A bachelor's degree in theology provides graduates with in-depth religious knowledge that leads to both spiritual and secular careers.
Graduates can work in roles such as senior pastor, minister, theology professor, and hospital chaplain. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that theology and religious professors at colleges, universities, and junior colleges make a median annual salary of just under $70,000.
| #1 | Saint Joseph's College of Maine | Standish, ME |
| #2 | DeSales University | Center Valley, PA |
| #3 | Moody Bible Institute | Chicago, IL |
| #4 | Indiana Wesleyan University-National & Global | Marion, IN |
| #5 | Southwestern Assemblies of God University | Waxahachie, TX |
| #6 | Lincoln Christian University | Lincoln, IL |
| #7 | Oral Roberts University | Tulsa, OK |
| #8 | Palm Beach Atlantic University | West Palm Beach, FL |
| #9 | The Baptist College of Florida | Graceville, FL |
| #10 | Montreat College | Montreat, NC |
Studying theology also opens the door to careers as high school teachers, social and community service managers, and youth workers. Online theology programs often involve interactive components, group discussions, and collaborative projects.
This guide ranks the best online theology degrees in the country. We also cover important information for prospective students, such as common careers and potential salaries for graduates.
Table of Contents
This guide includes everything you need to know about the best online bachelor's in theology programs. Click on a topic to learn more.
Best Online Bachelor's in Theology Programs
| Rank | School | Location | Apply | More Information |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Saint Joseph's College of Maine |
Standish, ME | ||
| 2 |
DeSales University |
Center Valley, PA | ||
| 3 |
Moody Bible Institute |
Chicago, IL | ||
| 4 |
Indiana Wesleyan University-National & Global |
Marion, IN | ||
| 5 |
Southwestern Assemblies of God University |
Waxahachie, TX | ||
| 6 |
Lincoln Christian University |
Lincoln, IL | ||
| 7 |
Oral Roberts University |
Tulsa, OK | ||
| 8 |
Palm Beach Atlantic University |
West Palm Beach, FL | ||
| 9 |
The Baptist College of Florida |
Graceville, FL | ||
| 10 |
Montreat College |
Montreat, NC |
End of list, bravo!
Online Bachelor's in Theology Degree Program Ranking Guidelines
We selected the following degree programs based on quality, curricula, school awards, rankings, and reputation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is a Bachelor's in Theology Degree?
A bachelor's degree in theology explores the many facets of religion. Students examine spiritual texts; strengthen their theological thinking skills; and study the history, ethics, and rituals of faiths from around the world, though programs based in the U.S. typically focus on Christianity. They may also learn about present-day issues facing religions; visit faith communities; and explore ancient languages, such as Hebrew, Latin, and Greek.
An online bachelor's in theology degree typically takes four years of full-time study to complete.
Theology majors often take courses in biblical theology, ethics, homiletics, cultural studies, and humanities. Courses may include biblical concepts and principles, historical foundations of religion, and methods of interpreting biblical scriptures.
An online bachelor's in theology degree typically takes four years of full-time study to complete. Some schools offer accelerated programs, which may take two years or less to finish with continuous full-time enrollment. Applicants typically need a high school diploma or equivalent.
Graduates know how to serve faith communities, interpret religious texts, and analyze social and historical trends.
What Can I Do With a Bachelor's in Theology Degree?
A bachelor's in theology prepares graduates for secular, religious, and government employment and to pursue advanced degrees. Graduates can work as ministers, lead international missions, or help others through community service programs. They may also teach religious studies at colleges and universities.
Some graduates use a bachelor's in theology to seek master's degrees in theology, ministry, or Christian spirituality. Others complete online master's in biblical and pastoral counseling programs or master of divinity degrees. Many of the highest-paying careers in theology require master's degrees.
Theology and religious professors at colleges, universities, and junior colleges -- which require a master's-level education -- can make over $129,000 per year, according to the BLS.
Theology Careers
A bachelor's in theology prepares graduates for immediate employment in faith-based professions, allowing them to become missionaries, lay leaders, and seminarians. Graduates may also work as private high school teachers, social and community service managers, and social workers. Below, we cover several common careers and potential salaries for graduates with online theology degrees.
Private High School Teachers
Private high school teachers plan lessons, grade assignments, and prepare students for standardized tests. They also maintain records, enforce administration policies, and adapt teaching methods to meet various students' needs.
Private school teachers typically need at least a bachelor's degree, while public school teachers often need additional credentials. Teachers also need strong interpersonal skills, patience, and adaptability.
Marriage and Family Therapists
Marriage and family therapists evaluate and treat mental, behavioral, and emotional disorders and help address relationship issues. They may meet one-on-one with clients or treat couples and family members together.
Family and marriage therapists typically need a specialized master's degree, which usually takes two years to complete as a full-time student, and state licensure. These professionals need strong problem-solving, interpersonal, and communication skills.
Social and Community Service Managers
Social and community service managers create and oversee programs that benefit the public. They may oversee budgets and policies, hire and train staff, and collect program data to analyze effectiveness. They may also participate in speaking engagements and meet with potential donors.
Social and community service managers typically need at least a bachelor's degree in social work, urban studies, public administration, or a related field. The position requires skills in analytics, leadership, and time management.
Social Workers
Social workers support individuals, families, and communities through counseling, advocacy, and reporting services. Direct-service social workers work one-on-one with clients to address their needs, personal situations, and goals. Clinical social workers diagnose and treat mental, behavioral, and emotional disorders and collaborate with clients, doctors, and healthcare professionals to create treatment plans.
Direct-service workers typically need a bachelor of social work degree, while clinical social workers need a master of social work and a state license. Social workers need cultural sensitivity, empathy, and organizational skills to succeed.
Substance Abuse Counselors and Behavioral Disorder Counselors
Substance abuse and behavioral disorder counselors may work with patients one on one or in group settings, identifying challenges and developing treatment plans to address them. Counselors often refer clients to job placement services, support groups, and other resources to help aid their recovery.
Educational requirements range from a high school diploma and certification to a master's degree and licensure, depending on the counselor's type of work and state regulations. These professionals need cultural sensitivity, empathy, and a desire to help others.
Clergy
Clergy members are religious leaders, typically working with a wider community. Their responsibilities include leading worship, offering spiritual guidance, and sharing religious insight. They may also read from sacred texts, provide faith-based comfort to congregants, and perform other spiritual roles.
The requirements to work as a clergy member vary by religion, but these professionals typically need at least a bachelor's degree in theology or a related area. They also need strong public speaking, communication, and listening skills.
