Edited By Julian Palacio
Review & Contribution By Dr. Ellen Carter
Embark on an enriching journey with a Master’s in Religious Studies online. Explore diverse faith traditions, deepen your understanding of theology, and prepare for impactful roles in academia and beyond.
A master’s in religious studies online helps learners explore religious traditions and gain insight into global and contemporary issues. Students can examine world affairs through the lenses of international relations, economics, politics, and more, encouraging interdisciplinary approaches. An online master’s in religious studies provides in-depth and practical knowledge of theology, ministry practice, and biblical studies. This degree is ideal for catechists, directors of religious education, theology teachers, or those planning to enter the field of religious or faith formations. Graduates of this program are well-equipped to understand scriptures adeptly, preparing them for managerial roles in ministry settings.
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Southern New Hampshire University
PROGRAM: BA General Studies
Southern New Hampshire University is a private, nonprofit, accredited institution with more than 3,000 on campus students, over 170,000 online students, making it one of the fastest growing universities in the nation. Founded in 1932, we’ve been relentlessly reinventing higher education ever since and have gained national recognition for our dedication to helping students transform their lives and the lives of those around them.
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Find the Best Master’s in Religious Studies Online Programs
Finding the best master’s programs in religious studies can be challenging. Students must consider the quality of the faculty, program length, accessibility, and funding. They should look for accredited institutions that offer flexibility through online formats, diverse course offerings, and strong support services to ensure a comprehensive and enriching educational experience in religious studies. The teams at FBD have researched the best online master’s programs in religious studies using their proprietary methodology and compiled the following list:
| Univ | Address | Tuition | Grad Rate |
| University of Denver | 2199 S. University Blvd, Denver, Colorado 80208 | $58,032 | 78% |
Universities and programs are ranked by various factors, such as affordability, curriculum and coursework, reputation and availability, program length, statistics, the potential of employment, and return on investment for the students. For a more in-depth analysis, please read about our rankings methodology page.
What to Expect from an Online Master’s Degree in Religious Studies
An online master’s degree in religious studies helps students develop an in-depth understanding of the beliefs and faith practices that shape cultures globally. This degree typically takes around two years to complete and can range from 30 to 75 credits. It encourages students to explore fundamental questions of living and existence by combining history, psychology, and anthropology and weaving belief and action together. Students study various subjects while pursuing this master’s program, including religion and pop culture, great religious minds, Christian traditions, Buddhist teachings, and more. Most colleges offering this degree provide online, offline, and hybrid learning modes. Students must complete research work, capstones, or other practical experiences to demonstrate their understanding of religion and theological disciplines. This degree prepares graduates to work in various contexts, including schools, parishes, diocesan offices, medicine, secular workplaces, social work-based organizations, etc.
Curriculum and Coursework
The religious studies program provides a broad and in-depth exploration of religion, theology, and related fields. Students gain a skill set encompassing multidisciplinary components and methodologies, preparing them to collaborate with professionals in teaching, church roles, non-profit work, chaplaincy, and more. The curriculum includes core courses, focus areas, capstone projects, and electives.
An online master’s degree in religious studies varies depending on whether a student chooses a thesis or non-thesis track. A thesis-based curriculum prepares students for advanced studies, such as a Ph.D. in religious domains or employment in academic and research roles. In contrast, a non-thesis curriculum equips students to develop leadership roles, work in non-profit or faith-based organizations, and seek opportunities in other fields related to religion.
While different colleges have unique curricula, some standard masters religious studies online courses across programs include:
Theories of Religion
Students in this course explore influential theories of religion from the Enlightenment period to the present. Some colleges require writing significant research papers that involve various theoretical perspectives. Students examine numerous theories on the origin of religion, considering different philosophies and analyzing them in light of the work done by other important figures in this domain.
Religions of Asia
Through this course, students evaluate the major religions of Asia- including Hinduism, Islam, Buddhism, and more. They engage in focused readings, research, and global discussions on these religions and traditions. Additionally, students analyze how ethnic groups and cultural diversity impact these beliefs.
Biblical Studies
This course integrates Bible studies with liberal arts courses, preparing students for ministerial positions and equipping them with job skills. It involves the academic application of various disciplines to study the Old and New Testaments. Students evaluate tools and methodologies such as historical criticism, textual criticism, and philology.
Religions in Europe and the Middle East
This course explores the religions of Europe and the Middle East, examining their influence on contemporary society, culture, philosophy, law, and art. Students gain an understanding of the distinctive faiths followed by smaller groups within these regions. The course involves a detailed study of authors, movements, eras, and key figures of Christianity, Judaism, Islam, and other religions prominent in the Middle East and Europe.
Religion and Culture
This course explores various rituals, beliefs, and practices related to the supernatural, divine, and spiritual, encompassing the worship of single or multiple deities. It also involves an evaluation of culture based on a collective set of values, customs, language, and practices shared by society, including different aspects of life such as religion and religious beliefs.
Some other standard courses across the religious studies curriculum include:
- Practical Theology
- Spirituality, Ethics, and Morality
- Jewish Roots of Christian Faith
- Interpreting Texts
- Seminar on the History of Religion
- Pastoral and Educational Praxis
- Foundations of Religious Education
- Curriculum Development
- Digital Media and Ministry
- Catechetical Leadership
- Church, Sacraments, and Liturgy
- Grace, Christ, and Spirit
Learning Outcomes and Skills Gained
Throughout the coursework of the religious studies online master’s degree, students gain the spiritual and theological grounding necessary to function as leaders and ministers. A graduate program helps students achieve higher salary packages, expertise, and industry recognition.
Graduates of this program demonstrate various skills, including:
- In-depth knowledge of theological, historical, and biblical studies, enabling effective communication and understanding of theological beliefs;
- Interpretation and teaching of the Bible in diverse settings such as schools, churches, missions, seminaries, and universities;
- Adaptive thinking to make critical judgments about challenges in various religious contexts;
- Creative thinking to devise solutions to contemporary challenges;
- Efficient organization and administration of religion-based activities with cultural sensitivity;
- A profound comprehension of religion and faith-based philosophy, fostering reflective practices;
- Practical communication skills to articulate thoughts effectively through written and verbal expression, facilitating debate, reasoning, and relationship-building;
- Adherence to ethical standards comparable to those of experts and high-achieving professionals in religion;
- Collaboration with diverse religious stakeholders, demonstrating support and cooperation across multiple ideologies and viewpoints;
- Application of knowledge to develop balanced and diverse coursework for religious education.
Types of Master’s Degrees Religious Studies Students Can Obtain
An online master’s religious studies degree helps students develop in-depth knowledge in the field and prepares them for careers in research or related fields. The most common type of master’s degree is the Master of Arts (MA) in religious studies. Additionally, students can pursue a Master of Divinity (M.Div.) or a Master’s in Theology, covering similar religious studies topics.
Master of Arts or MA in Religious Studies
A Master of Arts (MA) in Religious Studies provides students with a foundational understanding of religion and spiritual formation. It offers in-depth practical education in ministry practice, biblical studies, and theology, preparing students for various professional roles within the ministry domain.
Areas of Specialization for Religious Studies Students
Specializations in a Master’s in Religious Studies enable students to customize their programs and concentrate on specific academic areas. This tailored approach allows them to deepen their understanding of religious phenomena, theological concepts, and cultural contexts without restricting career options. It fosters versatile expertise beneficial for roles in academia, ministry, research, and various professional domains within religious studies. Some specializations that students pursuing a master’s degree in religious studies online can undertake include:
| Area of Specialization | Description | Career Options |
|---|---|---|
| South Asian Religions | This specialization allows students to explore the diverse religious traditions of the region. They study Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, Sikhism, and other faiths, exploring their histories, philosophies, practices, and cultural impacts, preparing them for roles in academia, interfaith dialogue, and more. | Secondary School Teacher Professor Researcher Historian |
| American Religions | This specialization focuses on the diverse religious traditions developed in the United States. Students study indigenous religions, Protestantism, Catholicism, Judaism, Islam, and newer religious movements, examining their historical contexts, theological developments, social impacts, and cultural expressions. This specialization prepares students for academic careers, religious leadership, and interfaith dialogue. | Clergy Historians Professors Religious Studies Educators |
| Buddhist Studies | This specialization allows students to deeply explore Buddhism’s history, teachings, practices, and cultural impact worldwide. This specialization covers Buddhist traditions such as Theravada, Mahayana, and Vajrayana, examining philosophical developments, religious practices, and contemporary issues. Graduates are prepared for careers in academia, research, cultural exchange programs, interfaith dialogue, and Buddhist organizations. | Historian Researcher Archivist Museum Curator |
| Jewish Texts and Traditions | This specialization enables students to explore Judaism’s scriptures, teachings, and cultural practices. This specialization covers Torah, Talmud, Midrash, Jewish law, philosophy, and historical developments. Graduates gain expertise for roles in academia, Jewish education, community leadership, cultural preservation, and interfaith dialogue initiatives. | Historian Writer Spiritual Care Counselor Program Director |
| Islamic Studies | This specialization involves an in-depth exploration of the diverse aspects of Islam. This includes studying the Quran, Hadith literature, Islamic law (Sharia), theology (Kalam), history, philosophy, and cultural expressions within Muslim societies globally. Graduates are equipped for careers in academia, research institutions, interfaith dialogue, Islamic education, and international relations. | Teacher Program Director Spiritual Care Counselor Researcher |
Full-Time and Part-Time Programs
As with most educational degrees, the time required to complete a religious studies program depends on the student’s availability or ability to engage with the coursework. Typically, a full-time master’s degree takes about two years to finish. A part-time program would extend beyond two years, while an accelerated format allows completion in less than two years. Here’s a summary of completion timelines for an online masters degree in religious studies:
- Full-time program: Approximately two years
- Part-time program: More than two years
- Accelerated program: Less than two years
Accelerated Religious Studies Programs
An accelerated master’s degree in Religious Studies allows students to complete their degree in less time than a regular program. The application process for accelerated programs is typically the same as for traditional master’s degrees. Students often choose accelerated programs to accommodate work or reduce costs. They can expedite their studies by fast-tracking their coursework and transferring credits when applicable. Here are a few universities that offer accelerated masters in religious studies online programs:
Requirements for Getting into a Master’s in Religious Studies Online Program
The requirements for completing a master’s degree in religious studies are similar to those of other master’s programs. Students must understand all the prerequisites and criteria necessary for admission to ensure they meet the qualifications for the program. Here are some of the common online masters in religious studies admission requirements mentioned below:
- Bachelor’s degree in Religious Study or related fields is typically expected
- Prerequisite coursework like English or other courses
- Minimum Grade Point Average or GPA of 2.5 or more is generally required (some programs have a lesser GPA requirement)
- Scores of standardized tests like Graduate Record Examinations or GRE scores are typically required
- 2 or 3 letters of recommendation
- Statement of purpose or personal statement
- Essay for entrance to the program (may not be required by some programs)
- International applicants or those whose native language isn’t English need to provide TOEFL, IELTS, and more scores.
No GRE Master’s in Religious Studies Online Programs
The Graduate Record Examination, or GRE, is a standardized test used by many graduate schools in the United States, Canada, and other countries as an admission requirement. While most colleges traditionally require GRE scores for enrollment in master’s programs, some institutions in the United States have either eliminated this requirement or made GRE scores optional. This change allows more students to apply for religious studies programs without the barrier of mandatory GRE scores. Here are a few colleges that provide a masters in religious studies online no GRE:
How to Ensure a Master’s in Religious Studies Online Program Is Accredited
Accreditation ensures that a master’s degree in religious studies meets established standards of quality and rigor, enhancing program credibility, validating academic achievements, and facilitating credit transfer. Accredited programs also qualify students for financial aid and bolster their prospects in academic and professional settings. Several national faith-related accrediting organizations accredit online religious studies masters, such as the Association for Biblical Higher Education[7], the Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools[8], the Association of Theological Schools, and the Association of Advanced Rabbinical and Talmudic Schools (AARTS)[9].
Where to Find Free Online Courses for Religious Studies Master’s Students
Free online courses in religious studies offer accessible learning opportunities for students to explore diverse topics without financial commitments. While beneficial for personal enrichment and knowledge acquisition, these courses are typically not accredited, limiting their use for formal academic or professional credentials. Here are a few free religious studies courses students can explore:
| Course | Description | Provided by |
|---|---|---|
| Religion, Conflict, and Peace[10] | This course teaches how religious institutions and their ideologies function to support public health initiatives. Students examine the ideological justifications in evaluating effective economic policies and their application to reflect and challenge various religious values. They also analyze multiple media representations of spiritual components for accuracy. | edX |
| Philosophy, Science, and Religion: Philosophy and Religion[11] | This course explores the relationship between religious beliefs and brain sciences, employing a sociological approach to examining their intersection in contemporary society. | Coursera |
| Introduction to the New Testament History and Literature[12] | This course explores the significance of studying the New Testament. Throughout the curriculum, students gain insights into the New Testament as history, the Gospel of Mark, Judaism in the First Century, the Greco-Roman world, the Acts of the Apostles, and other essential components. | Open Yale Courses |
Ways to Pay for a Master’s in Religious Studies Online
As the tuition costs for online master’s programs in religious studies continue to rise, students face concerns about accumulating student debt. Finding ways to manage these expenses becomes crucial, requiring careful financial planning and consideration of available resources to pursue their educational goals effectively. Here are a few ways students can fund their program:
Scholarships provide financial support for education, easing the burden of tuition fees and expenses. They reward academic excellence, talent, and diverse achievements, fostering opportunities for deserving individuals to pursue their educational goals and contribute meaningfully to society’s progress.
Grants offer financial aid without the requirement for repayment. They support diverse needs such as tuition, living expenses, and research projects, ensuring equitable access to education and fostering academic and personal growth.
Student Loans
Student loans are offered by banks or government agencies to help cover the cost of higher education. They typically accrue interest and must be repaid after graduation, providing flexibility in repayment plans but adding to post-graduation financial obligations.
Graduate Assistantships
Graduate assistantships provide financial support for graduate students in exchange for academic or research work. They offer valuable experience, mentorship opportunities, and financial assistance, helping students develop skills relevant to their field while pursuing advanced degrees.
FAFSA, the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, is a form students complete annually to determine eligibility for financial aid programs, including grants, loans, and work-study options that the federal government offers to help cover college expenses.
Scholarships for Master’s in Religious Studies Online Degree Students
Scholarships for online Master’s in Religious Studies support students pursuing academic excellence in diverse spiritual traditions and theological studies. These financial aids alleviate tuition burdens, enabling students to explore religious philosophies, ethics, and cultural contexts online. They promote accessibility to advanced education in religious studies, fostering informed global perspectives and scholarly contributions. Here are some online masters in religious studies scholarships students can apply to:
| Scholarship | Description | Award/Amount | Application Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Harvester’s Scholarship Foundation[13] | The Harvesters Scholarship Foundation’s mission is to encourage, guide, and assist students who adhere to the evangelical Christian faith in pursuing educational and professional opportunities. Applicants must be enrolled in an accredited graduate institution in the United States. | Varies | May annually |
| Baptist Communicators Association Annual Scholarships[14] | The Baptist Communicators Association offers scholarships to both graduate and undergraduate students. Eligible applicants must be enrolled full-time in programs related to religious studies or communications and demonstrate financial need. | $500 | March annually |
| Mary E. Bivins Religious Scholarship Program[15] | This scholarship is intended to educate ministers for teaching the Christian religion. Eligible candidates must be permanent residents of the 26 northernmost counties of the Texas Panhandle and committed to a career as a pulpit minister upon graduation. | Varies | February annually |
Career Opportunities and Salaries After Graduating
After earning a master’s in religious studies, graduates can explore diverse career opportunities across various sectors. They may find roles in education, research, advocacy, or nonprofit organizations. Salaries vary based on location and employer, reflecting the demand for individuals with a deep understanding of religious perspectives and their impact on society. Graduates with an online master degree in religious studies can apply to various positions, including:
- Youth director
- Youth and children coordinator
- Teacher
- Spiritual care counselor
- Sociologist
- Social worker
- Senior Pastor
- Rehabilitation counselor
- Program director
- Ministry director
- Evangelist
- Domestic missionary
- Conference director
- Community relations coordinator
- Community outreach leader
- Coach
- Church planter
- Chaplain
Here are a few more occupations explored further below:
| Occupation | Job Description | Median Annual Salary | Job Growth (up to 2031) | Skills Required |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Highschool Teachers[16] | Highschool teachers must teach students structured courses in their subject domain; and assess their progress by grading assignments, exams, papers, and other works. Professionals in this field must stay informed about the changes in the area and serve on administrative committees when needed. | $65,220 | 1% (little or no change) | Critical thinking, interpersonal, resourcefulness, speaking, and writing skills |
| Social Workers[17] | Such professionals respond to mental health crises, child abuse, or other emergencies. They also monitor client situations, follow up to ensure their well-being has improved, and maintain records and case files. | $58,380 | 7% (faster than average) | Communication, compassion, interpersonal, organizational, and problem-solving skills |
| Social and Community Service Managers[18] | Social and community service managers will plan and manage outreach activities to increase awareness of programs and public well-being. They will write proposals for social services funding and analyze data to determine the program’s effectiveness. | $77,030 | 9% (much faster than average) | Analytical, communication, managerial, problem-solving, and time-management skills |
| Chaplain[19] | Chaplains provide emotional and spiritual support to people of all religions and beliefs, often working outside of a traditional church setting. They provide important services to the people with whom they work. | $67,802 | No Data Available | Interpersonal, problem-solving, empathy, and more. |
| Clergy[20] | Clergy provides spiritual leadership, directing religious services and daily operations while overseeing outreach and educational programs. They supervise church staff, conduct worship services, lead prayers, and require a master’s degree. They report to regional or chapter managers, ensuring the spiritual and administrative functions of the organization are fulfilled. | $60,180 | Not provided | Interpersonal, problem-solving, empathy, and more. |
Certifications and Licensing for Online Master’s Students in Religious Studies
Those graduating with a master’s in religious studies online meet the minimum requirements for pursuing various roles in the field. Students aiming for teaching or counseling roles can refer to criteria outlined by the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards. Typically, these include completing a bachelor’s program and a specified number of semester hours. State-specific requirements must also be met depending on where individuals plan to practice.
Additional Resources for Master’s Students in Religious Studies Degree
A master’s degree in religious studies online provides a robust platform for students to deepen their understanding of divinity and biblical studies. Additional resources enable them to connect with professionals and peers, enhancing their knowledge and exploring their faith more profoundly. This enriches their spiritual practice and credentials in the field. Below are several resources beneficial for a master’s degree in religious studies online students:
| Title/Resource | Description |
|---|---|
| North American Association for the Study of Religion | The North American Association for the Study of Religion (NAASR) examines elements comprising the ecology of religious fields, offering numerous opportunities for members to refine their scholarly pursuits. They feature a NAASR working papers series where students are encouraged to write and submit papers exploring broader social structures such as race, class, occupational history, and religious background. |
| Religious Education Association | The Religious Education Association offers a range of benefits, including event announcements, job openings, proceedings from annual meetings, historical documents, archives of past newsletters, and more. Additionally, the organization facilitates employment opportunities for members across various religious schools and learning communities nationwide. |
| American Academy of Religion | The American Academy of Religion is dedicated to promoting professional responsibility, critical examination, inclusion, diversity, respect, transparency, and free inquiry within the academic study of religion. They develop and facilitate programs to engage diverse audiences, including resources for public scholars and a biennial lecture series. |
| Society for the Scientific Study of Religion | The Society for the Scientific Study of Religion (SSSR) offers membership to scholars and experts in the field, providing benefits such as an annual subscription to the Journal for the Scientific Study of Religion, participation in yearly meetings with over 500 colleagues, access to the society’s research grants, and travel grants for meeting attendance. |
| Society of Biblical Literature | The Society of Biblical Literature offers diverse membership options with benefits that include awards for excellence and creativity in Biblical scholarship. Public memberships cater to those interested in religious governance, general educational requirements, participation in SBL meetings, and other related activities. |
FAQs About Master’s in Religious Studies Online Programs
Is doing a master’s in religious studies degree necessary?
A master’s degree in religious studies is not always necessary but can benefit those pursuing academic careers, religious leadership, counseling, or research. It deepens understanding of religious traditions, enhances critical thinking skills, and may provide specialized knowledge useful in various professions within the field of religion and beyond.
Why should you do a master’s in religious studies degree online?
Is a master’s degree in religious studies affordable?
Do I have to do a thesis-based religious studies master’s?
What can you do with an online master’s religious studies degree?
Is an online master’s in religious studies worth it?
Can one personalize their study plan for a religious studies master’s?
Citations:
George Mason University- No GRE
Association for Biblical Higher Education
Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools
Association of Advanced Rabbinical and Talmudic Schools (AARTS)
Religion, Conflict, and Peace-edX
Philosophy, Science, and Religion: Philosophy and Religion-Coursera
Introduction to the New Testament History and Literature-Open Yale Courses
Harvester’s Scholarship Foundation
Baptist Communicators Association Annual Scholarships
Mary E. Bivins Religious Scholarship Program
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupation Outlook for Highschool Teachers
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupation Outlook for Social Worker
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupation Outlook for Social and Community Service Managers