2025 Most Popular Online Theology Master's Degrees
To find the absolute most popular online theology master’s degree, we've created a list that features accredited colleges graduating the highest number of theology students.
Key Takeaways:
- Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary ranks #1 overall, graduating 182 students last year in its online Master of Theological Studies program.
- The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary leads for earnings, with alumni reporting a median salary of $76,075 (top 19% nationally).
- Franciscan University of Steubenville tops for peer recommendation, with 100% of surveyed students endorsing the school.
Read methodology for details. We also spoke with theology experts in the field, who share their advice on how to make the most of their online master’s in theology.
2025 Most Popular Online Theology Master's Degrees
| Rank | School | Graduates | Annual Tuition | Median Salary | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary | 182 | $10,800 | $64,242 | 79% | |
| Dallas Theological Seminary | 130 | $12,910 | $58,384 | 100% | |
| Fuller Theological Seminary in California | 93 | $1,515 | $61,324 | 90% | |
| Franciscan University of Steubenville | 87 | $13,248 | N/A | 94% | |
| Eastern University | 60 | $23,700 | N/A | 90% | |
| Indiana Wesleyan University Online | 58 | $11,754 | $62,630 | N/A | |
| Western Seminary | 55 | $18,872 | N/A | 100% | |
| Trinity International University - Illinois | 54 | $18,520 | N/A | 100% | |
| Holy Apostles | 52 | $7,668 | N/A | 100% | |
| Saint Joseph's College of Maine | 46 | $14,760 | N/A | 64% | |
| The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary | 41 | $15,231 | $76,075 | 94% | |
| Pentecostal Theological Seminary | 38 | $8,500 | $60,332 | N/A | |
| Regent University Online | 34 | $17,828 | $59,243 | 83% | |
| Santa Clara University | 28 | $22,416 | N/A | 93% | |
| Houston Christian University | 26 | 2 years, and the tuition per credit, which is ."> $12,400 | N/A | 78% |
Choosing an Online Theology Master’s: What Popularity and Outcomes Really Tell Us
When evaluating theology master’s programs, it helps to look beyond just the courses or the name of the seminary in order to get a truly big picture. Popularity — in this case, measured by the highest number of successful theology graduates — is an important signal because a larger graduate pool often means:
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Larger alumni pools for networking
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More consistent course rotations
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Richer peer discussions
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And better reputation and recognition
Across the 15 programs on our list, the median number of graduates is around 55 per program. That volume indicates momentum and institutional capacity — two things you want when investing in graduate study.
Earnings and student satisfaction add depth to the picture. Reported median salaries for graduates span from the high $50,000s to over $76,000. While theology is not the highest-earning discipline, these outcomes demonstrate steady returns and practical career sustainability.
Equally important, our recommendation rates are drawn from more than 75,000 student surveys, so when a school shows 90% or even 100% endorsement, you can trust that it reflects real student experiences at scale.
Read on for a closer look into the online theology master's degrees from the schools listed above.
Outcomes and Recommendation: Confidence Anchors
Earnings data gives prospective theology graduate students practical reassurance.
The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary leads the list with median reported earnings of $76,075, placing it among the top outcomes in this field. Midwestern follows with $64,242, while Indiana Wesleyan and Fuller both hover in the low $60,000s. These figures reinforce that theology graduates, often entering ministry or education, can sustain careers while serving vocational callings.
Recommendation rates tell a parallel story.
So why should theology master’s students care about recommendation rates in the first place?
They reflect student experience beyond academics. Coursework in theology can be incredibly tough anywhere you choose to go, but a positive recommendation rate signals that students felt supported by faculty, advising, tech services, and community. This is especially crucial in online learning.
They capture alignment with mission. Many theology graduate students enroll not just for career advancement but for vocational and spiritual growth. High recommendation rates suggest that a school is not only academically solid but also resonating with students’ deeper goals.
They help reduce uncertainty. Since theology often leads to service-oriented careers with modest financial returns, knowing that a large majority of peers would recommend the school offers added reassurance that your investment of time and money will be worthwhile.
You may notice that schools like Western Seminary, Trinity International University, and Holy Apostles all show 100% recommendation rates in our table but aren’t featured in the main recommendation-rate graph. That’s not because students didn’t recommend them — in fact, all the reviews we’ve collected for these schools have been entirely positive. The reason is that the sample sizes were too small to consider statistically reliable compared to peers with dozens or even hundreds of reviews.
While earnings and popularity tell you about outcomes and scale, recommendation rates give you insight into student satisfaction and fit, or the lived reality of pursuing a theology master's online.
Distinctive Pathways in Theological Formation
What quickly emerges from these programs is that no two seminaries define a theology master’s in quite the same way. Some, like Midwestern Baptist (MBTS) and Southern Baptist Theological Seminary (SBTS), design their degrees as gateways to more advanced study. At MBTS, every credit transfers seamlessly into an M.Div. or doctoral program, while SBTS even lets students sit in on PhD seminars, blurring the line between master’s-level and doctoral preparation. Both appeal to students who see the degree as a stepping stone toward academic or pastoral leadership at the highest levels.
Other schools take the opposite tack, framing theology less as a pipeline to further credentials and more as a space for interdisciplinary exploration. Fuller Seminary (FTS) integrates missiology and psychology into its curriculum, even offering concentrations like Theology and the Arts or World Christianity that open conversation across cultures and disciplines. Eastern University (EU) pairs theology with cultural anthropology, anchoring students in the research culture of the On Knowing Humanity Center. These programs reflect the philosophical stance that theology should exist in dialogue with the social sciences, the arts, and global cultural realities.
Ecclesial identity plays a defining role in other settings. Franciscan University (FUS) and Holy Apostles (HA) both emphasize fidelity to Catholic tradition, though they do so in different ways. Franciscan ties its curriculum to canon law studies at Catholic University of America, reinforcing alignment with Church governance, while Holy Apostles offers rare concentrations in Thomistic Studies and bioethics, even connecting students with certification through the National Catholic Bioethics Center.
Taken together, these programs reflect a spectrum of philosophies: some define theology as formation for ministry, others as a bridge to further scholarship, still others as dialogue with culture, science, or law. The right fit depends on whether you see theology primarily as preparation, exploration, fidelity, formation, or dialogue.
Translating Seminary to Real Ministry: A Pastor’s Perspective on What Truly Matters
Reverand, PhD
Theology programs cover areas like biblical languages, ethics, and pastoral care — how well can these be taught online?
"Some programs are, of course, easier to translate than others. Certainly homiletics and liturigcs are nearly impossible to translate. Public speaking from the pulpit/podium with a live congregation just doesn't translate to Zoom. And the feedback that students get from preaching in front of their peers and and learning from each other is invaluable. I do think that areas like biblical languages, church history, etc. can be taught more easily online."
Newer emerging topics like public theology, interfaith dialogue, or digital ministry are appearing in some curricula. How important are these themes for today’s theological students?
"I think these are critical for students today. As a pastor, so much of what I did was coordinating with other congregations and even faith traditions to do joint work in our community; my interfaith competency was constantly needed, even if members of the congregation didn't quite understand it.
Similarly, I would say digital ministry is a necessary skillset today. As the pastor of a small church, you likely will not have the budget to outsource website maintenance, email management, social media, [etc.] You need to know best practices to help you do these things efficiently (since congregations will likely not understand or even approve of you spending much time on these things) and navigate the legal and ethical aspects of these areas."
What critical spiritual or professional competencies should students expect to develop during a theology master's program?
"As I said above, make sure you cover the basics: biblical knowledge, preaching, worship, church history, etc. I think that administration is an often-overlooked professional competency, but it was one of the things I relied on most in my pastoral work. Yes, you have a board/council. Hopefully you have some staff. But you still need to be competent in this area. (And staff oversight is its own unique animal.)
You aren't just a pastor: you are the executive director of a nonprofit. You need to understand the budget. You need to understand contracts, employment practices and law, etc. These are the hidden-but-critical competencies that go beyond Sunday morning."
What advice would you give to prospective theology students?
"Always have a backup plan. Family situations and personal needs change. Think about how your theological education can translate into the secular sphere if you find yourself in a position where full-time ministry isn't an option for you. (You can see how I'm working to do this on my own LinkedIn profile.)"
EXPERT TIP
"Don't just look at the subject areas of a theology program; think about the particular skills and competencies that they teach and ask if that is a plan you could translate out of the pastorate."
FAQs About Online Theology Master's Degrees
What Can You Do With an Online Master's Degree in Theology?
An online master’s degree in theology may be an excellent fit for prospective students who have a passion for learning about religion. This program helps develop a student’s leadership, public speaking, critical thinking, and creativity skills.
Theology is a more academic approach to religion, as students will study different gods, deities, and religions based on a wide variety of belief systems. A master of theology online is designed for students who may be interested in pursuing a doctorate in the future
In addition, graduates with a master’s degree in theology online can have successful careers and make a decent living in this specialty. Some potential professions for a graduate of a theology master’s program include clergy, philosophy or religion professor, and even director of religious and educational activities.
Continue reading to learn more about this online graduate degree and whether a theology master's program is the right fit for you.
Can You Get an Online Master's Degree in Theology?
Yes, you can obtain an online master's degree in theology. However, it’s recommended that you pursue an accredited institution. Accreditation refers to a higher education institution exceeding or meeting the minimum requirements and quality standards to deliver a postsecondary program. All of the programs listed across our site are accredited. However, you can always verify accreditation with the U.S. Department of Education using their .
A bachelor’s degree, SAT or ACT scores, letters of recommendation, an essay, and official transcripts are typically the admission requirements to apply for a theology master's.
How Long Does a Masters in Theology Take?
As with most master's programs, prospective students can expect to complete an online master's theology program within two years. The programs typically require 36 credit hours, or 60 credit hours if the institution uses the quarter system. However, these reflect full-time credit hours, so it may take longer for part-time students to complete a master's of theology online program.
Check out our article about how to graduate college early if you're looking for an accelerated learning path.
Is a Divinity Degree the Same as a Master’s in Theology?
No, these terms vary slightly. Though, many often confuse the two fields of study. Divinity focuses on practicing ministry work and references only one God. On the other hand, theology is a more academic approach to religion, as students will study different gods, deities, and religions based on a wide variety of belief systems.
A master of theology online is designed for students who may be interested in pursuing a doctorate in the future, while divinity students are striving for pastoral positions after graduation. However, it is important to note that theology master's students often pursue pastoral careers as well, though it’s more popular for divinity students to do so.
What Courses Do You Take in an Online Master’s in Theology Program?
Online theology master's programs provide a solid foundation to improve students' knowledge and expertise of various religions. Prospective students can expect to take courses that cover a range of cultural beliefs unless they choose a program with a Christian-based curriculum.
The following are a few examples of core classes required in most theology master's programs:
Introduction to Theology: This course dives into the topic of theology at a foundational level and how religions are embedded in all human cultures throughout the world. Prospective students can expect to explore various concepts of theology, including the diverse and complex roles that religion has played throughout history.
Hermeneutics: This coursework helps students better understand biblical scripture through literature, history, and scripture. At its completion, students should be able to identify principles and concepts within biblical scripture in order to understand and interpret its meaning.
Islam: The Quran continues to be an influential text across the world, as it's considered the most important and sacred text among those who practice Islam. You'll learn about the diversity of interpretations of Quranic texts in contemporary Muslim society.
Old Testament: In the course, students will explore the Old Testament. The historical, theological, and literary concepts of this religious scripture will be thoroughly examined. The books covered in this course include Daniel, Exodus, Deuteronomy, Genesis, Isaiah, and Jeremiah.
Hinduism: In this course, faculty will assign readings of Hindu sacred texts, which may include hymns, narratives, and philosophical thought. You'll learn how to academically analyze these ancient scriptures in order to provide thoughtful interpretations and insights.
Faculty may also require students to complete a research methods course and undertake a research project. Often at the master's level, students are expected to write a thesis as well.
What Can I Do With a Master's in Theology?
There are a variety of career paths for a graduate of an online master's in theology program. Whether you take the academic route or become a clergy member in the ministry, theology master's programs help students pursue those opportunities.
An online master's degree in theology may be a satisfactory path for those who want to investigate religions, or one religion in particular, on a deeper level. Prospective students can expect to take a range of courses that explore the historical concepts and literature of the Bible, and gain a better understanding of the interpretation and study of world religions. At the end of the program, students are expected to leave with enhanced knowledge and skills that allow them to excel in a theology career working in the ministry, at schools, or for research organizations.
Below are some common theology jobs for master's of theology graduates:
Clergy Member
A conducts and implements some form of religious worship and can perform other religious behaviors associated with a specific denomination or faith. In addition, they may be responsible for providing moral and spiritual support to their church members. They may work outside of regular hours to host religious communities and educational events.
Director of Religious Activities and Education
help plan, design, and implement educational events for a specific faith or denomination. Some of their responsibilities include recruiting volunteers for events, developing programs, and marketing their activities to the public. Those in this profession should have strong public speaking, outreach, and management skills. A major drawback with this profession is that only a bachelor’s degree is required most of the time. However, a master’s degree in theology may set you apart from other candidates.
Philosophy and Religion Teachers
Becoming a may be a good fit for those interested in a teaching career. These professions teach courses covering religion, theology, and philosophy. Creativity, training, and teaching are some of the skills needed to excel in this profession.
Historian
are experts who analyze, research, interpret, and write about history by reviewing historical documents and sources. These professionals often examine historical periods, geographical regions, or social occurrences. People interested in this career can expect to travel frequently to conduct research.
Can I Go to Seminary Without a Degree?
It depends. Some seminaries allow those without a degree to attend, while others require at least a bachelor’s degree. Although you may have some ministry experience, not having the academic credentials to match may hinder your ability to get into a seminary. Make sure that you look at each school’s admission requirements to determine whether a bachelor’s degree is required.
Is a Theology Master's Degree Right For Me?
A master's in theology online is an excellent way to explore religious belief systems through an academic lens. However, as with any degree, before applying to a theology master's program, it’s essential to weigh the possible pros and cons that can ultimately help you decide if this program is right for you.
Potential Benefits
Fosters critical thinking, creativity, and cultural sensitivity
For those wanting to enhance their creativity and critical thinking skills, an online master’s in theology can help develop this skill set. Much of the coursework in a theology master’s program encourages students to be innovative thinkers when interpreting religions. In addition, prospective students can expect to increase their analytical and problem-solving skills as well as their cultural awareness during the program.
An excellent foundation for a doctorate in theology or divinity
Those who obtain a master's in theology degree may go on to pursue a doctorate. For example, a Doctorate in Divinity is often required to pursue a career as a pastor. With a master’s in theology, you’ll get a more in-depth understanding of religions, such as Christianity's scripture and history.
Potential Drawbacks
Lower-paying career paths
If you’re looking to make a six-figure salary with a theology master’s, this program may not be the best fit for you. For example, — a popular career choice for theology graduates — earn an average salary of $49,720, according to the BLS. To earn a higher annual salary with a master’s degree in theology, you may need to obtain a doctorate degree.
Underrepresentation of women
For degrees and careers in theology, there is a major gender gap. In 2019, 64.8% of master’s degrees in theology were obtained by men, as compared to 35.2% obtained by women. There are more men in theology and divinity-related professions than women. Furthermore, in many Catholic churches, women are often not placed in authoritative positions.
Possible financial strain
If you don’t have any savings, grants, or scholarships to support your higher education, an online theology degree may become a financial hardship. While the yearly tuition for a master’s degree in theology online is much cheaper than other areas, it can still be pricey for many students. So be sure to apply for as much “free money” and financial aid as you can before taking out student loans.
Student Reviews of Online Theology Programs
An extremely good online Masters program that was excellent preparation for future opportunity in a PhD program. I had close faculty contact (and feedback), excellent textbooks and courses, and met lifelong friends. Online programs like this necessitate consistent interaction and investment, but CCU made this easy with small class sizes (They averaged 11!) and good access to professors email and text numbers. I earned an MA in a year and a half and had several options in ministry, chaplaincy, and... Read More
Review Date: 11/23/2022
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Saint Leo University does not care about their students. I would not recommend this school. I attended a much better rated research state university that was more concerned with students than this Catholic University. The advisors are only interest in enrollment.
Review Date: 1/17/2020
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
Franciscan University of Steubenville allows me to study from home which is really my only option as a busy mom and wife who also works full time as a High School Teacher. It is a relief to know that my degree will come from the top private Catholic College in the nation so I trust all of my professors and the excellent content of all the courses. I have experienced nothing but compassion and understanding from my professors and I have met amazing colleagues in the online discussions and interactions... Read More
Review Date: 1/8/2018
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I am satisfied with the education I received at Holy Apostles. The program is orthodox and rigorous, although at times, I felt the professors could have contributed more of themselves to the classes, which focus around texts. Some classes involved work outside of the content of the class that was orthogonal to the goals of the class like making PowerPoints when writing papers would have sufficed.
Review Date: 2/14/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
This program is an answer for Latin American church leaders who are looking for good training, in Spanish, and cheap. It is a high quality program designed with the same standard that the English school, but it is in our own language. Professors are strongly qualified to teach through online classes
Review Date: 2/16/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
This review will focus on the degree program. The theological views the program propones are particularly provincial. For example, in 2015 they were still saying that anyone who isn't a dispensationalist isn't interpreting Scripture literally. Dispensationalists haven't pushed this view since the 80s, yet BJ Seminary is still gung-ho here. The faculty was generally unfamiliar with current theological trends, even those among conservative evangelical circles. I asked a main theology prof about federal... Read More
Review Date: 6/30/2017
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: Yes
The seminary program at Liberty University offers students a challenging, enlightening experience that truly equips champions for Jesus Christ. Through interesting lectures, capable and educated professors and well-rounded course materials, my graduate experience at Liberty has been life-changing!
Review Date: 1/22/2013
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Don't walk...run away. What a complete third rate institution. The student advisors are nearly worthless. Even the orientation process is terrible. My first professor assigned 8 books and barely presented an outline...and the lectures were unstructured and terrible, dry...he scribbled a few key points with a sharpie on an overhead projector that I have not seen since the 1980s that only worked half the time...what a joke. At least we got to hear about how the "good" professors were leaving because... Read More
Review Date: 1/19/2018
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
Not many seminaries affirm women who are pursuing theology degrees. At CTS, not only do I feel affirmed, I am also challenged and encouraged to think critically about faith and theological questions, to go out into the world and put my faith into action, and to strive for my best academically. The faculty at CTS is caring, involved, and encouraging. I highly recommend CTS.
Review Date: 10/29/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
The school is a political nightmare. There are some really great instructors but the institution has problems it needs to work through. As a whole the institution is not an academic environment that fosters learning, but a political machine that allows the administration to fund pet projects or take ski trips.
Review Date: 11/17/2021
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
SAGU is a great place with a wonderful faculty. If you are looking to study in a Christian environment, this school is a great choice. It has a great focus on ministry to the local church. Also, it has a unique focus on preparation for missions work.
Review Date: 3/22/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Attending ORU was one of the best decisions I've made in my entire life. The students, faculty and staff truly set ORU apart. I was equipped and have successfully been prepared for the next season of life. The culture not only inspires and challenges you to dream big but also equips you with resources to pursue those dreams! I would recommend ORU to anyone!
Review Date: 1/19/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
The University of St. Thomas MAT has been a wonderful experience. The courses have been well constructed, systematic and rigorous. The professors are accessible outside of class, truly care about the development of the students and push them to do their best. The other students have been thoughtful, engaged with the course materials and join together into a great intellectual community. I would highly recommend University of St Thomas seminary for masters studies, both as a terminal degree or as... Read More
Review Date: 3/2/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Trinity is a great school to be a student at. The other students are great to know and the school is small enough that most people have similar passions! The faculty are very approachable and more than willing to meet with you one on one. I would highly recommend this school to anyone who is pursuing theological studies.
Review Date: 5/11/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I loved my time at Concordia, I made memories and friends that will last a lifetime. The community at CUW is unmatched, the small class sizes allowed me to get to know not only the professors from my Major classes but also the professors from my general education classes. I could tell that all of my professors liked this too, they made an effort to get to know you. I played sports in college and that experience was also amazing, playing sports at a small college is really something special. Everyone... Read More
Review Date: 8/9/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I had an opportunity to study for one year at Princeton Theological Seminary. The degree I was enrolled in was the Master of Theology degree. The school offers a rigorous theological education for those interested in pastoral ministry as well as an academic career. Professors are highly qualified and belong in the top of their fields. The library is excellent and provides great resources for students. One complaint about the seminary is its lack of diversity in the faculty.
Review Date: 2/23/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I am extremely grateful for the resources and faculty at Harvard Divinity School, and I feel each member of the community seeks to uphold the values of the university and provide the best experience for each individual student. However, the main factor preventing me from reviewing my institution with a 100% satisfaction review is that HDS is created for students with traditional religious backgrounds who are seeking a traditional religious ordination track. I am of a minority spiritual practice in... Read More
Review Date: 10/21/2013
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I greatly value the education that I received at Franciscan University of Steubenville. The theology department is full of knowledgeable professors who apply not only their minds but their entire lives to God, the subject of their study. I think that this is the most unique trait of the academics at Franciscan University, and in my opinion, this integration of mind and action is indispensable for anyone trying to learn and understand the depths of the Catholic faith.
Review Date: 3/10/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I attended Candler School of Theology at Emory University and it was the BEST decision I could have made in furthering my education. The professors offered challenging curiculum that taught me how to think and write critically. I also appreciated the diversity of the student population and opportunities to network. The campus is also absolutely beautiful. My only critique is the cost of tuition and the lack of scholarships available to students who are not United Methodist.
Review Date: 3/29/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes