Best Online Theology Degrees
This article was drafted using natural language generation technology and has been reviewed and fact-checked by our editorial staff.
A bachelor’s degree in theology can provide a fulfilling career path if you want to pursue a spiritual vocation. Theology graduates are equipped with a deep knowledge of religious teachings, allowing them to interpret scripture, teach, and write about spiritual topics. Many students go on to complete graduate work, such as a doctorate in theology.
With this degree, you can pursue a career in teaching, writing, or the nonprofit sector. Many theological institutions provide internships, networking opportunities, and financial aid that can make a theology degree more accessible.
Overview: Best Online Theology Degrees
A bachelor’s in theology will help you gain knowledge and understanding of sacred texts, religious history, ethics, and religion’s role in society.
Depending on the school and program, an online theology degree at the undergraduate level typically takes four years to complete.
According to Data USA
, the median in-state tuition for theology degrees was $8,356 while the median out-of-state tuition was $25,690.
Over the course of a bachelor’s in theology program, you may also have the opportunity to develop practical skills related to the clergy, like:
- leading prayer and promoting spirituality,
- preparing and delivering sermons,
- Organizing and leading religious services, and
- Planning or leading religious education programs.
Continue reading to find the best online theology degree for you.
Best Online Theology Programs
The school and/or program descriptions below were drafted using natural language generation technology and have been edited for clarity and accuracy. The data is primarily sourced from government databases such as IPEDS – see sources section for more details.
Saint Joseph's College of Maine
Standish, ME- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Students at Saint Joseph's College of Maine earn a well-rounded education by completing the bachelor of arts in theological studies. The Standish-based school offers 29 online programs, and distance learners receive guidance throughout their studies, from career services to academic advising.
Students complete foundational and advanced coursework, with the option to choose electives and declare minors or degree concentrations. Degree-seekers can supplement their learning with experiential learning opportunities, like internships or research projects. Through these opportunities, students gain skills and knowledge needed for the field.
Students interested in applying can schedule an appointment with an admissions counselor to learn more.
- In-State$38,820
- Out-of-state$38,820
- In-State$9,482
- Out-of-state$9,482
- Retention Rate73%
- Acceptance Rate87%
- Students Enrolled1,967
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment52%
- AccreditationYes
DeSales University
- Center Valley, PA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
If you're interested in pursuing an online bachelor's degree at your own convenience, DeSales University offers many options through its 53 online programs, catering to distance learners across the globe. One such program is the online accelerate bachelor's in theology, which provides students with valuable skills and knowledge.
As part of their studies, students can tailor their degree with electives, minors, and degree concentrations. Additionally, they can engage in internships, research projects, and other experiential learning opportunities to gain a comprehensive education. Throughout the program, students have access to various institutional resources, including career services and academic advising.
Prospective students can learn more about the admissions process by contacting the Office of Admissions. Once admitted, eligible students can explore various funding opportunities, such as scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid.
- In-State$38,500
- Out-of-state$38,500
- In-State$20,520
- Out-of-state$20,520
- Retention Rate81%
- Acceptance Rate82%
- Students Enrolled3,302
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment64%
- AccreditationYes
Moody Bible Institute
- Chicago, IL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Moody Bible Institute is a private college located in Chicago, Illinois. It offers a total of 30 programs, 12 of which are available online for distance learning. Students enrolled in online programs make up a sizable portion of the school’s total enrollment.
Moody Bible Institute has a 62% graduation rate, and the student-to-faculty ratio is 19-to-1. Tuition prices are the same for in-state and out-of-state students. An impressive 98% of students receive some form of financial aid, and 41% take out loans to pay for their education.
- In-State$11,520
- Out-of-state$11,520
- In-State$8,280
- Out-of-state$8,280
- Retention Rate82%
- Acceptance Rate98%
- Students Enrolled2,870
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment38%
- AccreditationYes
Southwestern Assemblies of God University
- Waxahachie, TX
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Southwestern Assemblies of God University is an accredited private university located in Waxahachie, Texas. This university offers 72 programs, including 37 bachelor's programs.
For those seeking distance learning opportunities, SAGU offers 59 online programs. The undergraduate tuition rate is the same for in-state and out-of-state students. However, enrollees rarely pay full tuition since 97% of students at the school receive some form of financial aid.
- In-State$20,496
- Out-of-state$20,496
- In-State$10,710
- Out-of-state$10,710
- Retention Rate72%
- Acceptance Rate89%
- Students Enrolled1,985
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment73%
- AccreditationYes
Salary and Demand for Theology Occupations
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median salary for religious workers was $45,420 annually, while directors of religious activities and education made $60,540. In addition, clergy made a median annual wage of $60,180.
Another common theology-related career is healthcare social worker. Healthcare social workers assist patients and their families in dealing with social, emotional, and financial issues related to their illness or disability. Workers in this career earned a median annual salary of $62,760.
Paying for a Program
Financing a college education can be a difficult and overwhelming process. According to a report from the National Center for Education Statistics DataLab, 66.6% of bachelor’s degree students borrow money to pay for their education.
When it comes to financing a theology degree, cost and financial aid are two of the most common concerns. The cost of a theology degree can vary depending on whether you are attending school online or on campus, and whether you are an in-state or out-of-state student.
Fortunately, there are many ways to help finance a theology degree. Scholarships, fellowships, and need-based financial aid are all great alternatives or compliments to loans. Federal, state, and private financial aid can help reduce the out-of-pocket cost of a degree. Fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to see what aid you may qualify for.
Online vs. On Campus
When deciding between online and on-campus options for your degree, consider your lifestyle, preferences, and needs. Each modality has its own pros and cons:
Online Programs
- Flexibility to accommodate a busy schedule
- Convenience of studying from home
- Cost-effective
- Allows for greater self-direction and personalized learning
- Requires self-motivation and time management skills
On-Campus Programs
- Can be more expensive
- Access to campus amenities
- Face-to-face contact with peers and professors
- Can provide a supportive and interactive learning environment
- Helpful for those who need an established routine
Public vs. Private
Public and private colleges also have distinct advantages and disadvantages:
Public
- Higher admission rate
- May be more affordable
- More programs to choose from
- Larger class sizes
- More extracurricular activities
- Tend to have more diversity
Private
- Lower admission rate
- Tend to be more expensive
- Fewer program options
- Smaller class sizes
- Close-knit community
Applying to an Online Theology Program
When you’re looking to apply to a theology program, comparing costs, faculty, and program quality can help you make an informed decision.
Tuition and fees can vary widely. Compare affordability and cost to ensure you’re getting the best value. Faculty play a large role in the quality of a program. Get to know their credentials and teaching style by reading student feedback and talking to alumni. The quality of your program matters. Be sure to look into student services, class size, accreditation, and the school’s graduation rate.
Schools often require applicants to submit materials like references or letters of recommendation. Ensure that you check your prospective program’s admission requirements and request letters of recommendation well in advance of the application deadline.
Frequently Asked Questions About Theology Programs
What kind of degree is needed to pursue a career in theology?
Many theology-related occupations require a master’s or doctoral degree. A bachelor’s degree is a great way to prepare for more advanced programs.
How much can I earn in the field of theology?
Salaries for theology-related occupations vary depending on the occupation, qualification level, and location. According to BLS, clergy earned a median annual salary of $60,180.
Are there accelerated or part-time options available for online theology degrees?
Yes, many online theology degree programs offer accelerated or part-time options. Program length and admission requirements may vary depending on the specific institution.
Sources
- Clergy. (Accessed June 14, 2023). U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2021.
- Directors, Religious Activities and Education. (Accessed June 14, 2023). U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2021.
- Healthcare Social Workers. (Accessed June 14, 2023). U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2021.
- Religious Workers, All Other. (Accessed June 14, 2023). U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2021.
- Theology. (Accessed March 9, 2023). Data USA.
- College Scorecard Data. (Data retrieved May 12, 2021). U.S. Department of Education, College Scorecard
- IPEDS Access Databases. (Data retrieved November 17, 2022). U.S. Department of Education, National Center for Education Statistics, Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System
- Official Cohort Default Rates for Schools. (Data retrieved March 8, 2023). U.S. Department of Education, Office of Federal Student Aid
- Data Lab. (Accessed March 9, 2023). U.S. Department of Education, National Center for Education Statistics.
