Best Online Divinity (MDiv) Degree Programs for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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What can I expect from an online Master of Divinity (MDiv) degree program?

• Comprehensive Curriculum: Expect a robust curriculum that provides a deep foundation in biblical studies, theology, church history, and practical ministry skills.
• Structured Curriculum: Program delivery typically combines asynchronous video lectures, synchronous online class sessions, discussion forums, and field education requirements like a supervised internship.
• Integrated Formation: Emphasis is placed on spiritual formation and leadership development, helping students to integrate their academic learning with their personal faith journey.
• Collaborative Learning Environment: Online programs often use technology to foster a sense of community, allowing you to connect with experienced faculty and a diverse cohort of peers from various denominations and locations.
• Hands-On Experience: Many programs require a field education or internship component, giving you practical, supervised experience in a church, hospital, or other ministry setting.

Where can I work with an online Master of Divinity (MDiv) degree?

• Local Church Leadership: The most traditional path, serving in roles such as senior pastor, associate pastor, youth minister, or worship leader in a local congregation.
• Chaplaincy: Provide spiritual and emotional care in diverse settings including hospitals, the military, prisons, colleges, and corporations.
• Nonprofit Sector: Lead and manage faith-based nonprofit organizations in roles like executive director, program manager, or development officer.
• Education and Academia: Teach at the high school level, in Christian colleges, or, with further education, become a theology professor or researcher.
• Social Work and Advocacy: Use a strong ethical and theological foundation to work in community organizing, social services, or human rights advocacy.
• Counseling: With specialized training, you can become a pastoral counselor, integrating psychological principles with a theological framework to help individuals and families.

How much can I make with an online Master of Divinity (MDiv) degree?

• Entry-Level Ministry: New graduates in roles like youth pastor or assistant pastor can typically expect to earn between $35,000 and $55,000 annually, depending on the church's size and location.
• Experienced Ministry & Chaplaincy: With several years of experience, a senior pastor at a small-to-medium-sized church or a hospice/healthcare chaplain can earn in the range of $60,000 to $90,000.
• Senior Leadership Roles: Highly experienced senior pastors at large churches or executive directors of significant nonprofits can command salaries well over $100,000 annually, with some earning in the $120,000 to $160,000 range.

Best Online Divinity (MDiv) Degree Programs for 2025

1. Bethel University

Bethel University's fully online Master of Divinity (MDiv) program is designed to prepare students for leadership roles as teachers, pastors, or chaplains, or to pursue further seminary doctoral studies. Students in this program build a strong foundation of biblical and theological knowledge while integrating spiritual and personal formation for holistic growth and mature leadership.

The curriculum is designed to give you the skills to lead as a teacher, pastor, or chaplain and prepares you for ordination in your chosen denomination. Graduates are equipped to serve in various roles, including missionaries, non-profit leaders, and professionals in innovative settings.

Students in the program can choose a concentration to personalize their degree to their goals, and internship opportunities provide hands-on ministry practice. The program focuses on developing agile ministry skills to help graduates adapt to the ever-changing contexts of today and tomorrow. The school fosters a supportive and diverse community, allowing you to build lifelong connections with faculty and fellow students from a broad range of backgrounds, fields, and cultures. 

• Program Length: 4 to 4.5 years
• Tracks/Concentrations: None explicitly separated beyond the Sem Together cohort option
• Tuition Cost: $1,090/credit
• Required Credits to Graduate: 78
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC), Association of Theological Schools (ATS)

2. Biola University (Talbot School of Theology)

Biola University's Talbot School of Theology offers its Master of Divinity (MDiv) degree in a flexible format, with options for on-campus, fully online, or hybrid learning. This flagship program is designed to ready men and women for the intellectual, spiritual, and practical needs they will encounter in professional ministry.

Students receive a broad biblical and theological education coupled with practical training in ministry leadership, which is intended to further their personal and spiritual formation. The curriculum's foundational coursework equips you to study and apply the Bible seriously while understanding the essential doctrines of the Christian faith.

The program provides six distinct concentrations, which are built around a common structure and are all available in different formats. For example, popular concentrations include pastoral and general ministries, evangelism and discipleship, or pastoral care and counseling. This allows you to advance God’s global mission through ministry in the local church, on the mission field, or in other intercultural settings. 

• Program Length: 3 to 5 years
• Tracks/Concentrations: Evangelism and Discipleship, Messianic Jewish Studies, Missions and Intercultural Studies, Pastoral and General Ministries, Pastoral Care and Counseling, Spiritual Formation
• Tuition Cost: $704 per credit
• Required Credits to Graduate: 79-81
• Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC), Association of Theological Schools (ATS)

3. Candler School of Theology at Emory University

Emory University's Candler School of Theology offers a Master of Divinity degree available in residential or hybrid formats, with the hybrid option combining mostly online coursework with short in-person intensives.

The curriculum is a rigorous academic program that includes courses in biblical studies, historical studies, systematic theology, and practical theology. This program integrates challenging academics, in-depth contextual learning, and faculty-led mentoring to prepare students for a variety of ministry roles.

A key feature of the curriculum is its contextual education, which intentionally integrates academic learning with hands-on experience from ministry sites. First-year MDiv students serve in clinical or social ministry settings, while second-year students serve in ecclesial settings, and regular faculty-led reflection groups bring the learning full circle. Students in the program can also tailor their degree through dual degrees and certificates. 

• Program Length: 3 to 4 years (maximum 6 years)
• Tracks/Concentrations: No formal concentrations, but various dual degrees and certificates available
• Tuition Cost: $27,500/academic year
• Required Credits to Graduate: 72
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), Association of Theological Schools (ATS)

4. George Fox University (Portland Seminary)

Portland Seminary at George Fox University offers a hybrid Master of Divinity program combining online courses with three annual BridgeWeek intensives in Portland. The program follows a cohort model where students take courses with the same group of peers for the first two years. This program is designed to provide Christian leaders with a firm understanding of Christian heritage and theology as well as the wisdom to apply their knowledge in love and service.

The curriculum is focused on Christ-centered formation to prepare students to engage the world for the sake of Christ and inspire personal and social change in their ministry contexts. Students will experience a variety of key elements, including a focus on spiritual formation at the intersection of Scripture, theology, psychology, and social-cultural factors. Graduates of the program are prepared to take on roles as church planters, pastors, chaplains, or nonprofit leaders.

The program also offers a chaplaincy specialization for those who have a heart to help others process a crisis and find meaning. 

• Program Length: Typically 4 years
• Tracks/Concentrations: Chaplaincy specialization available
• Tuition Cost: $47,376 plus $1,600 per BridgeWeek intensive (subject to change)
• Required Credits to Graduate: 72 credits
• Accreditation: Association of Theological Schools (ATS), Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)

5. Harding University

Harding University offers a hybrid Master of Divinity program primarily designed for ministers and missionaries. The program provides opportunities for students to grow personally and spiritually while they gain an understanding of Scripture and theology, as well as the historical and cultural contexts of churches.

Students will also gain supervised experience in major aspects of ministry, which prepares them for roles as chaplains, preachers, or missionaries. The faculty are leaders in their disciplines who contribute to their fields through research and writings, and they bring a wealth of experience to the classroom.

Students can access an extensive theological library, which has an impressive collection of over 150,000 books and 25,000 periodicals, along with a growing collection of digital resources. The program also supports ministers and missionaries who want to pursue advanced education from anywhere, and scholarships are available to all students to help reduce the cost. 

• Program Length: 4 years (typical)
• Tracks/Concentrations: Through electives
• Tuition Cost:
• Required Credits to Graduate: 75 credits
• Accreditation: Association of Theological Schools (ATS), Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

6. Liberty University

Liberty University's online Master of Divinity program prepares students for professional Christian ministry through foundational studies in ministry writing, research, apologetics, Old and New Testament studies, and biblical languages.

The program provides an in-depth study of subjects such as Church history, biblical studies, and theology, and students also gain practical ministry skills. Through the online MDiv, you can choose an area of study that matches your passion, which allows you to meet your personal, professional, and spiritual goals. This degree is designed to ensure you have the essential values, knowledge, and skills needed to serve Christ and further His kingdom.

The program allows you to transfer in up to 50% of the degree total, and courses are offered in a flexible 8-week format. You can pursue a specialization to gain additional expertise in a niche divinity subject you are passionate about, with core topics covering foundational knowledge in ministry writing and research, apologetics, and evangelism.  Liberty University's School of Divinity is also committed to making education accessible and provides electronic textbooks for many divinity courses.

• Program Length: Varies, around 3-4 years depending on credit plan and pace
• Tracks/Concentrations: Multiple specialized areas of study
• Tuition Cost: $545/credit
• Required Credits to Graduate: 72, 75, 90, or 93 credit options
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), Association of Theological Schools (ATS)

7. Moody Bible Institute

Moody Bible Institute offers an online Master of Divinity program designed to develop deep biblical knowledge and ministry leadership skills. The curriculum includes Hebrew, Greek, biblical and systematic theology, pastoral practices, church history, ministry leadership, and narrative preaching. The program is geared toward preparing students for full-time ministry leadership.

 Students will also be able to develop biblical expertise, acquire advanced preaching skills, and grow in ministry leadership to effectively communicate God’s Word across ministries. The program offers seven available concentrations, which include biblical languages, biblical preaching, and nonprofit administration and leadership.

The professors are dedicated practitioners who are committed to instructing, training, and mentoring students throughout their time in class. Students can also access a range of strategic and practical online student services to help them succeed in their studies.

• Program Length: typically around 3-4 years
• Tracks/Concentrations: MDiv in Biblical Languages, MDiv in Biblical Preaching, MDiv in Biblical Spiritual Formation and Discipleship, MDiv in Interdisciplinary Studies, MDiv in Ministry Leadership, MDiv in Nonprofit Administration and Leadership
• Tuition Cost: $565/credit
• Required Credits to Graduate: 72 credits
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC), Association of Theological Schools (ATS)

8. Asbury Theological Seminary

Asbury Theological Seminary’s Master of Divinity is a 96-credit hour program that provides a biblical and theological foundation for ministry. The curriculum provides a strong, biblically-based theological education with a focus on Wesleyan-holiness traditions and includes opportunities for practical skill development through internships and immersion experiences. 

Students can also personalize their degree with a specialization by taking five specified courses from a list that includes Anglican Studies, Christian Leadership, Church Planting, and Youth Ministry. The seminary offers a dual degree option, which allows students to combine their M.Div. with a Master of Theology (Th.M.) to save time and prepare for doctoral programs.

Furthermore, the advanced standing program allows students with a prior religion major or minor to receive up to 18 credits toward their M.Div. The seminary provides generous scholarships to over 80% of its students.

• Program Length: 3 to 4 years
• Tracks/Concentrations: Multiple specializations available
• Total Tuition Cost: Approximately $24,000 over three years
• Required Credits to Graduate: 96
• Accreditation: Association of Theological Schools (ATS), Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

9. Regent University

Regent University’s online Master of Divinity in Theology & Ministry (M.Div.) is designed to prepare men and women for full-time ministry, and it incorporates elements from other master's programs to equip you for a variety of leadership roles. Students become well-versed in Christian history, biblical writings, and scriptural interpretations, and they also learn from respected faculty who are pioneers in Christian history and biblical studies.

The program is supported by a variety of resources, including eight-week course sessions and multiple capstone experiences, such as a master’s thesis or spiritual formation portfolio. Students can choose a concentration that best meets their interests and ministry goals, and they can also pursue the M.Div. as a dual degree.

The program can also lead to ordination or ministry licensure, which can open up additional career paths. This degree is designed to fast-track your seminary education while you balance personal, professional, and ministry demands, allowing you to embrace holistic formation through discipleship training practices.

• Program Length: Typically 3-4 years
• Tracks/Concentrations: Pastoral ministry and intercultural ministry themes
• Tuition Cost $565/credit
• Required Credits to Graduate: 72
• Accreditation: Association of Theological Schools (ATS)

10. Southeastern University

Southeastern University offers a Master of Divinity program that focuses on preparing students for professional ministry roles such as pastors, missionaries, and chaplains with a Pentecostal emphasis. The curriculum covers topics like biblical languages and systematic theology, which gives you the understanding needed to pursue ordination or advanced doctoral studies.

Under the guidance of professors with extensive experience, you will benefit from both the convenience of online learning and the opportunity for face-to-face interaction in on-campus classes. The program also has a specific focus on Pentecostalism and spirituality, which helps students advance their biblical knowledge and gain leadership competencies.

The program offers specific tracks in chaplaincy & leadership or pastoral care & counseling, both of which are designed to fulfill educational requirements for careers in those fields. Through an advanced standing option, credit may be awarded for prior degrees or documented ministry experience, and accelerated program paths are also available for qualified students. 

• Program Length: Varies by track and acceleration option; typically 3-5 years
• Tracks/Concentrations: Chaplaincy & Leadership, Pastoral Care & Counseling
• Tuition Cost: $545/credit
• Required Credits to Graduate: 72
• Accreditation: Association of Theological Schools (ATS), Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

What is the average cost of an online Master of Divinity degree?

The cost of an online Master of Divinity (MDiv) degree can vary significantly depending on the institution, with tuition being the primary expense. The total cost is influenced by factors like the school's private or public status, the number of credit hours required for the degree, and any additional fees.

Similar to programs such as an online nurse administrator graduate certificate, tuition rates and overall expenses can differ widely based on accreditation, program length, and financial aid availability.

• Total Program Cost: The average total cost for an MDiv program often falls in a wide range, from as low as $20,000 to over $100,000.
• Cost per Credit: Many schools charge per credit hour, with rates commonly ranging from $300 to over $1,000 per credit.
• Credit Hour Requirements: An MDiv is a robust degree, typically requiring between 72 and 90 credit hours to complete.
• Additional Fees: Students should budget for various fees, including technology fees, application fees, and costs for books and other supplies.
• Accreditation Impact: Programs from institutions accredited by bodies like the Association of Theological Schools (ATS) may have different costs than those from other schools.
• Financial Aid and Scholarships: The final out-of-pocket cost is often much lower than the listed tuition due to scholarships, grants, and other forms of aid.
• Program Length: The cost can also be affected by how long it takes to complete the program, as longer timelines can sometimes mean more fees and potential tuition increases.

Prospective students should carefully review the full cost of attendance, including both tuition and fees, to get a clear picture of the investment. Many institutions offer cost calculators on their websites to help students estimate their specific expenses.

So, which institutions awarded the most degrees in divinity and ministry? Liberty University awarded the highest number of divinity and ministry degrees in 2023, with 583, followed by Southeastern University with 376. The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary ranked third, awarding 267 degrees.

The data from DataUSA, 2023, as shown in the graphic below, indicates a significant concentration of degrees awarded by these top three institutions, with Liberty University alone accounting for a substantial portion of the total. This trend highlights the dominance of a few key universities in the field of theological education.

What are the financial aid options for an online Master of Divinity degree?

A wide variety of financial aid options are available to help students afford an online MDiv program, and it's essential to explore all possibilities to reduce the financial burden. Just like other distance-learning opportunities such as online dog obedience classes, financial aid structures can vary depending on the institution and program. The types of aid can range from institutional scholarships to federal loans.

• Institutional Scholarships: Many divinity schools offer merit-based or need-based scholarships directly to MDiv students, which can cover a portion or even all of the tuition.
• Federal Student Loans: Graduate students may be eligible for federal loans, such as the Direct Unsubsidized Loan and the Graduate PLUS Loan, by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
• Denominational Scholarships: Students affiliated with a specific denomination can often apply for grants or scholarships from their own church body to support their theological education.
• Church and Community Grants: Local congregations and community organizations may offer financial assistance or grants to members pursuing ministry degrees, especially those with a clear vocational path.
• Federal Work-Study: This program provides part-time jobs for students with financial need, allowing them to earn money to help pay for their educational expenses.
• Private Loans: Private loans from banks or other financial institutions can be an option, but students should exhaust all federal and institutional aid before considering this route.
• Fellowships and Assistantships: Some universities provide competitive fellowships or assistantships that offer stipends and tuition waivers in exchange for research or teaching duties.
• Employer Tuition Assistance: Individuals working in ministry or a related field may have access to tuition assistance programs offered by their current employer.
• Tuition Waivers: In some cases, students may qualify for a full or partial tuition waiver from the institution based on specific criteria or circumstances.

Thoroughly researching and applying for various forms of financial aid is a critical step in making a theological degree more accessible and affordable. It is highly recommended to contact the school's financial aid office early in the application process.

What are the prerequisites for enrolling in an online Master of Divinity degree program?

Admission to an online Master of Divinity program typically requires a strong academic and personal background, as schools look for candidates who are both intellectually and spiritually prepared for the rigors of theological study. Similar to other graduate-level pathways such as a counseling psychology degree online, the specific requirements can vary, but most programs share a common set of prerequisites.

• Bachelor's Degree: Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution, often in any field of study.
• Minimum GPA: A minimum cumulative undergraduate GPA is usually required, with many schools looking for a 2.5 to 3.0 GPA or higher for regular admission.
• Application Form and Fee: All applicants must complete the official application form and submit the non-refundable application fee.
• Official Transcripts: Students must provide official transcripts from all previously attended colleges and universities.
• Letters of Recommendation: Several letters of recommendation are standard, typically from academic professors, religious leaders, and professional colleagues.
• Personal Statement or Essay: A personal statement is a crucial component where applicants can reflect on their spiritual journey, vocational calling, and career goals.
• Spiritual Autobiography: Some institutions require a spiritual autobiography to understand the applicant's faith background and personal formation.
• Ministerial Experience: While not always required, some programs may look for previous experience in ministry or church leadership, which can be an asset.
• Writing Sample: An academic writing sample may be requested to assess the applicant's ability to conduct research and articulate complex ideas.
• Interview: A formal interview with a member of the admissions committee or faculty may be part of the selection process.

Meeting these prerequisites is the first step toward gaining admission, but many schools also consider an applicant's life experience and maturity, especially for a degree with a strong professional focus. In addition, Christian counseling certification may be a competitive advantage.

Enrollment data from the Association of Theological Schools, shown in the graphic below, exhibits minor fluctuations in the number of accredited degree programs from 2022-2023 to 2023-2024. The number of Master of Divinity (MDiv) programs decreased slightly from 214 to 210, while Master of Arts (MA) programs also saw a small drop from 221 to 217. In contrast, Master of Theology/Sacred Theology (ThM/STM) programs increased from 68 to 73, and doctoral programs saw a modest rise, with professional doctorates like the DMin increasing from 147 to 148 and PhD/ThD programs growing from 54 to 60.

The trend suggests that while traditional master's degrees for professional ministry and general theological study are relatively stable or slightly declining, there is a clear growth in both advanced academic and professional doctoral programs. This indicates a growing demand for specialized theological education for those pursuing scholarly research or advanced professional leadership roles.

What courses are typically in an online Master of Divinity degree program

An online Master of Divinity curriculum is designed to provide a comprehensive education in theology and ministry, preparing graduates for various leadership roles. Much like early childhood education programs, the MDiv balances foundational knowledge with practical skills, covering a broad range of subjects.

• Biblical Studies: Core courses focus on the Old and New Testaments, including hermeneutics (biblical interpretation), exegesis, and biblical languages like Hebrew and Greek.
• Systematic Theology: Students explore the major doctrines and beliefs of the Christian faith, engaging with historical and contemporary theological systems.
• Church History: These courses trace the history of Christianity from the early church to the present, examining significant events, movements, and figures.
• Practical Theology: This area covers the practical application of theology in real-world ministry settings, including worship, preaching, and pastoral care.
• Pastoral Counseling: Courses equip students with the skills to provide counseling and spiritual guidance to individuals and families, addressing a range of life issues.
• Missiology and Evangelism: Students learn about the theory and practice of missions, considering global contexts and methods of sharing the faith.
• Ethics and Public Theology: This topic addresses how Christian theology and ethics intersect with social, political, and cultural issues.
• Spiritual Formation: Courses on spiritual formation help students cultivate a deep personal faith life through practices like prayer, meditation, and spiritual disciplines.
• Homiletics: A key component for those entering pastoral ministry, homiletics courses focus on the art and science of preparing and delivering sermons.
• Field Education or Internship: Most programs require a practical, hands-on experience, such as a supervised internship in a church or other ministry setting.

The MDiv curriculum is carefully structured to provide a holistic education, ensuring that students are well-equipped for the intellectual, spiritual, and practical demands of ministry. Note that an MDiv program has some course overlaps with theology degree programs.

What types of specializations are available for Master of Divinity graduates?

The Master of Divinity degree, while traditionally focused on pastoral ministry, offers a growing number of specializations that allow students to tailor their education to specific career goals. These concentrations provide in-depth knowledge and skills for a variety of roles within and outside of the church.

• Chaplaincy: A popular specialization for those who want to provide spiritual care in non-church settings, such as hospitals, the military, or prisons.
• Youth and Family Ministry: This concentration prepares graduates for roles working specifically with young people, their families, and children's ministries.
• Christian Education: Students in this specialization focus on developing and leading educational programs for churches or Christian schools.
• Pastoral Counseling: This area of study provides more advanced training in counseling techniques for addressing mental health and relational issues from a faith-based perspective. Similarly, an online Christian counseling degree can enhance one's skills in this area.
• Missions and Intercultural Studies: This specialization is designed for those called to missionary work, focusing on cross-cultural communication, language, and global ministry.
• Urban Ministry: A specialization that equips students to lead ministries and social justice initiatives in a city or urban environment.
• Worship Arts: This concentration combines theological education with training in music, liturgy, and the use of creative arts in worship services.
• Theology and the Arts: An interdisciplinary specialization that explores the relationship between theological concepts and various art forms, such as literature, visual arts, and film.
• Nonprofit Leadership: This specialization prepares graduates for leadership roles in faith-based nonprofit organizations, focusing on management, fundraising, and administration.
• Biblical Languages and Studies: For those interested in advanced academic work, this specialization provides intensive training in biblical Hebrew and Greek and prepares students for doctoral-level studies.
• Church Planting: A concentration for individuals who feel called to start new churches or revitalize existing ones.

These specializations enable MDiv graduates to become highly skilled professionals in a wide array of fields beyond the traditional pulpit ministry.

How do you choose the best online Master of Divinity degree program?

Choosing the best online Master of Divinity program requires careful consideration of many factors to ensure the program aligns with your personal, vocational, and academic goals. It's a significant investment of time and resources, so a thoughtful approach is essential.

• Accreditation: Prioritize programs with regional and professional accreditation, such as from the Association of Theological Schools (ATS), which ensures a quality education and can be a requirement for some jobs. All reputable U.S. educational institutions possess institutional accreditation and are recognized as accredited online universities.
• Denominational Alignment: Evaluate if the school's theological perspective and denominational affiliation are a good match for your personal beliefs and future ministry goals.
• Faculty Expertise: Research the faculty's credentials, specializations, and experience, as they will be a primary source of knowledge and mentorship.
• Curriculum and Specializations: Look for a curriculum that offers the courses and specializations you need to achieve your specific career path, whether it's chaplaincy, missions, or pastoral ministry.
• Program Format and Flexibility: Consider how the online program is structured, whether it is asynchronous, synchronous, or a hybrid model, and if it provides the flexibility you need.
• Cost and Financial Aid: Carefully compare the total cost of attendance and the availability of scholarships, grants, and other financial aid options to make an informed financial decision.
• Community and Student Support: Investigate how the school fosters a sense of community among online students, including student support services, career counseling, and access to library resources.
• Reputation and Outcomes: Look into the school's reputation and the success of its graduates, including where alumni are working and serving.
• Internship and Field Education Requirements: Understand the requirements for practical experience, as these hands-on opportunities are crucial for ministry training.
• Technology and Learning Management System: Make sure the school uses a reliable and user-friendly online learning platform and provides adequate technical support.

Making a well-informed decision involves a combination of careful research, personal reflection, and seeking counsel from trusted mentors to find the right program for you.

What career paths are available for graduates of online Master of Divinity degree programs?

The Master of Divinity degree is a versatile professional degree that prepares graduates for a wide range of career paths, extending beyond the traditional role of a pastor. The robust theological and practical training equips individuals for leadership and service in various sectors.

• Senior Pastor or Associate Pastor: The most traditional career path, leading and serving a local congregation in roles such as senior pastor, youth pastor, or worship leader.
• Chaplaincy: Graduates can become chaplains in diverse settings like hospitals, the military, corporate environments, or sports teams, providing spiritual care to people of all faiths.
• Nonprofit Leadership: The degree provides a strong foundation for leading faith-based nonprofits, working in roles such as executive director, program manager, or fundraiser.
• Christian Education Director: MDiv graduates are well-suited to oversee educational programs, curriculum development, and teaching in churches or religious schools.
• Missions and Global Ministry: Many graduates pursue careers in global missions, working with international organizations to provide aid, ministry, and education abroad.
• Academic and Research Roles: With further doctoral-level education, graduates can become theology professors, researchers, or authors, contributing to academic scholarship.
• Counseling: A specialization in pastoral counseling can lead to a career as a pastoral counselor or life coach, providing spiritual and emotional support.
• Social Work and Community Activism: The focus on social justice and ethics can lead to careers in social work, advocacy, or community development.
• Military Service: Individuals can serve as chaplains in the various branches of the military, providing spiritual and emotional support to service members and their families.

The MDiv degree is a gateway to meaningful work that serves others and applies theological principles in a variety of professional settings.

How much can I earn with an online Master of Divinity degree?

Salaries for Master of Divinity graduates vary significantly based on career path, geographic location, experience, and the size of the organization. The degree prepares individuals for a range of roles with different compensation structures.

• Average Annual Salary: The average annual salary for those with an MDiv degree falls somewhere in the range of $50,000 to $65,000, with considerable variation depending on the specific role.
• Senior Pastor: Senior pastors at larger churches can earn well over $100,000 annually, with compensation often including housing allowances and other benefits.
• Chaplain: Chaplains in high-demand fields like healthcare or the military can earn between $55,000 and $90,000, with top earners exceeding this range.
• Youth and Associate Pastor: These roles often have a lower salary range, typically from $35,000 to $50,000, depending on the size and budget of the church.
• Nonprofit Director: Salaries for leadership positions in faith-based nonprofits can vary widely, but experienced directors can earn upwards of $70,000 or more.
• Academic Roles: Becoming a theology professor requires a doctorate and can lead to a salary of $60,000 to over $100,000, depending on the institution.
• Salary Drivers: Factors that significantly impact salary include church size, years of experience, geographic location, and specific job responsibilities.

While the financial return on an MDiv degree can vary, many graduates find that the intrinsic rewards of serving others are a powerful motivator in their career choices.

2025 PayScale salaries for occupations related to ministry, nonprofit, and general management vary, with specific roles showing a clear hierarchy in compensation, as shown in the graph below. Youth minister is among the lowest-compensated positions, with an average salary of $45,084, followed closely by youth pastor at $46,989.

Non-profit roles begin with a community outreach coordinator at an average of $47,101, while associate pastors earn $56,051 and general pastors average $56,163. The salary for a director of communications is $57,905, while hospice chaplains average $59,162.

A content manager can expect to earn $59,814, and worship pastors average $60,745. Chaplain roles show an upward trend, with general chaplains earning $61,956 and hospital chaplains making an average of $63,109. A program manager in a non-profit organization commands a salary of $63,698, with executive pastors at $64,787 and pastor, ministry roles at $67,694. As individuals move into more senior positions, salaries climb, with senior pastors averaging $70,105, program directors in non-profits at $70,775, and directors of development in non-profits at $71,461.

The highest-paying roles on this list are often those with significant leadership or fundraising responsibilities, such as a major gifts officer at $72,717, a lead pastor at $74,292, and an executive director at $79,457. Comparatively, a social worker with a clinical social work masters degree earns around $63,000 per year.

A clear trend emerges showing a direct correlation between salary and an increase in leadership responsibilities and organizational size. Additionally, more specialized roles like hospital chaplain tend to be compensated more highly than general chaplaincy. The data shows a steady progression in earnings from entry-level and support roles to senior leadership positions across both ministry and nonprofit sectors.

What is the job market for graduates with an online Master of Divinity degree?

The job market for Master of Divinity graduates is evolving, with significant demand in certain sectors and new opportunities emerging. The value of an MDiv is increasingly recognized in both traditional ministry and other fields that require strong leadership and compassionate communication skills.

• Strong Demand for Chaplains: The need for chaplains in hospitals, the military, and other institutional settings remains strong and is a key growth area for MDiv graduates.
• Growth in Nonprofit Sector: The increasing number of faith-based and social justice nonprofits creates a demand for individuals with theological grounding and leadership skills. A related pathway is via an online degree in social work, which can enhance one's skills in this area.
• Evolving Church Leadership: While traditional church attendance is changing, there is a continued need for skilled, trained, and innovative ministers who can lead and adapt to new models of ministry.
• High Turnover in Small Churches: The job market for pastors in smaller churches can experience high turnover, leading to a steady stream of job openings.
• Opportunities in Urban and Niche Ministries: There is a growing need for graduates who are equipped to lead specialized ministries, such as urban ministry, campus ministry, or specific cultural ministries.
• Educational Roles: Opportunities exist for graduates to work as teachers or administrators in Christian schools and colleges, with many seeking master's-level training.
• Soft Skills in High Demand: The MDiv degree develops sought-after "soft skills" like critical thinking, communication, and empathy, making graduates attractive to a variety of employers.
• Increasing Value of Theological Literacy: Many secular organizations are beginning to see the value of employees with a background in theology for roles that require a deep understanding of human values, ethics, and spirituality.

While traditional pastoral roles remain a primary option, the job market for MDiv graduates is broadening, offering a wide range of possibilities for meaningful work.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, there were 393,190 people employed with a theology degree, a small fraction of the 62,187,580 total employed workers across all fields. The median annual wage for those with a theology degree was $45,300, which is significantly less than the median annual wage of $66,000 for workers in all fields. This data, which is based on a 2024 report, also shows that a higher percentage of theology degree holders, 18%, were employed part-time compared to the 14% of workers in all fields. These are shown in the figure below.

The trends in the data show that individuals with a theology degree, on average, have lower employment numbers, earn substantially less than the general population, and have a higher likelihood of working part-time. These figures suggest that while the field provides opportunities, the financial and employment landscape for theology graduates is different than the broader labor market.

What are some current and future trends in theology and ministry?

The fields of theology and ministry are dynamic, with several key trends shaping how faith is practiced and understood today and into the future. These shifts reflect changes in society, technology, and the global religious landscape.

• Digital and Hybrid Ministry: The rise of online education and worship, accelerated by recent events, has led to a greater emphasis on digital ministry strategies and hybrid models that blend in-person and virtual engagement.
• Focus on Social Justice: There is an increased focus on public theology and social justice, with ministry leaders addressing issues like racial justice, poverty, and environmental stewardship.
• Decline of Denominationalism: Many individuals are less affiliated with specific denominations, leading to a focus on nondenominational and interfaith ministry, as well as the need for leaders who can serve diverse groups.
• Growth of Chaplaincy and Pastoral Care: With people seeking spiritual support outside of traditional church settings, the demand for professional chaplains in healthcare and other industries is steadily increasing.
• Emphasis on Holistic Well-being: Ministry is expanding to address the holistic well-being of individuals, including mental health, financial literacy, and physical health, reflecting a more comprehensive view of spiritual care.
• Rise of the "Nones": A significant portion of the population now identifies as having no religious affiliation, which creates a new frontier for ministry focused on outreach, dialogue, and community building with the religiously unaffiliated.
• Interdisciplinary and Contextual Theology: There is a growing trend toward doing theology in conversation with other disciplines, such as science, psychology, and the arts, as well as an emphasis on theology that is relevant to a specific cultural or social context.
• Global Christianity: The center of Christianity is shifting to the Global South, influencing theology and ministry in the U.S. and highlighting the need for a more global and cross-cultural perspective in theological education.
• Spiritual Formation: Many people are seeking a more personal and experiential faith, leading to a renewed emphasis on spiritual formation, contemplative practices, and personal discipleship in ministry.

Most Americans, approximately three in four, reported identifying with a specific religious faith in 2023, according to Gallup polling. The overwhelming majority, 68%, identified as Christian, which includes 33% who are Protestant, 22% Catholic, and 13% who identify with another Christian denomination. A smaller segment of the population, 7%, identifies with non-Christian faiths, such as Jewish (2%), Muslim (1%), and Buddhist (1%).

A notable portion of the population, 22%, indicated they had no religious preference. Additionally, a small percentage of Americans, 3%, chose not to answer the question about their religious affiliation. These are shown in the graph below.

These trends indicate a future of ministry that is more flexible, socially engaged, and focused on meeting people's spiritual needs in a variety of settings.

Here's What Graduates Say About Their Online Divinity (MDiv) Degree Programs

Other Things You Should Know About Online Master of Divinity Degrees

What is the difference between an MDiv and a Master of Theology?

The Master of Divinity (MDiv) is widely considered the professional degree for Christian ministry, acting as the foundational and most common academic qualification for ordination. Its curriculum is broad and practical, designed to prepare students for hands-on ministry roles such as pastors, chaplains, or church leaders. Courses cover a wide range of subjects, including biblical studies, theology, church history, homiletics (preaching), and pastoral care. This degree is the most common path for those who intend to lead a congregation or serve in professional ministry.

In contrast, a Master of Theology (ThM), also known as a Master of Sacred Theology (STM), is a more specialized, academic degree. It is typically pursued by those who already have an MDiv and want to engage in advanced scholarly research in a particular theological discipline, such as biblical languages, systematic theology, or church history. The ThM is often a stepping stone toward a doctoral program, like a PhD, and is not a prerequisite for ordination. It is a research-focused degree for those who wish to teach, write, or contribute to academic theological discourse.

Can you get ordained with an online MDiv?

Yes, in many cases, you can get ordained with an online MDiv, but it is highly dependent on your specific denomination. Many major Protestant denominations now accept online theological degrees for ordination, especially from institutions accredited by a body like the Association of Theological Schools (ATS). These online programs are designed to meet the same academic and ministerial formation requirements as their on-campus counterparts. However, it is crucial to consult your denominational leadership and ordination board early in the process to confirm their specific requirements.

While online degrees are widely accepted, some denominations or local ordination committees may still prefer or even require some level of in-person education or formation. The key to successful ordination is not just completing the degree but also fulfilling all the other denominational requirements, which may include supervised ministry experience, psychological evaluations, and a thorough vetting process. Therefore, while the online degree itself is often sufficient, a student's personal and vocational formation remains a key factor.

Do online MDiv programs require in-person residencies?

Many online MDiv programs do require some form of in-person residency or intensives, though the exact requirements vary significantly from school to school. These residencies are typically short, on-campus sessions that last for a few days to a week and are designed to build community, foster personal relationships with faculty and peers, and facilitate key aspects of spiritual and vocational formation that are difficult to replicate in a purely online environment. These intensives often take place at the beginning of the program or at key points throughout the curriculum.

However, there are also programs that are fully online with no mandatory in-person residencies. These programs are structured for maximum flexibility, catering to students who live far from campus, have full-time jobs, or have other life commitments that make travel difficult. When choosing an online MDiv program, it is essential to check the specific requirements, as a hybrid model with residencies may be a better fit for some students, while a 100% online format is the only option for others.