Online Master’s Programs in Theology

Professionals with an online master’s in theology become Bible instructors, educators, or nonprofit workers. Other potential careers include pastor and writer. Some universities offer many concentrations, such as biblical studies, global studies, and Christian apologetics. No matter the concentration, degree-seekers take classes in biblical history, issues facing Christianity in the 21st century, and the gospel.

Prospective students should hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited four-year college. Many programs require a statement of faith or a divinity questionnaire. Applicants submit a pastor recommendation, as well. The following article discusses theology master’s degrees in depth. The final section explains how to become a religious director.

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Online master’s in theology programs appeal to learners wanting to start or advance a faith-based career. Many programs feature concentrations in global and youth ministry, letting students prepare for a specific job. Some theology careers, including religious activities and education director, pay more than the U.S. median salary.

Master’s in theology online degree-seekers enjoy the same resources as on-campus peers, including career counselors and librarians. Universities also provide distance learners with virtual career counseling services that include interest inventories and job boards. Many programs feature an asynchronous curriculum, as well.

As of March 2022, affordable theology master’s degrees cost around $400 per credit at a top school. These universities may offer a tuition reduction to active-duty service members and their families. Other schools offer financial benefits to this group through the Yellow Ribbon Program. Applicants should note that out-of-pocket expenses over 1-2 years in school include student fees.

Theology master’s degree-seekers save money in more ways than just selecting an affordable university. Applicants should focus on schools offering institutional scholarships and grants. These awards may require a separate application, recommendation letters, and an essay. Students with financial need receive federal grants and loans by submitting the FAFSA.

Pursuing a master’s in theology online may save learners thousands on graduate education. However, these programs often charge a per-semester or per-credit technology fee. Online master’s in theology programs require enrollees to pay for a capable computer and stable internet connection. Fortunately, many technology companies give college students a discount. Hybrid program participants must also budget for commuting to campus or an internship site.

Some workers with an online master’s in theology need a certification to achieve their career goals. The American Psychotherapy Association (APA) awards the Board Certified Professional Counselor credential. Candidates need a master’s, a state-issued license, and three years of relevant experience. As of March 2022, APA charges a $250 examination fee.

Most professionals with a master’s make more than their peers with only a bachelor’s. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that religious activities and education directors earn a median $45,100 salary. The top 10% of earners in the profession make more than $93,990.

Master’s degree-holders not only earn more than other workers, but also hold an advantage in the job market. A graduate degree may qualify them for a management-level position. Many of these roles feature a higher starting salary. The BLS reports that geographic location also affects salary. Religious directors in North Carolina, Massachusetts, and Washington, D.C. make more than peers in other states.

An online master’s in theology’s curriculum requires learners to consider theological questions and analyze biblical teachings. Classes may include the God who pursues, controversies in the Catholic Church’s history, and foundations of moral theology. Degree-seekers also take classes in research methodology. A typical degree ends with either a final project or a master’s thesis.

The following sample curriculum highlights three core classes learners take when pursuing a master’s in theology online. Note that Christian schools’ curricula vary by university. The denomination a school follows affects the academic experience and graduate outcomes. Please contact universities’ admissions advisors and visit programs’ websites for more information.

Religious activities and education directors need a bachelor’s or master’s degree, depending on their employer and job title. Other requirements may include a counseling license or a certification. Degree-seekers interested in this job should work with a career counselor to research employers’ expectations for candidates.

Typical day-to-day responsibilities for these workers include creating and coordinating different educational programs, such as community outreach. Directors also provide one-on-one and group spiritual counseling to families, individuals, youth, and other groups. The majority of directors work for a religious organization, K-12 school, or postsecondary school.