Are Online Religious Studies Degrees Legitimate?

Here, we discuss whether online religious studies degrees are legitimate and respected, what to look for in a program, and featured colleges to choose from.

Religious studies degrees explore different aspects of religion and spirituality, and several colleges nationwide offer them through distance education. But are these types of programs legit?

Yes, online degrees in religious studies are legitimate and must be obtained from an accredited and reputable institution to be considered valuable.

Read on to learn about what to consider when enrolling in an online religious studies degree and examples of accredited colleges offering these programs.

Do Employers Respect Online Religious Studies Degrees?

As the popularity of online learning continues to rise, employers have come to respect and value religious studies degrees obtained through distance education just as much as those taught on campus.

Typically, online and in-person degree programs follow the same curriculum and academic ethics and are often instructed by the same faculty. The most essential consideration is to choose an accredited institution with a good reputation that employers will respect.

What To Look For in an Online Religious Studies Degree Program

When pursuing an online religious studies degree, prospective students need to consider certain factors to ensure the integrity and legitimacy of the program, such as a school's accreditation and graduation rates, as described below.

Accreditation

Earning accreditation from a recognized agency means the institution meets and upholds a particular set of academic standards. This is a key factor to look for when selecting an online religious studies program to confirm that the school delivers quality education and demonstrates positive outcomes for the success of its students.

Reputation

The reputation of a school is determined by the recognition and respect it receives based on its successful programs and qualified professors. This also includes the level of accomplishment of its students. Schools with good reputations have better job prospects since employers generally respect them more.

Nonprofit Vs. For-Profit Degrees

Nonprofit institutions are often managed by the state and may offer lower tuition fees for residents. For-profit colleges tend to charge higher tuition as they prioritize generating profits but also provide more career-focused online programs with higher rates of acceptance.

Graduation Rates

Individuals should consider colleges that have excellent graduation rates. This is based on a school's enrollment and the number of students who graduate on time. A higher rate reveals the quality of the education and its value and demonstrates the number of resources that may be available to assist in their student's success.

Differences Between Online Religious Studies Degrees and Traditional Religious Studies Degrees

The most significant difference between getting an online degree and those on campus is the convenience and flexibility to work around your busy schedule to attend lectures and complete assignments.

Traditional religious studies degree programs have set schedules and require students to attend on-campus classes and participate in in-person class work. Distance education offers fewer time constraints and consists of coursework that individuals may finalize at any time.

Benefits of Earning Your Religious Studies Degree at an Online School

Obtaining a religious studies degree at an online school has quite a few benefits. One key advantage is the flexibility of accessing coursework and attending class through distance learning at a convenient time for you.

Many times, the cost of online programs is less than those taught in person, as schools may charge lower tuition rates, and there are no room and board or commuting fees. Accessing programs from colleges across the nation without leaving your home is also a great benefit.

Featured Online Religious Studies Degree Programs

Here are online programs in religious studies offered by accredited institutions to help you reach your academic goals.

1. Oregon State University

Oregon State University is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU). According to US News and World Report, it regularly ranks in the nation's top 10 for its online bachelor's programs. This highly regarded institution offers undergraduate degrees in religious studies, which consist of an interdisciplinary curriculum and are instructed by a world-class faculty.

The following religious studies degrees are offered online:

Religious Studies - BA
Religious Studies - BS

2. Louisiana State University

Louisiana State University is an excellent choice for its valuable education and provides multiple ways for students to get an online degree. Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), it receives high rankings for its affordability and accessible distance learning, including its Bachelor of Arts degree in religious studies. Developed and taught by experienced faculty, its topics cover religious rituals and sacred practices that form our culture.

3. Florida International University

Florida International University is SACSCOC-accredited and a top-tier research institution known for offering a student-centered education. It offers a Bachelor of Arts degree in religious studies through distance learning, which dives into the history and beliefs of the world's religions and helps students gain a deeper understanding of multiple faiths. The faculty teaching their high-ranking online and on-campus programs are the same award-winning educators, providing expert instruction in any format.

4. Arizona State University

Arizona State University has earned accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission and is a popular choice to obtain online degrees, given its first-rate reputation for academic excellence. It ranks #1 in the nation for innovation per US News and World Report and is among the best colleges for future leaders.