Illinois is home to many Christian colleges, a state that thrives on its diverse culture and population. Illinois universities consistently rank near the top.
You might want to check out Christian college in Illinois if you’re interested in faith and being part of a vibrant academic community. At these colleges, religion courses are carefully designed to combine faith with learning so that students can make a positive impact in whatever field they choose.
There are plenty of good Christian colleges in Illinois, whether you’re into religious studies or just want to know more about faith and education.
List of Christian Colleges in Illinois
Among the Christian colleges in Illinois, the focus is on academic excellence and faith-based teaching so students can integrate their beliefs into their careers. These institutions will give you a great foundation for success and fulfillment, whether you wanna be a minister, a counselor, an educator, or anything else.
Find out what religion courses Christian colleges in Illinois have and what opportunities there are.
Wheaton College (Wheaton, Illinois)
| Tuition | $25,287 – $54,700 |
| Graduation Rate | 89% |
| Acceptance Rate | 86% |
| Accreditations | Higher Learning Commission (HLC)Council for Christian Colleges and Universities (CCCU) |
| Religious Affiliation | Evangelical Christian |
| Church Affiliations | Evangelical Covenant Church |
| ACT Range | 27 – 32 |
Admission Requirements
To learn more about undergraduate admissions to Wheaton College, including application requirements, deadlines, and program offerings, go to their website: https://www.wheaton.edu/undergraduate-admissions/.
Courses Offered
Bachelor’s Degree in Biblical and Theological Studies
During biblical and theological studies at Wheaton College, students take courses in biblical studies, systematic and historical theology, ethics, and hermeneutics.
A total of 32 credits in Biblical and Theological Studies are required beyond the general education requirements. You can also participate in the departmental honors program if you want to get an honors designation within the major. An honors thesis and four hours of honors coursework are required, along with the 32-hour major requirement.
Olivet Nazarene University (Bourbonnais, Illinois)
| Tuition | $20,023 – $50,480 |
| Graduation Rate | 64% |
| Acceptance Rate | 61% |
| Accreditations | Higher Learning Commission (HLC)Council for Christian Colleges and Universities (CCCU) |
| Religious Affiliation | Nazarene |
| Church Affiliations | Church of the Nazarene |
| ACT Range | 20 – 26 |
Admission Requirements
Find valuable information about Olivet Nazarene University’s admissions process, requirements, and programs by visiting their official admissions website at https://www.olivet.edu/admissions.
Courses Offered
For students who wish to pursue a double major, in which they combine their theological studies with another field of interest, the B.A. in Theology, in particular, provides a practical pathway. Through this interdisciplinary approach, students can develop well-rounded skills and open doors to a variety of careers.
Furthermore, students with a B.A. in Theology can continue their studies at the graduate level, especially in the fields of ministry and theology, enabling them to achieve advanced degrees and gain more knowledge.
Bachelor of Arts in Biblical Studies
Students learn about ancient and medieval philosophy, Greek and Hebrew languages, theology, and the history of Christianity through this program. For students who want to serve in local church or parachurch ministries, the B.A. in Biblical Studies provides an academic foundation and theological training. For those who want to go to graduate school or seminary, it serves as a stepping stone.
As Biblical Studies students, you’ll have the opportunity to study under professors who are actively involved in their own research and writing, so you’ll get the latest knowledge and insight. In addition, you’ll get the chance to meet renowned scholars and talk to them at conferences, like The Society of Biblical Literature.
Trinity International University (Deerfield, Illinois)
| Tuition | $19,979 – $43,950 |
| Graduation Rate | 60% |
| Acceptance Rate | 91% |
| Accreditations | Higher Learning Commission (HLC)Association for Biblical Higher Education (ABHE) |
| Religious Affiliation | Non-Denominational Christian |
| Church Affiliations | Evangelical Free Church of America |
| ACT Range | 15 – 21 |
Admission Requirements
Detailed information about the application process, requirements, and programs offered at Trinity International University can be found on the university’s website: https://www.tiu.edu/undergrad/admissions/.
Courses Offered
Bachelor’s Degree in Biblical Studies
With a biblical studies major, students at Trinity Florida get a deep understanding of what the Bible says, and they develop the ability to interpret it accurately.
There are 124 credit hours in the Bachelor of Arts in Biblical Studies. After graduation, students will know how to identify Christian ethics, analyze biblical texts in their historical, grammatical, and theological context, and explain Christianity’s major doctrines.
While all majors have core courses, students specializing in Biblical Studies will take a wide range of courses, including biblical interpretation, ministry, theology, and apologetics. In addition to allowing students to dig deep into scripture, this program equips them for a wide variety of careers within the field.
With the Career Advantage Scholarship, Trinity International University gives 50% off tuition for Spring 2023 or Fall 2023 semester classes.
Bachelor’s Degree in Christian Ministry
As a Christian Ministries student at Trinity Florida, you will engage in a transformative educational experience that combines rigorous coursework with practical application. All Christian Ministries students participate in a reflective ministry internship, which provides students with hope-filled mentoring opportunities. In this program, students gain exposure to diverse areas of ministry under the supervision of experienced professionals, allowing them to develop essential skills and discern their vocation.
As a result of Trinity Florida’s Christian Ministries program, students receive a Bachelor’s Degree. Students must earn 124 credits in total, including 54 credits in biblical interpretation, ministry, and theology. A solid foundation for understanding and engaging with Christian ministry is provided by these courses.
With Trinity Florida’s accelerated education, students can work towards their professional goals in less time. It takes most Christian Ministry majors four years to earn their degree, but students can move at their own pace, so they can tailor their education to suit their individual needs.
Moody Bible Institute (Chicago, Illinois)
| Tuition | $21,557 – $31,869 |
| Graduation Rate | 66% |
| Acceptance Rate | 98% |
| Accreditations | Higher Learning Commission (HLC)Association for Biblical Higher Education (ABHE) |
| Religious Affiliation | Evangelical Christian |
| Church Affiliations | N/A |
| ACT Range | 19 – 25 |
Admission Requirements
For more information on the application process, requirements, and programs offered at Moody Bible Institute, visit their website at https://www.moody.edu/admissions/undergrad/.
Courses Offered
If you get a Bachelor of Arts in Theology from Moody Bible Institute, you’ll learn how to think theologically for the rest of your life. A strong theoretical foundation prepares you for a variety of ministry roles, and you’re encouraged to research and dig into your interests. During your studies, you’ll learn about apologetics, systematic theology, historical theology, biblical theology, and philosophical theology.
You’ll get to choose from a wide variety of theology electives each semester since there’s a total program credit requirement of 120 credits. You’ll learn how theology shapes ministry and the church through this comprehensive curriculum, so you can teach people and have a meaningful impact on society.
Bachelor of Arts in Youth Ministry
Getting a Bachelor of Arts in Youth Ministry from Moody Bible Institute will make you a disciple and empower young people to follow Jesus for a lifetime. A solid biblical education is at the heart of this program, which examines developmental characteristics and sociological influences. When you understand your students’ unique circumstances, you can offer guidance and speak into their lives.
There’s a total program credit requirement of 120 credits, so you’ll get to learn ministry planning techniques and teaching methods from professors who’ve been in ministry for decades and care about your growth.
Resources and Christian Organizations in Illinois
Many religious organizations are available to Christian students who are interested in exploring spirituality, meeting like-minded people, or sharing their faith. As you read on, you may find some of these groups, events, and initiatives useful.
Chi Alpha: College and university chapters are established by Chi Alpha, a company with roots in the United States but a global presence. A major objective of the program is to foster vibrant and inclusive communities in which students can explore and deepen their faith while forming meaningful connections.
“Life Groups” and “Core Groups” are small group gatherings where Chi Alpha’s mission is to disciple, mentor, and form small groups. Participants in these intimate gatherings may participate in Bible studies, pray, foster discussions, and engage in other activities that nurture their spiritual growth in a safe and supportive environment.
As a result of its commitment to diversity, Chi Alpha welcomes students from a wide range of backgrounds and denominations, reflecting a wide range of cultures and beliefs. As an organization, we are committed to assisting students in establishing a strong Christian foundation during this formative time of their lives, believing that college years play a crucial role in determining their values and beliefs.
InterVarsity Christian Fellowship: While maintaining an inclusive and inviting atmosphere, InterVarsity firmly bases itself in biblical teachings. InterVarsity’s ultimate goal is to inspire and challenge students to live out their faith in meaningful ways, so they can make a positive impact on campus and the world.
There’s an evangelical Christian campus ministry organization called InterVarsity, which works on college and university campuses across the U.S. This organization’s primary goal is to build communities of students and faculty committed to following Jesus and integrating their faith into their academic pursuits.
Cru: Using captivating Bible studies as a means to bring Scripture to life and enhance the student journey, Cru is dedicated to making a profound impact on college students. Cru’s devotionals are carefully tailored to ignite passion and unwavering commitment, while its intellectually stimulating content discipleship fosters spiritual growth and an intimate relationship with God through deep, personal devotion.
It’s mission is to empower students to make a lasting impact on their campuses and the broader community. Cru’s aspirations go far beyond individual growth. Cru gives Christian students the tools they need to demonstrate Christ’s love to their peers in both a practical and heartfelt way by providing a wide range of resources.
Frequently Asked Questions About Studying in Illinois
Do Christian colleges in Illinois have any advantages over other colleges?
It is very common for courses to incorporate Christian values, ethics, and worldviews into the curriculum, so that students can get a biblical perspective of the world around them.
How can you get involved spiritually on campus and what are your options?
Among the many opportunities to grow spiritually at Christian colleges in Illinois, students have access to multiple worship services, prayer groups, Bible studies, and Christian organizations that offer them the opportunity to deepen their faith and build meaningful relationships with other Christians.
I was curious to know if Christian colleges in Illinois are as flexible as you might think when it comes to letting you study a specific subject?
Whatever your passion may be – business, healthcare, arts, sciences, or anything else beyond – Christian colleges give you the freedom to follow your passion while incorporating your faith into your education.