Online Master’s In Divinity Programs

An online Master's in Divinity program can help provide the foundation to serve in Christian or spiritual ministry. Search among our top-rated programs.

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Updated April 10, 2023

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Online Master’s In Divinity Programs

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Pursue a Career in Ministry with a Online Master's in Divinity

A career in ministry, apologetics or church outreach is one of passion and a foundation in biblical studies. An online master's program in divinity is ideal for both existing spiritual or religious leaders or individuals who are looking to enter ministry for the first time. An online master's degree in divinity provides flexibility to study from anywhere and at your own pace and equips students with the knowledge and tools for long-term careers in public ministry. Learn which online divinity programs offer the best combination of affordability and quality theological education, and explore the coursework and career potential for students intending to become ministers, scholars and leaders after earning an online master's in divinity.


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What Can I Learn in an Online Divinity Master's Program?

A staple in any online divinity master's program is teaching the skills to minister or be involved in ministries for churches or organizations in your community or around the world. Online master's programs in divinity offer advanced theological training where students will be exposed to religious inquiry and scriptural study. This program prepares students spiritually and educationally for leadership, ministry and service by teaching investigative faith skills as well as various religions and ideologies from all over the world.

There are different types of master's level degrees in divinity and theology, and it's important to understand which is right for your career aspirations before enrollment.

Students may choose a general ministry program track or a more specialized track to prepare for ministry leadership or doctoral studies. Generally, an online master's in divinity will take two to three years to complete. Professors and acclaimed theologians may be on staff impart knowledge and guidance in Christian ethics, preaching and apologetics.

Students will learn skills they can take into public ministry, including:

What common courses are offered in a master's in divinity program?

The courses offered for online master's programs in divinity vary from school to school, but core coursework in biblical languages, history, theology, scripture and practical ministry skills is customary across the board. These classes prepare students to face the challenges and responsibilities in modern Christianity as teachers, spiritual leaders, administrators and counselors.

What exams or projects should I expect?

At the completion of your master's program in divinity, there could be different knowledge measurement requirements to prepare for. A university may mandate a ministry internship in the local community, where students are asked to engage in a supervised ministry experience or work with a mentor as a practical ministry project.

Students may also be required to develop a personal statement of calling and vocational identity at the completion of the program.

What specializations are available in a master's in divinity program?

When choosing a master's program in divinity, students can often choose between generalized study or one specific area of focus that reflects their career goals or specific ministry needs. Specializations by religion or desired position within ministry are available, and each specialization offers an in-depth experience and provides foundational biblical studies to meet field-specific needs.

AffordableCollegesOnline.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

Accredited Online College Programs

Explore our featured online programs and find the right match for you today.

What Can I do with a Master's in Divinity Degree?

The skills learned from an online master's program in divinity can be applied to occupations in both the professional and academic world. From biblical knowledge of scripture and theology to practical ministry skills, the coursework prepares students to serve in congregational capacities, on campus, in emerging ministry, on international missions, for social justice, in non-profit work, or in a Christian education setting. Check out a few potential career opportunities earning an online master's in divinity can open up:

Professional Organizations

There are many professional Christian organization dedicated to helping students seeking to further their career success. They offer networking opportunities, educational workshops, certifications and resources to members.

The goal of AACC is to assist Christian counselors, pastors and other church members with attending to the modern-day needs and issues of those within the church and without. AACC helps members faithfully serve others by providing educational materials and psychological insights to help increase spiritual maturity. A membership with CBN offers access to a network of like-minded individuals seeking to prosper in their professions while serving the church and the community. CBN provides resources, networking opportunities and other services to help members fulfill their callings. For those seeking to serve as a Christian educator, counselor, social worker or psychologist, a membership with CAPS will provide a network of support. Get the latest developments in the counseling and behavioral sciences and learn how to integrate these into the Christian faith. ABC seeks to encourage all believers by equipping them with a robust biblical worldview to apply the relevance of the Gospel to matters that arise within counseling. ABC offers training and certification to help build a stronger foundation of knowledge around Scripture.

How Much Can I Make with a Career in Divinity?

Since an online master's in divinity degree can have so many different specializations, there are a wide number of careers open to degree-holders after grad school. The chart below shows a range of salaries currently earned by degree holders. However, some positions may require additional training, experience, or certification in addition to the divinity master's degree and the salaries listed below may not reflect the average rate for your area.

Salary Growth Potential
Career Lowest 10% Earned Annually Median Annual Salary Highest 10% Earned Annually Job Growth 2016-2026
Clergy, Pastoral, Ministry $25,430$47,100 $80,060 +8%
Religion Professors$37,070 $69,590$129,490+15%
Social and Community Service Managers $39,730$64,100$109,990 +18%
Marriage and Family Therapist $31,390 $48,790 $81,760 +23%

Source: BLS, 2019

Graduating with a master's degree in divinity can open more doors to those looking to serve or lead in ministry. Average salary statistics pulled from workers around the U.S. show those with a pastoral ministry certification earn less than those who have earned a master's in divinity for similar work. The Center on Education and the Workforce estimates that individuals with a master's degree in theology or religious vocations earn an average of $51,000, compared to the earnings of $43,000 with only a bachelor's degree.

Online Master's in Divinity Program Accreditation

Accreditation is a mark of assurance for students, signaling that the quality of an online divinity master's program is aligned with industry standards and regulations. Students can take pride in knowing they're receiving an academically challenging and high-quality education rooted in a biblical view. Regional accrediting agencies, such as the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, are the highest accreditation possible for colleges and universities. Other theological accrediting agencies, like the Commission on Accrediting of the Association of Theological Schools, make sure that the biblical knowledge students are receiving is grounded in scripture and a solid foundation for religious leadership.

How to Pay for a Master's in Divinity Degree

Students earning a master's in divinity degree may need financial support while earning their degree. There are many different options available to help students fund their master's in divinity degree. A few options for divinity students are listed below.

Online Master's in Divinity Programs 2022

#1 Online Master’s In Divinity Programs

Moody Bible Institute

  • Chicago, IL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

A graduate degree from Moody Bible Institute helps professionals advance their careers and pursue new opportunities. With a rigorous curriculum and faculty experts, the master of divinity ranks among the top programs in the field. Learners interact through class discussions, and the program also uses video lectures and assignments. Students enrolled full time typically earn their master's degree within two years. The program may also offer part-time options for graduate students.

As an accredited institution, the school can disburse federal financial aid. Master's programs help learners gain the knowledge and skills they need to secure roles in their field.

Moody Bible Institute at a Glance:

Number of Learners Enrolled Online: 1,265

Online Master's Program Offerings: 2

Graduate School Tuition Rate: $8,010 in-state and out-of-state

The school holds accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$11,200
Out-of-state
$11,200
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,010
Out-of-state
$8,010
Retention Rate
81%
Acceptance Rate
94%
Students Enrolled
3,009
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
42% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#2 Online Master’s In Divinity Programs

University of Northwestern St. Paul

  • Saint Paul, MN
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The University of Northwestern St. Paul educates undergraduate and graduate degree-seekers from its campus in Minnesota. Distance learners can pursue master's programs online.

Online degree-seekers can enroll in the master of divinity program from the institution. Learners currently employed in the theology field can pursue promotions or raises after earning their master's degree. Faculty advising, career counseling, and experiential learning programs prepare graduates for the workforce.

The school charges online enrollees affordable tuition rates and offers institutional funding for eligible applicants. The institution holds accreditation, which means students can submit the FAFSA to receive federal grants and loans. Learners may also qualify for scholarships and fellowships.

University of Northwestern St. Paul at a Glance:

Students Receiving Aid: 100%

Students Receiving Loans: 37%

Total Master's Programs: 6

Total Online Master's Programs: 6

Transfer Credits Permitted: No

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$31,580
Out-of-state
$31,580
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,982
Out-of-state
$8,982
Retention Rate
82%
Acceptance Rate
92%
Students Enrolled
3,525
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
50% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#3 Online Master’s In Divinity Programs

Southeastern University

  • Lakeland, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Undergraduate and graduate degree-seekers can pursue Southeastern University's programs online or in person. The private institution delivers online master's programs. The school's graduate-level offerings include a flexible master of divinity for students interested in theology.

The online divinity program begins with core classes. The program also includes advanced classes and electives, which allow degree-seekers to tailor the curriculum to their interests. Faculty mentorship, experiential learning opportunities, and electives help graduate students individualize the program.

After earning the master of divinity, graduates often qualify for raises and promotions. The institution's career resources include faculty advisors and career counselors, who help students locate job placements.

Degree-seekers with financial need can apply for federal grants and loans. Current professionals can research tuition reimbursement programs to reduce out-of-pocket expenses. At the school, 99% of students obtain financial aid to pay for their degree.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$25,620
Out-of-state
$25,620
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$12,810
Out-of-state
$12,810
Retention Rate
65%
Acceptance Rate
48%
Students Enrolled
9,894
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
48% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#4 Online Master’s In Divinity Programs

Clarks Summit University

  • South Abington Township, PA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Clarks Summit University educates online graduate degree-seekers from its campus in South Abington Township, Pennsylvania. The private institution's offerings include an online master of divinity. After earning the master's degree, graduates can launch a new career in the theology field.

Faculty advisors support graduate students with academic advice and professional input regarding the field's current challenges. While earning the master of divinity, enrollees complete a rigorous curriculum comprising core and specialized coursework. In addition to covering foundational knowledge, the curriculum emphasizes career-specific analytical and leadership skills.

Learners pursuing online graduate programs benefit from the school's affordable tuition rates. Financial aid counselors help degree-seekers understand funding options and reduce out-of-pocket expenses. The school supports online learners through institutional funding.

Clarks Summit University at a Glance:

Online Master's Programs: 6

Total Online Programs: 11

Number of Online Students: 490

Graduate Tuition In-State: $8,160

Graduate Tuition Out-of-State: $8,160

Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$26,082
Out-of-state
$26,082
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,160
Out-of-state
$8,160
Retention Rate
78%
Acceptance Rate
41%
Students Enrolled
771
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
64% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#5 Online Master’s In Divinity Programs

Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary

  • Kansas City, MO
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary is a leader in online learning. The rigorous curriculum and expert faculty make the master of divinity a top program in the field. Distance learners work with advisors, IT professionals, and other support staff at the school. The divinity program uses video lectures, assignments, and class discussions to educate graduate students.

Graduate students can use financial aid such as loans and scholarships to cover tuition expenses. In addition to this online theology program, Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary offers six other master's degrees.

Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary Fast Facts:

Number of Online Students: 1,482

Online Master's Options: 7

Grad School Tuition: $5,904 in-state and out-of-state

Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary has been accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,920
Out-of-state
$7,920
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,904
Out-of-state
$5,904
Retention Rate
80%
Acceptance Rate
100%
Students Enrolled
3,038
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
49% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

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