In today’s fast-paced, digitally connected world, education has broken free from traditional classroom walls. As the online branch of Abilene Christian University, ACU Online believes in transforming education by taking steps to shape students through learning experiences that are designed with flexibility, academic excellence and forward-thinking innovation at their core. From helping students who are juggling a full-time job, raising a family, serving in ministry, or preparing for a career shift, ACU Online offers fully online programs designed to help students – like you – and accelerate their learning to fit their lifestyle, goals and dreams.
So, how do online classes actually work at ACU Online? Let’s explore.
100% Online and Built for Your Life
Across the academic world, studies have reported improved academic performance due to the flexibility and accessibility of online learning, enabling students to learn at their own pace. While some studies have highlighted challenges, the effectiveness of online learning was found to be influenced by factors such as the quality of digital tools, classroom engagement and motivating students via one-on-one relationships.
Knowing this, ACU Online has built an online learning university that is focused on preparing students with the tools and skills needed to excel in their lives. At ACU Online, every course is delivered in a fully online format, which means no mandatory on-campus visits or real-time virtual lectures. Instead, students can complete coursework at their convenience – early morning, lunch break, or late at night. Plus, our user-friendly platforms are accessible 24/7, giving students full control over when and where they learn.
On top of this, each class runs for seven weeks, allowing you to dive deeply into a subject without the long semester commitment. This accelerated structure means most students can complete their degree in less time compared to traditional formats, an ideal setup for working professionals and adult learners who want to make meaningful academic progress without putting their careers or personal lives on hold.
Over 50 Programs Designed for Career Impact
ACU Online offers more than 50 degree and certificate programs, spanning high-demand areas and concentrations. Each program is carefully crafted to blend academic theory with practical, real-world application, helping students gain both knowledge and confidence in their chosen field. Our programs include:
Business | Prepares students for leadership roles through Christ-centered, flexible programs. With specializations in business administration, business management, marketing, sports leadership and even graduate certificates in business analytics, students gain practical skills and ethical grounding to thrive in today’s dynamic marketplace.
Communications | Equips students with essential skills in organizational communication, organizational leadership and conflict management. Designed for flexibility and faith integration, these programs prepare graduates to lead, influence and connect in diverse professional settings to empower them to communicate with clarity, purpose and integrity across platforms.
Counseling and Human Services | Gives students the knowledge and training to care for their patients ethically. With programs in child and family services, criminal justice, psychology and marriage and family therapy, students gain critical industry knowledge to not only improve patient care but also cope with complex issues as they arise in their various workspaces.
Education | Assists students to become educational leaders with tactical skills in organizational leadership, educational leadership, higher education, instruction and learning and integrated studies with the option to earn your teacher certification. Designed to help educators find their vocational calling in K-12 classrooms, these programs prepare graduates to lead and influence their schools and communities through research-based practices.
Healthcare | Prepares students to lead and serve in today’s evolving health systems. With programs in pre-health professionals, communication sciences and disorders, exercise science, healthcare administration and nutrition/dietetics, students gain critical industry knowledge, leadership skills and a faith-based perspective to improve patient care and promote wellness in their communities.
Nursing | Guides future healthcare workers to serve in today’s evolving healthcare settings. With programs in pre-nursing, BSN to DNP pathways and graduate-level nursing practice, students will obtain the skills and knowledge to carry their dreams of working as healthcare professionals to the next level.
Precision Medicine | Grows the next generation of data-informed healthcare workers interested in battling the biomedical sphere. With programs like precision medicine, students will obtain the analytical skills and administrative knowledge to pursue careers in the growing sector of cancer research.
Technology | Trains students to innovate and lead in today’s digital world. With programs in information technology, cybersecurity and two entry-level certificates, students develop technical expertise and problem-solving skills grounded in Christian values.
Theology | Empowers students to deepen their faith, enhance their biblical knowledge and develop practical ministry skills. Designed for those called to study Christian ministry, divinity, theological studies, and a certificate for practical ministry, these Christ-centered programs prepare graduates for impactful leadership in churches, nonprofits and communities rooted in spiritual formation and sound theological training.
High-Quality Learning, Rooted in Christian Values
ACU Online courses are designed with intentionality and rigor. The university uses cutting-edge instructional design and evidence-based teaching strategies to ensure online learning is just as effective as in-person experiences. Multimedia content, interactive modules and virtual collaboration tools enhance the learning journey. What’s more, every course is rooted in Christian principles, which means students learn in an environment that nurtures both their intellectual and spiritual growth. This approach aligns with ACU’s mission to “educate students for Christian service and leadership throughout the world.”
Virtual education is no longer an experiment. According to a 2024 report, over 60% of college students in the U.S. take at least one online class and many prefer the flexibility it provides. The pandemic accelerated the shift, but institutions like ACU Online were already prepared, having offered online degrees for over a decade. Employers, too, are recognizing the value of online education. In a crowded field of online education providers, ACU Online stands out for its Christ-centered mission, academic integrity and personal approach.
Online classes at ACU are designed to empower you, not disrupt your life. With flexible schedules, top-tier faculty and a vibrant virtual community, you can achieve your academic goals while honoring your personal and professional commitments.
Your future is waiting. Discover how ACU Online can help you take the next step today. Visit acu.edu/online to learn more or start your application.
