Earning a degree in Christian studies
prepares students for work in the clergy, church administration or
leadership positions. Online degrees in Christian studies are available
at the associate's through master's degree level and provide students
with an understanding of Christianity, theology and ministry.
Overview of an Online Associate's Degree in Christian Studies
An online associate's degree program in Christian studies introduces students to biblical studies and ministry, along with providing students with a deeper knowledge of different religions and the issues that surround them. In addition to general education coursework, students take classes covering core topics, such as prominent figures and events of the Old and New Testament.Program Information and Requirements
Online associate's degrees in Christian studies can be offered entirely online, though some programs may provide optional missionary opportunities. Associate's degree programs usually involve two years of study for students who are taking courses full time.Technical requirements vary, though all distance students will need access to a computer with an Internet connection. Students may also need to meet hardware and software requirements, such as a word processor and media player.
Popular Associate's Level Courses
Core coursework in this program teaches students about the principles of Christianity, religions of the world and the leadership roles found in ministry. Students also complete general education courses in math, science and the humanities.Students in distance programs can access lectures, tests, quizzes and assignments through the school's website. Students can also use message boards and e-mail to communicate with instructors and classmates.
Theological Principles Course
A course in theology introduces students to the fundamentals of the Christian belief system. Students examine topics including sin, human nature and the work of Jesus and the Holy Spirit.Christian Ministry Course
Christian ministry explores the different means and methods of providing Christian outreach through community programs and missions. Students also learn about strategies used in team ministry and models for organizational growth.World Religions Course
A course in world religions looks at the belief systems of other cultures, including their development and how they influence each other. Topics also cover Christian influences on other religions.Biblical Studies Course
Biblical studies covers both studying the Bible itself, and teaching the Bible in different settings. Students learn about biblical interpretation and teaching methods used with different age groups.Mission of Christianity Course
A course covering the mission and message of Christianity examines the focus and message of Christianity through Hebrew, Roman and Greek teachings. Students learn about the historical developments of Christianity through research and various themes used in synoptic gospels.Career Information
Graduates with an associate's degree are prepared to enter jobs working as church administrators, program directors or youth ministers. As of 2010, median salaries for program directors working in non-profit settings ranged from $30,152 to $42,479, while median salaries for youth leaders ranged from $21,868 to $36,339, according to Payscale.com.Overview of an Online Bachelor's Degree in Christian Studies
A Christian studies bachelor's degree program prepares students to use their knowledge of biblical studies and theology to teach different audiences about Christianity. In addition to general education requirements, students in a bachelor's degree program also take courses that cover leadership, communication and global perspectives surrounding religion.Information About the Program and Requirements
Online bachelor's degree programs involve the same amount of study as on-campus programs and usually take students four years of full-time study to complete. Many programs consist entirely of online courses so students never need to attend campus.Students will need reliable access to a computer with a high-speed Internet connection. Other technical requirements can include software needed to access course documents and videos.
Popular Bachelor's-Level Courses
Coursework in a bachelor's degree in Christian studies includes general education requirements as well as core courses that provide students with a background in the Christian worldview and application of Christian teachings.Coursework, including lectures and assignments, can be accessed and submitted through the school's website. Students can also network with other students using message boards and speak with instructors using e-mail and phone conferences.
Historical Perspectives Course
A course in historical perspectives offers students an introduction to the Old Testament. Students study the books of the Bible, the history of the Hebrew people and the influences of the Old Testament on modern Christianity.History of Christianity Course
A course in the history of Christianity covers significant events that have affected Christianity and its geographical expansion from the New Testament era into the present. Topics also cover the Protestant Reformation, heresies, the Papacy and problems of the church.Spirituality for Christian Leaders Course
A course in spiritual development for Christian leaders focuses on personal character formation, with focus on habits and values. Students learn to become spiritual leaders with the ability to inspire, inform and incite others.Modern Christian Leadership
Christian leadership introduces students to the administrative skills needed to run a successful organization, along with examining how values affect decision making. Topics include ethics, environmental issues, cross-cultural leadership and community issues.Systemic Theology Course
A course in systemic theology covers the major doctrines of Christianity and their development through time. Additional topics cover Christian philosophies and Christianity's relationship with other religions.Career Information
Graduates of an online bachelor's degree program in Christian studies are prepared to work in the clergy, church administration or youth ministry, as well as missionary work. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (www.bls.gov) reports that clergy members in May 2009 earned an average salary of $46,960. Pay was higher for those working in government positions.Overview of an Online Master's Degree in Christian Studies
Further classes in the Bible and Christian principles can be found in an online master's degree in Christian studies. Students learn the fundamentals and applications of biblical and religious knowledge, along with how to become effective religious leaders. Some programs may allow students to focus their studies in specific areas, such as youth ministry or pastoral ministry.Information About the Program and Requirements
Coursework for a master's degree in Christian studies can be completed entirely online and typically requires 36 credit hours of study for graduation. Students can generally master's degree programs in two years. Some master's programs allow students to transfer related credits from an undergraduate degree program.Students completing their master's degree through distance education will need to have access to a computer with an Internet connection. Students may also need software, such as Microsoft Office and Windows Media Player, to view and complete coursework.
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