Online Bible and Clergy Programs

Students who are aiming for professions related to the clergy may be interested in pursuing degrees from online Bible schools. This guide covers important aspects of earning a theology degree such as choosing the type of program and a curriculum focus. Also included is advice for prospective online learners from a Christian ministry student. Armed with this information, students can select the online clergy school and degree that best meets their needs and lifestyle.

Distance learning programs are an effective option for students who are juggling personal and professional responsibilities. In most cases, classes are asynchronous, meaning that students can download and view course requirements at their convenience. While some disciplines require interaction with instructors, peers and others, students of online Bible and clergy schools frequently schedule phone and Skype appointments on their own time. On the occasion that students need to participate in real-time observation and interaction, they can work with churches and other organizations to set up visits.

In addition to the telephone and Skype, many online Bible study schools use online discussion boards and content management systems, such as Blackboard. Additional technologies may include Adobe Flash Player and Adobe Connect, which allow students to view lectures and communicate with instructors. In addition, Bible study and clergy degree programs often require numerous reading and reflection assignments. The organization of an online program allows students extra time and flexibility to complete their readings and studies.

Earning an online degree in bible study is a way to begin or further a career in ministry with the flexibility and autonomy available in online learning. It’s important to find a quality program; one that offers the history and connection that’s needed to be successful in Christian ministry. We’ve compiled a list of some of the best schools for Bible study and provided them here for you so you can make the best decision possible about where you earn your degree.

Many denominations require clergy members to hold at least a bachelor’s degree in theology or a closely related area. An associate degree can provide a background in church history, missions, evangelism and how to live according to Biblical principles. In a bachelor’s program, students gain a more comprehensive understanding of the Bible and biblical languages. Graduates have a deeper comprehension of scriptures and the will and purpose of God for the individual. Students pursuing graduate degrees examine spirituality and historical studies of religions, and learn how to lead others on their journey with God.

Designed to prepare graduates to provide Christian counseling, teach scriptures and explore the history of the church, many online Bachelor of Arts in Biblical Studies degree programs require 120 credit hours to complete. Motivation is key to success, as it takes a great deal of discipline and time management to balance an online clergy school along with professional and personal obligations.

During an online Bible degree program, students typically explore biblical applications in ministry, frameworks for Christian service, specific scriptures and pastoral counseling. Examples of courses may include the history of Christianity, Israel’s early history, psychology, spiritual formation, studying the Bible, Pauline literature, theology, biblical studies and Christine doctrine. Cross training is provided through general education and elective courses, such as research writing, oral communication and philosophy. Some online programs require students to complete apprenticeships or mentoring before graduating. Combined with specialized programs, such as Christian counseling or pastoral ministry, many online clergy degree programs could be used to prepare students to sit for ministry licensing exams.

An associate degree in Bible study and clergy can provide servant-leaders with a solid theological base, preparing them to lead, teach and minister a congregation. Many students complete the degree within two years, although part-time students may take longer to graduate. The first year of online Bible study school provides students with tools to master general education, biblical foundations and biblical doctrines. In the second year, students learn more about the history of the church as well as the reliability of the Bible. Below is a list of just a few possible courses in a Bible study or clergy associate degree program.

Classifications of a bachelor’s degree in Bible study varies from school to school. For example, some colleges grant Bachelor of Arts degrees, while others award Bachelor of Science degrees. However, the coursework and outcomes are fairly consistent. A bachelor’s degree in Bible study and clergy gives students a more advanced understanding of the church and its beliefs than two-year options in the same field. Full-time students can potentially complete the program in four years. This more in-depth, advanced curriculum of an online Bible study degree program includes some of the following classes.

A master’s degree in Bible study and clergy can prepare the graduate for a leadership role in a church or ministry program. Those who already hold a bachelor’s degree usually complete the program in two years. Several types of programs are available to meet various personal and professional goals. In general, students who want to continue their education with a doctorate degree choose to enter a research-based master’s program, while those looking to enter the workforce pick a non-thesis program that requires them to pass a comprehensive assessment to graduate.

An enrollment counselor or academic advisor can assist new students in choosing a particular track or concentration. Most master’s programs are personalized to meet each student’s interests and goals. The list below represents just one possible combination of classes a master’s program might entail.

A doctorate in Bible study and clergy or a similar field gives practicing church and community leaders advanced skills to further their careers and professional activities. As the most advanced level of learning in the field, Bible doctorate programs are designed for experienced practitioners who already hold a master’s degree. Students frequently complete a PhD program in about three years, and may be required to make several on-campus visits throughout the course sequence.

PhD programs are similar to master’s programs in that doctorate students usually take a number of master’s classes to fulfill graduation requirements and can customize their curriculum to meet their individual goals and interests. Those specializing in Christian education focus on the history and methodology of teaching religious studies, while others may concentrate on the more research-based track of religious history. The primary difference between master’s and doctorate programs is the amount and depth of research required for each class.

A degree in religious studies can be applied in many diverse career paths. Graduates of theology programs may choose to work as a minister or other church leader, youth educator, religious professor or counselor, or in a public service role. Theology graduates generally share a desire to help others and strengthen their communities.

Bible and clergy program graduates may wish to transition into the careers below, though these typically involve some additional training:

The careers listed above are only a few that those with a theology degree can pursue. Clergy and bible study is an ever-changing field, adapting to the needs of those in the community.