If you’re interested in teaching religious studies, a popular path is to do a faith-related degree with a Christian college or university. Here are some good choices to consider for becoming a classroom teacher. These are our top 10 Christian colleges and universities in the United States.
Rankings are based on accessibility, program diversity, online learning options, student satisfaction, and the integration of Christian values. Institutions were evaluated for their ability to serve a broad student population while maintaining academic and spiritual excellence.
10. Saint Leo University
Founded in 1889, Saint Leo University is Florida’s oldest Catholic higher education institution. It offers over 40 undergraduate majors and numerous graduate degrees and certificates, spanning various disciplines in the arts and sciences. The university is recognised for its extensive online programs and has a longstanding commitment to providing education to U.S. military personnel. Saint Leo’s has a large study abroad program, with destinations such as Sydney, Australia and Bogota, Colombia.
9. Ohio Christian University
Ohio Christian University offers a holistic, Christ-centred, biblically integrated education in the Wesleyan tradition. It specialises in business, leadership, ministry, psychology, and counselling courses, including programs tailored for adult learners. The university maintains a student-to-faculty ratio of 9 to 1, allowing for personalised attention and support.
8. University of the Pacific
The University of the Pacific, located in Stockton, California, was founded in 1851 as California Wesleyan College, affiliated with the Methodist Church. It offers over 80 undergraduate programs and numerous graduate degrees across various disciplines. The university is recognised for its personalised education and commitment to student success. Students have the flexibility to pursue courses on both full-time and part-time schedules.
7. Grand Canyon University
Located in Phoenix, Arizona, Grand Canyon University is the largest Christian university in the United States by enrollment, with over 66,000 undergraduate students in 2022. The university offers more than 200 degree programs, including a wide range of online courses that make education accessible to students nationwide and internationally. While GCU is nondenominational, it promotes spiritual growth through weekly chapel services and a strong Christian ethos. Its large, inclusive programs and affordability make it a leader in Christian higher education.
6. Liberty University
Tucked away in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia, Liberty University stands as one of the largest Christian colleges globally, serving tens of thousands of students. Its offerings include over 600 programs, many of which are available online, catering to adult learners and remote students. Liberty combines strong academic programs with affordability as a nonprofit institution. The university’s robust online presence has earned it a reputation as a top provider of online education in the U.S. Its accessibility and flexibility for a diverse student population are key strengths.
5. Graceland University
Established in 1895, Graceland University is a liberal arts institution with a Christian heritage. It operates campuses in Lamoni, Iowa, and Independence, Missouri, serving a diverse student body. The university is recognised for its strong programs in nursing and education, receiving positive feedback from students. In the 2025 edition of U.S. News & World Report’s Best Colleges, Graceland is ranked #118 among Regional Universities in the Midwest.
4. Indiana Wesleyan University
Established in 1920, Indiana Wesleyan University (IWU) is a private Christian institution affiliated with the Wesleyan Church. It is the largest private university in Indiana and the largest member of the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities. In 2013, IWU acquired Wesley Institute in Sydney, Australia, which was later renamed Excelsia College, establishing a presence in the Australian university system.
3. Wheaton College
Wheaton College in Illinois is an evangelical Protestant institution renowned for excellence in the liberal arts. It boasts a six-year graduation rate of 85%, surpassing the national average. The college has a notable history of inclusivity, having graduated Edward Breathitte Sellers, one of Illinois’ first African-American graduates, in 1866. Emphasising both rigorous academics and deep faith, Wheaton College offers an education that integrates scholarly pursuit with religious commitment.
2. University of Northwestern | St. Paul, MN
Founded in 1902, the University of Northwestern in St. Paul, Minnesota, is an evangelical institution known for its flexible hybrid courses, allowing students to study both online and on-campus. The university offers a daily chapel program featuring a variety of speakers. Undergraduate students are required to earn a minor in Bible studies by completing at least 16 credits of Bible courses during their university career.
1. Emory University
Emory University, based in Atlanta, Georgia, is widely recognised as one of the best Christian universities in the U.S. It boasts a 90% six-year graduation rate and a 97% employment or graduate school placement rate within six months of graduation. Though rooted in Methodist and Episcopal traditions, its focus has shifted toward academic excellence and research. Emory serves a smaller, more selective student body than institutions like GCU and Liberty, but it provides strong support and maintains high levels of student satisfaction.