Top 25 Colleges with Theology Degrees New for 2021

What is a Theology Degree Program?

A degree program in theology often studies religion. It does so by looking at its ideas and how people and cultures express their faiths. Many students may use theology programs as a means to prepare for the ministry or teaching.

The study of theology often debates the nature of God and questions about the meaning of religion. It often does this by studying areas related to religion. Philosophy, history, anthropology and literature. 

That said, a theology degree may cover a variety of different religions, or may specifically look at just one or two. To do this, expect to read religious texts / scriptures. Like the Bible, Torah or Quran. 

You are also likely to learn how to interpret what you read. So, some universities offer the chance to learn their original language, such as Arabic, Hebrew or ancient Greek.

Types of Theology Degree Programs

There are degree programs in theology at all levels. Bachelors, masters and PhDs. At each level you may debate the nature of God and question the meaning of the religion(s) you are studying.

Bachelor’s Degree in Theology

A bachelor’s degree program in theology is an undergraduate degree program. Course work tends to meld religious studies with basics for the ministry. It also aims to get you to appreciate the history, context and messages of these Scriptures.

Depending on the program, a BA may introduce the Scriptures and ways to study them and derive meaning. You may also learn practical skills for the ministry and about your faith. 

Since many Churches are finding new ways to connect with audiences, you may also gain these not so classic skills. In fact, some course plans discuss how to use social media to evangelize, preach, teach, disciple and train for ministry.

The program also covers general college topics and electives typically 120 credit hours. Graduates use their degree in various ways. Some, to prep for a ministry, missionary or Christian education career. And others, as a necessary step towards a master’s/PhD. 

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WORLD RELIGIONS 
This course is an academic study of religion and what is called worldview. You may study the main points of Christianity and survey other traditions and belief systems.

BIBLICAL STUDIES
An intro to the religious, historical and literary sides of the Bible. Some schools may give a choice of reading the Old Testament or New Testament.

COMMUNICATION FOR MINISTRY
A class that may orient you to the principles and practices of sermon and teaching. You may learn how to convey religious meanings in a modern context.

SYSTEMATIC THEOLOGY 
Explores core Christian doctrines and religious beliefs of the Christian faith. Also touches on creation and providence, the nature of humanity, and the nature and effects of sin.

THEOLOGICAL WRITING AND RESEARCH
An intro class that explains the research process for the study of religion. Including bible study, ethics, and history. It also touches on correct writing and style manuals.

CHURCH HISTORY
Survey of the movements and ideas which have influenced the church. A part I might cover the 2nd century to Reformation. And a part II might pick up there until the present.

STUDY OF THE PROPHETS
Looks at the writings of the Old Testament prophets. You tend to study major/minor prophets in the context of time and text. And, as they relate to the New Testament and your personal use of their teachings.

Master’s Degree in Theology

A master’s degree program in theology is a graduate degree program. Course work tends to be both practical and rooted in the study of the Bible, Christian ethics and developing in your faith. Graduates may use their degree to further scholarly study at the graduate level if they plan to teach. Others may want to prepare for a specific type of pastoral ministry work.

A Master of Arts in Theology (MAT), Master of Theological Studies (MTS) and Master of Theology (ThM). As a prospective student, you need a bachelor’s degree to gain admission and some schools may also set a minimum GPA.

A ThM is the often most advanced theological degree at the master’s level. It often allows students to hone skills in one major area of study after completion of the Master of Divinity (MDiv). As such, it may enhance ministerial practice, prep for doctoral studies, and further mastery of a concentrated discipline.

An MTS program often explores more deeply the languages, literatures, thoughts, and practices of a range of theological fields and religious traditions. It may also help with spiritual formation through self awareness and scholarly study. These programs could also prep for a religion focused doctoral program. Or, as a means to approach another field like law, education, public policy or medicine.

MAT programs tend to be academic and customizable. They may include classes in philosophy and may help you uncover your calling. Many online students tailor these programs to an area of interest. Like Christian ethics, youth, the arts and more.

ECCLESIOLOGY
Examines the nature of the church and its emerging challenges. To do this you may take a critical look at documents of the Second Vatican Council.

VOCATIONAL FORMATION
A practical class that may cover several areas. Worship, community and mission. Some schools also cover personal evangelism. 

CHRISTIAN ETHICS
An intro to moral theology. It explores the basic ideas and methods needed to assess moral arguments and give a credible defense on issues. 

MORAL THEOLOGY
This class aims to help you make sense of creating, redeeming and sanctifying activities. You may also look into conscience, character and prudence. 

THEOLOGY OF CHURCH
Describes how the Church is part of God’s plan of salvation. Also analyzes the structure of the Church to help you understand its place in your life.

PHILOSOPHY FOR THEOLOGY
The goal of this class is to understand the philosophy that underlies theology. Topics may include physical motion, matter, form, privation, substance, accident, being, act, potency, the good, natural law, the end of man and natural knowledge of God.

PASTORAL ISSUES
Focuses on a topic or area of importance in practical pastoral care. May touch on Church leadership, youth ministry and guidance among others.

PhD in Theology

A PhD program in theology is a doctorate degree program. The courses tend to be advanced with the goal of growing scholarly skills as you deepen your faith. Many programs are academic and research focused. So they may ready grads to teach or impact policies.

An online PhD in theology usually features advanced courses. These may go deeper into the Old Testament, the New Testament, apologetics, church history, and theology. 

One goal of a PhD is to prepare scholars to lead in the church and world. To do this, you tend to cultivate expertise in a chosen area. Then, use these skills in reasoning and writing to contribute to theology in an original paper. 

Because it can be rigorous, many schools ask for a letter of intention, references, CV and a brief essay. Some schools may also want GRE scores and expect you’ve earned a master’s already.

APOLOGETICS
Christian apologetics is a branch of theology, focuses on defending the faith. The goal is to share the Gospel message in an understandable way. 

COMPARATIVE THEOLOGY 
Disciplined reflection on the mystery of God in the world and on the traditions of belief, worship, and ethics that shape communities of faith. May compare Christianity with one or more other religions.

THEOLOGICAL ETHICS
Includes the study of major Roman Catholic and Protestant thinkers. And may attend to the Biblical foundations and theological contexts of (social) ethics.

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How long could it take to earn a Theology Degree online?

The time it takes to earn a degree in theology online depends on the program level and if you study part time or full time. A typical bachelor’s in theology often takes four years. You might have fewer if you get your general education classes out of the way earlier. Many schools have robust transfer credit policies for eligible students. Theology students who go onto a master’s degree may need another two to three years. With those degrees in hand, a PhD may take at least three and a half years to finish the courses. But many schools give longer for students to finish their dissertation.

How much does a Theology Degree cost?

You may find degrees in theology at private nonprofit schools. According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), the average cost of attending one of these schools was $51,900 for the 2018/19 academic year. If your degree is available at a public college, the cost of tuition, required fees, books and supplies and living on campus tends to be lower ($24,900).

Our Top 25 Colleges with Theology Degrees

Using NCES data, we compiled a list of the schools that awarded the most Theology degrees in 2018.

Accreditation

One of the things accreditation does is check that a school or program meets industry norms. This may make them well respected among churches, ministries and nonprofits.

Agencies in charge of this process may have the approval of the Department of Education. And or of the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). When so, these schools may take part in federal financial aid. Some may also have robust transfer credit policies. 

As far as faith related agencies, there are a few that the CHEA accredits.  

• Commission of Accrediting of the Association of Theological Schools. ATS accredits seminaries. At larger schools, they also accredit theology graduate programs. 
• Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools. TRACS accredits Christian colleges including ones with online programs. 
• Association for Biblical Higher Education. ABHE accredits Bible colleges and schools that prepare for the Christian ministry. 

Is an Online Degree in Theology Worth it?

A degree in theology may yield versatile skills that may open doors. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are 376,930 workers with a degree in theology they project a 4% rise in demand through 2029. Salaries for careers linked to this degree vary. But the median annual wage is $40,000. as compared to $59,000 for all other fields. 

For those who already work or volunteer in the religious sector, going for an online degree may be useful. Many programs engage students in live streaming classes that engage you in discussion. Others may stick to a self paced format or mix elements of both.

Theology graduates often use their degree to become members of the clergy. Many also work in social service, education and management. Per the BLS, 59% hold jobs that require a bachelor’s degree and another 44% need a graduate degree.

How Much Could You Earn?

A degree in Biblical Studies may prepare you for various secular and ministry focused roles. Many of these jobs entail at least a bachelor’s degree or higher. According to 2019 ONET data:

How Much Do Philosophy & Religious Professors Make?

As provided by BLS, the 2019 median salary by state is:

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