Top 25 Colleges with Divinity Degree Programs New for 2021

What is a Divinity Degree? 

A divinity degree program covers Christian principles. It does this by studying the Bible through courses that focus on ministry skills and theology. These areas may ready grads to go for ordination.

Divinity refers to the quality or nature of God’s being. So, the coursework tends to explain Jesus Christ, the holy trinity, Christian faith and doctrine. Then puts it together with practical areas like counseling and leadership. 

Types of Divinity Degrees 

There are typically three degree levels when studying divinity. A Bachelor of Divinity (BDiv or BA). The Master of Divinity or MDiv. And a Doctor of Divinity, DD. 

Bachelor’s Degree in Divinity 

An online bachelor’s in divinity degree program is an entry level degree program. To start studying for a bachelors degree you usually need a high school diploma or GED.  

Many divinity schools award a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Science (BS) in Religious Studies. It is a theology degree that tends to build a foundation in the Bible and how to make sense of its messages. 

Once you graduate, these degrees might equip you for the ministry field. Though some graduates may use a BS/BA as a step towards the Master of Divinity.  

The number and types of classes available vary. A BS program usually entails about 120 credit hours and take four years full time to complete. If you have eligible credits from an associate degree it may shorten this path. 

Find Degree Programs

Bible

STUDY OF THE SCRIPTURE
An introduction to the basic principles used to interpret the Bible. This skill may help you apply the Scripture in all its genres to modern issues. 

teaching the bible

PRACTICAL TEACHING OF SCRIPTURE
A study of the basic principles and methods of teaching and learning as they apply to the sharing the Bible’s messages across various age groups.  

pastor

CHURCH HISTORY
Survey of the movements and ideas which have influenced the church from the 2nd century until the Reformation. A part II may pick up from here until the 21st century. 

therapy

INTRO TO APOLOGETICS 
This course teaches the basic skills to engage with the questions, doubts, and skepticism of unbelievers and believers. It tends to be an important area for those planning to go for a career in vocational ministry. 

theology writing

THEOLOGICAL WRITING 
An intro to the research processes used to study religion. Including for theology, biblical studies, ethics and history. At the same time, you may learn how to read with a critical eye, write in clear terms and edit.  

Master’s Degree in Divinity 

An online master of divinity degree (MDiv) program is a professional degree program. It often takes a deep and well rounded look at classical areas. Like Church history, biblical studies, and theology. 

The number of credits to complete is usually more than the standard Master of Arts (which is about 36). For this degree, it is more in the range of 70 to 90, spread out over about two to three years. That’s because there tends to be a mentored ministry practicum and capstone.  

As a rule, you may need a BA/BS to gain entry. Some schools may also want to see a level of devotion and your GPA. 

What’s the difference between an MDiv and MTS (Master of Theological Studies or Master of Theology, ThM) 

As a general rule, the MDiv includes a thesis, fieldwork, and studies in one language of the Bible (like Hebrew). It is often thought of as a terminal degree since it is the education needed to pursue ordination.  

An MTS/ThM is an academic study of religion without mandatory clinical pastoral studies. It tends to include scholarly research and logical writing for those whose calling is to serve in religious education. Or, for those planning to go onto a doctoral program.  

Many schools also offer an area of focus. It may be optional for the MDiv but not necessarily for the MTS. This is an area of study apart from the core that you tailor to career goals. You may want to explore a certain kind of ministry work, leadership, administration or evangelism. 

pastor

CHURCH ADMINISTRATION 
A study of administrative ideas and practices for the local church. It often looks at staff, finances, buildings, and public relations in churches. 

gospels and acts

BIBLICAL FOUNDATIONS OF CHRISTIAN LEADERSHIP
This course aims to explores the topic of leadership from a biblical and theological lens. You might look more deeply at the Old and New Testaments for examples of leaders. 

group therapy

SMALL GROUP MINISTRIES
This course may deal with two aspects of group ministry. First, how to organize and minister to a small group. And second, small group dynamics. 

Bible

BIBLICAL LANGUAGES
Greek and Hebrew are the ancient languages of the Bible. So these courses may study language to help you interpret the Scriptures. 

ministry

PREACHING AND WORSHIP 
To help you plan and lead in thoughtful worship of God as well as communicate God’s word in a clear and understandable way. Some programs may also put the Bible’s messages in a modern context. 

theology

PRACTICAL THEOLOGY
May draw on Scripture as well as more recent literature of the Church. In studying these texts, the goal is to grow the skills to articulate the Christian world view for life and ministry.

Doctor of Divinity 

An online Doctor of divinity program (DD or DDiv) program is typically the highest level of degree program in this field. It tends to be an honorary degree for the experienced and licensed church leader. That means assistant or senior minister, elder, deacon, missionary, teacher, prison ministry, or chaplaincies.  

Because it is an honorary degree, the DD often differs from the PhD which is an earned research degree. This may make admission more rigorous as it tends to be about academic vs. religious accomplishments. And, some specific churches may award the DD based on a clergy person’s religious service and devotion. 

Bible

THEOLOGICAL STUDIES 
This class may include research and written work in a certain religious theme. 

Old Testament

OLD TESTAMENT 
To show skills/knowledge in the Old Testament through research and writing. 

gospels and acts

NEW TESTAMENT  
To show skills/knowledge in the New Testament through research and writing. 

Find Degree Programs

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

The time it takes to earn a degree in Divinity online varies by program level as well as format (part time/full time). A Bachelor’s degree often takes four years. Less if you transfer in eligible credits from an associate’s degree, military or other approved sources. From there, an MDiv usually takes another two to three years. A PhD requires a final dissertation so plan to count at least three more.  

Self paced courses may also provide a faster path to graduation. Some online colleges use this model and it enables students to move through material without waiting for others.

How much does a Divinity Degree cost? 

Per the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), for the 2018/19 academic year the cost of a public 4 year college was $24,900. This includes tuition, required fees, books and supplies and living on campus. That said, Christian colleges, bible colleges and seminary schools are often nonprofit private schools. And these schools tend to cost more ($51,900) also cites the NCES. 

Our Top 25 Colleges with Divinity Degrees

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

top 25 divinity degree programs

#1 LIBERTY UNIVERSITY

Bachelor of Science in Religion (online)

This is a four year program requiring 122 credits. There may be options for completing the degree and finishing up a masters and doctorate as well.

Courses Include:

  • Foundations of Christian Ministry
  • Leadership for Christian Ministry
  • Intro to Expository Preaching
  • Advanced Expository Preaching

Key Skills:

  • Communications
  • Group leadership
  • Effective listening

More Programs:

N/A

#2 SOUTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY

Master of Divinity (online)

Southeastern’s MDiv aims to equip you to go for a professional ministry career. The program takes 72 credit hours and three years of full time study. It may delve into the Old and New Testaments as well as the languages of the Bible (Greek and Hebrew). There is also a Chaplaincy Track which entails a supervised ministry experience.

Courses Include:

  • Systematic Theology
  • Preaching and Leadership
  • Pastoral Counseling

Key Skills:

  • Conciliation and dealing with conflict
  • Group dynamics
  • Sermon structure

More Programs:

BA in Humanitarian Compassion | BS in Human Services | BS in Ministerial Leadership

#3 SOUTHEASTERN BAPTIST THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY

Master of Divinity / Christian Ministry (online)

SEBTS offers an 82 credit MDiv program. As a student, you may study academic and practical areas. The school suggests online students pursue the Christian Ministry focus. It allows for many elective hours. As such it may be a flexible option. Graduates may go onto serve in a local church or pursue a PhD.

Courses Include:

  • Biblical Studies
  • Christian history
  • Applied Ministry

Key Skills:

  • Leadership
  • Administration
  • Interpret the Bible

More Programs:

N/A

#4 THE SOUTHERN BAPTIST THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY

Master of Divinity (online)

SBTS has a global campus through which it offers this 88 credit program. Every student takes foundation courses and may choose from many electives. Courses start every 8 weeks and content is often consistent with the on campus variation. There may also be a few tracks to choose from. Biblical Counseling, Christian Ministry and Great Commission Studies. A few others are in the works for 2021.

Courses Include:

  • Biblical Hermeneutics
  • Systematic Theology I,II,III
  • Survey of Christian Ethics

Key Skills:

  • Discipleship and Family Ministry
  • Biblical Counseling
  • Preaching

More Programs:

N/A

#5 ASBURY THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY

Master of Divinity (online)

Asbury offers a 96 credit hour MDiv program. It typically covers biblical and theological basics in Scripture. Plus, there is an option to earn your degree on campus, in a cohort model, urban ministry setting or online. You could also tailor your degree to meet your personal goals and ministry needs by choosing from 10 anchor areas. If you received a religion major or minor from an accredited college or university, you may transfer up to 18 credits. 

Courses Include:

  • Vocation of Ministry
  • Theology of John Wesley
  • Christian Doctrine

Key Skills:

  • Ability to interpret Scripture within a ministry context
  • Wesleyan habits of personal and social holiness
  • Practical skills through internships and immersions 

More Programs:

N/A

#6 ANDREWS UNIVERSITY

Bachelor of Arts in Religion (online)

Andrews U offers an interactive and self paced 124 credit BA. It has three start dates with year round admission. The school typically encourages students to nurture their community through regular worship and participation in their local church.

Courses Include:

  • Theology I,II
  • Religion and Ethics
  • Personal Witnessing

Key Skills:

  • Engage in research
  • Explain the Christian faith
  • Understand the mission of the Seventh-day Adventist Church

More Programs:

BA/BS in General Studies | BS in Nursing

#7 SOUTHWESTERN BAPTIST THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY

Master of Divinity – Women’s Ministry (online)

Southwestern Seminary offers a range of MDiv programs. Each may suit a particular calling in ministry. This concentration is typically for the woman who plans to minister to women through the local church. It may be necessary to have one year of basic Greek or Hebrew. 

Courses Include:

  • Theology of Women
  • Women in Leadership
  • Counseling Women

Key Skills:

  • Reason through the Bible’s messages
  • Preaching
  • Understand women’s issues

More Programs:

N/A

#8 MIDWESTERN BAPTIST THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY

Bachelor of Arts in Christian Ministry (online)

The BACM at Midwestern is a flexible program which you may complete fully online, on campus or a mix. It also typically coordinates with other degree programs such as the MDiv, also through Sturgeon College.

Courses Include:

  • Entrepreneurial Leadership
  • World Religions
  • Personal Evangelism & Discipleship

Key Skills:

  • Interpersonal Counseling & Conflict Management
  • Church Administration
  • Church Planting and Church Growth

More Programs:

BA Interdisciplinary Studies

#9 NEW ORLEANS BAPTIST THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY

BA in Worship Ministry / Christian Ministry (online)

NOBTS offers a 121 credit program. It uses both weekly live streamed and self paced online formats. This program may also include many free electives. So, you may tailor it to interests and to further study at the Master’s level. Apart from your major, you may also choose a minor. Biblical Studies, Pastoral Ministry, Christian Education, Church Ministry, or Youth Ministry.

Courses Include:

  • Christian Foundation Core
  • Christian Ministry 
  • Bible Study

Key Skills:

  • Understanding of the Ministry
  • Effective communication
  • Servanthood

More Programs:

BA in Psychology and Counseling | BA in Biblical Studies | BA in Christian Worldview and Apologetics

#10 DALLAS THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY

Master of Arts in Chaplaincy and Ministry Care (online)

DTS offers fully online programs at the graduate levels. This one entails 79 credits and aims to prep grads to serve as chaplains in various settings. As such, MACP students may take classes that bridge pastoral care, practical life counseling and spiritual guidance. These areas typically take 3 years to complete.

Courses Include:

  • Bible Study Methods 
  • Trinitarianism
  • Counseling Theory

Key Skills:

  • Chaplaincy Orientation and Ethics
  • Applied Skills for Ministry Staff
  • Christian Life and Witness

More Programs:

N/A

#11 OHIO CHRISTIAN UNIVERSITY 

Bachelor of Arts in Leadership and Ministry (online)

OCU’s program features online courses in a 5 week format. The Leadership and Ministry major may be for adults who want to hone the skills to lead as Christians in secular, religious, professional, or personal arenas. There are 5 focal areas to choose from. Church Planting, Biblical Studies, Intercultural Ministries, Pastoral Ministry and Org’l Leadership.

Courses Include:

  • Exploring Christian Ministry
  • Evangelism and Discipleship
  • Ministry Leadership

Key Skills:

  • Integrate Christian principles
  • Articulate a doctrinal position
  • Communicate the Gospel

More Programs:

BA in Biblical Studies | BA in Pastoral Ministry

#12 FULLER THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY

Master of Divinity (online)

Fuller’s program aims to grow the skills needed for church ministry, chaplaincy, and advanced teaching. It entails 81 credits and may take as few as 2 ½ years to complete though many students use the online format to take longer (4 to 5 years). The coursework typically goes through several areas including ethics, Bible and theology. There may also be several tracks to focus your degree. Leadership in Times of Change, Pastoral Counseling and Biblical Studies. 

Courses Include:

  • Interpretive Practices 
  • God and Christ
  • Apprenticeship (9 months part time)

Key Skills:

  • Leadership
  • Preaching 
  • Evangelism

More Programs:

N/A

#13 GORDON CONWELL THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY

Master of Divinity (online)

Central to this program is the study of original Biblical languages. You may also study theology in depth and practical ministry. Other classes aim to help you grow spiritually and as a servant leader. 

Courses Include:

  • Theology Survey I,II
  • Exploring the Old Testament/New Testament
  • Pastoral Counseling

Key Skills:

  • Knowledge of Biblical Languages
  • Preach a sermon
  • Spiritual Formation

More Programs:

N/A

#14 REGENT UNIVERSITY

Bachelor of Arts in Christian Ministry (online)

Regent’s program aims to prepare you for ministry and grow in knowledge, faith and leadership. It entails 120 credits and comes with a choice of two focal areas. Pastoral Care and Church Music. For each area, you may take a range of core topics.

Courses Include:

  • Social Media in Ministry
  • Study of the Prophets
  • Pauline Literature

Key Skills:

  • Knowledge of Old/New Testaments
  • Strategies for sharing your faith 
  • Understand pastoral challenges

More Programs:

BA in Biblical and Theological Studies | BA in Leadership Studies 

#15 LUTHER RICE COLLEGE AND SEMINARY

Bachelor of Arts in Religion – Ministry (online)

Luther Rice’s program offers a major in Religion and minor in Ministry. It entails 120 credits though eligible students may transfer in up to 90 of these units. Apart from general college topics, the core program typically includes a deep look at the Bible as well as Ministry practicum. You may also choose six extra electives and these may be open to other areas as well.

Courses Include:

  • Principles of Ministerial Leadership
  • Survey of Christian Missions 
  • Survey of Biblical Interpretation

Key Skills:

  • Principles of Administration in Ministry
  • Public speech
  • Personal Evangelism

More Programs:

BAR in Christian Worldview | BAR in Ministry | BAR in Biblical Counseling

#16 LUTHER SEMINARY

Master of Divinity (online)

Luther’s four year M.Div. program includes three years of courses and one full year of internship. That said, you may finish earlier by studying and interning during the summer. Part of the course plan typically includes “contextual learning”. It usually asks you to choose from a variety of options to engage with the ministry in an off campus setting. For e.g., the Christian Public Leader (CPL) asks for about 20 hours of unpaid service in a particular ministry context.

Courses Include:

  • Clinical Pastoral Education
  • History of Christianity
  • Justice and Reconciliation

Key Skills:

  • Cross Cultural Education
  • Option: Spanish Language for Ministry
  • Congregational Mission and Leadership

More Programs:

N/A

#17 JOHNSON UNIVERSITY

Bachelor of Arts in Ministry Leadership (online)

JU’s degree may equip you with sound training in Bible, theology, and the leadership of Christian ministries. Other courses you may take include general college topics and arts/sciences electives.

Courses Include:

  • Encountering Cultures
  • Interpersonal and Family Relationships
  • Spiritual Formation for Ministry

Key Skills:

  • Holistic Approach
  • Problem Solving
  • Civic Engagement

More Programs:

BA in Children’s Ministry | BA in Creative Arts Ministry

#18 NYACK COLLEGE

Master of Divinity (online)

The Master of Divinity degree at Nyack College is wide in scope. It is a three year, 93 credit program designed to develop leaders for church. As such it focuses on three formational areas. Spiritual, biblical/theological and missional formations.

Courses Include:

  • Inter Cultural Studies
  • Global Theology
  • Spiritual Formation 

Key Skills:

  • Practical and empowered ministry skills
  • Holistic ministry
  • Understanding of the Bible 

More Programs:

N/A

#19 CAROLINA UNIVERSITY

Bachelor of Science in Religion (online)

Carolina U was Piedmont International University. Their MDiv aims to prepare graduates with skills to serve as pastors and chaplains. The curriculum may give a basic foundation for the work of the ministry. And, a well rounded look at the Bible and theology. You may also have the choice of 7 tracks to anchor your studies.

Courses Include:

  • Hebrew, Greek
  • Baptist History
  • Homiletics

Key Skills:

  • Language Tools
  • General knowledge of the Bible
  • Graduate level research

More Programs:

5 Year BA and MDiv | BA in Bible Studies

#20 DENVER SEMINARY

Master of Divinity (online)

Denver Seminary’s 79-credit-hour MDiv is fully online. Through virtual meetups, professors and classmates may cultivate live discussions and mentoring.

Courses Include:

  • Ministry Leadership
  • Kingdom Israel
  • Survey of Christian Doctrine

Key Skills:

  • Biblical languages
  • Leadership for worship
  • Biblical thinking

More Programs:

N/A

#21 CALVIN THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY

Master of Divinity (online)

Calvin offers a 101 credit hour program that may take 3 to 5 years to complete. Part of the courses may study the Bible and Reformed theological texts. Others, may go into the history of the Church, ancient languages and spiritual formation. You may also study worship planning and leading skills.

Courses Include:

  • Biblical Hebrew I,II
  • Foundations of Pastoral Care
  • Preaching Theory

Key Skills:

  • Analysis
  • Languages (Hebrew, Greek)
  • Cross cultural ministry 

More Programs:

N/A

#22 THE MASTER’S UNIVERSITY AND SEMINARY

Bachelor of Arts in Christian Ministries (online)

The aim of this program is to help you gain a biblical philosophy of ministry. There are 42 credits for the major (14 classes). Each class is 8 weeks long. 

Courses Include:

  • Foundations of Biblical Study
  • Principles of Effective Teaching
  • Contemporary Issues in Church Ministry

Key Skills:

  • Corporate worship
  • Church administration
  • Basic knowledge of Biblical counseling 

More Programs:

Bachelor of Business Administration | BA in Biblical Counseling | BA in Biblical Studies | BA in Organizational Management

#23 WESLEY THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY

Master of Divinity (online)

Wesley offers an 81 credit program that goes into basic and upper level topics. There is also a supervised field education and an intercultural immersion. The school also offers the MDiv as a dual degree with an MA or MTS degree which requires 111 credits. These programs may take 3 years of full-time study, but the school typically allows up to 7.

Courses Include:

  • Christian Ethics
  • Systemic Theology
  • Foundations of Preaching 

Key Skills:

  • Preaching and worship
  • Pastoral care and counseling
  • Leadership

More Programs:

N/A

#24 MERCER UNIVERSITY

Master of Divinity (online)

Mercer’s program entails 88 credits and comes with Fall or Summer entry points. Many students may complete their degree online in four years. Core areas of focus may include: Biblical Studies, Historical/Theological Studies, Global and Cultural Studies, Moral and Spiritual Formation Studies, and Ministerial and Public Leadership.

Courses Include:

  • Ministerial Formation
  • Christian Ethics
  • Spiritual Care

Key Skills:

  • Leadership
  • Ministry Skills
  • Knowledge of the Scriptures

More Programs:

BA in Classical Studies

#25 MOODY BIBLE INSTITUTE

Bachelor of Science in Integrated Ministry Studies (online)

Moody may offers this program as a degree completion if you bring in eligible transfer credits (up to 90 allowed). It is also flexible and may allow you to customize your courses. 

Courses Include:

  • Method for Biblical Theology
  • Interpreting Scripture
  • Self and Social Identity in Christianity

Key Skills:

  • Integrate the Bible into life/work
  • Develop your theology of work
  • Interpret Biblical texts

More Programs:

BS in Theological Studies | BS in Ministry Leadership | BS in Theological & Cultural Engagement | BS in Biblical Studies 

Accreditation 

National and regional agencies typically accredit schools in the United States. These agencies often conduct a review of a specific school to see if they meet their standards. Ones recognized by the Department of Education/Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) may take part in federal (sometimes state) financial aid.  

The CHEA accredits a few faith related agencies. 

There are also accreditors that are not U.S. Dept. Edu approved. One in particular is the AICCS. The Association of Independent Christian Colleges & Seminaries exists to help a Christian school to obtain accreditation that is not government affiliated. Sone 541 schools across the U.S. and globe are members.  

Is an Online Degree in Divinity worth it? 

According to O*NET, degree in divinity may provide versatile skills that may open up clergy career choices. Clergy work in Churches, hospitals, home health care services, nursing and schools for starters.  

As you may study a range of courses such as Bible, history, theology, philosophy, psychology, education a divinity degree may prepare you for graduate school or a career in pastoral ministry and Christian education.

Regardless of what path calls you, the reading and writing expected in these programs may work to shape a critical mindset. You may also develop an ability to speak well in public and interpret the Bible.

How Much Could You Earn?

A divinity degree may prepare you for ministry focused roles. Many of these jobs entail at least a bachelor’s degree or higher. According to 2019 O*NET data:

PHILOSOPY & RELIGIOUS PROFESSOR
Median Wage: $75,240
A theology professor may research as well as lecture students in two and four year colleges. Many of these occupations require a four-year bachelor’s degree, but some do not. Job growth is expected to be 5 to 7% through 2029.
CLERGY (Pastor / Priest)
Median Wage: $54,400
A preaching minister needs to be an effective sermon writer and public speaker. And, must have fluent knowledge of scripture. They are in charge of a Christian church or congregation. In this role, one often performs ceremonies like weddings. Job growth through 2029 is expected to be average at 3 to 4%. Many of these occupations require graduate school. For example, they may require a master’s degree, and some require a Ph.D.
DIRECTORS OF RELIGOUS ACTIVITIES & EDUCATION
Median Wage: $43,860
A women’s or youth ministry director may coordinate or craft programs and outreach to promote certain values and activities. Depending on the role, they may offer counseling, rooted in Christian values and the Bible. These roles are expected to grow 3 to 4% through 2029. Many of these occupations require a four year bachelor’s degree, but some do not.

How Much Do Members of the Clergy Make?

Members of the clergy include: Catholic Priests, Ministers, Pastors, Priests, Rabbis and Rectors.

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

StateSalaryEmployment
Alabama$47,250520
Alaska$45,920110
Arizona$55,230470
Arkansas$43,110360
California$65,2306,610
Colorado$56,140500
Connecticut$55,140680
Delaware$54,73060
Florida$47,510120
Georgia$50,2603,010
Hawaii$45,1301,030
Idaho$45,910160
Illinois$46,2002,160
Indiana$46,400970
Iowa$48,560380
Kansas$45,630370
Kentucky$50,520410
Louisiana$48,990360
Maine$51,010100
Maryland$52,280750
Massachusetts$61,330560
Michigan$44,3602,270
Minnesota$50,4601,360
Mississippi$46,730370
Missouri$49,360780
Montana$44,650720
Nebraska$45,920320
Nevada$54,270150
New Hampshire$60,870120
New Jersey$52,6301,230
New Mexico$54,070160
New York$51,2107,210
North Carolina$48,0801,120
North Dakota$50,300160
Ohio$45,9201,780
Oklahoma$48,110410
Oregon$48,4304,180
Pennsylvania$43,9602,430
Rhode Island$46,170350
South Carolina$49,120730
South Dakota$46,250150
Tennessee$48,820610
Texas$49,7003,140
UtahNANA
Vermont$49,79050
Virginia$44,1001,160
Washington$63,650730
West Virginia$37,380330
Wisconsin$54,520540
Wyoming$58,14050

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