Top 10 Best Christian Colleges in the U.S. - 2025/26 Ranking

Overview of Christian Colleges in the US

Christian colleges in the United States offer students a unique educational experience that integrates faith with academics. These institutions emphasize moral values, community service, and spiritual growth alongside traditional education. Many of them are affiliated with specific Christian denominations, while others maintain a non-denominational Christian focus. Christian colleges often provide smaller class sizes, strong student support systems, and a faith-centered campus life, making them a preferred choice for students seeking an education rooted in biblical principles.

Christian colleges vary widely in size, academic offerings, and affordability. Some institutions offer liberal arts education, while others focus on specialized programs like ministry, theology, business, and the sciences. Whether students seek a deeply faith-based education or a mix of religious and secular coursework, Christian colleges provide an excellent alternative to secular universities.

KnowInsiders has ranked the top 10 best Christian colleges in the US based on factors such as academic excellence, spiritual life, affordability, student satisfaction, and campus facilities.

Learn more: Top 10 Cheapest Online Christian Colleges in the U.S.

1. Wheaton College

Wheaton College is a prestigious institution dedicated to providing a top-tier liberal arts education within a Christ-centered community.

• Location: Wheaton, Illinois

• Website: www.wheaton.edu

• Tuition: $43,370 per year

• Student Enrollment: 3,000+ students

• Campus: A 80-acre campus with state-of-the-art facilities and a vibrant student life

• Overview: Wheaton College is a highly respected evangelical Christian liberal arts college. Known for its rigorous academics and commitment to integrating faith and learning, Wheaton offers over 40 undergraduate majors and several graduate programs. It is home to the Billy Graham Center and has strong international study programs.

2. Baylor University

Baylor University

• Location: Waco, Texas

• Website: www.baylor.edu

• Tuition: $51,738 per year

• Student Enrollment: 20,000+ students

• Campus: A sprawling 1,000-acre campus featuring modern academic buildings, sports facilities, and student dormitories

• Overview: Baylor University is one of the largest and most prestigious Christian universities in the US. Affiliated with the Baptist Church, Baylor offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. The university emphasizes community service and mission work while fostering strong academic and athletic programs.

3. Liberty University

• Location: Lynchburg, Virginia

• Website: www.liberty.edu

• Tuition: $24,910 per year

• Student Enrollment: 130,000+ students (including online programs)

• Campus: A massive campus with top-tier facilities, including a dedicated worship center and recreational amenities

• Overview: As one of the largest Christian universities in the world, Liberty University is known for its online education programs, robust athletic teams, and strong emphasis on evangelical Christian values. It offers over 700 programs, including residential and online degrees.

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4. Biola University

• Location: La Mirada, California

• Website: www.biola.edu

• Tuition: $46,258 per year

• Student Enrollment: 6,000+ students

• Campus: A serene campus with strong spiritual and academic support services

• Overview: Biola University is a leading evangelical Christian university that emphasizes biblical integration across all disciplines. The school is home to the Talbot School of Theology and offers strong programs in business, psychology, and the humanities.

5. Pepperdine University

Pepperdine University

• Location: Malibu, California

• Website: www.pepperdine.edu

• Tuition: $64,990 per year

• Student Enrollment: 10,000+ students

• Campus: A breathtaking coastal campus overlooking the Pacific Ocean

• Overview: Pepperdine is affiliated with the Churches of Christ and is one of the most prestigious Christian universities in the US. It combines rigorous academics with a strong commitment to service and spiritual growth.

6. Calvin University

• Location: Grand Rapids, Michigan

• Website: www.calvin.edu

• Tuition: $38,370 per year

• Student Enrollment: 3,300+ students

• Campus: A 400-acre campus with excellent research facilities and community-focused programs

• Overview: Calvin University is a Reformed Christian institution that integrates faith and learning. It offers strong liberal arts programs, robust community engagement initiatives, and a supportive spiritual environment.

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7. Seattle Pacific University

• Location: Seattle, Washington

• Website: www.spu.edu

• Tuition: $37,470 per year

• Student Enrollment: 3,800+ students

• Campus: Located in the heart of Seattle with access to vibrant city life and outdoor recreation

• Overview: Seattle Pacific University is a Free Methodist institution that combines strong academics with Christian values. It emphasizes global engagement, leadership development, and spiritual growth.

8. Gordon College

• Location: Wenham, Massachusetts

• Website: www.gordon.edu

• Tuition: $40,650 per year

• Student Enrollment: 1,500+ students

• Campus: A beautiful wooded campus offering small class sizes and personalized mentorship

• Overview: Gordon College is an evangelical Christian college offering a strong liberal arts education with a focus on leadership and service.

9. Taylor University

• Location: Upland, Indiana

• Website: www.taylor.edu

• Tuition: $36,570 per year

• Student Enrollment: 2,200+ students

• Campus: A close-knit, faith-based community with excellent academic and athletic facilities

• Overview: Taylor University is a well-regarded Christian liberal arts college that prioritizes spiritual formation, servant leadership, and global engagement. It offers strong programs in sciences, humanities, and business while fostering a deep sense of community among students.

10. Samford University

Samford University

• Location: Birmingham, Alabama

• Website: www.samford.edu

• Tuition: $36,725 per year

• Student Enrollment: 5,700+ students

• Campus: A picturesque campus with a vibrant student life and strong academic programs

• Overview: Samford University is a Christian institution affiliated with the Baptist tradition. It offers strong programs in law, health sciences, business, and the arts, fostering leadership and service.

Final Thoughts

Christian colleges in the US provide students with a strong faith-based education, academic excellence, and a sense of community. Whether a student is looking for a small liberal arts college or a large research university, the schools on this list represent the best of Christian higher education. As education continues to evolve, these institutions remain steadfast in their mission to educate students through the lens of faith while preparing them for their careers and callings.

For more information, visit each college’s official website and explore their programs, scholarships, and campus life to find the best fit for your academic and spiritual journey.

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