An online Bachelor’s degree in Theology equips individuals with in-depth and valuable knowledge of Christian practices and religious concepts. Students will be exposed to the very core definition of Theology which is the study of both the nature of God and religious beliefs.
An online Bachelor’s in Theology degree holder is able to integrate well a firm foundation on Christian studies. Despite the broad nature of the discipline, an online Bachelor’s in Theology will shed light on theology and biblical studies through the coherence of practical and theological knowledge.
Earning a Bachelor’s degree in Theology seems to be rigorous these days, especially for those who want to further their knowledge and career in the field. Fortunately, alternatives are made available for the convenience of busy and working adults. The availability of many online schools offering the said degree program has now paved the way to catering to more individuals who are inclined to pursue their religious calling.
Academic institutions, colleges, and universities are now offering online Bachelor in Theology degree programs that are fit for adults who wish to advance their careers in the field of religious studies.
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- BEST ONLINE SCHOOLS FOR BACHELOR’S IN THEOLOGY
- Christian Leadership University
- Campbell University
- Liberty University
- Lee University
- Andrews University
- Brescia University
- Belmont University
- Hampton University
- Kansas Christian College
- Indiana Wesleyan University
- Johnson University
- American Public University
- Florida International University
- Lancaster Bible College
- Warner University
- Trinity Bible College
- Saint Joseph’s College
- Ecclesia College
- Nazarene Bible College
- Clarks Summit University
- FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Best Online Schools for Bachelor’s in Theology
METHODOLOGY
Our 20 Best Online Schools for Bachelor’s in Theology showcases a number of schools offering top-notch online theology programs. Following our exhaustive research, we came to the conclusion that, in terms of educating, training, and preparing students for Theology careers, these 20 are the absolute best based on specific factors.
Our benchmarks include:
- accreditation status,
- acceptance and admission requirements,
- graduation rates,
- and faculty credentials.
Each of these schools runs its programs on top-rated virtual learning platforms. Their online Theology program curricula offer experiential learning through rigorous yet flexible coursework delivered online, as well as real-world projects and academic and career support. We also take into account each of the schools’ skilled faculty that ensures quality instruction.
Other features that underscore the schools’ high quality of education include transfer credit programs, fast-track degree completion options, and affordable tuition rates. Our top sources of information for this list include the academic institutions’ official websites and National Center for Education Statistics’ College Navigator.
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Christian Leadership University
Online Bachelor of Theology
Christian Leadership University is a Revelation-based learning university that offers a 100% online Bachelor of Theology degree program. The Christian Accreditation International accredited university takes pride in offering quality theological education in the privacy of every student’s home.
The primary goal of CLU is to engage students in courses that will allow personal, experiential, and first-hand encounters with God. The central focus of the online Bachelor’s degree program in Theology offered at CLU is to invite students to experience the life-changing power of God’s voice.
CLU aims to promote theological education that does not only help students understand religion but also transform their lives in significant ways. Some of the available courses offered under their online theology programs include:
- Bible Research Methods,
- Law and the Spirit,
- and Basics of Christianity.
CLU also offers students the option to fast track degree completion up to 50%. Interested individuals will only have to submit a combination of transcripts from other seminaries and colleges and compile a Life Experience Portfolio.
Campbell University
Online BA in Christian Studies
Campbell University is a university based in North Carolina that features a Bachelor of Arts in Christian Studies offered 100% online. The Bachelor’s degree program is offered under the Divinity School of the university that is duly accredited by the Commission on Accrediting of the Association of Theological Schools in the United States and Canada.
The university offers a unique approach to religious learning by offering its students introductory courses to World Religions and Philosophy. Mainly, Campbell University aims to help students acquire a solid foundation in:
- Church History,
- Theology,
- Hebrew and Greek Scriptures,
- and Ethics.
These courses are part of the 124 credit hour requirement to obtain a Bachelor’s degree online. Upon completion of the online theology program, Campbell University makes sure that fulfilling careers await their graduates. Some of the career opportunities include pastor, associate minister, biblical counselor, missionary, chaplain, and a lot more.
Liberty University
Online BS in Religion
Liberty University is a SACSCOC-accredited university based in Lynchburg, Virginia. It is a private evangelical Christian university that offers an online Bachelor of Science in Religion degree program. The 100% online degree program requires 120 credit hours and a total average of 3.5 years to complete.
Under the online Bachelor of Science in Religion program are 9 equally important specializations that help students learn more about the Word of God. Choices include:
- Apologetics,
- Biblical and Theological Studies,
- Christian Counseling,
- Christian Leadership,
- Christian Ministries,
- Evangelism,
- Global Studies,
- and NextGen.
The last specialization is the General track which is designed to equip students with the very foundation of learning a religion degree program. Students who wish to enroll in the online degree program may also take advantage of the easy access to a wide variety of resources through the university’s research portal. The online bachelor’s degree program offered at LU is ideal for individuals who aspire to pursue ministry-related careers.
Lee University
Online BA/BS in Bible & Theology
Lee University is a private Christian University based in Cleveland, Tennessee. It is a Christian-centered Liberal Arts Campus that offers a fully online Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Science in Bible and Theology degree program. The online theology degree program is offered under the university’s School of Religion.
The online Bachelor’s degree in Bible and Theology is one of the many programs offered to prepare both men and women for global and church ministry. To earn the degree, students are required to complete a total of 120 credit hours.
Religion core courses offered under the online degree program include:
- Biblical/ Theological Foundation,
- Bible Study Methods,
- Holy Spirit Doctrine,
- and Humanities, among others.
Andrews University
Online BA in Religion
Andrews University is a Christian university based in Berrien Springs, Michigan. The university offers a fully online Bachelor of Arts in Religion degree program. It is made available to individuals who wish to pursue a bachelor’s degree in Religion from a Seventh-day Adventist point of view. Through the online course format, students will not be required any time on campus as the program is offered for completion at the student’s own pace.
The 124-credit hour online degree program is offered with some of its courses available in an interactive online format. The core courses under the online degree program aim to assist students to master the basic principles of:
- practical ministry,
- biblical interpretation,
- and theological reason.
Upon completion of the online degree program at Andrews University, students will learn to efficiently seek more knowledge in the discipline. Students will be fully equipped with foundational knowledge in the Bible, its history, and theology. Students will also be able to affirm their faith through different ways of expression. This could be done both orally and in writing.
Brescia University
Online BA in Theology: Pastoral Studies
Based in Owensboro, Kentucky is Brescia University. It is a coeducational Catholic university that offers a 100% online Bachelor of Arts in Theology with Emphasis in Pastoral Studies degree program. It is officially accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. It is offered through BU online that promises convenience designed most especially to accommodate working adults.
The online Bachelor’s in Theology with a concentration in Pastoral Studies offered at BU aims to equip individuals with the proper knowledge in pastoral studies and theology. It is offered in a flexible online schedule making it easy for students to complete the course in as short as a span of two years.
BU also offers online degree programs in an accelerated format. This compresses the courses and quickens the pace of degree completion providing the same top quality education. Successful students of the online degree program may explore career opportunities as a youth minister, deacon, religion teacher, and more.
Belmont University
Online BA/BS in Ministry
Belmont University is based in Nashville, Tennessee. It is a private Christian liberal arts university that offers an online Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science in Ministry degree program. The program is made available, especially to working adults who are inclined to do ministry work. It is also open for individuals who wish to shift to a new career in ministry.
At Belmont University, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Ministry allows students to learn traditional religion courses. The online course format is a combination of courses in church history and theology. Its main focus is to equip students with knowledge in ministry that is timely in contemporary times.
Graduates of the online Ministry degree program at Belmont University will be able to have a good grasp of the nature of the pastoral role in ministry work. Students will be able to explore and have a deeper understanding of the levels of counseling as one of the main objectives of the online degree program.
Hampton University
Online BA in Religious Studies
Hampton University is a private university based in Hampton, Virginia. The university offers a duly accredited and fully online Bachelor of Arts Degree in Religious Studies program. It is the ideal online coursework to take for those who seek to learn about the core principles of theology. By earning a degree in Religious Studies through distance learning, Hampton University ensures graduates that are well-informed and learned in the discipline.
The program mainly aims to sharpen the ministry skills of students. Throughout the online course, students will also be encouraged to advance their knowledge in the field by pursuing further studies of the bible, theology, and religion. In the first year of the online course program, courses of students are focused on the introduction to Religious Studies.
In the succeeding years, students should expect to learn detail by detail about the field of theology and religious studies. Courses to be taken up during the higher years include:
- the Life and Teachings of Jesus,
- Religious Traditions,
- and Pastoral Care & Counseling.
Some of the professions of the online degree program graduates at Hampton are assistant pastors, denominational leaders, and non-profit leaders.
Kansas Christian College
Online BA in Leadership and Ministry
Kansas Christian College is a private, Overland Park, Kansas-based college that is affiliated with the Church of God. It is a four-year Christian college accredited by the Association for Biblical Higher Education. KCC offers a Bachelor of Arts in Leadership and Ministry fully online. It is a 120-credit hour online degree program made available to busy adults who aspire to earn a Bachelor’s degree in Leadership and Ministry.
KCC takes pride in offering an online degree program that allows students to express the calling of God in their lives. The program also aims to develop the leadership skills of students in the local church setting. The program is divided into four core courses, these are:
- Bible and Theology,
- General Studies,
- Professional Studies,
- and Senior Portfolio in Leadership & Ministry.
Every core course aims to equip students with a solid foundation in biblical history and literature. As a student progresses through the online course program, students will further learn about the life of Christ and its significance in the gospels.
Indiana Wesleyan University
Online BS in Biblical Studies
Headquartered in Marion, Indiana is Indiana Wesleyan University. It is a private evangelical Christian liberal arts university that offers a fully online Bachelor of Science in Biblical Studies degree program. It is online coursework that allows students to get fully engaged in studying the scriptures.
At Indiana Wesleyan University, earning a Bachelor’s in Biblical Studies is more meaningful as the university encourages a deep understanding of the Christian faith. As a member of the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities, IWU aims to prepare students for a comprehensive partnership with God.
Indiana Wesleyan University teaches Biblical Studies with a Wesleyan-Arminian approach which is ideal for students who wish to have a deep understanding of the Christian faith and the bible. The online coursework best prepares students for ministry positions in Christian churches. Tuition for the online degree program varies depending on status.
For the non-pastor, tuition is $579 per credit while tuition for the pastor is $377 per credit hour. For enrollees who fall under the Wesleyan pastor status, online tuition is $277 per credit hour.
Johnson University
Online BA/BS in Ministry Leadership
Johnson University is a leading Christian university based in Knoxville, Tennessee. The university offers a fully online Bachelor of Science/Arts in Ministry Leadership. The online degree program offered at JU is duly accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of the Association for Biblical Higher Education.
Under the program, students are equipped with knowledge in leadership, theology, and the Bible through comprehensive training. It is made convenient for working adults who would want to answer their religious calling. The program is also open to individuals who wish to unlock their potential as church leaders and Christian ministers.
To earn a Bachelor’s degree in Ministry Leadership at Johnson University, students only need to complete the program in about 16 weeks with 7 to 8 hours of field mentoring. At the end of the course program, Johnson University aims to yield graduates who are spiritually competitive enough to do different course learning outcomes.
These include preaching scriptures in relevance to the depth of other people’s needs, leading Christian communities with pastoral care, and becoming a servant leader like Christ Himself.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A9NgNIKVmZs
American Public University
Online BA in Religion
Based in Charles Town, West Virginia is an HLC-accredited university that American Public University. It is a private online learning institution under American Public Education, Inc. that offers a fully online Bachelor of Arts in Religion degree program.
At a glance, the online degree program requires 120 credit hours for completion with a maximum of 90 transfer credits. What sets the online course program from the rest is the study of various aspects in association with religion.
At APU, students get to have a grasp of religion by studying its political, cultural, and spiritual aspects. The program allows students to internalize the tenets of religion in a multidisciplinary approach. The length of the program typically lasts 4 years if students attend full-time. After course completion, graduates will be able to comprehensively define religion. Graduates will also be able to integrate knowledge and practical lessons in different aspects of society.
Online tuition rates for the program start at $285 per credit hour and $250 per credit hour for those with a military grant.
Florida International University
Online BA in Religious Studies
Florida International University is based in Miami, Florida. It is one of the many leading universities in the area that offers a Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies degree program fully online. The 120-credit interdisciplinary degree program is made available through FIU Online. It focuses more on the global aspect of religious studies as courses under the program include a thorough study of religious history, practices, and beliefs.
At FIU, students are not only limited to learning about the religion of certain parts of the world. The online degree program in Religious Studies at FIU showcases the opportunity for students to explore the eastern and western religions and learn deeply about these at the same time.
Under the Studies in World Religions course, students are equipped with knowledge in specialized studies. This allows students to compare Abrahamic Religions, Asian Religions, Indigenous, and Other Religious Traditions, as well as each of its respective societies, culture, and ethics.
Tuition for the online Bachelor’s in Religious Studies at FIU is $206 for in-state students and $619 for out-of-state students.
Lancaster Bible College
Online BA in Biblical Studies
Lancaster Bible College is an accredited seminary and graduate school based in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. LBC offers an online Bachelor of Arts in Biblical Studies. The online degree program features accelerated learning that allows students to earn a Bachelor’s degree in 10 to 12 months’ time.
The accelerated program consists of 2 terms comprising of 4-course sessions per term. While the schedule of the accelerated undergraduate program isn’t fixed due to holidays and breaks, each course session is estimated to run between 6 to 8 weeks.
At Lancaster Bible College, online degree programs will not require students to attend classes on campus. Students are referred to LBC’s online learning management system. To complete the accelerated online degree program, students are required to comply with the 120-credit hour requirement. The curriculum plan of the program includes credits in:
- Biblical Studies Core,
- Electives,
- Arts and Sciences,
- and General Electives.
Graduates of the program as expected to land jobs as Ministry Directors, Foreign and Domestic Missionaries, Chaplains, or Youth Pastors.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lQqkSQr_pzA&list=PL0DFE8071DA5A2544
Warner University
Online BS in Christian Ministry
Based in Lake Wales, Florida is Warner University. WU is a private Christ-centered university affiliated with the Church of God. The university offers a Bachelor of Science in Christian Ministry degree program fully online. The program is derived from the university’s excellent campus-based ministry program. It is designed to meet the busy schedule of working adults who still wish to serve the local church.
The mission of the online degree program offered at Warner University is to equip students with a Christ-like character. This should help graduates to serve the local church with intellectual and spiritual maturity. The program paves way for those undecided individuals to listen, clarify, and identify their calling.
Delivery of the program is set at two courses every 8 weeks. At the end of the online Bachelor’s degree program, students will become more accurate interpreters of the Scriptures. Fully equipped with the right set of ministry skills, graduates of the program will also have the opportunity to take part in spiritual formation practices.
Trinity Bible College
Online BA in Biblical Studies
Trinity Bible College is a college based in Ellendale, North Dakota. TBC is a college affiliated with the Assemblies of God USA that offers a fully online program in Bachelor of Arts in Biblical Studies. Through the program, the biblically-based institution allows students to earn a degree in Biblical Studies with a Christ-centered Pentecostal online learning environment.
The online degree program aims to equip students with the proper training needed to efficiently teach about God’s Word in communities. Under Trinity Distance Education, TBC takes pride in its competent faculty to assist students throughout the online course program.
The DE faculty also takes part in preparing graduates to become vocational ministers. There are also other professions that graduates of the program may undertake. These are professions that generally include becoming Christian leaders in various religious organizations. The cost of tuition for distance education at Trinity Bible College is $523 per credit hour.
Saint Joseph’s College
Online BA in Theological Studies
Saint Joseph’s College of Maine is a Catholic liberal arts college based in Standish, Maine. It is a private university that offers a fully online Bachelor of Arts in Theological Studies degree program. Saint Joseph’s College in Maine takes pride in offering an online degree program in Theological Studies that is firmly rooted in Roman Catholic ministry and theology.
The online coursework of the college aims to yield graduates who will be able to primarily serve people involved in:
- spiritual centers,
- parishes,
- diocesan agencies,
- social service agencies,
- as well as, hospitals.
To earn a degree online in Theological Studies at St. Joseph’s College, students are required to complete a 128-credit hour program. At a glance, the program prepares students for further studies, especially in theology and pastoral ministry studies. Students enrolled in the program also get the chance to fast-track the online Bachelor’s program and proceed with the relevant Master’s degree.
Students learning outcomes of the program include but are not limited to acquiring in-depth knowledge in theology studies, practical skills for Christian ministry service, and deepening one’s personal faith and encounter with God.
Ecclesia College
Online Bachelor of Biblical Studies & Bachelor of Christian Leadership
Ecclesia College is an institution of Biblical higher education based in Springdale, Arkansas. It is duly accredited by the Association for Biblical Higher Education. EC offers fully online theology degree programs through EC Online. The online division of EC aims to integrate Christian values in all of the courses offered under the online degree program.
EC visualizes graduates who are able to strengthen society’s foundation through the values brought by the life of Christ. These include an online Bachelor of Biblical Studies and Bachelor of Christian Leadership degree program. The total program requirement for the graduation of both programs is a minimum of 120 per credit hour.
Students who wish to enroll in the online Bachelor of Biblical Studies program should expect to learn courses covering:
- the New Testament in Greek I & II,
- Humanities,
- and Theology, among others.
For those students who would want to earn a Bachelor’s degree in Christian Leadership, the expected courses are:
- Church History,
- Christian Ministry,
- and Christian Leadership.
Nazarene Bible College
Online BA in Ministry: Major in Bible and Theology
Nazarene Bible College is a private college based in Colorado Springs, Colorado. NBC is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Biblical Higher Education and approved by the Association of Christian Schools International. The Bible College offers a fully online degree program in Bachelor of Arts in Ministry Major in Bible and Theology.
The online delivery of the program does not hinder students from learning theological studies and Christian Scriptures through extensive. The online degree program offered at NBC is set to prepare students for further theological studies and graduate work.
To complete the program, students are required a total of 120 credit hours comprising of:
- General Education,
- Bible and Theology,
- and its corresponding major courses.
As graduates of the online degree program, students should be able to identify and articulate the basic content of the bible. Graduates are also expected to make good use of the different resources and methods of interpreting the bible.
Clarks Summit University
Online Bachelor’s in Worship Studies
Based in Clarks Summit, Pennsylvania is Clarks Summit University. It is a higher education institution that offers a broad range of degree programs including an online Bachelor in Worship Studies.
The online undergraduate offered at CSU is made accessible to adults who wish to immerse themselves more in the ministry. It is also made available to individuals who wish to change their careers into religious and theologically-inclined ones. The fully accredited program requires 121 credit hours to complete.
Students also have the option to double major in Bible and another major of their choice. Major courses offered under the program engage students in an in-depth study of the Word of God. These include the elements of Greek 1 & 2 and Hebrew 1 & 2. The program also makes the ideal pathway to get a step ahead in case students wish to pursue future seminary studies.
At the end of the program, students will be ready to serve as youth or assistant pastors. Graduates of the program are expected to serve the local church and the community more faithfully.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What are the common careers to pursue with an online Bachelor’s degree in Theology?
The completion of an online Bachelor’s degree in Theology is a step closer for any individual to serve the church and many other religious organizations. In fact, graduates of the online coursework may work as a minister, pastors, youth workers, or even Pope.
While careers after earning a Bachelor’s degree in Theology depend on the coursework and specialization undertaken, there are always careers that graduates commonly pursue.
Theology degree holders may opt to pursue a career not only for themselves but for the greater good. This is why as observed these days, theology graduates commit to becoming religious school teachers.
These are the teachers who teach more about religion and faith for all ages. Religious-based schools hire Theology degree holders to ensure the quality of teaching in the fields of philosophy and history of religion.
Other Theology graduates also choose to pursue a career path that’s more focused on their religious self. For this reason, many Theology graduates also become ministers. They are the ones who choose to pursue their calling by taking time to learn the scriptures by heart.
Eventually, ministers, after working on their own faith, preach as presiders in religious gatherings, baptisms, and even at weddings. In fact, ministers provide spiritual guidance in communities whenever needed.
Theology graduates believe that earning their degree is more about helping others and pursuing a career to become a social worker. Graduates who have a mindset like this, make the most out of what they learn in the course by giving back and assisting those in need.
This is the career for those Theology graduates who wish to provide comfort to the homeless and feed the hungry. As social workers, Theology graduates affiliate with many faith-based organizations in order to help more.
Another career that a Theology graduate may possibly pursue is a Bible translator. To some Theology graduates, it could also be what the world needs. This career allows graduates to test their mastery of the Bible by bringing the message of the scriptures closer to those who believe and even to non-believers.
How long does it take to complete a Bachelor’s in Theology online?
The journey to earning a Bachelor’s degree in Theology online may seem long but it sure is worth it. For full-time students of the online coursework, typically takes 4 years to complete. This already considers 120 to 128 credits required to complete the online course program.
However, it is not always the case since there are those who enroll in the program and opt to study part-time. There are also those enroll who already have credits from a previous school under the same degree program.
Especially since the degree program is offered online, students are made to choose between more options on how they should complete the degree. There are those who aim to follow the standard timeline in completing the online degree program and there are also those who opt for a staggered way of acquiring the degree.
Another student-caused factor that affects the period of time to complete the degree program is the student’s standing in particular coursework. If a student fails to meet the passing rate for a certain course, then this will surely cause a delay in completing the online Bachelor’s degree.
There are factors that affect the completion of an online Bachelor’s degree in Theology program. These factors could either slow down or quicken the pace of degree completion. While some factors are due to the varied cases of every enrollee, some factors are also due to the options offered by the different online schools offering a Bachelor’s in Theology program.
There are online schools that offer students the option to enroll in an accelerated course program. This should help advance the student’s completion of the necessary courses and credits to acquire. Some also offer flex schedules which allow students to take up a few units every semester.
Another reason that may extend the duration of the degree program is late enrollment. Before an online degree program is set to open for the semester or period, students will be advised to enroll ahead of time before online schools declare a cut-off for enrollment.
What are other degrees that are closely related to Theology?
Theology, primarily referred to as the study of religion, comes in different branches. In fact, there are a lot of other degrees that are closely related to Theology in one way or another.
These include Christian Studies. It might not be similarly termed Theology but the courses offered under the program are more or less the same. Often, the areas of concentration are also the same. Like the degree program in Theology, it also aims to equip students with in-depth and comprehensive knowledge of the scriptures.
Likewise, students who complete a degree in Christian studies may pursue careers in line with Theology. Sample careers are pastors, missionaries, evangelists, religious teachers, and more.
A degree in Biblical Studies is also related to a degree in Theology. In fact, some online schools offering a Bachelor’s degree program in Theology combine Biblical Studies with the complete course name offered.
Considering how broad the discipline of Theology is, a degree in Biblical Studies is offered to highlight a certain area of concentration. Particularly, that is to learn more about the bible and the teachings in the scriptures.
Another closely related degree to Theology is a Bachelor’s degree in Religion. While religion could mean a broad range of beliefs, it is commonly understood to prepare students for the Christian Ministry. The program even includes foundation-building courses such as biblical, theological, and Christian studies.
Ministry Leadership is another degree that can be directly associated with Theology. By merely referring to the terms, one can easily identify that the two degrees are interrelated. Beyond these terms, the two disciplines needed closely related as ministry leadership could be a course under Theology.
On the other hand, while earning a Ministry Leadership degree, the field of Theology will surely be elaborated more. The two degrees are parallel in one way or another since the courses under both programs complement the end goal which is to yield Christ-centered and faithful students.