Top Online Christian Counseling Schools for 2025–2026
As the need for compassionate, faith-based mental health support continues to grow, so does the demand for skilled Christian counselors. Whether you’re looking to start a new career or deepen your ministry, online Christian counseling schools offer flexible, affordable pathways grounded in biblical principles.
In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best online Christian counseling degree programs for 2025–2026. You’ll learn what to expect, how to choose the right school, and where to begin your journey in this deeply meaningful profession.
What Is Christian Counseling?
Christian counseling blends traditional psychological approaches with spiritual guidance based on biblical teachings. Counselors in this field work with individuals, couples, or families to help them overcome emotional, behavioral, and spiritual challenges.
Christian counselors address issues like:
- Anxiety and depression
- Grief and loss
- Addiction and recovery
- Marriage and family conflict
- Spiritual confusion and crises of faith
Programs in Christian counseling prepare students to integrate theological understanding with mental health best practices.
Why Choose an Online Christian Counseling School?
Online Christian counseling programs provide the flexibility and accessibility many adult learners and working professionals need. They allow you to grow your faith and education without uprooting your life.
Benefits of Online Programs:
| Benefit | Details |
|---|---|
| Flexible Schedules | Study at your own pace—ideal for working adults |
| Faith-Based Curriculum | Courses taught from a Christian worldview |
| Accredited Degrees | Many programs are regionally or nationally accredited |
| Ministry and Career Focused | Prepares you for licensure or pastoral counseling roles |
| Affordable Tuition Options | Many schools offer scholarships and tuition assistance |
Degree Options in Christian Counseling
Online Christian counseling programs are available at various academic levels. Your career goals will determine which one is right for you.
| Degree Level | Ideal For | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Associate Degree | Entry-level support roles or foundation studies | 2 years |
| Bachelor’s Degree | Church counselors, lay ministry roles | 4 years |
| Master’s Degree (MA/MS) | Licensure-track counselors and therapists | 2–3 years |
| Doctorate (Ph.D./DMin) | Clinical leadership, advanced research, teaching | 3–5 years |
| Certificate Programs | Pastors or church leaders seeking basic training | 6–12 months |
Best Online Christian Counseling Schools (2025–2026)
Here are some of the top online Christian counseling schools for the upcoming academic year. These programs stand out for their accreditation, faith integration, flexibility, and affordability.
| School Name | Degree Levels Offered | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|
| Liberty University | BS, MA, EdD, PhD | CACREP-accredited, fully online, biblical core |
| Regent University | BA, MA, PhD | Strong theology-counseling integration |
| Colorado Christian University | BS, MA | Offers licensure tracks and spiritual formation |
| Grand Canyon University | BS, MS | Faith-based psychology and counseling programs |
| LeTourneau University | BS, MA | Christian worldview, high student satisfaction |
| Indiana Wesleyan University | MA | Prepares for licensure with strong biblical lens |
Always verify licensure compatibility in your state before enrolling.
Christian Counseling Careers
Graduates from Christian counseling schools can pursue a variety of careers that align with both clinical and spiritual goals.
| Career Title | Typical Setting | Salary Range |
|---|---|---|
| Licensed Mental Health Counselor | Private practice, clinics | $50,000–$75,000 |
| Marriage and Family Therapist | Faith-based or secular therapy offices | $49,000–$80,000 |
| Church or Ministry Counselor | Churches, nonprofits | $35,000–$60,000 |
| Pastoral Counselor | Congregational or denominational setting | $40,000–$65,000 |
| School or Youth Counselor | Christian schools, youth ministries | $42,000–$70,000 |
To become a licensed counselor, a master’s degree is typically required, along with state licensure and clinical experience.
Accreditation and Licensure Considerations
Before enrolling, make sure the program is accredited. Look for:
- Regional accreditation (the gold standard for credit transfer and recognition)
- Programmatic accreditation like CACREP (for counseling degrees)
- State licensure alignment if you plan to become an LPC, LMHC, or MFT
Note that some Christian schools offer non-licensure tracks, which are ideal for pastoral counseling or church-based support roles, but not clinical positions.
How to Choose the Right Online Christian Counseling Program
When comparing programs, ask these important questions:
- Is the degree licensure-track or ministry-focused?
- Is the curriculum biblically grounded?
- Are courses 100% online or hybrid?
- What type of clinical practicum is required?
- What financial aid options are available?
Also, review student reviews and alumni success stories to get a feel for the school’s spiritual environment and academic support.
Cost of Online Christian Counseling Programs
Tuition can vary widely depending on degree level and school type.
| Program Type | Estimated Tuition (Total) |
|---|---|
| Associate Degree | $8,000–$20,000 |
| Bachelor’s Degree | $25,000–$45,000 |
| Master’s Degree | $20,000–$40,000 |
| Certificate Program | $2,000–$6,000 |
Most schools offer financial aid, scholarships, payment plans, and military discounts.
Is Christian Counseling Right for You?
You might be called to Christian counseling if you:
- Want to integrate faith with psychology
- Feel led to support others in emotional and spiritual healing
- Enjoy deep listening, empathy, and discipleship
- See mental health care as part of your ministry
- Are committed to ethical, biblical values in practice
Whether your path leads to a counseling license or a role in ministry, online Christian counseling schools can equip you with the tools to make a real difference.
Christian counseling is more than a career — it’s a calling. With a growing number of faith-based, accredited online programs, now is a great time to pursue your passion and help others heal spiritually and emotionally.