Online Religion Degrees: Program Options

Degrees in religion are useful for spiritual leaders and individuals who wish to learn about the development and influence of religion in modern culture. Both Bachelor of Arts and Master of Arts programs are available online. Most programs are based on studies of Christianity.

Online Bachelor's Degree in Religion

There are several online programs available for a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Religious Studies. Many religion programs focus on Christian themes, but introduce the history and principles of various Eastern and Western religions. Most programs emphasize the Bible as a source material for theological and pastoral education. Related subjects of study include theology, philosophy, Bible studies, religious education, Christian studies and ministry studies.

Program Information and Requirements

The BA program can be completed in four years. Programs offered online do not require any in-person work or campus visits. Students obtain information about their assignments through the class's website or directly from the instructor.
Classmates and instructors interact on the phone or through chats, e-mail and online discussion forums. Students need a microphone and speaker to enable voice communication and to hear audio information. Recent versions of browsers and word processing software are recommended.

List of Common Bachelor's Level Religion Courses

While religions programs study spiritual beliefs worldwide, the majority of courses are related to Christianity. Students carefully examine the Old and New Testament. General education courses in English, science and a foreign language are required to complete the bachelor's degree. Students are also expected to take complimentary courses in psychology, history and philosophy.

World Religions Course

This course provides an overview of diverse cultures worldwide and their religious beliefs, values and practices. Special consideration is given to major religions, such as Judaism, Islam, Hinduism and Buddhism. Students investigate the interaction of other religions on Christianity.

Theology Course

This course deals with the principles of Christianity, including theories of morality, knowledge of the divine, doctrine and human nature. It is geared towards ministry preparation.

Biblical Interpretation Course

This class provides a historical and geographical background of the Bible and the development of its current state through translation. Students study archeological research regarding the Bible for comprehensive contextual awareness.

Continuing Education Information

There are two types of degrees at the master's level. Master of Arts (MA) in Religion programs are available with online and on-campus options. Online programs for an MA are described below. Students who are interested in training for professional spiritual leadership may seek a Master of Divinity degree program. These programs are intended for individuals interested in becoming ordained as a priest, pastor or other type of minister. Online M. Div. and hybrid programs, with some residency requirements, are both available.

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Online Master's Degree in Religion

Online Master of Arts degrees in Religion focus on Christianity. Students learn graduate-level systematic and historical theology. The programs research the Old and New Testaments of the Bible in-depth for meaning and application.

Program Information and Requirements

Some programs are offered completely online while others are hybrid programs requiring a few courses on-campus. Some schools offer classes throughout the year through asynchronous learning, allowing students to begin a class at their convenience. Other schools require online learners to participate in a set schedule of courses. An online MA program can be completed in approximately three years.
Distance learning through a virtual campus may involve instructional CDs and MP3s as well as online resources. Instructors interact with class participants through two-way video sessions. Students complete and return written assignments through e-mail.

List of Common Master's Level Religion Courses

Many of courses are in systematic theology. Students survey Christian doctrines in the context of history and modern contemporary culture with an anthropological approach. Other courses examine particular sections or figures of the Bible in detail.

History of Christianity Course

This course investigates major periods of Christian development including the Middle Ages and Reformation. It also details key persons in Christian history, such as Ignatius of Antioch, Martin Luther and Justin Martyr.

Eucharist and Baptism Course

This course delves into meaning of Baptism and the Eucharist, exploring these practices from a theological perspective. In terms of practical application, this class explores the relationship of these rites to the congregation. Students also study music related to the ceremony.

Epistles Course

The study of Epistles reviews the didactic letters of the Bible, particularly the writings of Paul. This course appraises their influence on modern Christianity and historical significance for Early Christian churches.

Continuing Education Information

Students who wish to pursue education in religion higher than the master's level can progress to a doctorate. Options include a Ph.D. or a Doctor of Divinity. While Ph.D. religion programs focus more on academics, a D. Min. program is intended for specially educated church leaders. Online doctorate programs related to religion are rare.

Career Information

Graduates of religion degree programs obtain positions within the church as ministers, chaplains (including military chaplains), pastors and missionaries. Other fields of interest include religious education, government and law. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average annual wage for a clergy member was $46,960 in 2009.