Why This Matters

  • 99% OF COUNSELING ROLES REQUIRE A UNIVERSITY EDUCATION

    According to O*NET, 34% of counselor roles require a bachelor’s degree, and 62% call for a master’s. Completing an online bachelor’s in Christian counseling is the perfect gateway to a faith-based job or further study.

  • THE U.S. NEEDS 79,000 NEW COUNSELORS BEFORE 2029

    Job prospects for counselors are set to increase by around 25% over the next decade, which is a significantly higher growth rate than the projected average across all industries.

  • EARN $77,540 PER YEAR

    The average salary for religious counselors is $77,540, while the overall industry average is just $50,800.

Our Research

This list features online degrees in psychology or counseling with a focus on Christian values and scripture. Some degrees award a Bachelor of Arts while others follow the Bachelor of Science pathway. All of the programs we included are delivered online.

Many of the courses carry accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission. This independent body covers multiple states and verifies that accredited institutions strive for consistent quality and ongoing improvement. Others are accredited by regional or national bodies to ensure a high standard of teaching and assessment. A degree from a regionally accredited school offers the advantages of easier credit transfer and more comprehensive recognition.

  • 74 hours to write this article
  • 100 universities and colleges we assessed
  • 112 education programs we compared

The Top 50 Online Bachelor’s in Christian Counseling Programs

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What You Should Know About This Degree

Most of the degrees on this list are psychology programs, where students study the principles underpinning human behavior, socialization, and mental processes. They also integrate counseling practices with Christian scripture to show students how to provide faith-based mental health and relationship support. However, some programs award a Bachelor of Arts degree in subjects such as ministry leadership counseling and Christian caregiving.

When you’re choosing an online bachelor’s course in Christian counseling, you should look for accreditation from a regional or national body. Accreditation ensures that you will receive a high-quality education and gain a recognized qualification.

The job outlook for counselors is excellent, with projected job opportunities expected to grow significantly faster than average. Religious practitioners, in particular, can expect to earn more than average compared to the mean wage for all counselors.

Qualification requirements for counselors vary across employers, and many require a master’s degree. An online bachelor’s in Christian counseling is the ideal springboard to further study.

What’s Next?

Here are some questions to ask when researching online bachelor’s in Christian counseling programs:

  • Am I eligible for this program? Entry requirements vary across institutions, but most of the courses on our list require a high school diploma or GED with a minimum GPA of 2.0. Many institutions also ask for evidence of a minimum ACT, SAT, or CLT score.
  • How long does it take to complete this online degree? Most online bachelor’s programs in Christian counseling take four years to complete — the same as a traditional degree. However, some offer fast-track pathways that allow you to complete the modules at a quicker pace. If you prefer to study part-time, degree completion will take longer.

When you’re shortlisting courses, make sure you know when to submit your application and gather the documentation you need. You can seek clarification from the college’s website or admissions department if you’re unsure.

Decide how you will finance your studies and apply for financial aid as soon as possible. Some institutions offer additional support such as grants or scholarships.