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The Bachelor of Science in Christian Studies program at Cairn University is designed for students who recognize the need for a broad biblical and educational exposure as they pursue their careers. With its large number of electives beyond the core requirement, you’ll be equipped to skillfully communicate biblical and theological truth, and serve effectively in ministry as a vocation or applying biblical principles to your chosen career field. Upon successful completion of the program, the student earns a BS in Bible degree.
Cairn University delivers an intentionally biblical and Christ-centered education that upholds the authority of Scripture, the importance of truth, and the faithful following of Christ. Faculty and staff teach and serve biblically, personally invest in students, and cultivate an authentic Christian community marked by faithfulness, discipleship, and love.
Cairn University Ranks #2 in Glanzer’s Guide to Christian Colleges and Universities. At Cairn University, we work hard to ensure that everything we do inside and outside the classroom aligns with our commitment to Christian education, clearly articulated in our University mission statement.
All undergraduate programs integrate 30 credits of Bible and theology as part of the core curriculum. Except for those pursuing a BS in Bible, anyone who earns a bachelor’s degree from Cairn has a Bible Minor listed on their transcript.
Delivered fully online in 7-week terms with no set meeting times, using adaptive tools like Cerego for learning retention and video-threads for collaborative discussions; ideal for balancing work, ministry, and family, with completion in 3-4 years.
At Cairn, we are rooted in the Scriptures; it is the foundation of everything we do whether it is in the classroom, on the field, or out in our local community.
Designed for self-directed, motivated learners who need flexibility without compromising academic rigor.
$425 per credit with financial aid options; NC-SARA approved meeting nationwide standards and matching the quality of the on-campus program.
The BS in Christian Studies program has been designed with input from our expert faculty in the School of Divinity, ensuring you graduate with the in-demand skills and knowledge that the local church and ministry needs. The program requires 60 credits from the University Core, 12 credits from program requirements, and 45 credits from electives.
Upon completion of the program, the student will be able to:
All Cairn University students must have professed a faith in Jesus Christ as Savior as evidenced by providing a personal testimony that details this faith. By submitting an application, students acknowledge the University’s doctrinal position and standards of conduct as outlined in the Foundational Statements. Below are the admission requirements:
Cairn University strives to keep tuition costs affordable despite providing a rigorous education. Courses are taught by faculty not TAs. The tuition rates are posted on this page.
Cairn University also partners with many organizations and offers tuition discounts. Tuition discounts are also available for those working in Christian schools. Please contact us to find out if your organization has a partnership with Cairn University.
Additional information on scholarships, grants, and loans is available from this page.
A Bachelor of Science in Christian Studies equips graduates with knowledge in theology, biblical interpretation, ethics, and ministry, opening doors to roles in religious, educational, nonprofit, and community sectors.
Cairn University is regionally accredited by Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE).
Cairn University participates in the State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements.
Additional Accreditation Information is available from this page.
You may find the following program helpful:
“I have found myself connecting with all my professors inside and outside the classroom. And the scholarship among the professors is advanced, so the curriculum that I am learning is definitely an education that is worth getting.”
– Nathaniel B.
Our program is grounded on God’s Word and courses are designed to foster student learning and engagement through faculty-led instruction, research-driven activities, active learning, and meaningful peer and faculty interactions.
All courses, except the dissertation courses, are organized into seven units and delivered over 7-week terms. Each unit comprises 5–7 modular activities, including readings, reading reflections, instructional videos from Cairn faculty, an active learning activity, a weekly application project, and a component of the course research project. Additionally, students and faculty meet biweekly in live sessions to review specific unit learning objectives and engage with peers and faculty.
Faculty actively engage throughout the week by guiding course activities, facilitating asynchronous forum discussions and biweekly live sessions, grading student work, and providing detailed feedback. Online students receive prioritized technology support, with additional resources available from the Masland Library and the Writing Lab.
The program is fully online, allowing you to complete course activities at your convenience throughout the week. Some activities are typically due on Thursdays, while others are due later in the week.
The course transfer depends on where you are transferring from, and what program you are transferring to. If you are coming to Cairn Online from another institution, it is very likely you will have some credits that will transfer. Once you submit your application, your enrollment advisor will request an appraisal of the courses that will transfer from the registrar. If you are transferring out, Cairn is a regionally accredited school and some credits should transfer with relative ease. Each college sets their own transfer criteria, so be sure to check their policies for specifics.
Cairn is approved to offer financial aid because of its regional accreditation. There are many options available and typically students qualify for at least one type of federal aid. Many students receive scholarships and grants that make earning their degree even more affordable. Cairn offers a variety of scholarships and discounts in addition to options for loans and grants. Please refer to this page for details.
There are six entry points in the program: September, October, January, March, May, July.
Provided you submit the enrollment materials, applications are typically processed within 2 weeks of submitting your application.
Interested in our Bachelor of Science in Christian Studies program? Complete this form to connect with an admissions advisor for personalized guidance on schedules, costs, and application steps. We’re here to help you take the next step!
