Online Master’s Degree in Theology

In the study of theology, students explore major principles of religion and spirituality. An online Master’s Degree in Theology focuses on studying of religion, ministry, divinity, and biblical history. Current ministers, missionaries, and those seeking to serve in church administration could benefit from an online masters degree in theology, as well as all those who harbor a strong interest for religious studies.

Online Master’s Degrees in Theology Requirements

The best online master degree schools for attaining a degree in theology often require a 3.0 GPA from an accredited institution. Other requirements include an interview, letters of recommendation, and an essay for the admission process.

No specific bachelor’s degrees are required for admittance into the online theology master’s degree program, but it is common for degree seekers to hold a bachelor’s degree in theology. Students who want to gain a more in depth knowledge of theology and theological practices can also pursue a PhD after completing the online theology master’s degree.

Most candidates in the online master’s degree program in theology are pastors, missionaries, or scholars.

Online Theology Master’s Degree Education

The best online master’s degree programs in theology can be completed in about two years. A few of the possible online masters of theology degrees include:

• Master of Arts (MA) in Christian studies
• Master of Arts (MA) in Pastoral Theology
• Master of Arts (MA) in Religion
• Master of Divinity
• Master of Divinity in Practical Theology

Information on Theology Courses

Core curriculum for an online masters program in theology includes courses about scripture, faith, and history. A few of the typical courses are as follows:

• Scripture and Biblical Interpretation
  This course examines scripture to find answers to common biblical questions.
• Systematic Theology and Theological Methods
  Students will examine many aspects of Christian thought such as faith, creation, and revelation as well as the role of philosophy and science in religion.
• Christian Ethics
  Online theology masters degree students will look at the ethics employed by a disciple of Jesus and try to determine how to best deal with today’s social and economic issues.
• Historical Development of Christian Tradition
  Students study the historical movements and theological figures that molded the development and traditions of the Christian religion.
• Christology
  Learners investigate the true identity of Jesus from the past and present perspectives.

Many good online theology master programs require a master’s thesis to complete the program.

Specializations and Concentrations

Some top online masters programs in theology provide several concentrations or specializations. A few of these theology specializations are:

• Spirituality
• Pastoral Ministry
• Catechetical Ministry

Careers in Theology

Depending on the specialty and focus of studies of graduates in a masters in theology program, career opportunities may vary widely.

• Member of the Clergy
  Members of the clergy serve as pastors or ministers in religious bodies such as churches. They are responsible for offering guidance and delivering the word of God to the church members. Salaries for clergy members vary based on the size of church, but the average salary is about $40,000 per year. Career growth is expected to be between 7 and 13% over the next several years.
• Religion Teacher
  Private schools often employ individuals with theology degrees to teach their religion courses, and a masters or PhD is preferred. The national average for
  religion teachers is around $60,000. Employment outlook should increase by 7 percent by 2018.
• Theological Journalist or Scholar
  Theologians write religious books, papers, and articles about history and current religious matters. The typical journalist makes an average wage of around $35,000. Career outlook for journalists is that the field is not growing and at all.
• Missionary
  Missionaries spread God’s word and serve people throughout the world. Many missionaries do not make salaries but are actually financially supported by various religious organizations.

There are many questions that arise concerning religious traditions, faith, and history. Graduates seeking an online masters degree in theology study to attempt to find answers to these questions for themselves and to provide spiritual guidance to others.