Best Online Bachelor Degree Programs in Theology

Using data from the U.S. Department of Education on affordability and accessibility, Study.com has compiled a list of the 9 best online bachelor's degree programs in theology. We also considered unique features that benefit students including specializations, resources provided by the schools, and how long the program will take to complete. All of the schools on this list are designed to give students the best education in a format that will work for those who cannot go to the classroom every day.

1. Moody Bible Institute

Tuition	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Placement Services	Career Services	Accepts
$13,290	94%	67%	93%	Yes	Yes	AP Credits

Moody Bible Institute's Bachelor of Science in Theological Studies is at the top of our list for its affordability. Each class is only $360 per credit hour and they offer an interest-free payment plan the first semester along with loans, scholarships, and benefits. Along with financial flexibility, students get the chance to work with faculty that have traveled the world ministering and can receive peer tutoring through academic assistance.

2. Southwestern Assemblies of God University

Tuition	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Placement Services	Career Services	Accepts
$21,456	88%	45%	98%	Yes	Yes	AP / ACE / NCCRS Credits

The Bachelor of Arts in Theological Studies at Southwestern Assemblies of God University gives students the opportunity to work closely with professors by offering smaller class sizes. The school does a fantastic job making its degrees affordable. In fact, because of its robust financial aid programs and connections with scholarships, students here graduate with 20% less debt than the average for graduates of private colleges.

3. Oral Roberts University

Tuition	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Placement Services	Career Services	Accepts
$30,070	68%	55%	99%	Yes	Yes	AP / ACE Credits

At Oral Roberts University, students can earn a Bachelor of Arts in Historical and Philosophical Theology in as little as three years as a full-time student, even without transfer credits. The university offers first-year students the ability to work with Peer Success Coaches who help students find resources and opportunities to further their success. Another highlight of this program is that students can begin the program immediately since there are year-round terms.

4. Brescia University

Tuition	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Placement Services	Career Services	Accepts
$23,500	42%	34%	100%	Yes	Yes	AP Credits

Brescia University's Bachelor of Arts in Theology has an emphasis in Pastoral Studies that does a great job helping students understand the unique challenges of pastoral ministry. We were impressed that Brescia University's diocesan education and formation programs adhere to the National Association of Lay Ministry's (NALM) competency expectations, so students can be confident that they will gain an extensive knowledge of ministry. Prospective students have the chance to take a demo course to see if the program is a good fit and qualifying students can complete this degree in as little as two years.

5. Franciscan University of Steubenville

Tuition	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Placement Services	Career Services	Accepts
$28,880	77%	77%	100%	No	Yes	AP Credits

The Bachelor of Arts in Theology program at Franciscan University is one of the few in the world that is focused on the Catholic faith. Here, students are taught by the same internationally renowned faculty who teach at the Ohio campus. In addition, students have the unique opportunity to enroll in the 4+1 program where they can earn their masters with just one extra year.

6. The Master's University and Seminary

Tuition	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Placement Services	Career Services	Accepts
$25,390	67%	70%	62%	Yes	Yes	AP / NCCRS Credits

The Bachelor of Arts in Biblical Studies at The Master's University places emphasis on using Biblical literature to address the cultural and theological issues of today. Along with preparing their students to apply their education on a larger scale, this program stresses the importance of spiritual values, focusing on student's personal development along with their academic one. Students here also benefit from highly focused courses that last for 8 weeks, allowing for even more flexibility.

7. Lee University

Tuition	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Placement Services	Career Services	Accepts
$18,770	82%	60%	98%	Yes	Yes	AP Credits

Lee University is unique in that students can earn either a Bachelor of Arts in Bible and Theology or a Bachelor of Science in Bible and Theology; with the Bachelor of Arts, students have the chance to take 6 hours of foreign language. We were impressed at how well this program cultivated curiosity and gave students a firm grasp of biblical and theological principles. Online Bible and Theology majors also receive a ministry discount that brings the cost per credit hour down from $413 to $275.

8. Indiana Wesleyan University-National & Global

Tuition	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Placement Services	Career Services	Accepts
$9,345	No Available Data (2019-2020)	38%	85%	No	Yes	AP Credits

Even though this degree is given online, the Bachelor of Science in Biblical Studies at Indiana Wesleyan University-National & Global offers students access to off-campus library services where they can utilize all collections of the Jackson Library. Another great feature of this program is that students can take one class at a time that lasts between 5-8 weeks. Start dates are continuously being added for the program, so you can find the right time for you.

9. Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College

Tuition	Acceptance Rate	Graduation Rate	Financial Aid %	Placement Services	Career Services	Accepts
$30,500	67%	56%	100%	Yes	Yes	AP / ACE Credits

Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College's Bachelor of Arts in Theology moves students to view theology as a path to understanding faith. This program is centered around the belief that it is important to integrate other disciplines like philosophy and psychology into the study of theology, creating a well-rounded understanding of faith. Students here benefit from a Virtual Academic Support Team (VAST) which offers online students academic assistance with mentoring and tutoring while in the program. As for affordability, 95% of students receive financial aid.

To get a more in-depth look at our school ranking methodology, please visit Study.com's ranking methodology page.

Tuition information is based on published tuition and required fees, per data by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES).

An online degree in theology will usually involve coursework that incorporates a study of the Old and the New Testament as well as specific topics on the Bible, the life of Jesus Christ, various theological arguments and Christian doctrines. The coursework will also examine various strategies and methods used to spread the Christian faith in both contemporary as well as historical contexts and will be ideal for online study. There are different areas of theology which one can choose to focus. Some of these areas include but are not limited to:

• Congregational Practices: This area of focus is perfect for students looking for a career in congregation. This specialization strengthens pastoral management skills, organizational skills and skills to effectively engage with churches, local communities and faith groups.
• Historical Studies Concentration: This specialization is ideal for students eager to learn about the historical development of different religious traditions. Students may choose to focus on a particular sect, such as the history and development of Christianity.
• Black Religious Studies: This option is ideal for students interested in learning about the Black religious tradition and helps train students to engage with different Black religious institutions. This is a very relevant specialization today and offers a lot of scope to bring about significant, positive change in the world.
• Systematic/Constructive Theology: This concentration will help students draw relevant connections between the different doctrines as well as form an idea about how such doctrines relate to the world around us and their relevance to contemporary history, culture and other intellectual contexts. This is ideal for students who are interested in having a more direct, practical and immediate impact on the world through this degree.

Getting admitted to an online bachelor's degree in theology can be quite competitive. A high school diploma with a minimum of 2.0-3.0 GPA will be useful. Above-average SAT scores, prior coursework and good recommendations can also supplement a diploma. Usually, a student studying for a theology degree will be expected to complete basic coursework on the topic of the Christian faith, common theological doctrines and scriptures, the history of theological studies and its place in society today. Some common coursework offered by most universities in this area include (but are not limited to):

• Catholic Doctrine and Theology: This course will provide a broader understanding of the life and mission of the Christian Church by looking at the history of this institution. The course is recommended for a career in the ministry and will also help the student understand the role of institutional religion in the world today.
• Introduction to the Old Testament: This course will focus on close reading the Old Testament as a text and understanding it in its broader sociological, historical and cultural context. There will be additional reading material to supplement one's reading of the Old Testament.
• Principles of Bible Study: A course such as this will usually focus on the study of the Bible by dividing it in to sections such as the Old and the New Testament. Students will be expected to understand and inquire into the principles propagated by this religious text by situating these principles within its larger historical context.
• Methodological Study of the Scriptures: This course will focus on providing a deeper understanding of key scriptures which have been instrumental in shaping religious history and helping the student understand how such scriptures are relevant in the modern world.

A standard bachelor's degree in theology online will require students to complete 120 to 128 credits on average to graduate. Full-time students will take approximately four years to complete the degree at a regular pace while part-time degrees could take a little less than double that time period.

Proper accreditation is one of the most important parts of choosing an online bachelor's degree in theology. Universities and departments receive their accreditation from specific agencies that are recognized by the United States Department of Education. The process involves very extensive reviews and evaluations of a school's educational programs, resources and student services. Hence, accreditation will be very important to determine the educational experiences, as well as the real-world opportunities that one has access to after graduation. Moreover, other areas where accreditation will matter include credit transferability in case of a program or university transfer, access to federal loans and scholarships, etc. Getting admission to a highly accredited program will not only provide the best educational opportunities for the student, but it will also take care of several hardships that can accompany a university degree. Hence, all of these reasons together make confirming the accreditation of the program one enrolls in one of the most important aspects of the entire process.

Additional licenses and certification may be required for those hoping to follow a traditional path related to priesthood. Certain religious institutions may provide ordinations to ministries that allow the recipient to perform baptisms, rituals, rites and sacraments. Completing a degree in theology would make one eligible to receive ordination. An ordained priest is considered to be a permanent member of the clergy. Many states also require pastors and other officials to be licensed before they are eligible to officiate weddings. In the United States, at least ten states require licensure before one can officiate a wedding and at least three states sometimes require the same. However, one will not require any form of license to teach this subject at private schools. Typically, instructors who teach at private schools do not need a state-issued teaching license. There are many other career options with this degree that do not come with the added burden or expenditure of further licensing.

Career options in the field of theology can be multifaceted, and often people use the skills attained from this degree towards philanthropic means. Traditionally this degree prepares one for a career in the ministry, such as a youth minister or pastor. These career paths usually come with a lot of responsibilities and the possibility to bring about real change and be beneficial at the community level. However, there are also many non-traditional career choices for those not interested in the priesthood. Other common career choices include teaching religion at the kindergarten or primary school level or working for specific religious organizations. The skills learnt from this degree, including reading, researching and working critically, can be applied towards a variety of career options, including but not limited to a career in charity and fundraising, advising, civil services, publishing and journalism, and more.

How to Become a Religious Studies Teacher

A job in teaching religion at the primary or secondary school level involves working with children and adolescents on a regular basis, garnering interest in the subject and helping students understand key concepts. Required skills include excellent written and oral communication, patience, an interest in working with children, the capacity to constantly adapt and a passion for the subject. An exciting part of this job is not just the personal satisfaction of giving back to the community but the added holiday hours one usually enjoys compared to other professions. A bachelor's degree in theology is preferred but can be substituted for a degree in education. While the remuneration for this position will depend on the state and the type of school one teaches at, Salary.com states the median salary of a religious studies teacher in the United States to be $56,100.

How to Become a Chaplain

Chaplains provide spiritual guidance and counseling for seekers within secular organizations. The specific skills of a chaplain are required by a variety of organizations, including schools, colleges, universities, hospitals, sports organizations, armed forces, and prisons. Apart from providing guidance, as a chaplain one is also required to perform certain administrative tasks, keep records, write reports and respond to specific queries in a timely manner. Essential skills include good communication and a vested interest in helping other people. The salary of a chaplain may vary depending on the state and the institution; a hospice chaplain might earn might earn a median salary of $50,536, while a hospital chaplain might earn $60,000. To be considered for the position of a junior chaplain, a bachelor's degree in religion is essential often supplemented with other kinds of volunteer experiences.

While an online degree may be ideal for someone who wishes a more flexible option and is very common among those who work or have other responsibilities, there are many other options for those considering the subject. A full-time in-person bachelor's degree can often reduce the completion time, while those interested in higher education or with a prior bachelor's degree may consider a master's or even a PhD in the subject, depending on their qualification. Other options also include associate degrees and diplomas in the subject.

Online Associate Degrees in Theology

An online associate degree in theology comes with the same benefits as a bachelor's but with a reduced course load. Depending upon the institution, the admission criteria and cost of attending school for this degree could be reduced as well. However, the resources and learning outcome remain the same, making it a very lucrative option. An associate degree with an accreditation and proper licensing can open several career opportunities, making a church administrator, a nonprofit director or even a teacher for a similar program viable options.

Online Master's Degrees in Theology

For students considering higher education, an online master's degree in theology is often a great opportunity. To qualify for admission, a bachelor's degree is often required, and while a bachelor's degree in theology specifically is useful, it is not mandatory. A degree in almost any discipline from an accredited institute is considered acceptable. Exceptional test scores, good recommendations and admissions essays are also materials that may be required by specific schools. A master's degree in this subject would require approximately 48 credits and an average of two years to complete.

Online Doctoral Degrees in Theology

For those interested in research in this field, a PhD could be the ideal option. One may apply to a combined master's/PhD option or choose to do a stand-alone PhD. While a master's is not required for this degree, it is highly recommended for admission. The coursework combines teaching as well as studying and research on the subject and may take a significant period to complete, often going up to seven to eight years of full-time work. However, financial support in the form of scholarships is more easily available for PhD coursework.

Online Certificates in Theology

Other options that do not have the same intellectual or financial commitments as a degree are certificates and diploma courses in theology. Diplomas are usually granted by colleges and focus on specific aspects of the subject, such as a diploma in ministry, diaconal studies, and theology. Applicants will need a bachelor's degree in any field of study for a diploma. The degree is designed for those interested in pursuing the subject without committing to a degree program and can be completed either full- or part-time.

Depending on the program and the school, tuition may vary, but some schools offer financial assistance. Scholarships and bursaries are available from specific schools to offset the cost of attending school. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is recommended for students with financial needs. Students can submit applications through the degree granting institution. The amount of FAFSA award depends on the amount of external scholarship that the student already holds.

There are also certain faith specific scholarships one may apply to, such as the Associated Women for Pepperdine Scholarship, the Martin Luther Scholarship, the CCU Athletics Scholarship and the Carl F. Henry Scholarship for master's level applicants. Another common source of financial aid for theology students is grants. Grants are different from scholarships in that these are available to those showing financial need. A common theology grant is the Pell Grant. Fellowships are also available for graduate level students who show exceptional capability in this field. A doctoral degree often comes with a base stipend, which covers tuition and can be supplemented by income from teaching and other research positions. Moreover, the wide availability of federal loans for this degree can be a good resource and is considered as a sound investment in the future.