30 Most Affordable Online Theology Degrees
Updated November 8, 2022
Gallup News completed a survey in 2017 that found that 67 percent of people were either moderately or highly religious, and so the need for education around theology and religion still exists. Students who wish to complete their studies in this field can look forward to lectures on ministry, pastoral care, and close readings of the Bible.
A Master’s Degree in Theology can also prepare students for work in nonprofits or education. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, high school teachers earn a median salary of $59,170 per year, with eight percent growth in employment between 2016 and 2026, meaning that graduates of these programs can certainly earn a living in a variety of fields that best suit their passions! Check out the 30 Most Affordable Online Theology Degrees in 2019.
Methodology
Best College Reviews provides degree rankings, such as the Most Affordable Online Theology Degrees, from carefully researched data sets published from government and non-profit organizations across the United States. This ranking is based solely on the Average Net Price reported to the National Center for Education Statistics, which calculates the estimated price of an entire degree including fees and financial aid.
For an in-depth breakdown of how we calculate each ranking, check out our Methodology page.
#30 LEE UNIVERSITY
CLEVELAND, TN
BACHELOR OF ARTS OR SCIENCE IN BIBLE AND THEOLOGY
At Lee University, students can earn a Bachelor of Arts or Science in Bible and Theology. The biggest difference between the BA and the BS degree involves the foreign language requirement for the BA program. Students must exhibit a proficiency at the intermediate level or higher. However, both degrees are 120 credits, working to help students to articulate knowledge of the foundational texts and principles of the Christian faith. The curriculum was designed for adult learners and others wishing to continue their theological study. Lee University is also accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Tuition: $16,789
Featured Online Programs
Explore programs of your interests with the high-quality standards and flexibility you need to take your career to the next level.
#29 VIRGINIA UNIVERSITY OF LYNCHBURG
LYNCHBURG, VA
BACHELOR OF ARTS IN RELIGIOUS STUDIES
The Virginia University of Lynchburg provides an online Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies for students with a holistic interest for professional ministry. The school opened in 1886 as the Lynchburg Baptist Seminary, meaning that it has been educating students for ministry for over a century. The BARS consists of 123 semester hours of study where students can practice ministry in a variety of settings, ranging from churches to hospitals, or even nursing homes. Those in the program have a background in world religions. Students must complete an orientation before enrolling into online classes at VUL.
Tuition: $16,733
#28 JOHNSON UNIVERSITY
KNOXVILLE, TN
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN MINISTRY LEADERSHIP
Johnson University combines Biblical and theological foundations with leadership in its Bachelor of Science in Ministry Leadership. The university prepares servant-leaders for life in churches and other ministries. Every student must do a Ministry Leadership Internship, working with a field supervisor for sixteen weeks to gain practical and professional ministry experience before graduation. The 120-credit program also allows students to double major in the Bible and Theology. Courses in this 30-credit major include Spiritual Formation for Ministry, Conflict, and Communication, Pastoral Counseling, and Encountering Cultures.
Tuition: $16,368
#27 POINT UNIVERSITY
WEST POINT, GA
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN CHRISTIAN MINISTRIES
Point University’s Bachelor of Science in Christian Ministries begins with the basics in the liberals, building every student’s leadership skills for a career in ministry. The program strives to strike a balance between biblical and theology studies with ministry service. Students must complete 120 credits to graduate with the BSCM, which normally takes a full four years to complete. Students of Point University can also minor in Biblical Studies.
Point University allows transfer students to apply up to 80 credits toward their degree. The university ensures student success by providing online support services and small class sizes. The online student-to-faculty ratio is reported at 18:1, according to the university’s website.
Tuition: $16,174
#26 MID-ATLANTIC CHRISTIAN UNIVERSITY
ELIZABETH CITY, NC
ASSOCIATE OF ARTS IN BIBLICAL STUDIES
For those wishing to start with an associate of arts degree with interest in theology, Mid-Atlantic Christian University offers an Associate of Arts in Biblical Studies. The center of this course of study is, of course, on Bible and Theology classes, and if students wish to continue their studies, the general studies courses tend to be easily transferred to a student’s next institution. Furthermore, professional studies electives allow students to customize their curriculum based on their interests. In total, the degree typically takes two years to complete with 61 credit hours. Graduates have an in-depth knowledge of the Old and New Testaments representing the culture and geography of the biblical world.
Tuition: $15,864
#25 NORTH GREENVILLE UNIVERSITY
TIGERVILLE, SC
BACHELOR OF ARTS IN CHRISTIAN STUDIES
North Greenville University provides an online Bachelor of Arts in Christian Studies degree for students who wish to enter vocational ministry full-time. The 128-credit BSCS requires two ministry practica within a ministry-based setting. Students have also done this requirement at a local nonprofit. Degree track options include Biblical Studies, Ministry, Theology, and Youth Ministry. Classes at NGU include Biblical Counseling, Christianity and Postmodernism, Ethics and Politics, Youth Culture, and Youth Ministry Administration and Programming, each of which is eight weeks in length.
Tuition: $15,864
#24 UNIVERSITY OF CENTRAL FLORIDA
ORLANDO, FL
BACHELOR OF ARTS IN RELIGION AND CULTURAL STUDIES
The University of Central Florida offers a Bachelor of Arts in Religion and Cultural Studies. This university has been lauded by U.S. News and World Report. It is ranked #10 on both U.S. News’ Most Innovative Schools list and its Online Bachelor’s Programs for Vets. UCF is also listed as #14 on the list of Online Bachelor’s Programs. The BARCS requires 120 credits of study where graduate students are provided with a background in world religions, philosophy, and cultural traditions. Each student must take a course in Abrahamic Traditions, Asian and Indigenous Traditions, Religion, Cultural Studies, and Religion in Culture. There is a language requirement, and students have the option to complete a thesis to capstone the 122 credit hour program.
Tuition: $15,533
#23 PIEDMONT INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY
WINSTON-SALEM, NC
BACHELOR OF ARTS IN BIBLE WITH SELECTED MINOR
Piedmont International University helps students to apply their knowledge of the Bible and theology to the real world and its ministries through the institution’s Bachelor of Arts in Bible. To engage with another area of academic and ministry interest, students must select a minor in one of many fields of study. Minors can involve American Sign Language, Children’s Ministry, History, Expanded Bible, General Ministry, Humanities, Management for Nonprofits, North American Church Planting, and Missions. Overall, the BAB requires 130 credit hours. Piedmont provides classes such as Systematic Theology, History of Christian Thought, and Biblical Interpretation.
Tuition: $15,332
Featured Online Programs
Explore programs of your interests with the high-quality standards and flexibility you need to take your career to the next level.
#22 WAYLAND BAPTIST UNIVERSITY
PLAINVIEW, TX
BACHELOR OF CHRISTIAN MINISTRY
With 36 hours of major study and 12 semester hours of experiential professional development, Wayland Baptist University Bachelor of Christian Ministry allows students to take what they are learning in the classroom into the field through this wholly online program. Graduating from the program means having a foundation in the Bible, theology, and its history in addition to the spiritual formation necessary for a career in ministry. The program requires 124 semester hours to graduate, all completed through the four, eleven-week terms each year. The experiential professional development sets students apart as highly experienced in the field, even before they finish the four years of study.
Tuition: $14,453
#21 MIDWESTERN BAPTIST THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY
KANSAS CITY, MO
BACHELOR OF ARTS IN BIBLICAL STUDIES
Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary offers a Bachelor of Arts in Biblical Studies. The program is entirely online through OnlineYou. This course delivery system is specifically built for students who are involved in a ministerial setting. There are seven different start terms, and there are four concentrations offered as a part of the course of study, including worship ministries, humanities, business, and counseling studies. The last of these specifically prepares students for the Master of Arts in Counseling offered at the seminary. Additionally, students are always invited to engage with Midwestern’s symposiums. The degree requires 120 credit hours of coursework.
Tuition: $14,047
#20 BEULAH HEIGHTS UNIVERSITY
ATLANTA, GA
BACHELOR OF ARTS IN RELIGIOUS STUDIES
Beulah Heights of University allows students to take their understanding of religion and theology to the next level with its Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies. The university provides online students with an educational platform called Beulah360, which allows students access to the tools necessary for success. Beulah's BARS requires 129 credits of study, where the curriculum engages major thinkers in historical and contemporary theology, as well as with the scriptures. Classes include Apocalyptic Literature, Historical Theology, Life of Christ, Apologetics, and Hermeneutics.
Tuition: $13,971
#19 CALVARY UNIVERSITY
KANSAS CITY, MO
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN BIBLE AND THEOLOGY
A religion-centered institution, Calvary University has a Bachelor of Science in Bible and Theology. For students with interests in youth ministry and music ministry, the university also offers coursework in these areas, allowing students to have a holistic education centered around their interests. Each student, however, begins with Introduction to Christian Missions before delving into more specialized coursework. Overall, 129 credits are completed for the BSBT. Courses include Teaching the Bible, Contemporary Theology, Great Christian Thinkers, and Christ and Creativity. Additionally, Calvary is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and the Commission on Accreditation of the Association for Biblical Higher Education.
Tuition: $13,904
#18 CENTRAL BAPTIST COLLEGE
CONWAY, AK
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN CHURCH ADMINISTRATION
Central Baptist College has a Bachelor of Science in Church Administration as part of its Professional Adult College Education program. These programs, called “PACE programs,” are explicitly geared toward adult learner seeking to finish their education, enter the ministry profession, or even to better themselves. The PACE program also allows students to receive credit for work experience that is relevant to the degree. While it is geared toward the more adult student, all students still must do an orientation to start the 120 credit program. Classes include Christian Doctrine, Church Leadership, and the Educational Program of the Church.
Tuition: $13,897
#17 GRACE BIBLE COLLEGE
WYOMING, MI
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN LEADERSHIP AND MINISTRY
Understanding the importance of leadership and development in the world of religion and spirituality, Grace Bible College has a Bachelor of Science degree in Leadership and Ministry. This program balances practical and theoretical experience in the classroom, in the research done by students, and by graduates’ professional skills. Students take a mix of leadership and ministry classes to finish the 48-credit major. There is not a residency requirement at Grace Bible College, and in total, students complete 120 credits for the degree and the liberal arts foundation. Lecture titles include Mobilization of Volunteers, Studies in Dispensationalism, Knowing God, and Personal and Social Ethics.
Tuition: $13,499
#16 BARCLAY COLLEGE
HAVILAND, KS
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN CHRISTIAN LEADERSHIP
Barclay College offers a flexible curriculum for adult learners who wish to complete their Bachelor of Science in Christian Leadership. By understanding that these students in particular likely already have real-world experience, they can offer a Life Experience Credit in which students can count their professional work for course credit.
In total, the degree can be completed in 128 credits between 18 to 24 months. All students are required to kick off their studies with an online orientation and are expected to enroll in a minimum of two sessions per term. Degree classes include Bible Study Methods, Teachings of Friends, Church Friends, and Advanced Spiritual Formation.
Tuition: $13,343
#15 ARIZONA STATE UNIVERSITY
TEMPE, AZ
BACHELOR OF ARTS IN RELIGIOUS STUDIES
Arizona State University’s Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies encompasses a broad tradition of culture, belief, and phenomena across the world. In this program, students can focus on their areas of interest as well as the influence of religion on society and cultures all over the globe. With seven and a half weeks per classes and 120 credits to completion, students learn to understand and welcome religious diversity in a variety of contexts. ASU was also ranked as U.S. News and World Report’s #1 Most Innovative School, making it a perfect institution at which one completes their online degree. Courses include Life, Sex and Death, Ritual, Symbol, and Myth, Religion in America, Witchcraft and Heresy in Europe; and Women, Gender, and Religion.
Tuition: $13,007
#14 FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY
TAMPA, FL
BACHELOR OF ARTS IN RELIGIOUS STUDIES
At Florida International University, students in its Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies program are encouraged to compare cultures and traditions. The program helps students to navigate communities with high religious diversity and to center on peace and conflict in all sorts of settings. Students must complete area classes in Abrahamic religions, Asian religions, indigenous and other religious traditions, and society, culture, and ethics. They also have the opportunity to join the Honors College and communicate with a success coach to help support them throughout the completion of their coursework. Students can enter the program in the fall, spring, and summer.
Tuition: $12,966
#13 SAINT LOUIS CHRISTIAN COLLEGE
FLORISSANT, MO
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN CHRISTIAN MINISTRY
Saint Louis Christian College offers a Bachelor of Science in Christian Ministry comprised of 120 credits of coursework. The institution provides eight-week modules six times per year. Students are welcome to start their degree at the start of any of these modules. SLCC is accredited by the Association for Biblical Higher Education and allows students with an Associate of Arts degree in Ministry Studies to continue earning their BS with this program. Typically, only one or two classes are completed at a time. Classes include Faith and Money, Philosophy of Religion, and Biblical Concepts of Leadership.
Tuition: $12,677
#12 BRESCIA UNIVERSITY
OWENSBORO, KY
BACHELOR OF ARTS IN THEOLOGY
With a curriculum developed for adult students, in particular, Brescia University has a Bachelor of Arts in Theology that is completable within two years. The degree also has an emphasis in Pastoral Studies, giving students a strong background in ministry. This emphasis makes up 15 credits of the 128-credit degree, the curriculum of which aligns with the competency benchmarks of the National Association of Lay Ministry. Courses include Spirituality and Vocation, Basics of Catechetical and Youth Ministry, Women in Christian Tradition, and Development of Catholic Doctrine. The university is accredited by the Commission on College of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
Tuition: $12,181
#11 MANHATTAN CHRISTIAN COLLEGE
MANHATTAN, KS
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN BIBLICAL LEADERSHIP
Though Manhattan Christian College’s Bachelor of Science in Biblical Leadership is offered entirely online, its students are active in their local communities and churches. MCC’s BS program insists toward student involvement as the foundation for practical experience in the field. The college’s degree curriculum is flexible for adult learners and allows students to enhance their ministries and their professional careers. Provided courses include Life and Teachings of Jesus, Apologetics, and Organizational Behavior and Change.
MCC applicants must submit a qualifying ACT or ACT score to be admitted in addition to a minimum 2.5 GPA. Students without either qualifying scores, however, can apply as a ‘special student,’ and may be accepted on an individual basis.
Tuition: $12,156
#10 THE BAPTIST COLLEGE OF FLORIDA
GRACEVILLE, FL
BACHELOR OF ARTS IN CHRISTIAN STUDIES
The Baptist College of Florida offers an ideal Bachelor of Arts in Christian Studies for students who already have an Associate of Arts degree. The Baptist College encourages its students to transfer to the college with 60 credits and finish their BACS at Baptist College. For those looking to transfer after graduating with their A.A., Baptist College recommends courses in literature – or the humanities in general – the social or behavioral sciences, science or mathematics, and information technology. From there, the BACS then requires an additional 12 credit hours in Biblical Theological studies. Other required classes include Biblical Hermeneutics, Personal Evangelism, and Introduction to Christian Worldviews.
Tuition: $11,831
Featured Online Programs
Explore programs of your interests with the high-quality standards and flexibility you need to take your career to the next level.
#9 AMERICAN PUBLIC UNIVERSITY
CHARLES TOWN, WV
BACHELOR OF ARTS IN RELIGION
American Public University’s Bachelor of Arts in Religion encompasses the global phenomenon of religion and its effect on culture, politics, and spirituality. Students encounter foundational classes in theology to complement their other coursework. In total, APU requires 120 credits to complete their BA, though up to 90 credits can be transferred to the university. Students end their studies with a capstone designed to prepare students for their next steps. Typically, it takes students four years to finish their degree, but for those looking to start right away, there are monthly course start-dates for its eight-week sessions of courses.
Tuition: $11,470
#8 GOD’S BIBLE SCHOOL AND COLLEGE
CINCINNATI, OH
BACHELOR OF ARTS IN BIBLICAL AND THEOLOGICAL STUDIES
God’s Bible School and College provide online students with biblical and theological degrees at every level, ranging from an Associate of Arts to a Master of Arts. The Bachelor of Arts in Biblical and Theological Studies consists of 120 credits and focuses on developing student leadership skills and applying them to ministry. Students also gain a strong foundation in the basics of Christian theology throughout the four years of study the degree. The school is also accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and the Association of Biblical Higher Education.
Tuition: $10,648
#7 EASTERN NEW MEXICO UNIVERSITY
PORTALES, NM
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE OR ARTS IN RELIGION
Eastern New Mexico University provides, both, a Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Arts in Religion. The BA requires students to complete a foreign language course, although, both degrees require 120-credits for completion. Students also have the option to complete a Biblical Languages, Greek, or Hebrew minor within 17 credits. The programs both center around applying students’ religious studies to the real world. Courses include World’s Living Religion, Principles of Textual Interpretation, History of Religion in America. Finally, Eastern New Mexico University also works to help students become involved in religious communities or ministries to help grow their hands-on experience in preparation for graduation.
Tuition: $10,481
#6 BETHESDA UNIVERSITY
ANAHEIM, CA
BACHELOR OF ARTS IN RELIGION
Bethesda University takes a holistic approach to one’s study of theology and ministry in its Bachelor of Arts in Religion program. The degree includes concentrations such as Biblical Studies, Pastoral Ministry, Christian Education, and Missions. Students must also bring their studies into the community through the Christian Service requirement that is part of the 126 credit hour degree. The required credits are broken down into 51 hours of Bible and Theology courses, and 33 hours of core professional studies. Bethesda students typically finish their degree within four years. Courses include Introduction to Mission, Leadership Development; Spiritual Disciplines and Christlikeness; and Life-Span Development in Ministry.
Tuition: $10,012
#5 APEX SCHOOL OF THEOLOGY
DURHAM, NC
BACHELOR OF THEOLOGY
Accredited by the Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools, the Apex School of Theology offers a Bachelor of Theology degree that provides an in-depth study of theology and pastoral ministry. The degree requires 128 credit hours of coursework in areas such as church administration, mission, ethics, Christian education, and – more specifically – the New and Old Testament. Courses include Making of the Bible, Homiletics, Pastoral Care, and Church Administration. Apex provides two credits-worth of field education classes, and students usually finish the program within four years.
Tuition: $9,727
#4 HERITAGE CHRISTIAN UNIVERSITY
FLORENCE, AL
BACHELOR OF ARTS IN BIBLICAL STUDIES
Through an entirely online program at Heritage Christian University, students can complete a Bachelor of Arts in Biblical Studies. The program prepares students for life in ministry by requiring students to complete eight credit hours of fieldwork. This ensures that they have the practical experience and professional boost to enter the profession upon graduation. In total, the degree requires 128 hours of coursework and consist of classes such as Greek, Theology of Scripture, Current Religious Teachings, Foundations of Counseling, and Preparation for Missions.
Tuition: $8,999
#3 LUTHER RICE UNIVERSITY AND SEMINARY
LITHONIA, GA
BACHELOR OF ARTS IN RELIGION
Luther Rice University and Seminary offer a Bachelor of Arts in Religion, with a major in biblical studies. Students also can choose from three minors, depending on their area of interest. These include biblical counseling, Christian worldview, or ministry. The University also ensures student success and career placement support to students, even after the 120-credit program. Everyone takes a combination of Old and New Testament courses, as well as a critical thinking course. There is also a Christian Service practicum, which is supervised by a field advisor. Lecture titles include Biblical Counseling in Ministry, Christianity and Culture, Principles of Church Administration, and Foundations of Pastoral Ministry
Tuition: $6,988
#2 KANSAS CHRISTIAN COLLEGE
OVERLAND PARK, KS
BACHELOR OF ARTS IN LEADERSHIP and MINISTRY
Kansas Christian College’s Bachelor of Arts in Leadership and Ministry teaches students how to be effective leaders in the local church and religious community. Students who finish the program can plan services in their local church, and they also put together a senior portfolio to cap off the 120-credit hour program. Each course last 5-weeks, and the whole curriculum is based in the Bible. Courses include Knowing God, Theology of Holiness, Teaching and Preaching, Marketplace Ministry, and The Mobilization of Volunteers. Kansas Christian College also offers an Associate of Arts degree in Leadership and Ministry for students wishing to do a shorter degree.
Tuition: $6,313
#1 HOLY APOSTLES COLLEGE & SEMINARY
CROMWELL, CT
BACHELOR OF ARTS IN THEOLOGY
Holy Apostles College & Seminary tops off our list with its Bachelor of Arts in Theology. This program’s curriculum is based in the liberal arts that are philosophically Catholic-based. Students also have the option to double major if they complete many courses in another area, including philosophy, English, sacred art, or history. For the first two years, students focus on the liberal arts before delving into philosophy in the third year and theology in the fourth, though theologically-based classes are spread throughout the curriculum. Classes for the 120-credit program include Moral and Dogmatic Theology, Catechism of the Catholic Church, Theological Research and Writing, and Religious Education.
Tuition: $3,967