Online Schools Offering Religious Studies Degrees

Guide to Online Schools lists 34 religious studies programs, which can help you understand the ecclesiastical, social, and historical aspects of religion. These programs are available at every degree level through 4 colleges and universities. The cost of attendance ranges from $8,234 to $24,346, with average tuition at $15,226. Our student reviewers have given an average career helpfulness rating of 71 percent to these schools; this is the percentage of students who said their education helped advance their career.

Religious studies programs may focus on a particular faith, or they may focus on a particular context of faith. Undergraduate programs in religious studies can teach students about the practical aspects of ministry, such as church outreach and interpretation of religious texts; other programs look more at the philosophical or sociological aspects of religion. Graduates can become lay-ministers and church administrators. The master's degree is the minimum requirement for ordination or ministry licensure in some settings. These degrees discuss counseling, leadership, evangelism, and other ministry issues. A doctorate degree can be used to do research into a particular aspect of religion or to prepare for ministry, pastoral, and counseling roles.