19 Best Online Religious Studies Bachelor’s Degrees
Not knowing which religious studies program is truly the best online option can lead to choosing a program that doesn’t align with your goals, learning style, or schedule, resulting in an unsatisfying educational experience. This list gives you options for an online religious studies degree that suits various biblical principles and online education resources.
Best Online Religious Studies Program
The goal of a Bachelor’s Degree in Religious Studies program is to fully equip students with practical knowledge and principles on theological concepts, world religions, and religious traditions. The courses aim to help students achieve a detailed understanding of the relationship between religion and world cultures.
| College/University | Location | Popular Concentrations or Specializations | Average Annual Tuition |
| Liberty University | Virginia | Biblical Studies, Christian Ministry, Worship Studies, Pastoral Leadership, Theology | $22,000 |
| Saint Leo University | Florida | Theology, Religious Education, Pastoral Ministry, Biblical Studies | $14,000 |
| American Public University System | West Virginia | Comparative Religions, Ethics, Theology | $7,000 |
| Lee University | Tennessee | Biblical and Theological Studies, Intercultural Studies | $16,000 |
| Arizona State University | Arizona | Religion and Conflict, Religion in the Americas, Traditions and Cultures | $12,000 |
| Wayland Baptist University | Texas | Christian Studies, Biblical Languages | $15,000 |
| Toccoa Falls College | Georgia | Pastoral Ministry, Intercultural Studies, Biblical Studies | $17,000 |
| Southeastern University | Florida | Church Ministries, Intercultural Studies, Theological Studies | $18,000 |
| Regent University | Virginia | Biblical Studies, Christian Leadership, Practical Theology, Missiology, Church History | $18,000 |
| Dallas Baptist University | Texas | Biblical Studies, Christian Ministry, Theology | $28,000 |
| Oregon State University | Oregon | Comparative Religions, Religion and Culture, Ethics | $11,000 |
| Kentucky Wesleyan University | Kentucky | Biblical Studies, Theology, Ministry | $23,000 |
| Andrews University | Michigan | Church History, Theology, Archaeology | $21,000 |
| Crown College | Minnesota | Biblical Studies, Theology, Ministry Leadership | $22,000 |
| Louisiana State University | Louisiana | Comparative Religions, Biblical Studies, Theology | $11,000 |
| King University | Tennessee | Theology, Ministry, Biblical Studies | $24,000 |
| California State University Chico | California | Comparative Religions, Biblical Literature, Religious Thought | $7,000 |
| Florida International University | Florida | World Religions, Religion in the Americas, Ethics | $6,500 |
| Colorado Christian University | Colorado | Biblical Studies, Theology, Christian Ministry | $9,000 |
As distance education is now a viable option for earning a degree, many have decided to pursue religious studies as online students at Christian colleges. It provides a breadth of degree options from associate to master’s degree, a varied curriculum, faculty experts in these fields, affordable tuition for online learners, and robust online learning flexibility for students everywhere.
Liberty University
Liberty University is a private academic institution offering an online Bachelor of Arts in Religion. The goal is to educate students on the biblical foundations for ministry or pastoral leadership. Lessons and discussions focus on biblical doctrines, theology, and Christian philosophies.
Such a degree also aims to sharpen students’ critical thinking and research skills. Major courses deal with more research methods in multiple religious faiths and theological scripture interpretation.
One unique aspect of Liberty University is that it offers the most course options in religious studies. It offers flexible online religious degrees for careers in ministry, counseling, education, and beyond, with video lectures, discussion boards, and spiritual support services for students.
- Location: Lynchburg, Virginia
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACS), Association of Theological Schools
- Admissions: Official high school transcripts, supporting documents
- Financial support: Special chaplaincy programs, discounts, and scholarships for military personnel, scholarship grants, loans, federal work-study, external aid sources
Program Features
- 120 credits are required to complete eight weeks
- Multiple start dates
- Completion of a praxis-based capstone project or senior research project
- Minors include church ministries, Christian counseling, biblical studies
- College credits can come from prior learning, professional, or life experience (evangelism, youth ministry activities)
Course Options
- Biblical and Educational Studies
- Christian Leadership and Management
- Religion
- Biblical Studies
- Christian Counseling
- Christian Ministries
- Evangelism
- Jewish Cultural Studies
Saint Leo University
Saint Leo University offers an online Bachelor of Arts in Religion. It aims to provide students with a solid foundation in the Christian faith. Another goal of the program is to prepare students for ministry and theology-related work. Students may also explore other disciplines relating to religious studies.
Students interested may focus on other courses and co-curricular activities while earning their online degree. Saint Leo was ranked as the 62nd-best regional university in the South due to its focus on internships and external activities related to the degree program.
Saint Leo University’s program opens doors to church leadership, seminary, and service roles with robust spiritual forums, critical thinking activities, academic advising, and career preparation suited for working students.
- Location: St. Leo, Florida
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) Commission on Colleges, Association of Theological Studies
- Admissions: letter of recommendation; standardized test results
- Financial support: Federal, private, and state loans, grants, work-study opportunities, institutional scholarships
Program Features
- Flexible coursework and schedules
- Weekly deadlines for projects and assignments online
- Internships
- Peer Ministry
- Service trips to orphanage centers
Course Options
- Religions of the Old World
- History of Christianity
- History of Philosophy
- Christian Morality
- Christian Social Justice
- Old and New Testaments
American Public University
American Public University (APU) offers an online program for a Bachelor of Arts in Religion degree. It’s perfect for students interested in the many facets of religious thought, expression, and interpretation. Students also learn the history of major religions around the world and understand religious practices from a global perspective.
American Public University’s online degree is hailed as one of the most affordable. APU has also been consistently ranked as one of the best universities in the country, as its program focuses on a wide range of religions and practices worldwide.
The courses also expose students to the theological foundations of religion, so they gain greater knowledge of the political, spiritual, and cultural facets of religion. It provides affordable and convenient studies for ministry, social services, and further education, with 24/7 access to classes, library resources, and academic support tools.
- Location: Charles Town, West Virginia
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission, Council for Higher Education Accreditation, Association of Theological Schools
- Admissions: Official transcripts from previous schools, completed assessment tests
- Financial support: Grants, scholarships, private loans, military and veterans’ scholarships, employer benefits
Program Features
- 120 credits are required for completion
- 90 maximum transferable credits
- The program can be completed in 4 years (full-time)
Course Options
- Celtic Christianity
- Religious Cults
- Religious History
- Influences of Myths and Rituals
- Black Religion in America
- Religions of the Middle East
- Religious Existentialism
Lee University
Lee University’s School of Religion emphasizes quality, cost-efficiency, and Christian virtues, offering a Bachelor of Arts in Christian Studies and a Bachelor of Science in Christian Studies. Through these programs, the university aims to develop an authentic Christian community.
Its programs instill Christian virtues in students through a state-of-the-art online learning program. Lee University is known for its high academic standards. It takes pride in its roster of competent religious studies professors.
Students interested in biblical foundations can learn online through video lectures, remote tutoring, and theology discussions for science degree careers in ministry, counseling, and graduate theological degrees.
- Location: Cleveland, Tennessee
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACS), Association of Theological Schools
- Admissions: high school minimum GPA of 2.0, composite score of 17 or above ACT, SAT total score of 900, $25 nonrefundable application fee, documentation of vaccinations
- Financial support: Lee scholarships, endowment scholarships, federal loans, private loans
Program Features
- 120 credits of theology required to complete in 4 years
- Completion of 52 credits of general education coursework aside from major requirements
Course Options
- Bible Study Methodologies
- Fundamental Theological Concepts
- Christian Studies
- Applied Christian Ethics
- Research on Johannine literature and the Pentateuch
Arizona State University
Arizona State University (ASU) offers an online Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies degree program, concentrating on Religion, Culture and Public Life, and Religion, Politics, and Global Affairs. The online degree programs provide students with a comprehensive and cost-efficient education.
This program is 100% online, so students don’t need to be on campus for classes or events. ASU is recognized for its prestigious student scholars. Its program on religious beliefs has been ranked the most innovative.
Arizona State University prepares students for ethical roles globally in international relations policy, research, or advocacy via online religious courses, digital tools, and immersive study of diverse faith traditions and cultures worldwide.
- Location: Tempe, Arizona
- Accreditation: North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, Association of Theological Studies
- Admissions: Should be top 25% of the class, a minimum of 3.0 GPA on the equivalency exams, individual review, standardized test scores
- Financial support: Scholarships, grants, loans, federal work-study, and outside sources
Program Features
- Topics covered: diversity of religions, religion’s effect on human history, social and cultural contexts
- The main focus of the program is Religion, Culture, and Public Life
- 120 total credit hours for completion
- 40 total classes
- 7.5 weeks per class
Course Options
- Global Contexts
- Practice and Representation
- Modernity
- Approaches to Religion
- Cultural Diversity
- Ritual, Symbol, and Myth
Wayland Baptist University
Wayland Baptist University features an online Bachelor of Christian Ministry Degree program. It is ideal for students who plan to enroll in graduate studies later on or work as leaders in religious organizations. This B.A. online degree aims to provide sufficient experience and competency through flexible online classes.
The comprehensive coursework lets students obtain adequate experience essential to their career path. Wayland Baptist University is regarded as the best university in the Western region that offers an online religious studies degree.
The online B.A. program is based on Christian educational ministry’s historical, theoretical, and practical foundations, where students can participate in family ministry and youth internships. Wayland Baptist University offers flexible online religious degrees for ministry careers, with video lectures, tutoring, and library resources for affordable theology studies.
- Location: Plainview, Texas
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, Association of Theological Schools
- Admissions: $35 non-refundable application fee, standardized test scores
- Financial support: Federal and state grants, loans, and work-study; federal, state, institutional scholarships, military benefits
Program Features
- Small online class sizes (average online class size of 16 students)
- 124 total credit hours for completion
- 42 hours required from upper-level courses
- 39 hours required on core courses
Course Options
- Old and New Testament History
- Spiritual Formation
- Biblical Interpretation
- Philosophy and Ethics
- Theology
- Adult Ministry in the Church
- Christian Leadership
Toccoa Falls College
Toccoa Falls College is a private, non-profit, Christian liberal arts institution. TFC offers a 100% online Bachelor of Science in Counseling Ministry – Counseling Psychology. The school also offers an online Ministry Leadership major, with 126-hour course requirements consisting of general education courses, open electives, and ministry leadership courses.
These degree programs aim to provide off-campus students with sufficient knowledge, experience, and skills to become effective ministry leaders in religious-based organizations. Each class offered at Toccoa Falls College has a biblically and theologically centered approach to education.
Toccoa Falls College was ranked among the best colleges in the southern region. Its online bachelor’s degree programs are top-rated, including in both bachelor’s Ministry Leadership and Biblical Studies. It also provides online religious studies focused on practical ministry skills, counseling, and biblical knowledge, with video lessons and spiritual support for seminary preparation.
- Location: Toccoa Falls, Georgia
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Admissions: Personal testimony, college and/or high school transcripts, SAT, ACT, and CLT courses
- Financial support: Institutional scholarships, PELL grant, GTEG, HOPE Scholarship, Zell Miller Scholarship, federal loans, federal work-study programs, church matching grant
Program Features
- Multiple start dates
- 126 total credit hours of completion
- Eight weeks per course
- Small Online class sizes, maximum of 25
- Leadership specialization courses available
- 18 hours of Bible and Theology
- 18 hours of Humanities
- 12 hours of Social Sciences
- 9 hours of Computer, Math, and Sciences
- 39 hours of Biblical Studies
Course Options
- Hermeneutics and Advanced Hermeneutics
- Introduction to the Old Testament and Intro to the New Testament
- Variety of Old Testament and New Testament upper-level electives
- Religious History
- Apologetics
- Theology and many upper-level theology electives
- Communication for Ministry Leadership
- Small Group Leadership
Southeastern University
Designed for students “who have a passion for children’s ministry, missions, or another part of the body of Christ,” the Bachelor of Science in Ministry – Missional Leadership online degree program is offered at Southeastern University. The online B.S. program has a Christ-centered liberal arts curriculum. Students attend online sessions for at least eight weeks.
Ministerial Leadership education seeks to help students understand and appreciate “God and His creation, human creativity, as well as reason and our place of responsibility as stewards in the world God has made”. With education and training in Biblical interpretation, preaching, and counseling, Southeastern University students are prepared to do ministerial work.
Southeastern University enables students to earn a degree in theology online for church leadership roles, with robust spiritual forums and a ministry-focused curriculum.
- Location: Lakeland, Florida
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Association of Theological Schools
- Admissions: Official transcripts from high school and all colleges and universities attended, ACT or SAT I scores
- Financial support: FAFSA, scholarships, grants, payment plans
Program Features
- 37 hours of General education core courses
- 21 hours of Biblical and theological studies
- 34 hours of Ministerial leadership studies
- 29 hours of General electives
Course Options
- General Education
- Behavioral and Social Sciences
- Social Science
- History and Government
- Business
- Humanities
- Literature
- Mathematics
Regent University
Regent University has three online bachelor’s degree programs in religious studies: a Bachelor of Arts in Biblical and Theological Studies, a Bachelor of Arts in Christian Ministry, and a Bachelor of Science in Christian Leadership and Management. Each degree aims to prepare and train students for adult education and pastoral leadership.
You can get an online theology degree here at one of the most affordable Christian universities in the United States. It is also one of the top ATS-accredited seminaries in the country.
Regent University also offers a unique variety of coursework, such as American Church, Epistles, Global Christianity, Psalms, prophets, and Wisdom Literature, to name a few. It allows students worldwide to pursue online religious studies for ministry, teaching, and doctoral research, with comprehensive degree options and practical spiritual training.
- Location: Virginia Beach, Virginia
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Association of Theological Schools (ATS)
- Admissions: signed community life form
- Financial support: Federal loans, state grants, private and institutional grants, loans, and scholarships
Program Features
- flexible classes and coursework
- competent and dedicated faculty members, advisors, and mentors
- BA Biblical and Theological Studies degree programs are subdivided into Biblical Studies and Theological and Historical Studies
Course Options
- Biblical and Theological Studies
- Christian Ministry
- Wisdom Literature
- Christian Leadership
- Global Christianity
Dallas Baptist University
Students pursuing the Christian Studies major prepare for careers outside the traditional pastoral ministry or plan to pursue higher education. DBU graduates are well prepared to assume positions as ministers of education, youth workers, and children’s workers in various church ministries.
Students who graduate from DBU can manage and lead age groups, work creatively with other professionals, and develop evangelism and outreach programs.
An education at DBU will provide a lifetime of benefits and a deeper understanding of the Christian faith. A holistic education at DBU develops each student’s mind, body, and spirit. At DBU, students gain knowledge and expertise, as well as spiritual growth.
Dallas Baptist University offers online biblical degree programs with flexible video lessons to equip graduates for global ministry, counseling, chaplaincy, and doctoral studies roles.
- Location: Dallas, Texas
- Accreditation: SACSCOC – Southern Association of Colleges & Schools Commission on Colleges
- Admissions: GPA of 2.0, online application
- Financial support: Grants, loans, scholarships, work-study
Program Features
- 120 credits required
Course Options
- Survey of Christian Education
- Spiritual Formation for Christian Ministry
- Teaching Ministry of the Church
- Church Administration
Oregon State University
You will develop critical thinking skills and the essential skills necessary to navigate society’s cultural complexities with a religious studies degree from Oregon State University. With this interdisciplinary program, you will thoroughly understand world religions’ foundational texts, critical scholarship, and current theoretical debates.
They have world-class faculty members specializing in Buddhism, Hinduism, Chinese, Islam, Christianity, Judaism, and American religions. Your academic advisor will help you identify opportunities to enrich your learning experience and achieve your personal goals as a student in this program.
The OSU Ecampus program offers resources such as free online tutoring, success coaching, library services, and career counseling to make your online learning experience more beneficial and collaborative. It provides flexible online religious studies degrees to pursue careers in ethics, policy, or academia, with interactive forums and affordable tuition.
- Location: Corvallis, Oregon
- Accreditation: The Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
- Admissions: High school transcripts, online application, ACT or SAT scores
- Financial support: Scholarships, grants, military benefits
Program Features
- 180 credits required
- Four start terms per year
Course Options
- Religion and social justice
- Theories and methods of religions
- Religion and ethics
- World Religions
- Religion in the Americas
Kentucky Wesleyan University
With a top-ranked B.A. in Religion online degree completion program offered at Kentucky Wesleyan University, you will be able to meet the growing need for highly qualified and skilled professionals working in ministries, nonprofits, business, journalism, and related fields, as well as further education.
By learning about the history, beliefs, and practices of different religious traditions, Kentucky Wesleyan’s religion program cultivates an appreciation for religious diversity. As part of the religion program, students engage in interdisciplinary resources and critical thinking skills to better understand religion’s role in society, culture, and history.
You can send texts, emails, and phone calls to professors, so you don’t need to wait for office hours. Whenever you need it, you can access their digital library. Additionally, you can complete assignments with classmates via discussion boards and virtual groups.
- Location: Owensboro, Kentucky
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges & Schools Commission on Colleges
- Admissions: Online Application, ACT or SAT scores, GPA of 2.0, high school transcripts
- Financial support: Scholarships, grants, work-study
Program Features
- 120 credits required
Course Options
- Biblical Hebrew I
- Religion Research
- The Bible in Its Context
- Survey of Christian Traditions
- Topics in Comparative Religion
Andrews University
With the fully online Bachelor of Arts in Religion program, mature students preparing for graduate programs or those in Adventist ministry can complete a degree with a flexible schedule. Attend Andrews online while maintaining family and career commitments, and learn more and do more for God.
Due to the online format of this bachelor’s program, you can study at your own pace. Christian theology, ministry, or religious education postgraduate studies are available to graduates. Pastors, Bible workers, chaplains, and religion teachers may be among your career choices.
Andrews University enables religious studies focused on leadership, archaeology, and advanced theological research degrees. Discussion boards, an online library, and remote academic support are also available.
- Location: Berrien Springs, Michigan
- Accreditation: The Higher Learning Commission
- Admissions: High school transcripts, GPA of 2.5, English proficiency exams, $30 application fee
- Financial support: Scholarships, payment plans, grants, loans
Program Features
- 124 credits required
- Three start dates
- Admission year round
Course Options
- Introduction to the New Testament
- Introduction to the Old Testament
- Studies in Daniel and Revelation
- Religion and Ethics in Modern Society
- God & Human Life
Crown College
By fostering growth in Christ-centered character, empowered ministry, leadership excellence, and healthy living, this degree program prepares students for effective Christian ministry. During the fourth year, students engage in core classes designed to encourage critical reflection on their ministry experiences.
As part of the Christian Ministry program, students will be prepared to become thoughtful ministry practitioners with a clear vision for making disciples within their local congregations and beyond.
You can do your academic study anywhere, anytime, with this flexible online program, which is designed for people who work full-time. Due Thursdays and Sundays by midnight, you can complete most coursework whenever convenient.
- Location: St. Bonifacius, Minnesota
- Accreditation: The Higher Learning Commission
- Admissions: Online application, high school transcripts
- Financial support: Scholarships, grants
Program Features
- Eight-week courses
- 120 credits required
Course Options
- Communication in Ministry
- Human Development and Discipleship
- Contextual & Missional Engagement
- Principles of Counseling and Care Ministry
- Ministry Management and Administration
Louisiana State University
Louisiana State University’s B.A. in Religious Studies gives off-campus students an in-depth understanding of the different major scriptures, spiritual practices, and major belief systems. The 100% online program prepares and supports students to advance to a more focused study in divinity, chaplain, professional, or graduate school.
LSU’s online religious studies degree program will additionally study other religions’ sacred texts, practices, and rituals that have influenced culture and modern societies. Students will gain broad exposure to other expert practitioners, including saints, bodhisattvas, gurus, Sufi, and mystics.
Distance learners will explore various spiritual practices that lead to peace and happiness. Louisiana State University’s degrees prepare students for ethical roles in policy, research, and global studies via interactive courses. Its degree programs provide discussion boards, an online library, and academic advising.
- Location: Baton Rouge, Louisiana
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- Admissions: Online application form, high school or GED equivalent, photo ID, official transcripts, funding options application, test scores
- Financial support: Alumni benefits, scholarships, grants, loans, work-study options, federal aid, Louisiana National Guard benefits
Program Features
- Students can synchronously interact with their instructors and peers via videoconferencing and other learning tools
- The program’s curriculum consists of comprehensive course offerings in which students can explore a diverse range of religions and belief systems
- The curriculum develops transferrable research, writing, and reading skills so graduates can pursue other areas of specialization
Course Options
- Asian Religions
- Old Testament
- Judaism, Christianity, and Islam
- Religion in America
- World Religion
King University
King University’s Bachelor of Science in Religious Studies is intended for students seeking a passionate and academic approach to serving the 21st century. The program lays a solid foundation, knowledge, and experience essential to pursuing a rewarding career in ministry.
The 48-credit-hour online program can be completed in 16 months, consisting of a 5-week course length. King University offers online theology degrees focused on ministry, counseling, and chaplain careers, with flexible video lectures and spiritual support. An online student can also access video lectures, discussion boards, online library access, and remote tutoring.
King’s programs offer students an opportunity to study in Italy, minister to local churches, serve in international and local settings such as New Jersey or Africa, dig at an archaeological site, and tour Israel and Jordan.
- Location: Bristol, Tennessee
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, Association for Biblical Higher Education
- Admissions: Application form, minimum cumulative GPA of 2.2, high school or GED equivalent credentials, official transcripts, military benefits
- Financial support: Scholarships, grants, tuition reimbursements, federal government aid, loans, income share agreement
Program Features
- The program offers multiple start dates, so students can start their degrees anytime at their convenience
- Students enjoy flexible learning schedules since they can adjust their academic path based on their preferences
- The curriculum has the same course content and academic quality as its on-campus format
Course Options
- Ancient Greek I and II
- Philosophy of Religion
- Hebrew Wisdom Literature
- Introduction to Islam
- Religion and Politics in a Global Context
California State University Chico
California State University Chico offers a 100% online B.A. in Religious Studies degree for students with at least two years of college but who want a 4-year degree. The 120-credit program comprises 34-unit religious studies majors, 9-unit GE requirements, 17 elective units, and 60-70 transferrable units.
While you can complete this program in four semesters, it still depends on your prior academic credentials. The program features extensive learning in its course content, including core and elective coursework.
On-campus students with prior coursework studies can quickly complete the program since the university credits the academic units toward degree completion. California State University Chico provides a theology degree focused on comparative religions, literature, and thought, with interactive lessons and inclusive perspectives.
- Location: Chico, California
- Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission
- Admissions: $70 application fee, CalState online application, high school or GED equivalent, official transcripts
- Financial support: Federal work-study programs, grants, loans, middle-class scholarship, military tuition assistance program, AmeriCorps, Cal Vet educational assistance, higher education tax benefits, state aid for the disabled, veterans benefits
Program Features
- Since it is a degree-completion program, only junior- and senior-level courses are available
- Students can complete their degrees in two years in a completely online format
- Major courses are accessible synchronously, where students can participate and stream live classroom discussions
- Students can still watch videos asynchronously since learning materials are accessible online 24/7
Course Options
- Religion, Politics, and Conflict
- Judaism, Christianity, and Islam since the Crusades
- Religion, Sex, and Gender
- Religion and Nature
- Religion, Science and Technology or Religion and the Arts
Florida International University
FIU offers flexible online bachelor’s and master’s degrees in religious studies through its Steven J. Green School of International and Public Affairs. Courses explore major world religions, religious thought, rituals, ethics, and more through asynchronous online modules including video lectures, readings, assignments, and discussion boards.
The user-friendly Canvas learning management system enables students to participate in classes fully online. Resources like the digital library, writing center, academic advising, and career services support online learners.
Biblical studies major graduates pursue diverse careers analyzing religion’s role in society, including roles in government, non-profits, international relations, education, journalism, and business. FIU provides an affordable, academically rigorous religious studies degree online for students nationwide.
- Location: Miami, Florida
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- Admissions: Undergraduate GPA of 2.0, graduate GPA of 3.0, no GRE/GMAT required
- Financial support: Eligible for federal financial support, scholarships available
Program Features
- Asynchronous online courses
- 24/7 access to resources like the library and advising
Course Options
- World religions
- Religion in America
- Anthropology of religion
- Religion and literature
- Hinduism, Judaism, Islam
- Biblical archaeology
- Ethics
Colorado Christian University
Colorado Christian University allows students to earn accredited bachelor’s or master’s degrees in biblical studies completely online. The theology programs dive into Old and New Testament surveys, biblical language, exegesis, and theology via video lectures, biblically-focused discussions, and remote mentorship from experienced faculty.
Robust online student resources include tutoring, library services, academic advising, and spiritual development support. The flexible online format prepares graduates for ministry roles in churches, parachurch organizations, and global missions.
Students gain theological knowledge and practical skills for Christian ministries, counseling, chaplaincy, or further seminary study. Colorado Christian University offers a Christ-centered biblical studies degree online with comprehensive faith integration.
- Location: Lakewood, Colorado
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Admissions: 2.0 GPA, high school diploma, SAT/ACT scores recommended
- Financial support: Eligible for federal aid, institutional scholarships available
Program Features
- Video lectures
- Biblically-integrated discussions
- Mentorship
- Flexible pacing
Course Options
- Old Testament, New Testament
- Biblical languages
- Hermeneutics
- Theology
- Church history
- Pastoral ministry
- Apologetics
- World religion
Overview of Online Bachelor’s Degree in Religious Studies
Whether you are drawn to religious studies because of your faith or your fascination with religion’s cultural aspect, then a degree in religious studies is a great option for you! The skills you acquire will lead you to a career in the clergy, education, missions, social service, and business industries.
The online B.A. in religious studies programs are accessible from the associate to the doctoral degree level and in several key areas like Biblical studies, comparative religion, ministry, intercultural studies, and Christian studies.
Pursuing an online degree will help you continue to serve your local church or even a non-profit agency while weighing a more balanced home, work (if you are a working student), and school life.
Why Should Students Interested in Religious Studies Choose Online Courses
The religious studies degree is an excellent choice for individuals who wish to pursue spiritual ministry in faith-based non-profit organizations, religious institutions, and churches. Graduates become priests, lay ministers, pastors, assistant pastors, worship leaders, music directors, youth pastors, children’s pastors, church administrators, or pastoral care staff. Others pursue careers in religious publications.
Some graduates from Christian colleges opt for community service by taking an active part in or overseeing religious groups, charitable organizations, and religious education centers. As the degree is also ideal for people seeking to blend spiritual and academic enrichment, graduates of the online programs pursue teaching as a profession in universities and colleges.
As such, it is not uncommon that academic instructors of theology, philosophy, and religion-related subjects are religious studies graduates.
What to Look For in a Religious Studies Degree Online
By evaluating factors like academic degrees conferred, courses offered, instructor qualifications, online student resources, and accessibility for remote students, prospective students can determine which program offers the ideal fit for their goals in an online format.
- Admission requirements: Review program admission criteria from Christian colleges, like high school GPA, standardized test scores, and any required prerequisites, to ensure your academic background meets the qualifications.
- Accreditation: Students interested should find an online program with institutional accreditation to guarantee a high-quality education and service. A great example is accreditation from the Association for Biblical Higher Education.
- Courses and program concentrations: Whether you choose a Baptist college or a state university, examine the curriculum and areas of focus like ministry, theology, or biblical languages to find offerings aligned with your interests and career goals.
- Online learning resources: Look for robust online tools like video lectures, discussion forums, library services, and remote tutoring for an engaging and flexible learning experience.
- Faculty credentials: Verify instructors have advanced religious degrees, applicable experience, and strong academic credentials to provide quality instruction.
- Religious traditions: Determine if the program covers one faith exclusively or offers interfaith study across traditions like Christianity, Buddhism, Islam, and others.
- Academic term: The time it takes to complete the online degree program may vary depending on the specific area of specialization and the academic requirements for completion. However, full-time students typically finish the program in four years. Some students earn their diplomas in less than four years, provided they have acceptable transfer credits from previous work or life experience.
- Expenses and financial aid: Review tuition costs and availability of scholarships or financial support to assess the program’s affordability for your budget.
Methodology: Choosing the Best Online Religious Studies Degree
We have ranked the country’s best online schools that offer bachelor’s degree programs in religious studies. We gathered pertinent data and ranked their academic programs based on our parameters.
In particular, we considered the program’s courses, features, tuition, and financial support options. We also highlight the unique features of each online program, along with accreditations from accrediting bodies like the Association of Theological Schools and the Association for Biblical Higher Education.
The colleges and universities are listed and ranked in random order. Please visit our Methodology page to get in-depth information.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Usual Admission Requirements for an Online Bachelor’s Degree in Religious Studies?
Your high school diploma and a willingness to read about religious studies and related topics should prepare you for admission to an online B.A. program. The most common and usual admission requirements Christian schools need are a satisfactory GPA, ACT or SAT scores, letters of recommendation, and a high school diploma.
What Do Holders of Online Degrees in Religious Traditions Have in Store for Them?
Online bachelor’s degrees in religious studies prepare students for careers in both ministry and industry. Some jobs you can land after graduation include social worker, author, guidance counselor, museum creator, activist, clergy person, missionary, and many more.
Can Online Students Continue Education After an Online Bachelor’s Degree in Religious Studies?
Students who earn bachelor’s degrees in the field usually pursue their master’s and doctorate degrees. Often, additional accolades are necessary if you wish to excel in your field or pursue a higher-earning career in a related industry.
Conclusion
Whether you choose a Baptist college, Christian university, or a state university, evaluate factors like the variety of degree options, course curriculum, faculty expertise, online support services, and affordability. In this way, you can identify the online religious studies degree that best fits your needs and career aspirations in religion.
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