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What is Theology?
Theology is the area of study that studies various religious texts, artifacts, resources, and other materials in order to better understand God and religion. Individuals in this field typically pursue this degree as part of their seminary work prior to becoming a priest, pastor, or other religious leader within a church or community. Theology programs also tend to offer comparison of religions and stories in order to identify the origins of such tales in historical contexts and to better understand their purpose and morphology.
Career Summary
MEDIAN SALARY
PERCENT ABOVE NATIONAL
INCOME AVERAGE
TOTAL SECTOR EMPLOYMENT
23,180Degree Median Salary vs Adjacent Degree Types
Source: BLS, US Census, and IPEDS
2025 Best Theology Degree
Harvard University offers a number of top ranked degrees in Theology. One example is the Religious Literacy: Traditions and Scriptures, in this course students will learn how to better understand the complex ways that religions function both in historic and contemporary contexts. A course in Buddhism through its Scriptures is also available, it teaches about the rich and diverse beliefs and practices of Buddhists across time and place. The other four courses are Islam through its Scriptures, Judaism through its Scriptures, Christianity through its Scriptures, and Hinduism through its scriptures.
Acceptance Rate
4.64
Student to Faculty Ratio
7:1
Yale University’s Department of Religious Studies aims to provide opportunities for the scholarly study of a number of religious traditions and disciplines. The undergraduate level will be offered with a wide array of courses which covers the major religions of the world. A strong emphasis on the world’s religions’ history and intellectual traditions are also included. At the graduate level, there are ten fields organized in the Department such as Ancient Christianity, Islamic Studies, New Testament, Old Testament, Religious ethics, American Religious History, Asian Religions, Judaic Studies, Philosophy of Religion and Theology.
Acceptance Rate
6.08
Student to Faculty Ratio
6:1
University of Chicago offers a world class academic degree in Theology. This program is concerned with the historical study of the self-understanding of a religious tradition. So, students here will address questions of the history of theology. They will also consider the definitive characteristics of theological claims and discourse.
Acceptance Rate
6.17
Student to Faculty Ratio
5:1
Duke Divinity University offers seven-degree programs which they claim that can help students answer God’s call. They also have three joint degree programs that are available to students through partnerships with Duke Law School, Duke Sanford School of Public Policy, and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Social Work. Lectures, workshops and discussions with renowned leaders in Christian theology will be provided in these programs. They guarantee that each student will receive the kind of support they need in order to reach success.
Acceptance Rate
7.6
Student to Faculty Ratio
6:1
University of Notre Dame is known to be the most important Catholic and ecumenical centers in North America for advanced study in theology. They are currently offering program for PhD in Theology where students will be mentored by world-class scholars. Students receive access to the vast research and learning opportunities. The curriculum provided will give experience in depth and diversity.
Acceptance Rate
15.83
Student to Faculty Ratio
10:1
Graduate Department of Religion at Vanderbilt University offers a degree program in Theological Studies. Majors should complete Nineteenth Century Theology, Contemporary Theology, and must also take Seminar in Systematic Theology during each of their first two years of coursework. Those who concentrate in Theological Studies area should demonstrate proficiency in two languages of research. These languages are usually chosen from among French, Spanish or German.
Acceptance Rate
9.12
Student to Faculty Ratio
7:1
You can fine-tune your focus at Emory University’s Master of Theology. This is a one-year program of study that is beyond the first-level theological master’s degree. This is ideal for students who aspire to deepen their knowledge in a particular area of study that will enhance their academic knowledge or ministry skills. ThM Students usually focus on one of these courses of study: preaching and worship, theology and ethics, Bible, pastoral care, or religious education.
Acceptance Rate
15.6
Student to Faculty Ratio
9:1
School of Theology and Ministry at Boston College takes information seriously. They say that the study of theology is actually about transformation. Their objective is to produce graduates that are prepared to be the leaders and agents of transformation in the Church and in the World. Their world-class faculty are recognized for their theological expertise.
Acceptance Rate
27.22
Student to Faculty Ratio
13:1
Boston University’s School of Theology will make you dig into traditions and rethink them. They take much pride in their community of learners who always think creatively about real-world problems. Those who will be admitted here will have the opportunity to learn alongside accomplished students while being guided through rigorous academic programs by world-class faculty. The School of Theology at Boston University’s faith is diverse but their callings are varied.
Acceptance Rate
18.94
Student to Faculty Ratio
10:1
Villanova University’s Department of Theology and Religious Studies utilizes a faith engaging culture approach. They offer undergraduate and graduate level programs. They have scholars that explore how religion influences the way people spend money, support philanthropic causes, and vote in elections. While some study the medieval mysticism, papal history, lineaments of liturgy, and science and religion.
Acceptance Rate
28.24
Student to Faculty Ratio
11:1
Ohr Hameir Theological Seminary has been endowed with a distinct and coherent sense of purpose regarding the education of young adults. They were also recognized for being a tribute to the foresight of its founder, rabbi Israel Kanarek zt’l. Ohr Hameir is devoted in dual objectives of promoting the Lomdus approach to Talmudic learning as well as to the development of the ethical perception and depth of thought. The unique feature of Ohr Hameir program is the development of the total “Torah personality”.
Acceptance Rate
50
Student to Faculty Ratio
18:1
Santa Clara University believes that the most dynamic and rigorous learning occurs when scholarship and culture intersects. Their Jesuit School of Theology is designed to help their students find their purpose. They are located in Berkeley, California and is an international center for the study of theology. They provide opportunities to critically and faithfully engage the two-thousand-year tradition of Christianity.
Acceptance Rate
48.82
Student to Faculty Ratio
10:1
Fordham University is currently offering an undergraduate program in Theology. The discipline of this program tackles important life questions by engaging a variety of disciplines, including philosophy, literary, and history studies. Majors will receive an excellent liberal arts education. They will learn the crucial skills of thinking critically and analytically.
Acceptance Rate
45.88
Student to Faculty Ratio
15:1
The Study of Theology at Providence College is an integral portion and the heart of their core curriculum. Students here engage in a practice of reasoned inquiry of faith and the great questions of life. The courses required in theology are designed to increase and deepen the exposure of students to the fruit of centuries of Christian thinking about God. It will give emphasis on the appreciation of the catholic and Dominican views of the religious and spiritual dimension of human life.
Acceptance Rate
47.46
Student to Faculty Ratio
11:1
Southern Methodist University is currently offering a degree program in Master of Theology. In this program, graduate students will enhance their practice of ministry with the help of advanced study of a theological or pastoral discipline. They will be taught how to conduct scholarly examinations of a specific aspect of the Christian Religion or function of Christian ministry. This is also a great way to prepare for a more advanced study at the doctoral level.
Acceptance Rate
47.29
Student to Faculty Ratio
N.A
The study of Theology at Divine Word College is not just academic, it is a faith experience. The Theology and Religious Study degree challenges its students to develop intellectually as they prepare for the ministry. This program is also designed as one of personal faith formation. This is a combination of academic knowledge with critical thinking and spiritual development.
Acceptance Rate
62.5
Student to Faculty Ratio
4:1
The study of Theology at the University of Dallas is faith seeking understanding. They provide an intellectually rigorous Catholicism, they claim that their task isn’t primarily catechetical, rather a theological one. They integrate History of Christian Doctrine, Moral Theology, Systematic Theology, and Scripture. Up to now, they still continue to strive to be scripturally and historically rooted and faithful to Catholic teaching.
Acceptance Rate
45.34
Student to Faculty Ratio
11:1
Gonzaga University is currently offering a program for Master’s in Theology & Leadership. This degree brings theological reflection and leadership together in a one-of-a-kind program. This is designed to build upon student’s knowledge of Christian theological traditions. At the same time, it will help them gain real tools and insights to be a more effective leader in their church, organization and community.
Acceptance Rate
61.7
Student to Faculty Ratio
11:1
A PhD in Theological Studies is currently available at Saint Louis University. This program is designed to train scholars in one of the two concentrations which reflects areas of research excellence and depth among their faculty: Christian theology, and Christianity in antiquity. No matter what their concentration, students can expect to explore a wide range of methodological approaches. Students will be formed as both scholars and teachers.
Acceptance Rate
58.28
Student to Faculty Ratio
9:1
Union University will help you to be devoted, to be a disciple and to be transformed through their Union’s School of Theology and Missions. This is best suited for those who want to prepare for the ministry. This School has always been devoted to rigorous academics and attention to students as individuals. Their overall goal is to help students be committed to Church and reach the nations through the gospel.
Acceptance Rate
52.72
Student to Faculty Ratio
10:1
Both Theology and Religious Studies are offered at the University of San Francisco reflects the University’s justice and service-oriented mission. They offer a major and minor program that prepares students for the demands of this rapidly changing world. In an aim to make students familiar with major religious traditions, symbols and values, the programs are designed to systematically and critically explore human religious experiences in a variety of cultures. As the students proceed studying in these programs, they will develop deeper appreciation on the role of religion in life.
Acceptance Rate
64.42
Student to Faculty Ratio
13:1
A minor and major in Theology are both available at Stonehill College. These programs are structured to systematically examine religious beliefs. It will foster interdisciplinary study that will allow the students to explore topics including the church, ethics, and their intersection with contemporary life. Through the courses provided, students will critically study religious practice, experience, and faith that are rooted in contextual understanding and historical awareness.
Acceptance Rate
67.69
Student to Faculty Ratio
12:1
The School of Theology at Sewanee – The University of the South, have committed themselves in providing quality theological education for all. This is the home of the clergy education and training. The standard to which the school is held is based on the Book of Common Prayer and the Hymnal 1982. They promote excellence in performing faithful and effective clergy and develop future leaders for the Church.
Acceptance Rate
66.71
Student to Faculty Ratio
10:1
Academics, spiritual formation, and service are joined together at LeTourneau University in order to make a practical difference for the world. Their programs in Theology have 100% placement rate and 100% of their faculty have international ministry experience. They claim that their School in Theology and Vocation plays an important role in encouraging the university to participate in God’s mission in redemption of this world. This school is tailored to facilitate faith integration and to encourage the discovery of God's calling.
Acceptance Rate
44.51
Student to Faculty Ratio
11:1
Harding University offers programs in Religious Studies through their School of Theology. They have certificate, Master, and Doctorate programs. The Certificate in Spiritual Leadership is specifically offered for individuals who seek to better understand the Biblical model of leadership in the church context. To see the other important details for the other programs, you may visit the school website.
Acceptance Rate
61.34
Student to Faculty Ratio
16:1
Top Theology Degrees
There are a number of college degrees available to students and practitioners today in theology. In fact, the choices increase markedly with the proliferation of online theology programs across the country. Online college degree programs are also known as distance learning programs and are the fastest growing type of degree option for several years running.
Online theology programs can come in two different modalities that you need to be cognizant about: synchronous learning and asynchronous learning. The easiest way to think about the difference is to remember that synch means to bring things together. As such, synchronous learning happens through online college degree programs when everyone in a class is required to be present at the same time, reviewing the same material simultaneously. Instead of being physically present in a classroom, you will be present remotely via the internet and participate accordingly.
On the other hand, asynchronous learning does not require students to be logged in at the same time but are self-directed as you work on material at your pace. If you are considering a college degree in theology, online or offline, the list below is intended to help you make the best choice for your future with the options available.
Associate Degree in Theology
An associate degree in theology is a 2-year program and seen as the entry point into various religious organizations and church groups. Online associate degrees in theology will often be an AA or Associate of Arts degree with a defined area of emphasis. Three of the most popular AA programs in the theology degree concentration include:
- Associate of Arts in Christian Counseling (AA)
- Associate of Arts in Christian Leadership (AA)
- Associate of Arts in Religion (AA)
All three Associate degree tracks include a mix of liberal arts courses and core theology curriculum. The combination of both types of classes provide students with a well-rounded education and help students think differently about the world around them. Career options for theology majors earning an associates degree include: clergy, chaplaincy, social services, business, communications, education, missions, religious communities, and health ministries.
Bachelor Degree in Theology
A bachelors degree in theology is a 4-year program designed to provide students with substantive exposure to general education courses and theology studies in a particular area of concentration. The most popular online bachelor degree programs include the following Bachelor of Arts (BA) and Bachelor of Science (BS) programs:
- Bachelors in Media Ministry (BA)
- Bachelors in Ministry (BA)
- Pastoral Leadership (BS)
- Bachelors in Biblical & Studies (BS)
- Music & Worship Studies (BS)
- Bachelors in Youth Ministry (BA)
- Bachelors in Philosophy & Religion (BA)
- Bachelors in Global Outreach (BS)
- Christian Leadership & Church Ministries (BS)
- Christian Worship (BS)
- Theology and Apologetics (BS)
Master Degree in Theology
Earning a masters degree in theology is a 1-2 year program of full-time work after successfully completing all requisite lower-level classes. Masters degree programs provide a higher degree of focus on core concentrations with little to no general education courses. Students graduating from an accredited college or university with a masters degree in theology are equipped to launch a career in a wide variety of fields from urban ministry to school teacher. A list of popular online master degree programs in theology include the following:
- Christian Apologetics (MACA)
- Christian Ministries (MACM)
- Divinity (MDiv)
- Biblical Languages (MDiv)
- Marriage and Family Counseling (MA)
- Crisis Response and Trauma (MA)
- Christian Counseling (MA)
- Theology (MA)
- Biblical Studies (MDiv)
- Homiletics (MA)
- Religion (MAR)
- Healthcare Chaplaincy (MDiv)
- Worship Studies (MA)
- Christian Leadership & Church Ministries (MDiv)
- Pastoral Counseling (MA)
- Evangelism and Church Planting (MAR)
Educational Requirements for Theology Majors
A degree in theology asks students to explore religious systems in a variety of contexts. Individuals studying in a theology program will explore the history of religion, examining documents and books relevant to the religion. In addition, students will be asked to compare religions, examining the similarities and differences in doctrine. In the United States theology programs were often at the core of private institutions, many of which were founded with religious leanings. Currently the program is often offered at seminaries or liberal arts colleges, resulting in degrees at the bachelor, master and doctoral degrees. Some programs may require the learning of an ancient language, such as Aramaic, Ancient Greek, Latin or Hebrew, in order to read texts in their original or near original form.
A theology program curriculum may include:
- Prophetic Literature
- Historical Books Survey
- Poetic Literature
- History of Christianity
- Biblical Theology
What Schools Offer Theology Programs?
There are dozens and dozens of accredited colleges and universities that offer theology programs. From a local college in your state to an online master’s degree in divinity from a large university, you have more choice today than ever. To learn more about colleges and universities offering theology programs, you can simply visit any number of programs below or sort by state on this resource page. You can also utilize our proprietary college matching tool for online programs and traditional degrees to collect information from different schools from around the country to best fit your goals. The key is to start learning today and determine which schools best fit your career objectives and vocational aspirations.
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Employment Opportunities in Theology
Individuals pursuing a career with a theology degree will find that the most prominent jobs available are in the clergy. As many seminaries offer educations in theology, it is the goal of such institutions to prepare individuals to do God's work in whichever branch of Christianity they pursue. Entering into the clergy allows individuals to pursue further theological studies with the context of organized religion while disseminating the traditions and values to their congregation.
Other positions available to individuals involve educational opportunities, particularly college level teaching positions typically requiring a master's degree. University positions, including research positions, generally require a doctoral degree or extensive experience. Individuals may also end up in research and advisory positions, often employed by the government to evaluate and understand religious motivations of the populace and to promote sensitivity to their beliefs.
Theology Degree Programs Near You
To find theology degrees offered from accredited colleges or universities, you can complete a targeted search by degree or school. Alternatively, you can search for theology and ministry degrees by state to find programs near you. The list below represents the states that have at least six bible colleges offering an array of online theology degrees and in class degree options. Simply search and sort schools that fit you best and obtain no-obligation admissions information from top rated accredited bible colleges near you.
Career Outlook for Theology Majors
The average starting salary for a theology major is approximately $35,000 per year, with the average overall salary being $52,000 per year. Salaries in theology will vary wildly based on position, rank, experience and education, individuals who pursue higher level degrees will be more likely to be promoted.
Individuals interested in theology may also be interested in religious studies, divinity and ministry, or rabbinical studies. In addition, you may benefit from joining an association such as the APT or RTA to enhance your career opportunities in the field.