Online Theology Degrees
An online theology degree program can teach you about religious faith and practice in depth. Keep reading to find out what theology degrees are available online, learn about common program requirements, and discover career prospects.
What Online Theology Degree Programs Are Available?
Online degree programs in theology are offered at the bachelor's and master's degree level. Although doctoral programs in theology exist, they're not available online. To be admitted into some of these programs, you must demonstrate that you're a Christian and living a moral life. You must also show that you accept the school's doctrines and demonstrate interest in teaching them to others.
| Distance Learning | Bachelor's and master's programs are available online; doctoral programs are not |
| Common Courses | Bachelor's: church history, Old and New Testaments Master's: biblical skepticism, counseling |
| Additional Requirements | On-campus lab courses may be required. |
| Post-Graduation Options | Bachelor's: Pursue graduate school or work within a church Master's: youth pastor, marriage and family counselor, deacon |
| Median Salary (2018) | $71,890 (Philosophy and religion teachers, postsecondary) |
| Job Outlook (2016-2026) | 12% growth (Philosophy and religion teachers, postsecondary) |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)
What Will I Learn?
Theology courses will introduce you to Christian and Catholic doctrines. Through bachelor's degree programs in theology, you'll study church history and the Old and New Testaments of the Bible. Your courses will also cover information about living a Christian lifestyle based on the morals and ethics of the Bible. Other classes begin preparing you for ministry opportunities so you can teach children and adults about Christianity. You'll also study the concept of God and how the Bible fits together as a whole.
Master's degree programs in theology will train you to defend Christian and Catholic teachings. Classes will teach you about correctly interpreting Biblical passages and applying these concepts to your daily life. Some theology courses cover Satan and fallen angels by looking at their role in the Bible and life today. Learning Biblical languages like Ancient Hebrew and Greek may also be part of the curriculum. Other topics of study include:
- Biblical skepticism
- Sin: the fall
- The church today
- Counseling
- Teaching and preaching
How Do Online Programs Work?
Although there are several bachelor's and master's programs in theology available online, not every class is available online. For some, you may be required to attend campus for brief residency periods, labs, or the entire class. Most online programs use videos to provide instructional, informational, and interactive lessons. You'll also complete assignments and other activities online. Video clips can be watched on your computer, and you must turn in your papers electronically. Instead of discussing theological topics on campus, you do it through online discussion boards.
How Can I Use My Degree?
With a bachelor's degree in theology, you meet the requirements to pursue graduate studies in theology. You could also find a job working for religious publications or working at a church parish. Other opportunities include becoming a priest or a nun. With a master's degree in theology, you could become a youth pastor, a deacon, or continue your studies to become a senior pastor. You could also work toward becoming a marriage and family therapist.