An online theology degree gives students a deep understanding of religious doctrines, biblical texts, and ethical issues in a flexible virtual format. The curriculum covers theology, church history, and ministry practices. This degree enables students to balance their studies with other commitments, preparing them for career paths in ministry, counseling, and education.
Key Takeaways
- Liberty University achieves remarkable success by securing the #1 spot for online enrollment with an impressive 35,243 students engaged in online studies, demonstrating dominance in this area and placing it among the top 1% nationwide.
- Moody Bible Institute excels in its median graduate earnings of $41,620 for its online theology program.
- Baptist Missionary Association Theological Seminary boasts the lowest student-to-faculty ratio at 4:1.
Our ranking methodology focuses on providing a comprehensive list of accredited, fully online college programs, ordered by the highest online enrollment at each degree level. We rely on data from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) and support our findings with manual audits to ensure accuracy.
List Of Accredited Online Theology Schools
| School | Online Enrollment | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Liberty University | $11,700 | |
| Regent University Online | 3,418 | $10,880 |
| LeTourneau University | 1,195 | $12,300 |
| Ohio Christian University | 1,126 | $13,500 |
| Concordia University - Wisconsin | 576 | $14,700 |
| Nelson University | 525 | $12,900 |
| Houston Christian University | 406 | $13,350 |
| Moody Bible Institute | 404 | $15,356 |
| Franciscan University of Steubenville | 365 | $18,000 |
| Saint Joseph's College of Maine | 294 | $11,700 |
| DeSales University | 258 | $17,250 |
| Holy Apostles | 171 | $11,850 |
| Brescia University | 163 | $13,500 |
| The King's University | 150 | $14,250 |
| Calvary University | 101 | $13,680 |
| Baptist Missionary Association Theological Seminary | 50 | $9,750 |
| Kansas Christian College | 10 | $12,000 |
2025 Best Online Theology Degrees
- Online Enrollment: 35,243 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $11,700
- Location: Lynchburg (VA)
Online degree:
Why we like them: LU excels with over 35,000 online students, ranking in the top 1% nationwide for distance learning. Its online theological degree is comprised of 120 credit hours in 8-week courses. The curriculum focuses on biblical interpretation and leadership, equipping graduates with ministry and teaching roles. With a retention rate of 79%, LU fosters a supportive educational environment, all while accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
- Online Enrollment: 3,418 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $10,880
- Location: Virginia Beach (VA)
Online degree:
Why we like them: RUO boasts an impressive online enrollment of 3,418 students, ranking it among the top 13% of similar institutions. With a military enrollment of 1,327, it appeals to service members seeking flexible education options. The annual tuition of $19,680 makes it competitive and accessible. The online theology degree offers a robust curriculum from a Christian Renewal perspective, including key courses like Principles of Hermeneutics & Theological Thinking. Scholarships are available, further easing financial concerns for eligible online students.
- Online Enrollment: 1,195 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $12,300
- Location: Longview (TX)
Online degree:
Why we like them: LETU stands out for its robust online enrollment of 1,195 students, making it a top choice for online theology education. The university offers a theology degree online that's designed to equip students with essential skills for biblical interpretation. With an average financial aid package of $20,412, LETU supports 99% of students in making education affordable. Flexible online courses, led by experienced faculty, prepare graduates for various roles in Christian ministry or advanced studies.
- Online Enrollment: 1,126 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $13,500
- Location: Circleville (OH)
Online degree:
Why we like them: OCU stands out for its flexible online education, earning a 4th place in rankings. With 1,126 online students and an impressive 8:1 student-to-faculty ratio, OCU ensures personalized support for academic success. The Bachelor of Arts in Biblical and Theological Studies features a 100% online format with a five-week class schedule for busy adults. Over 42 major hours, the program dives into biblical interpretation, theology, and practical skills, preparing students for impactful roles in contemporary Christian ministry and scholarship.
- Online Enrollment: 576 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $14,700
- Location: Mequon (WI)
Online degree:
Why we like them: CUW offers a flexible online theological degree with a strong Lutheran foundation, covering biblical studies, doctrine, church history, and practical application. The program is designed for busy learners and consists of 120 credit hours through eight-week online courses, allowing direct faculty interaction. With a commendable retention rate and 99% of students receiving financial aid, CUW fosters a supportive environment for diverse online learners. This program prepares students for ministry roles, from youth group leadership to seminary, ensuring a well-rounded theological education.
- Online Enrollment: 525 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $12,900
- Location: Waxahachie (TX)
Online degree:
Why we like them: SAGU ranks impressively for its online enrollment, with hundreds choosing this flexible path. The Bachelor of Arts in Bible and Theology offers rigorous courses like Hermeneutics and Systematic Theology, plus 18 elective hours for personalized study. SAGU prioritizes affordability, with an average financial aid package of $12,672 and 99% student aid participation. Online learners benefit from regular faculty interaction and a vibrant community. Full-time students on campus can also receive a 50% tuition scholarship, enhancing access to quality education in ministry.
- Online Enrollment: 406 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $13,350
- Location: Houston (TX)
Online degree:
Why we like them: HCU ranks 7th on our list, highlighting its strong focus on online education with over 400 online undergraduate students enrolled. Impressively, 100% of students here receive financial aid, placing HCU in the top 19% for support. HCU offers a degree in theological studies online, which explores Christian theological traditions and prepares students for various ministry roles. The program is fully accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges and ensures quality education for distance learners.
- Online Enrollment: 404 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $15,356
- Location: Chicago (IL)
Online degree:
Why we like them: MBI ranks eighth on our list as a popular school offering an online theological education. The Bachelor of Science in Theological Studies offers an immersive experience in understanding theology by analyzing Scripture as a comprehensive story and theological narrative. This program emphasizes practical skills in theology, such as developing an action plan for enhancing theological literacy in your church and communicating your theological understanding clearly. It also has the highest earnings median on our list 鈥� $41,620 鈥� as well as the best recommendation rate of 92%.
- Online Enrollment: 365 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $18,000
- Location: Steubenville (OH)
Online degree:
Why we like them: FU is another popular online school with hundreds enrolled remotely and a strong retention rate of 86%. The online Bachelor of Arts in Theology delivers a comprehensive curriculum exploring Catholic doctrine and Scripture and distinctive electives like Theology of the Body. Students can benefit from a 4+1 track for a master's degree and partnership opportunities such as a Canon Law track with the Catholic University of America. Faculty members are internationally recognized, fostering a rich environment for those pursuing careers in ministry and education.
- Online Enrollment: 294 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $11,700
- Location: Standish (ME)
Online degree:
Why we like them: SJC ranks 10th for popularity among distance learners, and it offers a supportive network that's highlighted by an average financial aid package of $26,987 and a graduation rate of 70%. The flexible online Bachelor of Arts in Theological Studies is designed for those in Catholic ministries, featuring five start dates and no on-campus residency. Additionally, the Fast-Track Option allows students to substitute graduate theology courses, accelerating their path to a Master of Arts in Theology.
- Online Enrollment: 258 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $17,250
- Location: Center Valley (PA)
Online degree:
Why we like them: DeSales hosts an online Bachelor of Arts in Theology at DSU is rooted in Christian Humanism, emphasizing divine revelation and existential understanding through love. Available by evening on campus or fully online, the program requires 120 credits for graduation, with options to transfer up to 75 credits from accredited institutions. The institution offers unique learning opportunities, such as on-campus Bible studies or online engagement. Financial aid, personal advising, and flexible study options cater to diverse learning needs.
- Online Enrollment: 171 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $11,850
- Location: Cromwell (CT)
Online degree:
Why we like them: Ranked at 12th place, HA distinguishes itself predominantly through its online enrollment. The 120-credit Bachelor of Arts in Theology is available 100% online, providing unparalleled flexibility for remote learners. Accredited by the NECHE, CTOHE, and ATS, it guarantees quality and relevance in theological education. The curriculum delves into Scripture, Moral and Dogmatic Theology, Catechism, and more, enhancing your understanding of Catholic teachings and spiritual development. You can engage in diverse fields, including youth and campus ministry, religious education, and mission work.
- Online Enrollment: 163 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $13,500
- Location: Owensboro (KY)
Online degree:
Why we like them: BU is distinguished by its impressive 9:1 student-faculty ratio, ensuring personalized attention and support. With average financial aid placing BU in the top 15% nationwide, students can pursue their education without significant economic burden. The retention rate of 77% reflects strong student satisfaction. BU offers a Bachelor of Arts in Theology with an Emphasis in Pastoral Studies in a flexible, accelerated online format catering to adult learners. This program is designed for church volunteers and ministers, equipping them for roles like pastoral minister and religious education coordinator.
- Online Enrollment: 150 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $14,250
- Location: Van Nuys (TX)
Online degree:
Why we like them: TKU, ranked 14th, excels with a 10:1 student-to-faculty ratio, placing it in the top 17% for small class sizes. The impressive 88% retention rate indicates strong student satisfaction, making it ideal for online education. The Bachelor of Biblical and Theological Studies offers 126 credit hours of comprehensive curriculum, including Christian Foundations, Biblical Surveys, and Systematic Theology. With the concentration of the Land of the Bible, students deepen their Scriptural understanding while preparing for pastoral and teaching roles within a supportive, faith-driven community.
- Online Enrollment: 101 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $13,680
- Location: Kansas City (MO)
Online degree:
Why we like them: CU offers a Bachelor of Arts in Bible and Theology, requiring 126 credit hours over four years. With a strong focus on scripture and biblical worldview development, CU prepares students for diverse career paths, including Ministry Director and Chaplain. The program supports concentrations in Hermeneutics, Ethics, and Apologetics, while additional tracks include a Bachelor of Science and a five-year BA/MDiv program. CU鈥檚 commitment to personalized education is showcased through its 8:1 student-to-faculty ratio and a 79% retention rate.
- Online Enrollment: 50 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $9,750
- Location: Jacksonville (TX)
Online degree:
Why we like them: BMATS hosts an online Bachelor of Arts in Religion builds on an existing Associate of Arts and requires 66 hours of study, offering concentrations like Biblical Studies, Pastoral Ministry, Missions, and Counseling. Students can choose from online courses, video conferencing, or attend classes on the Jacksonville, Texas campus. This degree prepares graduates for associate pastor roles, youth ministry, and further graduate studies.
- Online Enrollment: 10 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $12,000
- Location: Overland Park (KS)
Online degree:
Why we like them: KCC's online program is ranked 17th, offering a flexible, Christ-centered education with a 15:1 student-faculty ratio for personalized learning. With 93% of students receiving financial aid, KCC prioritizes affordable education. The Bachelor of Arts in Leadership and Ministry emphasizing Pastoral Ministry equips you for spiritual leadership in local churches. This degree integrates remote learning, allowing collaboration with peers and faculty at your pace. You will develop theoretical knowledge and practical skills essential for effective pastoral duties in a supportive environment.
Overview of Online Bachelor's Degrees in Theology
Bachelor's degrees in theology focus on exegesis 鈥� a critical reading and interpretation of the Bible. Students learn the history of the Bible's composition, the social and historical context behind biblical stories, and how to apply church teachings to their spiritual development. Theology tends to be more focused than religious studies degrees, which compare world religions and examine Christianity within its cultural and historical context.
Undergraduates typically take 30-45 credit hours of general education and liberal arts courses alongside 75-90 credit hours of major classes and electives. Program faculty design 120-credit bachelor's degrees to take four years to finish with a full-time schedule. Many programs end with a capstone or senior seminar that ties together everything the student has learned.
Internships are uncommon for theology majors, but some schools require a period of community service for credit. For example, Manhattan Christian College students enroll in periodic Christian Service courses and must complete 16 hours each semester at an approved location.
Several private Christian colleges offer fully online degree programs in keeping with the increasing popularity of online education.
Several private Christian colleges offer fully online degree programs in keeping with the increasing popularity of online education. Most of these programs feature asynchronous classes with no set meeting times so that students can complete coursework at any time during the week. Colleges deliver these courses over virtual learning management platforms where students can interact in discussion forums, watch prerecorded lectures, and submit assignments digitally.
Common Theology Courses
Theology degrees often have several courses in common despite differences among colleges and denominations. This is because faculty want to produce students who can critically read biblical texts and defend their positions on church doctrines. Depending on the school, theology majors may be able to choose a minor or concentration, such as Biblical languages, Christian leadership, or evangelism.
Below, we've listed some courses that you might find in a theology bachelor's program:
Apologetics
Apologetics are defenses of theological arguments. Enrollees in this course read classic examples of Christian apologetics and learn to identify logical problems. Most classes require a final essay giving students an opportunity to defend a point of biblical interpretation.
Evangelism
This class describes Christian outreach around the world. Professors discuss biblical justifications for evangelism, global evangelical history, and the current evangelical missions of the school's denomination. Students also learn about cultural sensitivity and how to have respectful debates when evangelizing.
Pauline Epistles
Many programs dedicate a whole course to the writings of St. Paul because they offer insight into early church history. Faculty may discuss the contested authorship of certain letters, Paul's recurring themes, and the social makeup of his audiences.
Scriptural Interpretation
This course helps theology students develop one of the discipline鈥檚 chief skills. They read portions of the Old and New Testaments while learning the history of how each part has been interpreted. Topics may include the social and cultural context of the stories, recurring themes across books, and current scriptural debates.
Writing and Research in Theology
Academic writing is a vital skill for theology students. Students practice shaping arguments and gathering credible sources as support. They usually write at least three research papers per term.
You can review our list of the most affordable online Christian colleges to find low-cost degrees in theology or related majors.
Careers Options for Theological Studies Graduates
Many religious organizations hire graduates with a Christian education in theology. According to the analytics company , religious organizations posted 122,000 jobs in a 12-month period from 2020-2021. These employers include local churches and centralized church administrations, non-profit associations, lobbying firms, and parochial schools. An alumni's chosen denomination may influence an applicant鈥檚 ability to obtain certain jobs. For example, Baptist schools might prefer to hire administrators who share their faith.
Below, we've listed a few jobs that theology majors have secured. All salary and employment data come from the . Job growth rates are projections for the 2022-2032 period.
Clergy Member
The lead religious communities in prayer and worship. Most Protestant denominations require clergy to earn a Master of Divinity degree before they're ordained, and Catholic priests must attend several years of seminary training. But some churches might ordain ministers who only hold bachelor's degrees. Research the requirements for your denomination before committing to a theology degree program.
Fundraiser
Churches and Christian charities need resourceful to stay in business. These employees spend their days finding and talking to donors, running social media campaigns, planning fundraising events, and updating budgets. You may want to spend some electives on courses in finance or accounting to make yourself more competitive for these roles.
Social and Community Service Manager
help create and oversee initiatives and programs for their employers. They can work for churches, nonprofits, or companies with outreach and community service departments. Christian organizations may appreciate training in theology because it shows dedication to the employer's values.
Teacher
Like public-school educators, teachers at parochial schools help students learn a variety of subject matter. But they also include religious discussion in their lessons at the level and may even become dedicated religion teachers at the and levels.
Christian-school teachers don't have the same certification requirements as their public-school counterparts. But employers may require certifications from specialty organizations in their denomination.
Instead of immediately entering the workforce, you may be interested in one of the best online master's degrees in theology or the most affordable online master's degrees in theology as a next step.
What Else Should You Consider?
There's a lot to learn and think about when you're applying to college. Use the questions below to figure out what you're looking for so you can compare variables across degree programs.
Is this college accredited?
It's important to answer this question first because employers really only respect accredited institutions. Accreditation involves a thorough review of a school's faculty, curricula, and services. This makes it the best indication you have of a college's quality. You can find college accreditation statuses using the Department of Education's .
Individual degree programs can also earn accreditation from special organizations in a particular discipline. The main accrediting body for theology is the . But the ATS only accredits graduate programs. There is no programmatic accreditation available for bachelor's degree programs in theology, so you should just make sure your school is institutionally accredited.
Do I want to study online?
The answer depends on both your circumstances and your personality. You may prefer the flexibility of online learning to help balance school with work and other responsibilities. But not everyone learns well in isolation without the structure of campus visits and interaction of live classes.
What would my dream college offer?
Make a list of every variable you haven't already covered. You can then assign weights to each one and compare schools by how well they meet your needs. For example, you might want to pick an online college that offers a certain amount of financial aid, features a disability services office that works with online learners, and has a Biblical Greek concentration in its theology program.
FAQs About Theology Degrees
What Can You Do With a Theology Degree?
You can work a number of jobs in schools, businesses, churches, and nonprofit groups if you have a bachelor's degree in theology. Faith-based organizations might appreciate your devotion to religious education even if the degree doesn't contain much coursework on business administration.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Theology Degree?
Most colleges claim that their bachelor's degree programs take four years for full-time students to finish. But of college students finish in four years and another 20% graduate within a further two years.
Is a Theology Degree Hard?
All college education is hard to some degree. A theology degree could require you to write critical analyses of difficult texts, learn dormant languages, or perform volunteer service in uncomfortable conditions. Some of these things may come easily but some might not.
Do You Need a Theology Degree to Be a Pastor?
Churches commonly require their clergy to hold either a bachelor's or master's degree in theology, divinity, or a related major. But church organizations are all different and some are larger and more bureaucratic than others. It's possible that some religions accept pastors without degrees in religious subjects.
Student Reviews of Online Theology Programs
Liberty University was an awesome college for my field of study (theology)! I recommend any non - veterans attend and get your education while receiving spiritual growth as a byproduct. The only issue I had (as well as other Vets I've spoken to) with Liberty over a 3 yr period of time was always financial aid issues. I would just caution veterans transitioning from active duty to become full time students utilizing Post 911/housing benefits. Even though the education was paid for with VA benefits,... Read More
Review Date: 7/7/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Attending ORU has been one of the best decisions I have made. The professors truly care for the students, the classes are applicable, and the campus life is engaging. Being from New York, I feared to be home sick, but the community and extracurricular groups made me feel at home and I would highly recommend this university to any looking for a place of higher education.
Review Date: 6/28/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
My time at Stillman College has been wonderful. What attracted me to Stillman is the close knit atmosphere I experienced during my tour prior to enrolling. The professors are more than teachers, they are like family. They are willing to assist a student in his/her class work and conversate on other personal matters that may be affecting the student's performance in his/her studies.
Review Date: 3/24/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Oakwood University, is an HBCU in Huntsville, Alabama. Where I went from freshman year until graduation. I started off with different studies but eventually came to theology, My experience there was excellent. Really feel like I excelled learning there in courses and as an individual. I joined many extra curriculars, as well while in school. Through my years there I really believe I learned to love my culture. Before Oakwood, I always went to a mainly European school. So it was beautiful to see so... Read More
Review Date: 6/14/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
St. Mary's University of Minnesota is an excellent university in a mid size town (Population around 30,000 during the school year). The campus is small, yet it has plenty of space for the diverse educational, athletic, and social activities one could want. The professors are always interested in each and every student and the student to teacher ratio was always aroun 8-10:1 in all my classes. It's location amid the bluffs of the Mississippi River valley make it an absolutely beautiful place to study.... Read More
Review Date: 3/1/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Located in the beautiful and affordable Redding, California, Simpson University provided a wonderful place to discover both the great outdoors, and the path to my future vocation. Small class sizes meant that we had great access to caring professors who were able to invest a great deal of their time and energy into helping us learn and succeed both inside the classroom, and in our lives as individuals. I was shaped not only as an intellectual, but also as a person, and I know that without the investment... Read More
Review Date: 12/27/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes