Online theology programs engage enrollees in academic explorations of religious texts, religious practice, and ministry. United States online theology programs often align with specific Christian traditions and serve students seeking ministry and church administration careers within particular denominations. However, some theology schools online offer a more general, nondenominational approach. A few online theological schools focus on Islamic or Judaic traditions.
Theology online degree graduates often work as clergy, church administrators, religious educators, or social and community service managers. Graduates with additional training in psychology or counseling often choose careers as mental health counselors or marriage and family therapists. Degree-holders usually work for churches, community organizations, or church-affiliated schools. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) indicates that clergy earn a mean annual salary of $55,190 and enjoy a projected 4% job growth rate between 2019-2029.
Getting into a theology online program usually requires a high school diploma or associates in theology and a minimum 2.0-3.0 GPA. Many good colleges and universities seek applicants with above-average SAT or ACT scores. Some theology schools online require satisfactory prerequisite coursework and recommendation letters for acceptance into the major.
Popular Online Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Online Bachelor's Degree Programs in Theology
What Are the Goals of a Theology Degree?
Aspiring theology students choose from bachelor of arts, bachelor of science, or bachelor of theology (B.Th., BTheol, or Th.B.) degrees focused on theology or biblical studies. Often more vocation-focused, B.Th. programs usually emphasize field experiences within specific faith traditions. Less likely to require professions of faith, BA in theology programs often prioritize academic study and entail more general coursework.
Theology online degrees often include courses in principles of ministry, sacred texts, and theological history. Many programs encourage specialization in fields such as youth ministry, pastoral counseling, and army or hospital chaplaincy.
What Are the Requirements for a Theology Degree?
Most colleges and universities require freshmen applicants to submit standardized test scores, official transcripts, and essays. To enter theology programs, candidates often complete prerequisite courses and submit recommendation letters. Some programs require declarations of faith that align with the school's theology. The best online theology degrees look for candidates with a minimum 3.0 GPA.
Bachelor's programs require about 120 credits, but students with transferable associate degrees sometimes need to complete as few as 60 credits to earn their bachelor's degree in theology. Many programs offer field experiences or internships tailored to the enrollee's interests, career aspirations, or current career. The best online theology degrees usually require a capstone thesis or project.
Common Questions to Ask About a Bachelor's in Theology Online
What is the difference between theology and religious studies?
Theology programs typically examine religion through the lens of faith. Meanwhile, religious studies programs analyze religion through sociological and cultural lenses.
Can you study theology online?
Many theology schools offer online learning options. Online programs accommodate working students' schedules by permitting asynchronous attendance and participation.
What jobs does theology lead to?
Theology online degrees often support careers in teaching, counseling, ministry, and church administration.
How long does it take to get a theology degree?
Bachelor's degrees typically require four years of full-time attendance to complete. However, many online theology programs offer accelerated timelines. Students with transferable credits usually finish their degrees sooner.
