Maryland Christian colleges provide a range of religion courses and resources to students, covering topics such as biblical studies, theology, church history, and ministry. The programs aim to equip students with a strong foundation in the Christian faith and prepare them for diverse careers in ministry and related fields.
Beyond coursework, many colleges offer additional resources, including chapel services, prayer groups, and service opportunities to help students grow in their faith and develop their ministry skills.
Whether pursuing a degree in theology or seeking to deepen their understanding of Christian faith, students can find a variety of options to meet their needs at Maryland Christian colleges.
List of Christian Colleges in Maryland
To help simplify your search for colleges offering your preferred course program, we have curated a list of some of the best christian colleges in Maryland. This compilation includes a diverse range of options, from online programs that offer flexibility to traditional brick-and-mortar schools that provide a more immersive experience.
No matter your preferences, you’re sure to find a program that suits your needs and aspirations.
Hood College (Frederick, Maryland)
Image from Hood College’s official website
Tuition: For full-time students, the cost per semester is $21,900 for 12 to 18.5 credit hours of tuition. Part-time students, on the other hand, are charged $1,300 per credit hour for graduate courses. Additionally, for every credit hour, there is a general cluster tuition fee of $500.
Graduation Rate: 66%
Acceptance Rate: 77%
Hood College is a well-established educational institution located in Frederick, Maryland. It is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE), which ensures the college meets rigorous academic standards and operates with integrity.
While Hood College has historical ties to the United Church of Christ (UCC) through its founding by the Potomac Synod of the Reformed Church of the United States, it is important to note that it is currently a non-denominational college.
The college values and respects the exploration of religious and spiritual dimensions in education and campus life. It offers opportunities for students to engage in interfaith dialogue and explore their own faith traditions. Hood College is committed to providing a supportive environment that encourages personal growth, ethical development, and a sense of community.
Admission Requirements
Hood College has specific admission requirements that applicants need to meet. While the exact criteria may vary depending on the program and degree level, here are some general admission requirements for undergraduate programs:
- Submit a completed application form through the college’s online application portal or by mail.
- Provide official transcripts from all high schools attended. Transcripts should demonstrate a strong academic record, including completed coursework and grades.
- Submit SAT or ACT scores. Hood College is test-optional, meaning that applicants have the choice to submit their scores or not.
- Typically, two letters of recommendation are required. These letters should be from individuals who can speak to the applicant’s academic abilities and personal qualities.
- Write an essay or personal statement that showcases your goals, interests, and reasons for applying to Hood College. This is an opportunity to highlight your unique experiences and how they align with the college’s values and academic programs.
- Pay the required application fee, which covers the processing and review of your application.
Courses Offered
At Hood College, students have the opportunity to pursue a Bachelor of Religion program that offers a holistic exploration of diverse religious traditions and their relevance in today’s world. This program aims to foster critical thinking, cultural understanding, and an appreciation for the wide range of religious beliefs and practices.
Within the Bachelor of Religion program, students can choose to pursue a religion minor, which opens up avenues for in-depth study of various religions and the contemporary issues they confront. The minor delves into the exploration of sacred texts, cultural customs, mythical narratives, and ritualistic practices that are central to different religious traditions.
While the program acknowledges the significance of the Christian tradition, it also provides courses that delve into other major world religions. Students can explore subjects like Islam, Judaism, Chinese Thought, and Indian Thought, among others.
Loyola University Maryland (Baltimore, Maryland)
Image from Loyola University Maryland ’s official website
Tuition: For first-time students who are eligible for financial assistance, the average net price is $25,782.
Graduation Rate: 80%
Acceptance Rate: 84%
Located in Baltimore, Maryland, Loyola University is a Jesuit institution that offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. Loyola’s commitment to academic excellence is reflected in its accreditation by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, which ensures that the university meets rigorous standards of quality and integrity.
At Loyola, students are welcomed into a vibrant and diverse community that values the pursuit of knowledge, service to others, and spiritual growth. As a Jesuit university, Loyola is grounded in the Catholic tradition and promotes the formation of well-rounded individuals who are committed to making a positive difference in the world.
Despite its strong Christian roots, Loyola welcomes students of all faiths and backgrounds. The university’s commitment to diversity and inclusion is reflected in its academic programs, which encourage students to explore a variety of perspectives and engage with people from different cultures and belief systems.
Admission Requirements
When preparing your college application, it’s important to prioritize a few key aspects among the many components involved:
- Pay attention to the specific GPA requirements set by the college or university you are applying to. Admissions offices often consider your academic performance as a significant factor in the application process.
- Familiarize yourself with the testing requirements, which may include standardized tests such as the SAT or ACT. Make sure to check if the institution you are applying to has any specific score expectations or prerequisites. For instance, the average SAT score for admitted students at this particular college is 1240.
- Review and understand the general application requirements, which typically include completing an application form, submitting your high school transcript, providing letters of recommendation, and writing an essay or personal statement.
Courses Offered
At Loyola, theology majors typically take courses at the 300-level, which provide a deeper exploration of theological concepts and themes. However, to complete the major, students have the flexibility to take up to three courses at the 200-level, allowing them to broaden their understanding of theology and gain a well-rounded education.
In addition to the core courses, theology majors are required to take five additional theology (TH) courses. One of these courses can fulfill the ethics core requirement, as long as it is chosen from the TH 300-319 range. The remaining four courses must be selected from TH 320-399, providing students with the opportunity to specialize in specific areas of theological inquiry.
Certificate in Theology and Ministry
The Certificate in Theology and Ministry is a post-baccalaureate program that consists of 25 credits of theological and pastoral studies. Taught by experienced faculty members in the Department of Theology, the curriculum covers a range of subjects including Old Testament Survey, New Testament Survey, Systematic Theology, Comparative Theology, Historical Theology, Ethics and Culture, and Pastoral Ministry. These courses provide a solid foundation for individuals pursuing vocations in ordained ministry, chaplaincy, and other ministerial roles.
Throughout the program, students engage in thoughtful dialogue with their faculty advisors, culminating in a capstone paper that integrates their theological studies with their vision for ministry. This synthesis of academic knowledge and practical application equips graduates with the tools needed to make a meaningful impact in their chosen vocation.
The Certificate in Theology and Ministry program is designed to be completed within a span of two years. Tuition for the program is estimated at $22,250, although additional costs for living expenses may apply.
Mount St. Mary’s University (Emmitsburg, Maryland)
Image from Mount St. Mary’s University’s official website
Tuition: The average true cost of attendance for undergraduate students is approximately $28,000. For graduate students pursuing a degree in Liberal Arts and Education, the tuition rate is $600 per credit hour.
Graduation Rate: 65%
Acceptance Rate: 82%
Mount St. Mary’s University is a prestigious institution located in Emmitsburg, Maryland. Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, the university upholds rigorous academic standards and offers a diverse range of programs across various disciplines.
As a Catholic university, Mount St. Mary’s embraces its Christian heritage and promotes a values-based education rooted in the Catholic intellectual tradition. The university’s religious affiliation is deeply intertwined with its mission and permeates all aspects of campus life. Students have the opportunity to engage in spiritual growth, explore matters of faith, and participate in religious activities.
Mount St. Mary’s University fosters a supportive and inclusive community where individuals from all backgrounds can come together to pursue academic excellence and personal development. While the university maintains its Catholic identity, it welcomes students of diverse religious beliefs and encourages respectful dialogue and understanding.
Admission Requirements
For detailed information about the admission process at Mount St. Mary’s University, we encourage you to visit their official website at https://msmary.edu/applications.html. There, you will find comprehensive resources and guidelines to help you navigate the application procedures smoothly.
Courses Offered
The Bachelor of Sacred Theology (S.T.B.) program, offered in partnership with The Pontifical Faculty of the Immaculate Conception at the Dominican House of Studies in Washington, D.C., is an esteemed graduate-level ecclesial degree approved by the Vatican’s Congregation on Education. This program requires a minimum of 100 semester credit hours of coursework.
At its core, the Bachelor of Sacred Theology degree aims to provide students with a comprehensive and foundational education in theology, firmly rooted in the rich Thomistic tradition. Through a meticulous and integrated approach to theological studies, students gain a deep understanding of the fundamental principles and teachings of the Catholic faith. This program serves as an important initial step in the pursuit of higher studies in the sacred sciences.
Achieving the Bachelor of Sacred Theology degree is an essential prerequisite for students aspiring to pursue an ecclesiastical licentiate degree, allowing them to delve even further into the depths of theological knowledge and specialization. Moreover, this degree holds recognition for further academic pursuits within universities across the European Union, particularly in cases where the Master of Divinity (M.Div.) degree may not be accepted.
The degree program adheres to rigorous standards and guidelines, including the ATS General Institutional Standards and Educational Standards applicable to all Degree Programs. It particularly aligns with Standard D, which focuses on programs oriented toward General Theological Studies.
To fulfill the requirements for the degree, students must complete a minimum of forty-eight (48) graduate credit hours. Within the program, there are specific credit hour allocations, such as a minimum of 12 credits for Foundational Theology cores, 12 credits for concentration department specific cores, and 9 cores from other concentrations.
Furthermore, students are expected to complete a minimum of 6 credits of concentration electives, accompanied by 3 credits of concomitant research projects. In addition to these requirements, approximately 6 credits of other coursework are included, resulting in a total of 48 credits for the degree.
Notre Dame of Maryland University (Baltimore, Maryland)
Image from Notre Dame of Maryland University’s official website
Tuition: Before financial aid, the total cost of attendance at the university amounts to $59,510. This includes tuition fees, room and board, and other associated expenses. However, with the application of financial aid, the cost is significantly reduced. After factoring in the available financial aid, the revised cost for students comes to $19,990
Graduation Rate: 69%
Acceptance Rate: 65%
Admission Requirements
NDMU consists of three distinct divisions, each with its own application process. To ensure a smooth application experience, it is important to select the appropriate division and review the corresponding deadlines and requirements. Whether you are applying to the undergraduate programs, graduate programs, or the Weekend College, carefully reviewing the specific application procedures will help you navigate the admissions process effectively.
If you have any inquiries or need further guidance, don’t hesitate to reach out to an admissions counselor who will be happy to assist you.
Courses Offered
Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies
The Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies program at Notre Dame of Maryland University is a four-year course designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of religious traditions and their significance in society. Through small class sizes and a commitment to personal attention, students enjoy an enriching academic experience that blends engaging lectures with lively and thought-provoking discussions.
In this program, students delve into the study of religious traditions from around the world, exploring their historical, cultural, and philosophical dimensions. The small class sizes foster a supportive and interactive learning environment, allowing students to actively participate in class discussions and benefit from individualized attention from faculty members who are experts in their fields.
Saint Mary’s College of Maryland (St. Mary’s City, Maryland)
Image from Saint Mary’s College of Maryland ’s official website
Tuition: The cost of tuition and fees for the academic year 2023-2024 is $46,780, and there is an additional matriculation fee of $400.
Graduation Rate: 79%
Acceptance Rate: 77%
Admission Requirements
St. Mary’s College of Maryland has specific admission requirements that prospective students should be aware of. While the college application process involves various components, there are a few critical factors that you should focus on:
- St. Mary’s College of Maryland considers your academic performance, and the average GPA of admitted students is 3.38. Maintaining a strong GPA throughout your high school years is important for a competitive application.
- The college also takes into account your standardized test scores, such as the SAT and ACT. The average SAT score for admitted students is 1180, while the average ACT score is 25. Performing well on these exams can positively impact your application.
Courses Offered
Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies
The Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies program offered at St. Mary’s College of Maryland requires students to earn a total of 120 credits, including general education courses, major requirements, and electives. Religious Studies at St. Mary’s thoroughly introduces students to the nature of different cultures through a religious focus, helping them to gain a comprehensive understanding of religious traditions and their impact on society.
In addition to small class sizes and personal attention from faculty, students in the Religious Studies program benefit from a variety of courses focused on topics such as philosophy, theology, and comparative religion. This diverse curriculum allows students to explore various aspects of religious studies and develop their critical thinking skills.
Resources and Christian Organizations in Maryland
Associations in Massachusetts bring together experts, professionals, and enthusiasts in diverse industries. These associations provide platforms for networking, professional development, and knowledge exchange. By becoming a member, individuals gain access to valuable resources, events, and collaboration opportunities.
Christian Science: Christian Science, a religious denomination, has established its presence on college campuses to extend support to Christian college students. Campus Christian Science organizations are available to offer resources and support to students through prayer and Bible study. Mary Baker Eddy’s Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures, the founding text of Christian Science, is also studied by these organizations.
Apart from providing opportunities for prayer and study, Christian Science organizations also offer mentorship and leadership development programs for students. The programs aim to deepen students’ understanding of Christian Science and its application to their daily lives, as well as to cultivate a sense of community among Christian Science students on campus. With the help of these resources and programs, Christian Science students can thrive spiritually and personally while pursuing their academic goals.
Maryland Cru:Maryland Cru is a Christian organization that seeks to provide resources, community, and spiritual guidance to college students in Maryland. The organization is a part of Cru, a nationwide Christian ministry that serves students and young adults. Maryland Cru offers a variety of programs and events, including small group Bible studies, worship services, retreats, and mission trips, to help students grow in their faith and deepen their understanding of Christianity.
Maryland Cru offers mentorship and discipleship opportunities to students who want to develop their spiritual leadership skills and make a positive impact on their campus and community. Their goal is to equip college students with the tools they need to become lifelong followers of Christ and live out their faith in a way that reflects God’s love and grace.
Alongside the religious courses and resources offered by Christian colleges in Maryland, Maryland Cru provides a supportive community for students seeking to grow in their faith and deepen their relationship with God.
CBM of Maryland: Through partnerships with local churches and Christian organizations, the CBM hosts events such as retreats, Bible studies, and worship services. These activities provide students with opportunities to deepen their understanding of Scripture and build relationships with others who share their beliefs.
In addition to spiritual support, the CBM also offers practical assistance to students. The organization provides resources on topics such as career planning, financial management, and mental health. This support helps students navigate the challenges of college life and prepare for their future careers.
Episcopal Diocese of Maryland: The Episcopal Diocese of Maryland is a religious organization that supports the spiritual development of individuals throughout the state. One of its key focuses is on providing assistance to Christian college students. The Diocese offers a range of programs and resources that can help students grow in their faith and connect with others who share their beliefs.
One such program is the Episcopal Campus Ministry (ECM), which operates on a number of college campuses throughout Maryland. This ministry provides a supportive community for students who want to deepen their relationship with God and connect with other Christians on campus. ECM offers worship services, Bible studies, retreats, and social events that can help students stay connected with their faith and grow in their spirituality.
Frequently Asked Questions About Studying in Maryland
Are Christian colleges in Maryland more expensive than other colleges?
The cost of tuition and fees at Christian colleges in Maryland varies widely depending on the institution and the student’s financial aid package. Some Christian colleges may be more expensive than other colleges, but many offer financial aid and scholarship opportunities to help students afford the cost of attendance.
Can I transfer credits earned at a Christian college in Maryland to another college or university?
Yes, in most cases, credits earned at a Christian college in Maryland can be transferred to other colleges or universities. However, it is important to check with the specific institution to which you plan to transfer to determine their transfer credit policies and requirements.
Do Christian colleges in Maryland offer online degree programs?
Yes, many Christian colleges in Maryland offer online degree programs. Students should check with the college they are interested in attending for specific information about online degree programs.
How do I pay for a Christian college education in Maryland?
Christian colleges in Maryland typically offer financial aid in the form of scholarships, grants, and loans. To apply for financial aid, you will need to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and any additional financial aid applications required by the college. Additionally, many Christian colleges offer work-study programs that allow students to work part-time on campus to help pay for their education.
How do I pay for a Christian college education in Maryland?
Christian colleges in Maryland typically offer financial aid in the form of scholarships, grants, and loans. To apply for financial aid, you will need to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and any additional financial aid applications required by the college. Additionally, many Christian colleges offer work-study programs that allow students to work part-time on campus to help pay for their education.