certificate in as few as 10 weeks.

• Cost: $494 per credit
• Program length: One semester
• Certificate included: Yes

How We Select Certificate Programs

We review many schools and select which ones to feature based on specific criteria, such as costs, program length, and flexibility. Our team chooses programs that offer the best value and curriculum, serving a range of student needs and career goals.

• Program cost: While some of the largest theological schools have tuition in excess of $1,000 per credit, we focus on schools with more affordable program costs.
• Program value: The programs featured offer a balance of cost, flexibility, duration, and quality, giving students a higher value for the overall price paid.
• Certification options: All of the schools listed offer certificates in biblical studies or theology, and most of the courses can also be applied towards other programs.

FAQs About Online Ministry Certification Programs and Courses

Earning a biblical studies or theology certificate online varies by student and school, and not all curricula are the same. The FAQs below address some of the key differences in these online certificate programs.

How Long Does It Take To Get an Online Certificate in Biblical Studies?

The time it takes to earn your certificate depends on your specific program and how many classes or credits it includes. Some programs can be completed in one semester, while others take two semesters or one year.

Are There Any One-Year Bible Certificate Programs?

Yes, many online certificate programs in biblical studies can be completed in one year. Most programs, both at the undergraduate and graduate levels, take one year or less to complete.

What Can You Do With a Biblical Studies Certificate?

The deeper biblical knowledge you gain from a certificate can be applied most directly in ministry roles, such as pastoral or church teaching. It is also beneficial across various other roles in public and private organizations.

What Are the Benefits of Earning an Online Biblical Studies Certificate?

An online biblical studies certificate gives you a deeper understanding of biblical texts and interpretations. It strengthens your knowledge of Christianity and equips you for ministry.

What Are the Best Online Programs for Obtaining a Biblical Studies Certificate?

The best programs are those that give you flexibility to learn at the pace you need, while offering affordable costs and a high-quality education in biblical and theological concepts.

Discover Online Certificate Programs

Explore more of the top online certificate programs in biblical studies and other fields on Learn.org. Reach out to a school with a program you like to get started.