Accredited Online Schools for Religious Studies: How to Choose

Distance learning programs in religious studies are available at the bachelor's and master's degree levels. These types of programs prepare students for careers as catechetical instructors, pastoral leaders, teachers and other parish-related positions. Students should consider their desired award level and career goals when choosing an online school.

Selecting an Online Religious Studies Degree Program

Award Level

Online bachelor's degree programs in religious studies are commonly offered at a number of accredited universities. Those interested in continuing their education in the field also have the option to earn an online master's degree, usually offered as a Master of Theology or Master of Arts in Religious Education. Completing a graduate level degree can afford students the opportunity to work as religious studies professors, ministers, pastors and other religious congregational leaders.

Program Type

Before enrolling, students should find out if their chosen program is fully online or hybrid, which allows them to complete some courses online and in-person. While students can typically complete all coursework for religious studies bachelor's degree programs online, graduate programs will likely demand some seminars, courses and research projects on-campus. These programs may also require in-person field work and internships.

List of Online Religious Studies Programs

Online Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies

Distance learning bachelor's degree programs in religious studies are designed to give students an extensive look at theology, biblical studies and other aspects of religion. Through this program, students will also learn about different religious practices and beliefs, issues relating to religion and religion history. Specific courses might include Biblical languages, Christian ministry, Biblical archeology, philosophy of religion, theological writing and research, world religions and church history. Additionally, some online programs may require students to complete field research or certain seminars on campus.

Online Master's Degree in Religious Education

Online master's degrees in religious education cover different aspects of religion that can prepare them for scholarly research and teaching opportunities. These types of programs also provide in-depth instruction on how to integrate theological and Biblical studies in education and how to inspect Church history, principals and methods. Required coursework may include education for social justice, religious education in multicultural settings, history of the Catholic Church and religion and technology. Like all master's degree programs, students will have to complete a research project based on theological research. Certain schools allow this portion of the program to be completed online as well.

Online Master of Theology (Th. M)

The online master's degree in theology is designed to prepare individuals for careers in the church such as pastors, ministers and missionaries. Through these types of programs, students will receive instruction on how to verbalize teachings of the Bible, the history of theology and the church's worldwide mission. Curricula may include courses in systematic and historical theology, as well as an internship related to the track.