Best Online Christian Counseling Programs

We've ranked the top online bachelor's in Christian counseling programs. Compare schools by cost, convenience, and academic quality.
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Doug Wintemute is a writer who focuses on higher learning and entertainment. Since 2014, he has contributed to content and editorial work for award-winning publications. He completed his BA and MA in English at York University, graduating summa cum l...
Updated on January 4, 2024
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A bachelor's in Christian counseling equips students with the skills to provide counseling and therapy from a Christian and biblical perspective. In addition to traditional psychology and counseling courses, the training explores pastoral approaches to counseling. With this degree, graduates can pursue many community and social service occupations.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects 12% growth for community and social service occupations between 2020 and 2030. The median annual salary for this field was $48,410 in May 2021. Both the projected growth and median annual salary exceeded the national averages for all occupations.

According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), the average annual undergraduate tuition and fees totaled $13,360 in 2019-20. However, the top online schools may offer ways to save on tuition and completion times. Here, we examine the best online bachelor's in Christian counseling programs from the top Christian colleges, along with information on coursework, program admission, and career options.

What Can I Expect From an Online Bachelor's in Christian Counseling Program?

Each online bachelor's in Christian counseling has its own format and structure. Typically, they often follow the four-year and 120-credit bachelor's program outline. These programs may offer clinical or nonclinical counseling preparation, combining theoretical, practical, and leadership training with research requirements.

The training shows students how to integrate psychology with Christian teachings and perspectives. Learners may study topics in developmental psychology, spiritual growth, and counseling individuals and groups of different ages. The programs may also lay the foundation for further training and clinical licensure, though the requirements for these credentials differ by state.

A bachelor's in Christian counseling may award a BS or a BA degree, the differences of which vary by school. BA degrees often focus more on theoretical and interdisciplinary approaches. A BS tends to focus more on analytical and clinical approaches.

Christian counseling is commonly a concentration within biblical studies, psychology, or religion majors. However, when earning an online bachelor's degree in Christian counseling, students may get to specialize their studies even further. The type of concentrations available differ by program, but the more common options include pre-professional or pre-clinical counseling, church and community care, and Christian child and family counseling.

Featured Online Programs in Christian Counseling

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

Still Looking for the Right Fit? Discover Similar Degree Programs.

Best Accredited Online Bachelor's in Christian Counseling Programs

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Best Online Christian Counseling Programs

  1. The Baptist College of Florida
    Location

    Graceville, FL

    Tuition

    $12960

    A Christian school in Graceville, Florida, the Baptist College of Florida offers a bachelor of arts in psychology to online students. Participants complete general education courses, biblical/theological foundation classes, and electives. Students also take 60 credits dedicated to their major, which are split between theology and psychology coursework. By receiving spiritual and psychological training, graduates develop a solid grasp of their field from a Christian perspective.

    Graduates can pursue work related to counseling, promoting the emotional, mental, and behavioral health of others. The school also offers a master of arts in counseling, designed to build on what students learn in their undergraduate studies.

    Program Snapshot

    Program Name: Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
    School Status: Private
    Tuition: $360 per credit
    Credit Requirements: 120 credits
    Program Length: 4 years
    Format: Online
    Instruction Style: Asynchronous

    Admission Requirements

    GPA: No minimum requirement
    Standardized Tests: ACT or SAT

    Contact the School

    Request more information about this program.

  2. Oral Roberts University
    Location

    Tulsa, OK

    A Christian university in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Oral Roberts University offers three online degrees to students interested in pursuing counseling careers. Enrollees can choose from a traditional BA or BS in psychology or a more ministry-focused BA in Christian caregiving and counseling. Each pathway prepares students for a career in mental health services.

    The BA in psychology balances traditional psychology classes with liberal arts and theology courses, while the BS in psychology adds more technical, science-based courses to the curriculum. Both equip students to serve within their field, helping others while working within a Christian framework. The BA in Christian caregiving and counseling offers more courses in ministry, caregiving, theology, and psychology basics.

    Program Snapshot

    Program Name: Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Science in Psychology; Bachelor of Arts in Christian Caregiving and Counseling
    School Status: Private
    Tuition: $410 per credit
    Credit Requirements: 120 credits
    Program Length: 4 years
    Format: Online

    Admission Requirements

    GPA: No minimum requirement
    Standardized Tests: ACT or SAT

    Contact the School

    Request more information about this program.

  3. Nazarene Bible College
    Location

    Colorado Springs, CO

    A Christian college in Colorado Springs, Colorado, Nazarene Bible College offers flexible options for students pursuing a bachelor's degree in counseling. The school's BA in ministry with a major in counseling for Christian ministry features a three-part foundation in Christian theology and ministry, liberal arts core credits, and psychology specialization credits. Graduates are prepared to serve as ministers and counselors.

    The degree offers several completion options, including a two-year degree completion program for working adults. Students can also specialize in three possible minors. Courses take place completely online, except for two face-to-face weekend courses each year.

    Program Snapshot

    Program Name: Bachelor of Arts in Ministry With a Counseling for Christian Ministry Major
    School Status: Private
    Tuition: $380 per credit hour
    Credit Requirements: 128 credits
    Program Length: 4 years
    Format: Hybrid
    Instruction Style: Mostly asynchronous

    Admission Requirements

    GPA: No minimum requirement
    Standardized Tests: Not required

    Contact the School

    Request more information about this program.

What Courses Will I Take in an Online Bachelor's in Christian Counseling Program?

General Psychology

This course examines the history and practical applications of psychology. Students look at common psychological perspectives and approaches. They also study assessment and evaluation methods and psychological treatment processes.

Human Growth and Development

In this course, students explore physical and cognitive human development in its various stages. Learners look at typical growth milestones and the many factors that influence development.

Marriage and Family Counseling

Students in this course develop specialized counseling skills for working with married couples and families. They learn about the importance of these bonds, the challenges they may face, and the societal and behavioral factors that influence these relationships.

Marriage and Family in Society

In this course, students look at the role of marriage and family in society. Students examine topics like diversity, marriage and family problems, and structures and inequality.

Pastoral Approaches to Counseling

This course examines how professionals can provide support and counseling within a Christian context. Students look at biblical and theological counseling perspectives and learn to blend them with their psychological training.

What Are the Admission Requirements for an Online Bachelor's in Christian Counseling Program?

The admission requirements for an online bachelor's in Christian counseling usually look similar to other bachelor's programs. Prospective students typically need a high school diploma or the equivalent for entry. Schools may also require minimum GPAs.

Below, we outline the most common application components.

Application

College applications usually include the prospective student's personal information and program of interest. According to our undergraduate application guide, prospective students can apply to individual schools directly or many schools at once through one of the college application systems.

Test Scores

Prospective students may need to submit college entrance exams as part of their application. At the undergraduate level, these tests include the SAT and ACT. While many schools have introduced test waivers amidst the COVID-19 situation, applicants can still submit test results for consideration.

Letters of Recommendation

Letters of recommendation give schools more insight into the applicant's capabilities. These letters usually come from the candidate's former employers and teachers in relevant fields. When asking for letters of recommendation, students should ask early and let their references know about deadlines and what to expect.

Essays

College application essays can be one of the most important pieces of the decision process. At the undergraduate level, prospective students usually address personal experiences in their college essays. They may also address their community involvement or answer a specific application question.

Official Transcripts

Most college applications include official transcripts, as they highlight the applicant's previous training and grades. Transcripts can help schools identify if the candidate has the appropriate prerequisites for their desired program. They also help determine how many transfer credits applicants qualify for, particularly when transferring from community college to university.

What Can I Do With an Online Bachelor's in Christian Counseling Degree?

Career Outlook

The increasing demand for community and social service support programs has created a need for more support professionals. As part of one of the most popular college majors, Christian counseling degree graduates can access traditional support careers and those within the Church and Christian community.

The BLS projects the addition of nearly 350,000 community and social service jobs between 2020 and 2030. Each of the fields within this industry also has annual openings that professionals can fill. Professionals in this field earned median wages of $48,410 in May 2021.

While job requirements vary by employer and state, graduates in this field may qualify for many counseling careers. Examples include marriage and family, addiction, and school and career counselors. They may also become life coaches and clergy members.

Check out what a bachelor's in Christian counseling can do for your professional life. Learn more about counseling careers.

Career Paths

Addiction Counselor

These counselors offer support and treatment to people living with substance misuse challenges, behavioral disorders, and mental health conditions. They assess clients, provide education and resources, and develop treatment and coping plans. These counselors may need licensure to practice, the requirements for which vary by state but may include additional training.

Median Annual Salary: $48,520

School and Career Counselors and Advisors

School and career counselors and advisors work with students and professionals to help them plan their next steps in school or work. They help individuals overcome challenges, identify their strengths and interests, and set goals. Counselors in this field may need licensure, which can require additional training and certification.

Median Annual Salary: $60,510

Life Coach

Life coaches help people overcome personal challenges, enrich their lives, or advance their careers. These professionals help clients identify and set goals, develop a plan or approach, and help motivate or empower their clientele. While the field is unregulated, postgraduate certification may be available.

Median Annual Salary: $61,900

Social and Community Service Manager

Social and community service managers develop and manage social and community programs for various organizations. They often handle the budgets, staffing, and communications with the public and stakeholders. They may specialize in working with certain demographics or in certain locations.

Median Annual Salary: $74,000

Clergy

Clergy professionals perform many roles within a church or religious organization, including leading sermons and services. They also develop religious education programs and offer guidance to members. Clergy leaders typically need a graduate degree, but education requirements vary.

Median Annual Salary: $49,720

Christian Counseling Not For You? Check Out These Related Careers.

Continuing Education

In addition to the diverse employment opportunities, a bachelor's in Christian counseling leads to many continuing education options. For example, graduates can continue directly into a master's in Christian counseling program. Or, they can specialize with a master's in child development, a master's in human and family development, or a master's in marriage and family counseling. Another option is a master's in behavioral psychology.

They can also enter a more general field, such as a master's in psychology or a master's in human services. Another option is to pursue a research-focused degree, such as a master's in clinical research. Prospective counselors may also qualify for postgraduate licensure or certification depending on their training and state.

How Do I Choose an Online Bachelor's in Christian Counseling Program?

Cost

Choosing the right bachelor's program usually includes comparing prices. Prospective students should consider comparing online and on-campus costs, in-state and out-of-state programs, and private and public schools. To find the true program cost, aspiring learners need to evaluate the income they lose while studying.

Program Format

Prospective students should look for a program format that matches their study interests, strengths, and needs. They may want to compare synchronous vs. asynchronous studies and full-time vs. part-time studies. Learners with flexible schedules may want to consider online accelerated bachelor's degrees to fast-track their training.

Location

Whichever way they choose between online or on-campus college, prospective students should think about location. On-campus students need a location they can travel to or live near. Online students may need to satisfy on-campus residencies, typically near the beginning and end of their programs.

Accreditation

As per our online college accreditation guide, institutional and programmatic accreditation can majorly influence employment, financial aid, and postgraduate licensure. For an online bachelor's in Christian counseling, programmatic accreditation may come from the Council for Accreditation of Counseling & Related Educational Programs.

Student Support

The type of student services available at a school can say a lot about the institution. Prospective online students should look at the online student services provided, including online academic support, wellness support, and career services. Career services and support may include college mentorships and internship opportunities.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bachelor's in Christian Counseling Programs

Is a bachelor's in Christian counseling worth it?

Yes. Many students find great value in a bachelor's in Christian counseling. These degrees provide access to community and social service occupations, and education and support roles. Students can also give back to their communities in various ways.

In addition to the postgraduate benefits, online learners also get the value of an online degree. Online learning opens the door to nationwide study options, along with more flexible schedules and more accommodating work and study balances.

What can I do with a bachelor's in Christian counseling?

A bachelor's in Christian counseling provides graduates with several postgraduate options. Many enter the field directly, pursuing positions within their church or community organizations. Graduates can also access teaching or counseling careers.

Since clinical counseling licenses and roles typically require a master's degree at a minimum, graduates in pursuit of this field often continue their training. A bachelor's in Christian counseling can lead to master's degrees in Christian counseling and other counseling disciplines.

Are Christian counseling majors in demand?

Yes. Many organizations seek out graduates with a bachelor's in Christian counseling. The BLS projects 12% growth in community and social service occupations between 2020 and 2030. This is faster than the projected growth rate of 8% for all U.S. occupations.

The BLS also projects 23% growth for addiction counselors, 11% growth for school and career counselors and advisors, and 16% growth for marriage and family therapists between 2020 and 2030.

How much money can I make with a bachelor's in Christian counseling?

The money graduates with a bachelor's in Christian counseling can make depends on their training, location, and industry. According to the BLS, the median annual wage for community and social service occupations was $48,410 in May 2021.

Within this particular field, salaries can vary considerably. For example, school and career counselors made a median of $60,510 in May 2021, and addiction counselors made $48,520. Clergy professionals made a median of $49,720 during the same year.

What are the highest-paying jobs with a bachelor's in Christian counseling?

The highest-paying jobs for graduates with a bachelor's in Christian counseling often fall in the social and community service management field. According to the BLS, social and community service managers earned median annual wages of $74,000 in May 2021.

The top 10% of earners in this role made more than $118,650 in May 2021. The top industries for this occupation include government organizations, religious organizations, and individual and family services. These industries paid median annual wages of $93,420, $70,960, and $63,260, respectively, in May 2021.

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BestColleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

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