25 Most Affordable Online Master’s Degrees Christian/Nondenominational Colleges 2020

25. Cairn University-Langhorne

Langhorne, Pennsylvania

Website

Cairn University-Langhorne (Cairn, est. 1913) is a nondenominational Christian institution and offers some of the best value bachelor’s and master’s level degrees, plus certificate programs – over 70 programs in total. Students are served a biblically-minded education on-campus and online. At both undergrad and grad levels, female students outnumber males at approximately 57% to 43%. U.S. News & World Report recognizes the university in two categories of their 2019 Best Colleges review list: Regional Universities North; Best Online Graduate Education Programs. Notable Cairn alumni include Christian hip-hop artist Emmanuel Lambert (aka Da’ T.R.U.T.H.).

Cairn has seven affordable online/ hybrid master’s degree programs:

• Master of Arts in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)
• MA in Religion
• Master of Business Administration (MBA)
• Master of Science in Education (MSEd)
• MS in Educational Leadership and Administration (MSELA)
• MS in Nonprofit Leadership (MSNL)
• MS in Special Education (MSSE) with two tracks: Certification; Non-Certification

Online degree program requirements range from 30 to 42 credits, with minimum timelines ranging from 20 months to 2.5 years. In-person field placement may be a curriculum requirement, as may be a capstone, or a research project with a scope similar to a thesis. Cairn’s online courses are from seven to fourteen weeks.

24. Columbia International University

Columbia, South Carolina

Website

Columbia International University (CIU, est. 1923) is an unaffiliated but multi-denominational Christian institution and offers some of the cheapest associate’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs – with two dozen degree programs in total. Originally founded as a Bible school, it serves students on-campus and online, offering a biblical worldview integrated into academic programs. Its distance programs have previously been recognized for innovative online learning by several Christian associations including the Christian Distance Education Association. The university ranks in the Regional Universities South category of U.S. News & World Report’s 2019 Best Colleges review list, was a top pick for Best Bang for the Buck (Washington Monthly), and garnered military friendly designations from Victory Media and Military Advanced Education magazine. Notable CIU alumni include multi-million-books-selling author Phillip Yancey, a writer of spiritual topics and who has interviewed well-known entertainers, presidents and authors.

CIU has 21 low-cost online master’s degrees, plus options:

• Master of Arts in Bible Exposition (MABE)
• MA in Care and Counseling (MACC)
• MA in Chaplaincy (MAC)
• MA in Disaster Relief and Emergency Management (MA-DREM)
• MA in Global Migration Studies (MAGMS)
• MA in Intercultural Studies (MAIS)
• MA in Ministry Studies
• MA in Muslim Studies
• MA in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL for Adults)
• MA in Theological Studies (MATS) with concentration in Intercultural Studies
• MA in Youth Ministry Leadership (MAYML)
• Master of Business Administration (MBA)
• Master of Divinity (MDiv) with eight concentrations
• Master of Education (MEd)
• MEd in Early Childhood (EC)
• MEd in Educational Administration (EA)
• MEd in Global Migration (GM)
• MEd in Instruction and Learning (IL)
• MEd in Intercultural Studies (IS)
• MEd in Spiritual Formation Leadership (SFL)
• MEd in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL for Adults)

Distance learning program requirements range from 30 to 78 credits, with timelines running from 12 months up to four years (with some extension options allowing six years). In-person internships may be required. Many of the above online master’s programs offer two tracks: have Bible/ theology studies experience; have no relevant study experience. The latter track typically requires completion of extra courses.

23. Johnson University

Knoxville, Tennessee

Website

Johnson University (Johnson, est. 1893) is a nondenominational Christian institution and offers some of the highest value associate’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs – over 70 degrees alone. It serves students on three campuses, several ExtendEd learning sites, and online. Forbes Magazine recognized the university in 2013 as a “financially fit private institution” (#56 in the top 100). More recently, they ranked in the Best Online Bachelor’s Programs category of U.S. News & World Report’s 2019 Best Colleges review list. Notable JU alumni include Oren Long, who was both a Territorial Governor of Hawaii as well as a Territorial Senator (both pre-statehood).

Johnson has three of the least expensive online/ hybrid master’s degree programs, plus options:

• Master of Arts in Intercultural Studies (MAIS) with five concentrations: custom; Community Development; Cross-Cultural Church Planting; Cross-Cultural Engagement; Translation
• MA in New Testament (MANT) with four concentrations: custom; Preaching; Research; Spiritual Formation and Leadership
• Master of Business Administration (MBA) with three concentrations: Leadership; Management; Nonprofit Management

Online master’s degree program requirements range from 36 to 45 credits and may require a capstone project. Some concentrations require additional credit hours.

22. University of Northwestern-St Paul

Saint Paul, Minnesota

Website

University of Northwestern-St Paul (UNSP, est. 1902) is affiliated with the Protestant Church (but is nondenominational) and offers some of the least expensive associate’s through master’s level degrees, plus certificate programs – over 80 programs in total. Originally founded as a bible school, it serves students a Christ-centered education online and on campus. The university ranks in two categories of U.S. News & World Report’s 2019 Best Colleges review list: Regional Universities Midwest; Best Colleges for Veterans. Notable UNSP faculty include evangelist Billy Graham, who served as the institution’s president.

UNSP has six cheap online/ hybrid master’s programs, plus options:

• Master of Arts in Education (MAED) with two specialty areas: Curriculum and Instruction; Learning and Leading in the Field (with three focus options: Culturally Responsive Teaching; Early Learning; Educational Technology)
• MA in Human Services (MAHS) with concentration in Family Studies
• MA in Theological Studies (MATS)
• Master of Business Administration (MBA) with four concentrations: General; Data Analytics; Finance; Management
• Master of Divinity (MDiv) with six emphasis options: Biblical Studies; Clinical Pastoral Education; Educational Studies; Human Services; Organizational Leadership; Theological Studies
• Master of Organizational Leadership (MOL)

Online master’s program requirements range from 30 to 76 credits, and may require capstone, thesis and/ or in-person internship/ practicum/ field experiences. Timelines are typically two years or under, but may be up to 46 months for longer programs.

21. Drury University

Springfield, Missouri

Website

Drury University (Drury, est. 1873) is affiliated with the United Church of Christ/ Disciples of Christ and offers inexpensive bachelor’s and master’s level degrees, plus certificate programs – over 100 programs in total, including minors. The university serves students online and on-campus (seven campuses/ learning centers). It has green initiatives such as access to hundreds of bicycles on-campus, and a switch to LED lamps, which earned it two LEED certifications. The Arbor Day Foundation recognizes it as a “Tree Campus USA.” Drury claims a milestone in being one of the first institutions in-state to offer programs aimed at non-traditional students, such as continuing education and evening classes. U.S. News & World Report recognizes the university in multiple categories of their 2019 Best Colleges review list, including: Regional Universities Midwest; Best Colleges for Veterans; Best Undergraduate Teaching; Best Value Schools; Best Online Bachelor’s Programs; Business Programs; Best Online Graduate Education Programs. It has also earned ranking spots in lists published by Princeton Review and Time Magazine. Notable Drury alumni include game show host/ producer Bob Barker (The Price is Right) and the three O’Reilly siblings who founded O’Reilly Auto Parts.

Drury has three affordable online or hybrid master’s programs, plus options:

• Master in Education (MEd) with seven online/ hybrid concentrations, including Curriculum and Instruction, which has three track options (Elementary Education; Middle School Education; Secondary Education)
• Master of Arts in Communication (MAComm) with two emphasis options: Integrated Marketing Communications; Organizational Leadership and Change
• Master of Business Administration (MBA) with optional Cybersecurity Leadership (CSL) certificate.
• Master of Nonprofit and Civic Leadership (MNCL)

Requirements for this best-value master’s dergree program range from 30 to 36 credits and may not require GRE score for admission. In-person requirements such as internships/ practicums/ field experiences may be necessary. Timelines range from 12 to 24 months. Some programs offer optional grad level certificate options. The Drury online MBA degree (via Breech School of Business) launches in Fall MBA and will have synchronous online courses with interactive video conferencing. A 5-week MBA Bootcamp can prepare students with the prerequisites for this online program.

20. Liberty University

Lynchburg, Virginia

Website

Liberty University (Liberty, est. 1971) is affiliated with the unaffiliated Evangelical Christian Church and offers top-value associate’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs. Having a Baptist background historically and cofounded by Reverend Jerry Falwell, it is one of the largest colleges of its kind worldwide and offers over 400 academic programs in total. The university is ranked in multiple categories of U.S. News & World Report’s 2019 Best Colleges review list, including: National Universities; Best Online Bachelor’s Programs; Best Online MBA Programs; Best Online MBA Programs for Veterans; Best Online Graduate Business Programs – Excluding MBA; Engineering Programs – schools with no doctorate; Best Online Graduate Nursing Programs; Best Online Graduate Education Programs; Best Online Graduate Criminal Justice Programs. Notable Liberty alumni include former NFL football player and Dancing with the Stars contestant Rashad Jennings.

Liberty has nearly 70 of the lowest-cost online master’s degree programs (JM, MA, MBA, MEd, MS, MSN, etc.), including options, in 14 subject categories:

• Arts and Sciences
• Behavioral Sciences
• Business
• Communication
• Divinity
• Education
• Government
• Health Sciences
• Information Technology
• Law
• Leadership
• Music
• Nursing
• Visual and Creative Arts

The most popular online master’s degrees at Liberty include:

• Master of Arts in Executive Leadership (MAEL)
• MA in Human Services Counseling (MAHSC) with 13 specializations
• MA in Professional Counseling (MAPC)
• MA in School Counseling (MASC)
• MA in Teaching (MAT) with four specializations: Elementary Education; Middle Grades; Secondary Education; Special Education
• Master of Business Administration (MBA) with two tracks: general (36 credits) or with one of 18 specializations (45 credits)
• Master of Divinity (MDiv) with 22 specializations
• Master of Education (MEd) with three specializations: Administration and Supervision; Math Specialist Endorsement; Reading Specialist Endorsement
• Master of Public Health (MPH) with three specializations: Global Health; Health Promotion; Nutrition
• Master of Science in Criminal Justice (MSCJ) with four specializations: General; Forensic Psychology; Homeland Security; Public Administration

Requirements for these affordable online master’s degree programs range from 30 to 93 credits and may include a thesis, in-person internship hours, etc. The timeline for shorter programs is typically 1-2 years. Allowable transfer credits for some Liberty master’s degrees is up to 50%.

19. Concordia University-Saint Paul

Saint Paul, Minnesota

Website

Concordia University-Saint Paul (CUSP, est. 1893) is a member of the Concordia University System and affiliated with the Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod. It offers some of the cheapest associate’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs – over 100 programs in total. Originally founded as a men’s school, it has been coed since 1950, and serves students on-campus and online. The student population is fairly diverse, with African students comprising 12% and Asian/ Pacific Islanders just under 12%, and multiple faiths, both Christian and other are also represented. The university is recognized by Washington Monthly (Best Colleges for Adult Learners) and U.S. News & World Report (2019 Best Colleges: Regional Universities Midwest; Best Online Bachelor’s Programs; Best Online Bachelor’s Programs for Veterans; Best Online Graduate Education Programs; Best Online Graduate Education Programs for Veterans; Best Online Graduate Criminal Justice Programs; Best Online MBA Programs; Best Online Graduate Business Programs – Excluding MBA).

CUSP has 16 inexpensive online/ hybrid master’s degree programs, plus options:

• Master of Arts in Criminal Justice Leadership (MACJL)
• MA in Education (MAEd) with four emphasis options: Curriculum and Instruction – K-12 Reading Endorsement; Differentiated Instruction; Early Childhood; Educational Leadership; Educational Technology
• MA in Special Education (MASE) with optional Specific Learning Disabilities (SLD) Licensure
• MA in Family Science (MAFS)
• MA in Human Resource Management (MAHRM)
• MA in Human Services (MAHS) with an emphasis in Forensic Behavioral Health
• MA in Leadership and Management (MALM)
• MA in Sport Management (MASM)
• MA in Strategic Communication Management (MASCM)
• MA in Teaching (MAT) with Initial K-6 Licensure
• Master of Business Administration (MBA) with two concentrations: general; Health Care Management
• Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing (CW)
• Master of Science in Coaching and Athletic Administration (MSCAA)
• MS in Exercise Science (MSES)
• MS in Information Technology Management (MSITM)
• MS in Nursing (MSN)

Program requirements range from 30 to 42 credits and may include a Capstone, and/or optional graduate study abroad experience. Online courses are primarily delivered in 7-week sessions.

18. William Woods University

Fulton, Missouri

Website

William Woods University (WWU, est. 1870) is historically affiliated with the Disciples of Christ and offers top value associate’s through doctorate level degree programs. Originally founded as a girls school, it has been coed since becoming a university in 1993. The university is recognized in several categories of U.S. News & World Report’s 2019 Best Colleges review list, including: Regional Universities Midwest; Best Online Bachelor’s Programs; Best Online Graduate Education Programs; Best Online MBA Programs; Best Online Graduate Business Programs – Excluding MBA. It is also designated a Military Friendly School (2016) by Victory Media. Notable WWU alumni include Olympic gold medalist Helen Stephens, and former Yahoo! CEO Carol Bartz.

WWU has seven of the cheapest online/ hybrid master’s programs:

• Master of Business Administration (MBA)
• Master of Health Administration (MHA)
• Master of Education (MEd) in Equestrian Education (EE)
• MEd in Teaching and Technology (TT)
• MEd in Athletics/Activities Administration (AAA)
• MEd in Curriculum and Instruction (CI)
• MEd in STEM

Online master’s degree program requirements range from 30 to 36 credits, with timelines of up to two years. A capstone project may be part of the curriculum, as might in-person field experience hours.

17. Moody Bible Institute

Chicago, Illinois

Website

Moody Bible Institute (MBI, est. 1886) is interdenominational and offers affordable associate’s through master’s level degrees, plus certificate programs. It serves students at two campuses and online, incorporating elements of biblical orthodoxy into academic programs. The institute ranks in the Best Online Bachelor’s Programs category of U.S. News & World Report’s 2019 Best Colleges college review list. Notable MBI alumni include educator/ activist/ humanitarian Mary McLeod Bethune, advisor to four U.S. Presidents.

MBI has four low-cost online/ hybrid master’s degrees:

• Master of Arts in Biblical Studies (MABS)
• MA in Global Ministry Design (MAGMD)
• MA in Ministry Studies (MAMS) with six concentrations: Interdisciplinary; Biblical Preaching; Leadership; Ministry Entrepreneurship; Missions; Pastoral Ministry
• Master of Divinity (MDiv) in Pastoral Studies (PS) – additional emphasis options are on-campus only

Requirements for this best value online master’s degree program range from 30 to 87 credits. Research and field work might be part of the curriculum.

16. Calvary University

Kansas City, Missouri

Website

Calvary University (Calvary, est. 1932) is affiliated with the Protestant Church – but is otherwise non-denominational – and offers some of the best associate’s through master’s level degrees, plus certificate programs. It provides students with an education incorporating a biblical worldview in all programs, and serving students at two campuses and online.

Calvary has six of the least expensive online/ hybrid master’s degree programs, plus options:

• Master of Arts in Bible and Theology (MABT)
• MA in Biblical Counseling (MABC)
• Master of Divinity (MDiv)
• Master of Science in Education (MSEd) with four tracks: Administration and Leadership; Christian Education; Curriculum Instruction; Elementary Education
• MS in Organizational Development (MSOD)
• MS in Worship Arts (MSWA)

Program requirements range from 33 to 90 credits. A practicum or other in-person requirements may be necessary for some curricula. All of the MSEd tracks provide a choice between a thesis or project, and most have an additional option of extra course work. Details about affordable online master’s degrees from Calvary’s Seminary listed here.

15. Concordia University-Irvine

Irvine, California

Website

Concordia University-Irvine (CUI, est. 1976) is affiliated with the Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod and offers best-value associate’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs. It serves students on campus (reputedly the safest in the state) and online, and promotes diversity and equality of all students. While not yet an HSI (Hispanic-Serving Institute), the university is close (over 23%) to 25% of undergrad students being of Hispanic/ LatinX origin — the minimum level required for the HSI designation. Students from non-Lutheran Christian denominations are also represented. U.S. News & World Report “Best Colleges” college review list categories that MC is ranked in include: Best Colleges for Veterans; Regional Universities Midwest; Best Value Schools; Best Online Graduate Nursing Programs; Best Online Graduate Education Programs. Princeton Review ranked them as a top liberal arts college (Midwest), while Money Magazine ranked them in their Money’s Best Colleges list. Notable CUI alumni include Olympian Misty May-Treanor (gold) and Major League Soccer player Christian Ramirez (currently with Los Angeles FC).

CUI has 10 cheap online/ hybrid master’s degree programs plus options:

• Master of Arts in Counseling (MAC)
• MA in Education (MAEd) with three tracks: Curriculum and Instruction (CI); Educational Administration (EA); Educational Technology (ET)
• MA in Executive Coaching and Consultation (MAECC)
• MA in International Studies (MAIS; 3 weeks of international travel/ field work)
• MA in Organizational Leadership (MAOL)
• Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA)
• Master of Science in Coaching and Athletics Administration (MSCAA)
• MS in Coaching and Exercise Sciences (MSCES)
• MS in Nursing (MSN) with three concentrations: Nursing Education; Nursing Leadership; Thesis
• Master of Theology (minimal residency and optional summer intensive)

Program requirements range from 27 to 60 credits, with minimum timelines from nine months to three years. CUI low-cost online classes have some synchronous components, and some may offer a choice between online and blended delivery. The curriculum may require a Culminating Project, research project or other capstone, and possibly in-person clinical/ internship hours.

14. Grace College and Theological Seminary

Winona Lake, Indiana

Website

Grace College and Theological Seminary (GCTS, est. 1937/ 1948) is affiliated with the Fellowship of Grace Brethren Churches and offers some of the highest value associate’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs, in over 60 fields of study. The seminary was founded first, followed by the college. Together, GCTS serves students on campus and online, with a Christian worldview and biblical values integrated into its traditional and online degrees. U.S. News & World Report recognizes the college in three categories of their 2019 Best Colleges review list: Best Colleges for Veterans; Best Value Schools; Regional Universities Midwest. Notable GCTS alumni include author and Passion Movement founder Louie Giglio.

GCTS has six affordable online/ hybrid master’s degree programs plus options:

• Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (MA-CMHC; residencies – 7 days/ yr)
• MA in Ministry Studies (MAMS) with three concentrations: Counseling; Ministry Studies; Women’s Leadership Studies
• Master’s of Business Administration (MBA)
• Master of Science in Athletic Administration (MSAA)
• MS in Higher Education (MSHE)
• MS in Nonprofit Management (MSNM)

Program requirements range from 36 to 60 credits. Some of these economical online degree programs have both residency requirements and in-person internship/ practicum/ clinical experiences and/or comprehensive exams.

13. Lubbock Christian University

Lubbock, Texas

Website

Lubbock Christian University (LCU, est. 1957) is affiliated with the Churches of Christ and offers some of the cheapest associate’s through master’s level degrees, plus certificate programs. The university serves students online and on a small campus with green initiatives (and a LEED Platinum rating), incorporating the principles of Christian faith into academic programs. While not an HSI (Hispanic-Serving Institution), it does have a Hispanic/ LatinX student population of over 20%. Women also outnumber men with a ratio of about 60% to 40%, and traditional students (25+ years old) make up almost 37%. Faith-wise, students represent four denominations as well as non-denominational churches. The university ranks in the Regional Universities West category of U.S. News & World Report’s “Best Colleges” college review list. It is also recognized as a Military Friendly School (2019-20) by Victory Media. Notable LCU alumni include Major League Baseball coach Matt Martin (currently with the Los Angeles Angels).

LCU has nine of the lowest-cost online/ hybrid/ blended master’s degrees plus options:

• Master of Divinity (MDiv)
• Master of Arts in Christian Ministry (MACM)
• MA in Biblical Interpretation (MABI)
• Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (MS-CMHC)
• MS in Family Ministry (MSFM; 1/3 or more of credits are hybrid)
• MS in Human Services (MSHS) with two specializations: Family Life Educator; Non-Profit Leadership
• MS in Nursing (MSN) – Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP; hybrid) – additional tracks are on-campus only
• MS in School Counseling (MSSC)
• Masters in Educational Leadership (MEL) and Principal Certification, with optional certification-only track for existing master’s degree holders

Distance learning master’s program requirements range from 35 to 72 credits and may have in-person presence requirements for lectures, labs, practicums/ internships/ clinical rotations, etc., and there may be comprehensive exams and/or a thesis. Some online graduate-level certificate programs are also available.

12. Lincoln Christian University

Lincoln, Illinois

Website

Lincoln Christian University (LCU, est. 1944) is affiliated with the Christian Churches/ Churches of Christ and offers some of the highest value associate’s through doctorate level degree programs. Originally founded as a Bible college, it serves students at two campuses and online, integrating a Biblical worldview into its academic programs. The university ranks in the Best Online Bachelor’s Programs category of U.S. News & World Report’s “Best Colleges” college review list.

LCU has 11 inexpensive online/ hybrid master’s degree programs plus options:

• Master of Arts in Bible and Theology (MABT; online)
• MA in Biblical Studies (MABS; hybrid)
• MA in Church History/ Historical Theology (MACH; hybrid)
• MA in Formative Worship (MAFW; hybrid)
• MA in Ministry (MAMin; hybrid) with seven specializations
• MA in Organizational Leadership (MAOL; online)
• MA in Philosophy and Apologetics (MAPA; hybrid)
• MA in Spiritual Formation (MASF; hybrid)
• MA in Theology (MAT; hybrid)
• Master of Divinity (MDiv; hybrid) with 15 specializations including generalist
• Master of Religious Education (MRE; hybrid)

Requirements for this top online master’s degree program range from 9 to 12 courses (36 to 60 credits in total). In-person clinical/ practicum hours and/or capstone project may be necessary, as might additional professional certification exams in the state in which a student is resident. Some dual-degree (bachelor’s and master’s) options are available.

11. Greenville University

Greenville, Illinois

Website

Greenville University (Greenville, est. 1892) is affiliated with the Free Methodist Church and offers low-cost bachelor’s and master’s level degrees programs. It serves students on-campus (about a 45-mile drive from St. Louis) and online, integrating Christian faith into its top academic programs. The university ranks in the Regional Universities Midwest category of U.S. News & World Report’s 2019 “Best Colleges” college review list. Notable Greenville alumni include In-N-Out Burger chain co-founder Esther Snyder.

GU has seven of the cheapest online/ hybrid master’s programs:

• Master of Arts in Coaching (MAC)
• MA in Curriculum and Instruction (CI)
• MA in Special Education (SE; 90% online)
• MA in Teaching (MAT) – Elementary Education Licensure Program (EE; hybrid; 126 credits)
• MA in Teaching English as a Second Language (TESOL)
• Masters of Business Administration (MBA)
• Master of Science in Management (MSSM)

Program requirements range primarily from 30 to 33 credits, with most online courses running eight weeks (some 16), and minimum timelines from two to three years. In-person field experience and/or some on-campus presence may be a curriculum requirement, as may be a capstone experience.

10. University of Valley Forge

Phoenixville, Pennsylvania

Website

University of Valley Forge (UVF, est. 1939) is affiliated with the Assemblies of God USA and offers some of the cheapest associate’s through master’s level degrees, plus certificate programs – over 55 degrees alone. Growing from its original role as a summer Bible school, the university serves students on campus (about a half hour’s drive from Philly) and online, celebrating its 80th anniversary in 2019. The university ranks in the Regional Colleges North category of U.S. News & World Report 2019 “Best Colleges” college review list.

UVF has six low-cost online/ hybrid master’s degrees plus options:

• Master of Arts in Christian Leadership (MACL)
• MA in Organizational Leadership (MAOL)
• MA in Theology (MAT)
• MA in Worship Studies (MAWS) with two tracks: Pastoral/ Preaching; Worship Leader
• Master of Education (MEd) in Curriculum and Instruction (CI) with a specialization in Language and Literacy Instruction
• Master of Music in Music Technology (MMMT)

Requirements for this top-value online master’s degree program range from 30 to 36 credits, with a minimum timeline of up to 24 months. Note: Some of these programs have 7-week courses while others have 14-week courses, with one or more weeks between sessions. No GMAT/ GREE score is required for admission, but a thesis, research project or other capstone experience may be part of the curriculum.

9. Spring Arbor University

Spring Arbor, Michigan

Website

Spring Arbor University (SAU, est. 1873) is affiliated with the Free Methodist Church and offers top-value associate’s through master’s level degrees, plus certificate programs – over 70 programs in total. The university serves students from over 20 Christian denominations at 12 campuses/ learning sites (including one in Ohio) and online, and with over half of students being adult learners. U.S. News & World Report “Best Colleges” college review list categories that SAU is ranked in include: Regional Universities Midwest; Best Value Schools; Best Colleges for Veterans. The Economist also ranked it tops in “long-term economic value” amongst Christian colleges in-state, and #2 in-state amongst all colleges. Notable SAU alumni include profesional soccer player Bethany Balcer (National Women’s Soccer League).

SAU has seven of the least expensive online/ hybrid master’s degree programs plus options:

• Master of Arts in Early Childhood Education (MAEC) with optional Michigan endorsement
• MA in Strategic Communication and Leadership (MASCL)
• MA in Reading (MAR)
• MA in TESOL (MTESOL) with two tracks: Adult Education; K-12, Adolescent
• Master of Business Administration (MBA) with five concentrations: Executive Leadership; Healthcare Administration; Human Resource Development; Management; Organizational Consulting
• Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with two main tracks (RNs with ADN/ ASN; RMs with BSN), each of which offers three concentrations: Adult-Gerontology; Family Nurse Practitioner; Primary Care
• Master of Special Education (MSE) with two concentrations: Autism Spectrum Disorder; Learning Disabilities

Program minimum timelines run from 12 to 24 months with some accelerated path options available. GRE/ GMAT scores may not be required, and some programs pair students with mentors. Some concentrations require more credits than their counterparts. The MSN program offers some dual-master’s degree options as well.

8. Columbia College

Columbia, Missouri

Website

Columbia College (CC, est. 1851) is a nondenominational Christian institution and offers some of the most affordable associate’s through master’s level degrees, plus certificate programs – with over 50 degree programs and nearly 30 online alone. While it is not affiliated with a church, it has an agreement with the Disciples of Christ. It was originally a women’s college, accepting male students since 1970. Besides this main campus, students are served at over two dozen learning centers across the U.S. (and Cuba), and online. U.S. News & World Report “Best Colleges” college review list categories that CC is ranked in include: Best Online Bachelor’s Programs; Best Online Bachelor’s Programs for Veterans; Best Online MBA Programs; Best Online Graduate Criminal Justice Programs. It is also recognized for its offering to military personnel, with Military Times designating it as a Best for Vets: Colleges (2019) winner, and Victory Media designating it as a Military Friendly School (Bronze, 2019-20). Notable CC alumni include retired police officer Ron Stallworth, who authored the book Black Klansman, which Spike Lee turned into the Academy-Award-winning film BlacKkKlansman (2018).

CC has four cheap online/ hybrid master’s degrees plus options:

• Master of Business Administration (MBA) with three emphasis options: Generalist; Accounting; Human Resource Management;
• Master of Science in Criminal Justice (MSCJ) with two tracks: Corrections Administration (CA); Law Enforcement Administration (LEA)
• Master of Education (MEd) in Educational Leadership (EL) with two tracks: Instructional Leader; Principal
• Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) – six certificate options are available on-campus only

Online master’s program requirements are 36 credits for graduation. Online classes run in eight-week sessions six times per year. In-person internship/ practicum experiences and/or partial on-campus presence may be required for some of these degrees.

7. Bethel College/ Bethel University Indiana

Mishawaka, Indiana

Website

Bethel College-Indiana (Bethel, est. 1947) is a nondenominational Christian institution and offers some of the best value associate’s through master’s level degree programs – with over 50 areas of study in total. It serves students on campus and online and has a commitment to diversity – which they state has a biblical basis – especially of underrepresented groups. As of May 2019, it is now known as Bethel University Indiana, but it was still referenced as Bethel College in NCES and IPEDS Data Center data at time of publication. U.S. News & World Report “Best Colleges” college review list categories that Bethel is ranked in include: Regional Universities Midwest; Best Undergraduate Teaching. It also ranks in Washington Monthly lists Best Bang for the Buck and Top 150 Master’s Universities, and in Money Magazine’s Best Colleges for Your Money 2018. Notable BU alumni include actress Marci Miller (Days of Our Lives) and entrepreneur Joel Runyon (Impossible X).

Bethel has seven affordable online/ hybrid master’s programs, plus options:

• Master of Arts in Counseling (MAC; hybrid) with three tracks: Addictions Counseling; Marriage and Family Counseling/ Therapy; Mental Health Counseling
• MA in Ministry (MAMin)
• MA in Theological Studies (MATS; hybrid)
• Master of Education (MEd) with two licensure and three cognate tracks (all online): Generalist; Literacy; School Leadership
• Master of Science in Nursing (MSN; hybrid) with two tracks: Administrator; Educator
• MA in Sport Administration (MASA) with Intercollegiate Athletics Compliance track
• Master of Business Administration (MBA)

Requirements for this economical online master’s program range from 33 to 60 credits, with minimum timelines running from 12 months to three years. An in-person internship and/or practicum experience may be a curriculum requirement, as may be a thesis.

6. Doane University-Graduate and Professional Studies

Lincoln, Nebraska

Website

Doane University (Doane, est. 1872) is affiliated with the United Church of Christ and offers economical bachelor’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs. Upper level programs are offered through the Graduate and Professional Studies (GPS) division. The main campus in Crete, NE, was established in 1872 and has hosted over 60 Fulbright Scholarship recipients in just over 50 years. Including the GPS campus, it serves students at four campuses; 3 in Nebraska, 1 in Omaha, plus online. U.S. News & World Report ranks Doane in the National Liberal Arts Colleges category of their 2019 Best Colleges review list. Doane also has recognition/ accolades from Forbes (top 50 Midwestern colleges); Princeton Review (best Midwestern colleges); Washington Monthly (#1 liberal arts and science college in the state). Notable Doane alumni include: Ralph Tyler, who was one of a number of people who helped develop the ACT standardized college admissions test used in the American and Canadian market.

It has four of the lowest-cost online master’s programs, plus options:

• Master of Arts in Management (MAMgmt; 36-39 credits) with seven 9-credit Emphasis areas: Leadership; Human Resource Management; Project Management; Healthcare Administration; Nonprofit and Public Administration; Supply Chain Management; Data Analytics/ Big Data
• Master of Business Administration (MBA; 30 credits) with the same Emphasis options as the MAMgmt
• Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction (MEd-CI; 36 credits)
• Master of Science in Instructional Design and Technology (MSIDT; 30 credits)

Online courses for these top value master’s degree programs are typically offered in 8-week terms, with small class sizes of 15-20 students. Some programs may offer a choice of a Tailored/ Custom Emphasis. Doane also has two online “MicroMasters” in Healthcare Administration or Certified Lifestyle Medicine Executive, which can be completed first, then added to the online MBA.

5. Faith International University

Tacoma, Washington

Website

Faith International University (FIU, est. 1969) is an evangelical institution historically affiliated with the Protestant Church. It offers affordable bachelor’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs. The university serves students of over 40 Christian denominations on campus and online, and has academic divisions in Korea and China. While not an HBCU (Historically Black College/ University), it has over 40% Black/ African-American students (and nearly 20% Asian students).

FIU has four inexpensive online/ hybrid master’s degrees plus options:

• Master of Arts in Leadership Ministry (MALM) with Interdisciplinary Track (may have concentration choices)
• MA in Christian Education (MACE)
• MA in Theological Studies (MATS) with two concentrations: Apologetics; New Testament
• Master of Divinity (MDiv)

Requirements for these top online master’s degree programs range from 72 to 136 credits. In-person field work and/or a thesis may be a curriculum requirement.

4. Amberton University

Garland, Texas

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Amberton University (AU, est. 1971) is a nondenominational Christian institution and offers some of the best and most affordable bachelor’s and master’s level degrees programs. The university serves students on two campuses and online, with academic programs incorporating Christian principles. It has especially designed its programs with the working adult in mind, with four 10-week sessions yearly (online and on-campus), and the same per-credit cost ($795) at all study levels.

AU has 11 of the cheapest online/ hybrid master’s degrees plus options:

• Master of Arts in Professional Development (MAPD)
• Master of Business Administration (MBA) in General Business
• MBA in International Business
• MBA in Management
• MBA in Project Management
• MBA in Strategic Leadership
• Master of Science in Agile Project Management (MS/APM)
• MS in Family Studies (MSFS) with Specialization in Christian Counseling
• MS in Human Relations and Business (MS/HRB)
• MS in Human Resources Training and Development (MS/HRTD)
• MS in Managerial Science (MSMS)

Program requirements range from 30 to 36 credits and may require in-person practicum hours. Some of these online master’s degrees prepare students for professional certification exams.

3. Ashland University

Ashland, Ohio

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Ashland University (Ashland, est. 1878) is third in this college ranking of online master’s degrees from Christian colleges (denominations other than Catholic or Baptist). It is a nondenominational Christian institution and offers top associate’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs. It serves students on campus (one of the safest in the country) and online, plus four seminary locations. It focuses on a motto that has an “Accent on the Individual.” U.S. News & World Report “Best Colleges” college review list categories that Ashland is ranked in include: National Universities; Best Online Bachelor’s Programs; Best Online MBA Programs; Best Online Graduate Education Programs. Ashland also earned recognition from Washington Monthly (Best Bang for the Buck – National Universities) and Forbes Magazine (top research universities). Notable Ashland alumni include CNN news anchor Robin Meade (and former Miss Ohio).

Ashland has five low-cost online/ hybrid master’s programs plus options:

• Master of Arts in Corporate and Strategic Communications (MACSC)
• Master of Education (MEd) in Adult Education (AE) with options for 2nd master’s
• MEd in Educational Leadership + Administrative License
• MEd in Curriculum and Instruction with three concentrations: Reading and Literacy Instruction; Talent Development Education; Teaching and Learning in the 21st Century (TL-21)
• Master of Science in Applied Exercise Science (MSAES; hybrid – two in-person meetings)

Requirements for this best-value master’s degree program range from 30 to 42 credits, and have minimum timelines of 15 to 18 months. Any or all of a capstone, thesis, internship (in-person) or field practicum (in-person) may be required. Alternately, Ashland has two blended master’s programs. The Master of Arts in Christian Ministries (MACM) is a 55-credit program with some courses offered online and otherwise available at four campuses. The Master of Divinity (MDiv) is an 80-credit program which offers up to 2/3 of credits online.

2. Central Methodist University-College of Graduate and Extended Studies

Fayette, Missouri

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Central Methodist University (CMU, est. 1854) is second in our ranking of affordable online master’s degrees offered by Christian colleges of denominations other than Catholic and Baptist. It is affiliated with the United Methodist Church and offers some of the cheapest associate’s through master’s level degree programs. Upper level programs are offered through the College of Graduate and Extended Studies (CGES). It serves students on campus, at nearly 20 learning centers statewide, and online, and welcomes all faiths. Its high-value programs emphasize “academic and professional excellence, ethical leadership, and social responsibility.” U.S. News & World Report “Best Colleges” college review list categories that CMU is ranked in include: Regional Colleges Midwest; Best Value Schools. Notable CMU alumni include actor Bill Chott (Principal Laritate on Disney’s Wizards of Waverly TV show) and Tyler Steinkamp (League of Legends personality via Twitch streaming).

CMU has three of the least expensive online/ hybrid master’s degree programs, plus options:

• Master of Music Education (MME; hybrid)
• Master of Science in Mathematics (MSM; hybrid)
• MS in Nursing (MSN) with two tracks: Clinical Nurse Leader; Nurse Educator

Requirements for this affordable online master’s program range from 32 to 34 credits and may require in-person clinical hours. The MME consists of online coursework and some on-campus presence requirements for Summer sessions (one day per each credit hour). The MSM has on-campus requirements for exit exams. Additional CMU master’s level programs have portions of the curriculum (such as Concentration courses) available online but are otherwise traditional degrees delivered on-campus.

1. Warner University

Lake Wales, Florida

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Warner University (Warner, est. 1968) is the best value in our ranking of the most affordable Christian colleges (of denominations other than Catholic and Baptist) that offer online master’s degrees. It is affiliated with the Church of God and offers economical associate’s through master’s level degrees, plus certificate programs – with over 40 majors collectively at all levels. Warner serves students on campus and online, integrating studies with the core values of ESS (Engagement, Service, Stewardship). While not an HBCU (Historically Black College/ University), nearly 40% of its student population are African-American. U.S. News & World Report “Best Colleges” college review list categories that Warner is ranked in include: Regional Colleges South; Best Online Bachelor’s Programs; Best Online Graduate Education Programs; Best Online MBA Programs; Best Online Graduate Business Programs (Excluding MBA) — and “Campus Diversity” in previous years.

Warner has four cheap online/ hybrid master’s degree programs, plus options:

• Master of Business Administration (MBA) with Good Start Track (for non-business students) and the regular track. Three concentrations are available: Accounting; HR Management; International Business)
• Master of Arts in Education (MAEd) with three concentrations: Curriculum and Instruction; Elementary Education; Science, Technology, Engineering, & Mathematics (STEM)
• Master of Ministry (MMin)
• Master of Science in Management (MSMgmt)

Distance learning program requirements range from 30 to 39 credits, with a minimum timeline of up to two years. A Capstone experience, research or grant writing and/or a thesis may be part of the curriculum.