2025 Most Affordable Online Master's Degrees in Theology
The most affordable master鈥檚 in theology programs offer a cost-effective way to explore biblical scholarship, doctrinal history, and ministry practice. We also spoke to a theology expert to explore how earning a master鈥檚 degree can shape your career and spiritual journey.
Key Takeaways:
- Fuller Theological Seminary ranks #1 for having the cheapest online theology master鈥檚 for just $1,515 per year.
- Baptist Missionary Association Theological Seminary offers the best student-to-faculty ratio at 4:1.
- World Mission University achieves a perfect 100% student retention rate.
奥别鈥檝别 verified tuition manually for all our affordability pages. If you want to keep exploring, check out our list of affordable online religious studies master's programs. To learn more about our process, please see our methodology.
2025 Most Affordable Online Master's Degrees in Theology
| Rank | School | Location | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fuller Theological Seminary in California | Pasadena (CA) | $1,515 | |
| Campbellsville University | Campbellsville (KY) | $4,860 | |
| Liberty University | Lynchburg (VA) | $5,500 | |
| Baptist Missionary Association Theological Seminary | Jacksonville (TX) | $5,850 | |
| Lexington Theological Seminary | Lexington (KY) | $6,400 | |
| World Mission University | Los Angeles (CA) | $6,720 | |
| Anabaptist Mennonite Biblical Seminary | Elkhart (IN) | $6,785 | |
| Bryan College - Dayton | Dayton (TN) | $7,125 | |
| Holy Apostles | Cromwell (CT) | $7,668 | |
| Calvin Theological Seminary | Grand Rapids (MI) | $7,891 | |
| Barclay College | Haviland (KS) | $7,920 | |
| New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary | New Orleans (LA) | $8,085 | |
| Moody Bible Institute | Chicago (IL) | $8,264 | |
| Pentecostal Theological Seminary | Cleveland (TN) | $8,500 | |
| Bethel University - MN | Saint Paul (MN) | $9,360 |
Affordability in Theology Education: A Closer Look
Theology students often feel pulled between two worlds: the spiritual drive to serve and the practical need to stay financially afloat. In our 2025 ranking of the most affordable online master鈥檚 degrees in theology, we spotlight 15 programs that close this gap.
The programs on our list range from just $1,515 to under $9,400 annually, with over half priced below $8,000, far under the national average for graduate degrees in divinity and theology. Each school listed is not only accredited but hosts fully online theology master's programs with tuitions that have been manually verified by our team for accuracy.
But affordability is only part of the equation. Let鈥檚 explore what sets these theology degrees apart and how to discern which might best align with your calling, budget, and long-term goals.
More Than a Calling: Why Outcomes Still Matter in Theology Education
Answering a call to ministry or theological scholarship doesn鈥檛 mean setting aside practical concerns, especially when time, money, and livelihood are on the line. While theology may not promise Wall Street salaries, several programs on our list show surprisingly strong earnings for graduates.
Fuller Theological Seminary (#1) reports a median salary of $53,852, while Bethel University 鈥� MN (#15) tops the list at $56,161 among theology graduates. Bethel's encouraging ROI is because their program aims to blend ministry with leadership or academic roles.
Equally meaningful are our student recommendation rates, based on firsthand survey data. Programs like Moody Bible Institute (92%) and Fuller (86%) earn enthusiastic endorsements, signaling that these schools deliver more than just content; they foster spiritual growth, mentorship, and a sense of belonging.
And the data goes beyond satisfaction 鈥� Liberty University (#3) and Bethel (#15) also post high retention and graduation rates, showing that students not only start these programs but finish them.
For theology grad students balancing work, faith, and family, choosing a school that supports their full journey honors both your calling and your capacity to complete it.
Curriculum with a Mission: What Makes Each Program Unique
While all theology master鈥檚 programs aim to deepen students鈥� understanding of scripture, doctrine, and faith practice, the programs on our affordability list demonstrate a striking diversity in how they pursue this mission鈥攁nd why.
One of the most noticeable trends across the list is customization. Whether you鈥檙e preparing for pastoral ministry, academic scholarship, or denominational leadership, these schools have tailored their curricula to serve distinct spiritual and vocational pathways.
A key theme is theological education as formation, not just information. At smaller institutions like Baptist Missionary (#4) and Barclay College (#11), extremely low student-to-faculty ratios (as low as 4:1) allow for close mentorship and community. These are hallmarks of programs focused on spiritual growth alongside academics. These schools provide intimate settings ideal for students seeking personal formation as much as formal instruction.
Many schools also offer practical entry points into advanced study. Programs at Campbellsville (#2) and Liberty (#3) provide generous transfer credit policies and eliminate GRE requirements, removing barriers for working adults or those returning to school after years in ministry. Bethel - MN (#15) adds flexible delivery options (including on-campus intensives and evening classes), reflecting a growing trend toward accommodating the realities of bi-vocational ministry.
Other programs define themselves through niche theological identities.
Holy Apostles (#9) offers a rare concentration in Thomistic Studies and integrates bioethics certification for those in healthcare or academic ethics.
Anabaptist Mennonite Biblical Seminary (#7) centers its curriculum on global Anabaptist perspectives and peace theology.
Pentecostal Theological Seminary (#14) focuses on Pentecostal hermeneutics and historical theology.
From Fuller鈥檚 concentrations in World Christianity and Theology and the Arts, to World Mission University鈥檚 emphasis on multicultural ministry and coaching, these degrees are built to reflect a missionary vision that goes beyond the classroom.
You may also be interested in exploring a similar pathway. Our list of the best online religious studies master's degrees has more options to choose from in this field.
Fit and Flexibility Designed for Today鈥檚 Learners
Modern graduate theology students are often bi-vocational ministers, parents, or career changers. That鈥檚 why 100% online options, asynchronous coursework, and part-time pacing matter.
Schools like Lexington Theological Seminary (#5) and World Mission University (#6) offer entirely online pathways while maintaining high retention (WMU has a perfect 100%), suggesting strong student support and overall engagement.
Others go hybrid. Bethel - MN offers optional on-campus intensives for those craving in-person formation, while Calvin Theological Seminary (#10) gives credit for prior theological learning and supports vocational coaching with the Birkman assessment.
Rabbi Asher Gottesman on Spiritual Education in a Digital Age
Spiritual Entrepreneur
What are the benefits of earning a master鈥檚 degree in theology?
Theology is so much more than religion it give one a deeper understanding of others and how they think big allows us to empathize and understand culture history and shared values.
What careers are available to graduates with a theology master鈥檚?
Within the ministry one can use it to be a minister preacher rabbi adim spiritual leader of a school a church a synagogue etc. One can also become a pastoral counselor coach help couples individuals... depending on direction that you want to pursue, your concentration will help guide you there. I would say that鈥檚 a personal preference and one should truly follow their beliefs.
How well do online theology programs support spiritual formation and the community aspects that are often central to this field of study?
I find online theology programs really lose the community and connection that are so important in forming ourselves as the best leader we can be. Yet if there aren鈥檛 other options, and one can figure out a way to have online classes while finding community and accountability outside of school... Seek counsel from [your] congregation.
Be open minded seek the similarities not the differences.
Final Takeways
While the central premise is affordability 鈥� with tuition as low as $1,515 per year 鈥� this guide to the Most Affordable Online Master's Degrees in Theology serves not just as a tuition-based ranking, but as a strategic roadmap for students pursuing graduate theological education on a budget.
Affordability is a doorway to accessibility for working ministers, career changers, and students who value faith-driven education but can鈥檛 sacrifice financial stability. The programs are not just low-cost but academically and spiritually diverse, offering specialized concentrations (like Thomistic Studies, Pentecostal Hermeneutics, or Global Anabaptism) that help students align theological education with personal convictions and vocational goals.
We believe that the inclusion of student outcomes, such as graduation rates, recommendation scores, and even post-graduate earnings, brings a meaningful dimension to the rankings. And a final layer of depth comes from the expert voice of Rabbi Asher Gottesman, whose interview adds a human and philosophical lens. His candid reflections, especially about the limits of online learning and the importance of empathy and shared values, remind readers that theology, at its core, is about connection.
The takeaway is not just which program is cheapest but which one supports your calling in all its complexity.
FAQs About Affordable Online Theology Master's Programs
What Can You Expect From an Online Master鈥檚 in Theology Program?
A master's degree in theology is for those seeking to understand the nature of divinity from a scholarly perspective, which can be applied to either religious or secular pursuits. A graduate program in this subject grounds students in a particular faith tradition while teaching them how religion is expressed through real-world cultural conventions.
Some graduate theology programs focus specifically on the Christian ministry and faith, and others explore different religious traditions. Students can pursue specializations in various subjects, such as Biblical Studies, Culture, Pastoral Care.
Students enrolled in an online theology graduate program can choose between either full- or part-time study. While full-time, students usually complete their degree in two years. Part-time students can take between three and six years to graduate.
How Much Will My Online Master's Degree in Theology Cost?
The cost of an online master's degree in theology can vary widely, but programs on our 2025 affordability list range from just $1,515 to $9,360 per year. The median tuition is $7,125, significantly lower than the national average for graduate theology programs. Many schools on our list also offer generous transfer credit policies, financial aid, and scholarships to further reduce costs. Choosing one of these accredited, fully online programs can provide a financially accessible path to advanced theological study.
If you want to consider other factors besides immediate affordability, check our our ultimate list of the best online theology master's programs.
What Financial Aid Options Are Available for Online Theology Master鈥檚 Students?
To receive financial aid, students must first complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Most states and colleges use this form to determine a student鈥檚 eligibility for various types of funding. The best financial aid options for online master's students in theology don't have to be repaid, including grants, scholarships, work-study programs, and fellowships. Although federal or private loans may provide valuable funding options, they eventually need to be repaid with interest.
Importantly, theology students may be ineligible for some federal or state financial aid depending on where they enroll. Some states, such as , do not allow their programs to fund theology or divinity degrees because it may be construed as the government advocating for a religious point of view. Other colleges don't accept federal money or allow students access to federal aid because they would be required to adopt the government's , guaranteeing equal treatment for all students regardless of gender and sexuality. Some institutions have been granted exemptions to certain Title IX regulations; check with your graduate school's financial aid office and your state's department of higher education to determine your eligibility for government aid.
School websites are the best sources of financial aid information for theology students. Some colleges even offer institutional scholarships that may be endowed by alumni or a school's affiliated church. Below are some examples of scholarships specific to master's students in theology.
- 鈥� The Acton Institute awards $500 to graduate students whose scholarly focus centers around the relationship between theology and the human world. Applicants must demonstrate an excellent academic record, and they may apply regardless of their citizenship, gender, age, or religious affiliation.
- 鈥� This scholarship is granted yearly by The Generosity Trust, and the award amounts vary. Applicants must work in vocational Christian services. It's intended for theologically and biblically conservative graduate students from the greater Chattanooga area who are pursuing master's degrees at a theological seminary, Bible College, or related graduate program.
For additional information about college affordability, students can check out our resources about paying for a college degree, which include details about financial mistakes to avoid, the popular college savings plans, and more.
Why Is Accreditation Important for Online Master鈥檚 in Theology Programs?
Accreditation is a voluntary process where a third party evaluates a school or university鈥檚 faculty, facilities, and resources to determine whether it meets national education standards. In other words, accreditation ensures that a college or university is offering a quality education. Schools can have multiple accreditations that they receive from both national and regional accreditation bodies. Furthermore, only students enrolled in accredited institutions are eligible for financial aid. For those seeking to transfer credits, it's often required that the credits come from an accredited institution.
These accreditation bodies may also evaluate specific online degree programs to ensure their educational quality. For instance, an online master's in theology can receive programmatic accreditation from the . Theology programs may also be accredited by faith-based organizations, such as the , as long as institutions of Biblical Higher Education offer them.
What Are Common Online Courses in Theology Master鈥檚 Programs?
Master's in theology programs often vary depending on a university's denomination and the program's goal. Some programs prepare students for a leadership role in the ministry, while others focus on studying the Bible from an academic, spiritual, and historical lens. Students in graduate theology programs gain an in-depth understanding of biblical texts, examining them through a systematic theological lens. Below are some of the standard courses and electives that students can expect when pursuing this master's in theology degree online:
- History of the Christian Church: This course covers the history of Christianity through the 21st century from the perspective of the church鈥檚 development. Students learn about the foundations of the Christian religion, the Protestant Reformation, the westward spread of Christianity from Rome, and other major historical events that shaped contemporary Christianity.
- Hermeneutics: The formal study of biblical interpretation is called hermeneutics. This course explores the Bible through a historical and grammatical perspective, using the text's original meaning as a framework for modern-day interpretations. Students learn established practices, theories, and methodologies behind interpreting scripture.
- New Testament History and Interpretation: Most theology programs include multiple classes on the New Testament. Introductory courses often explore the four gospels, the life of Jesus, and biblical interpretation. Additional courses may cover the Book of Revelation, Book of Acts, or historical context surrounding the New Testament and Christianity鈥檚 spread.
- Old Testament History and Interpretation: Most programs also break up Old Testament studies into multiple courses. Students usually start with the Pentateuch and other historical books before moving on to the poetic and prophetic books. The coursework aims to provide students with a deeper understanding of these religious texts from a theological perspective.
- Systematic Theology: This course introduces theology and the organized study and analysis of biblical doctrines. Course topics may include God's nature and attributes, the eternal plan, the Trinity, the Holy Spirit, revelation and scripture, and salvation.
Is an Online Master's in Theology Worth the Cost?
Yes, we believe an online master's in theology can be worth the cost, depending on your career goals, personal interests, and the specific program you choose. If you aim to work in ministry, academia, or counseling, a master's in theology can open doors to various roles such as pastor, religious educator, or spiritual counselor. In fact, some positions may specifically require or prefer candidates with a master's degree.
Studying theology can be a deeply personal and fulfilling pursuit. If you have a passion for exploring religious texts, ethical questions, and theological concepts, the investment in an online Master's in Theology may be highly rewarding. Ultimately, the value of the degree depends on how it aligns with your professional aspirations and personal growth objectives.
Obtaining an affordable master's degree theology online allows students to delve into theological perspectives, scriptural interpretation, and spiritual practices while staying within a budget. Choosing a degree with a low annual tuition rate can help alleviate financial concerns and keep you out of debt.
In conclusion, an graduate degree in theology can indeed be worth the cost, providing valuable opportunities for career advancement and personal fulfillment, particularly when pursued through an affordable program that aligns with your goals and interests.
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