Best Online Master’s in Divinity

Best Online Master's in Divinity

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Do you feel called to become a leader in Christian ministries? Discover the 35 best online master’s in divinity to kickstart your career. 

Best Online Master's in Divinity

Whether you want to become a pastor, missionary, or chaplain, a master’s in divinity degree will get you there. With this graduate degree, you will be qualified for a variety of careers in the field of divinity. Your chosen master’s program will give you the contextual understanding of the scriptures while also enabling you to dive deeper into your own faith. 

Online Schools Report is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

What Is a Master’s in Divinity Degree?

A master’s in divinity is a graduate-level degree that focuses on the biblical, theological, and ethical principles of effective ministry. This degree is designed predominantly for individuals who are seeking leadership opportunities, involving pastoral, chaplaincy, and counseling roles.

Students within this master’s program will be able to interpret biblical context, provide spiritual guidance, and understand theological principles on a deeper level. Depending on your level of coursework each semester, these online master’s programs can take anywhere from two to four years to complete.

How Much Can You Earn With a Master’s in Divinity Degree?

With a master’s in divinity, your earnings can fluctuate based on your ministerial role. Not all graduates of this program turn out to become pastors. You will have the knowledge and understanding to qualify for a church planter, evangelist, or counselor. According to PayScale, the median salary for a professional with a master’s in divinity is $53,000 per year. 

Here are several positions and salaries held by graduates of this master’s program:

  • Pastor: $62,000
  • Senior Pastor: $62,000
  • Chaplain: $50,000
  • Associate Pastor: $50,000

What Is Required for a Master’s in Divinity Degree?

When enrolling in a master’s program in divinity, applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree or equivalent from a recognized college or accredited university. Some institutions may even require that the undergraduate degree is within a similar program or related field. 

All master’s programs are different in terms of how many credit hours are required to reach degree completion. Typically, the requirement lies anywhere between 30-90 credits.

Also depending on the program, you may have to write a research-based thesis, take a capstone course, participate in an internship, or pass an exit exam prior to receiving your graduate-level degree. 

What Are the Best Master’s in Divinity Degrees?

OSR uses six data points: three school-wide and three program-specific. For school-wide, OSR uses Student Satisfaction, Admission Rates, and the number of programs the school offers online. For program-specific, OSR checks the Median Debt of graduates from that program, how many degrees are offered within that program’s umbrella department, and what percentage of students at that school graduated from that department.

The six statistics are displayed by each school. The sliding bar under each statistic represents how that school compares to other US institutions. “Not reported” means a school did not release that information to the US Department of Education. A more detailed description of the OSR process can be found on the methodology page.

Southwestern Assemblies of God University

Quick Facts

  • Total of 72 credit hours 
  • Thesis and non-thesis options offered 
  • Eight specializations available
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

77%

Acceptance Rate

28%

Programs Offered Online

27

Median Debt

$41,000

Programs in Department

5

Popularity at School

55%

100%OSR Score

Southwestern Assemblies of God University offers an online master’s degree in divinity that prepares students for a career in Christian ministry. Throughout this program, your coursework will involve the comprehension of biblical interpretation, theology, and preaching. Students can customize their degree with eight different specializations or pursue the traditional degree track. 

Piedmont International University

Quick Facts

  • Total of 72 credit hours 
  • Seven degree tracks available 
  • Must complete within eight years
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

94%

Acceptance Rate

36%

Programs Offered Online

11

Programs in Department

3

Popularity at School

52%

97%OSR Score

The master’s in divinity program offered online through Piedmont International University is designed for students seeking careers as pastors or leaders within Christian ministries. You can transfer up to 50% of your degree requirements into this program. Students are required to choose one of the seven available tracks, including examples such as local church ministry, hospital chaplaincy, or marriage and family counseling. 

Luther Rice College & Seminary

Luther Rice College & Seminary

Quick Facts

  • Total of 90 credit hours 
  • Transfer up to 45 credit hours 
  • Two degree tracks offered
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

81%

Acceptance Rate

55%

Programs Offered Online

1

Median Debt

$43,928

Programs in Department

5

Popularity at School

100%

96%OSR Score

Do you have an interest in becoming a senior pastor, military chaplain, or religious administrator? Luther Rice College & Seminary offers an online master’s degree in divinity that provides students with a strong, biblically-sound curriculum that equips Christian leaders. Students have the choice to customize their degree with 24 credits of open electives or complete a biblical language degree track. 

Clarks Summit University

Quick Facts

  • Total of 87 credit hours 
  • An accredited bachelor’s degree required 
  • Internship experience required
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

82%

Acceptance Rate

55%

Programs Offered Online

6

Programs in Department

3

Popularity at School

67%

90%OSR Score

Clarks Summit University provides online students with a Master of Divinity degree that can be completed at any time to provide true flexibility. This program is best suited for individuals that are seeking a ministry degree that embraces the love of God, the accuracy of scripture, and serving people through biblical and theological education. Online students are required to complete a one-year, paid internship or integrative ministry project in order to experience real-world ministry experience. 

Columbia International University

Quick Facts

  • Total of 78 hours 
  • Eight concentrations available 
  • $25 application fee
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

75%

Acceptance Rate

28%

Programs Offered Online

1

Programs in Department

4

Popularity at School

49%

90%OSR Score

In as little as three years, you can earn your master’s degree in divinity through Columbia International University entirely online. This program prepares students for a variety of careers, including church and ministry work, academics, and missionary opportunities. Internships and research requirements are built into this customized, online degree. 

The King’s University

Quick Facts

  • Total of 78 credit hours 
  • Graduate Ministry Practicum required 
  • Master’s Capstone Project required
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

75%

Acceptance Rate

52%

Programs Offered Online

5

Median Debt

$54,083

Programs in Department

2

Popularity at School

100%

86%OSR Score

With an experienced-based approach to learning, the Master of Divinity through The King’s University will prepare you as a Christian leader. Throughout this program, the curriculum integrates a rigorous biblical and theological understanding. Completely online, students will complete courses such as Preaching that Connects, Spirit-Formed Worship, and Christian Theology. 

Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary

Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary

Quick Facts

  • Total of 72 credit hours 
  • Seven terms offered per year 
  • Capstone course required
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Acceptance Rate

95%

Programs Offered Online

2

Median Debt

$22,391

Programs in Department

3

Popularity at School

100%

86%OSR Score

Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary provides online students with a master’s in divinity degree that can be completed from anywhere with an internet connection. This program is designed for individuals who are seeking careers as pastors, evangelists, missionaries, or other ministry roles. Students will be required to complete 72 foundational courses, including Church Administration, History of Christianity, and Christian Ethics. 

Dallas Baptist University

Quick Facts

  • Total of 36 credit hours 
  • Concentration required 
  • No capstone required
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

76%

Acceptance Rate

39%

Programs Offered Online

13

Programs in Department

4

Popularity at School

11%

84%OSR Score

Earn a Master of Arts in Christian Ministry through Dallas Baptist University’s graduate school online. The MA degree in Christian Ministry prepares students to become servant leaders within a variety of ministry roles. The coursework requires 24 hours of core courses and 12 hours from the concentration of your choice. 

Epic Bible College

Quick Facts

  • Total of 48 credit hours 
  • 12-month completion time 
  • Thesis/capstone project required 
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

62%

Acceptance Rate

1%

Programs Offered Online

1

Programs in Department

2

Popularity at School

100%

82%OSR Score

The MA in Biblical Studies through Epic Bible College can be the launching point to your spiritual calling. The university offers an online master’s degree that is designed for students who are seeking leadership roles within Christian ministry. Throughout this program, students will take core courses including Biblical Hermeneutics, Philosophy of Religion, and Renewal Theology. 

Southern California Seminary

Quick Facts

  • Total of 96 units 
  • Capstone course required 
  • Ministry internship required
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

60%

Programs Offered Online

1

Programs in Department

2

Popularity at School

100%

82%OSR Score

Earn your Master of Divinity (MDiv) degree from Southern California Seminary so you can be confident in communicating the Word of God. If students choose to take 9-12 credit units per trimester, this graduate degree can be completed within three to four years. The capstone course required is a doctoral synopsis that involves a summative research paper. 

Liberty University

Liberty University

Quick Facts

  • Total of 75 credit hours 
  • Transfer up to 50% of your degree 
  • Three years to complete
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

73%

Acceptance Rate

30%

Programs Offered Online

23

Median Debt

$41,000

Programs in Department

5

Popularity at School

4%

80%OSR Score

Liberty University provides online students with a master’s degree in divinity, offering flexibility in course schedule and electives. The general degree track allows students to complete their 75 credit hours with no specific specialization required, allowing students to take a plethora of courses that interest them. All students will have to complete major courses, including Intercultural Communication, Public Theology, and a capstone course. 

Calvary University

Calvary University

Quick Facts

  • Total of 75 credit hours 
  • Concentration in Pastoral Studies 
  • Transfer up to 18 credit hours
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Acceptance Rate

74%

Programs Offered Online

15

Programs in Department

3

Popularity at School

59%

80%OSR Score

Providing a firm understanding of the roles within pastoral ministries, missionaries, and chaplaincy is the main objective of the Master of Divinity with a concentration in Pastoral Studies program through Calvary University. The program prepares students for a competent biblical and theological foundation. Throughout this program, the concentration will include courses involving expository preaching, theology of church ministry, and conflict management. 

World Mission University

World Mission University

Quick Facts

  • Total of 88 credit hours 
  • Transfer up to 44 credit hours 
  • Ministry project required
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Programs Offered Online

2

Programs in Department

3

Popularity at School

78%

79%OSR Score

The flexible master’s program offered at World Mission University utilizes an online learning format to prepare students for careers in pastoral studies. This online divinity master’s program can be taught with an emphasis in Biblical Preaching, Christian Counseling, Church Ministry, or Church Music. The final ministry project involves a 50-page paper on a student’s chosen topic. 

Multnomah University

Quick Facts

  • Total of 78 credit hours 
  • Two degree tracks available 
  • Transfer-friendly program 
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

81%

Acceptance Rate

65%

Programs Offered Online

3

Median Debt

$42,985

Programs in Department

3

Popularity at School

63%

79%OSR Score

Multnomah University offers an online MDiv program that equips students for a successful career in ministry leadership. Students can choose from the following areas of focus: Bible, Biblical Languages, Intercultural/Cross-Cultural Studies, Pastoral Ministry, Spiritual Formation, or Theology. This online program typically takes three years to complete. 

Oral Roberts University

Quick Facts

  • Total of 80.5 credit hours 
  • Transfer-friendly program 
  • Full-time enrollment is encouraged
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

79%

Acceptance Rate

93%

Programs Offered Online

61

Programs in Department

7

Popularity at School

13%

79%OSR Score

Oral Roberts University offers an online master’s degree in divinity that can be completed within as little as three years. Students are suggested to agree to a full-time enrollment that equates to nine or more credits each semester. Graduates of this program end up in careers in senior or associate pastoring, chaplaincy, pastoral counseling, or Bible school teaching.

Hope International University

Quick Facts

  • Total of 72 credit hours 
  • Single skills concentration offered 
  • Practicum required
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

78%

Acceptance Rate

28%

Programs Offered Online

6

Median Debt

$23,571

Programs in Department

2

Popularity at School

22%

78%OSR Score

The Master of Divinity degree provided through Hope International University will prepare students for an effective career within servant-leadership. With a scripture-based learning approach, students will understand the context of the Bible while learning how to professionally preach it to others. Throughout this program, students will take courses involving Bible study methods, world religions, and spiritual formation. 

Bethel Seminary

Quick Facts

  • Total of 78 credit hours 
  • Choose your concentration  
  • Three start terms per year
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Programs Offered Online

Not reported

Programs in Department

7

78%OSR Score

In four years, you can earn your master’s degree in divinity through Bethel Seminary entirely online. Online students can get enrolled in the summer, fall, or spring term without being required to come on campus at all. This program focuses on preparing students within their spiritual and leadership development to seek successful careers in Christian ministry. 

Faulkner University

Quick Facts

  • Total of 36 credit hours 
  • Thesis and non-thesis options offered 
  • Supervised ministry practicum required
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

74%

Acceptance Rate

51%

Programs Offered Online

9

Programs in Department

5

Popularity at School

1%

77%OSR Score

A Master of Arts in Christian Ministry allows students to fulfill their mission to serve Jesus Christ through several ministry roles. Throughout this program, students will take 21 core credits with courses including Biblical Interpretation, Old Testament Theology, and Studies in Biblical Backgrounds. All students are required to complete a comprehensive examination that does not qualify for college credit. 

Grand Canyon University

Grand Canyon University

Quick Facts

  • Total of 82 credit hours 
  • Transfer up to 12 credits  
  • Eight-week courses
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

69%

Acceptance Rate

67%

Programs Offered Online

37

Programs in Department

2

Popularity at School

2%

77%OSR Score

Earn your degree with a Master of Divinity online through Grand Canyon University. This online program provides a rigorous curriculum that focuses on ministry training and biblical and theological study. Throughout this program, students will take courses such as Christian Worldview, Biblical Leadership, and Christian Apologetics. 

New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary

Quick Facts

  • Total of 84 credit hours  
  • Three start terms per year 
  • Transfer-friendly program
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

88%

Programs Offered Online

2

Programs in Department

7

76%OSR Score

New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary provides an online Master of Divinity with a standard degree track. This program equips individuals for careers in pastoral ministry, youth ministry, campus ministry, chaplaincy, and missions. Students will have to complete an internship, practicum, or senior capstone prior to graduating. 

Western Seminary

Quick Facts

  • Total of 82 credit hours 
  • Complete within 32 months 
  • Three credits must be taken in Portland
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

92%

Programs Offered Online

Not reported

Median Debt

$20,000

Programs in Department

3

73%OSR Score

Preparing young men and women for Gospel-centered roles is the learning objective of Western Seminary’s Master of Divinity program. Throughout this program, students can customize their degree with 12 specialization credits of their choice. Most graduates of this program complete their online degree in less than three years. 

Maranatha Baptist University

Maranatha Baptist University

Quick Facts

  • Total of 96 credit hours 
  • Specialization required  
  • Thesis required
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Acceptance Rate

73%

Programs Offered Online

4

Programs in Department

4

Popularity at School

18%

73%OSR Score

Are you feeling led to full-time ministry? Then earn your Master of Divinity degree through Maranatha Baptist University and achieve the seminary-level education you’re striving for. Throughout this program, students are required to take foundational courses in biblical languages, church history, pastoral theology, biblical studies, and theological studies.

Shasta Bible College and Graduate School

Shasta Bible College and Graduate School

Quick Facts

  • Four degree tracks available 
  • Specialization required  
  • Thesis required
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

40%

Acceptance Rate

100%

Programs Offered Online

3

Programs in Department

4

Popularity at School

75%

69%OSR Score

Through Shasta Bible College and Graduate School, you can earn your MDiv degree in four different learning formats, including Pastoral and General Ministries, Biblical Counseling and Christian Family, Military Chaplaincy Traditional, or Military Chaplaincy Basic. All online students are taught the same curriculum as on-campus students and follow the same academic standards. Students can transfer earned credits from an accredited institution into this program. 

Northwest Nazarene University

Quick Facts

  • Total of 75 credit hours 
  • Three specializations offered 
  • Transfer-friendly program
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

79%

Acceptance Rate

73%

Programs Offered Online

7

Median Debt

$34,167

Programs in Department

3

Popularity at School

3%

66%OSR Score

Beginning your master’s degree in divinity with an online orientation kicks off your online experience with confidence and support. Northwest Nazarene University offers an MDiv program that provides students with a firm understanding in pastoral care, leadership, preaching, Christian education, Bible, and more. The three specializations available are Missional Leadership, Spiritual Formation, or Youth, Children, and Family Ministry.

Abilene Christian University

Abilene Christian University

Quick Facts

  • Total of 72 credit hours 
  • Two tracks offered 
  • Program length: 3-4 years
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

75%

Acceptance Rate

58%

Programs Offered Online

Not reported

Programs in Department

2

Popularity at School

5%

66%OSR Score

Students can enroll within the master’s program from Abilene Christian University during fall, spring, and summer terms. The Master of Divinity uses contextual education courses and experience-based practices to create well-versed and prepared students. Throughout this program, students will complete the following courses: Foundations of Theology, Introduction to Hebrew, and Christian Mission in a Global Context. 

Anderson University

Quick Facts

  • Total of 78 credit hours 
  • Transfer-friendly 
  • Two degree tracks
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

75%

Acceptance Rate

79%

Programs Offered Online

13

Programs in Department

1

Popularity at School

5%

65%OSR Score

The Master of Divinity at Anderson University can be taken completely online while offering the same quality education as on-site students. This program is designed for individuals preparing for ordained ministry. With a solid seminary curriculum in both degree paths, this program will prepare you for the career that calls you the most.

Calvin Theological Seminary

Quick Facts

  • Total of 101 credit hours 
  • Three-five years to complete 
  • Practicum required
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Programs Offered Online

Not reported

Programs in Department

5

64%OSR Score

What better way to learn than by being informed by the Gospel and prepared to share it with the world? Calvin Theological Seminary offers a 100% online master’s degree in divinity that is designed for a variety of diverse ministry opportunities. Throughout this program, students are required to take 24 integration courses, including Bible Survey, Leadership in Ministry, and Theological Education. 

Virginia University of Lynchburg

Quick Facts

  • Transfer-friendly program 
  • Receive credit for prior training and experience
  • Four start terms per year
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

100%

Programs Offered Online

3

Programs in Department

1

Popularity at School

0%

64%OSR Score

Virgina University of Lynchburg offers a Master of Divinity entirely online for distance learners looking to pursue their career in ministry. This degree program can be completed at your own pace. Students have the option to enroll in fall, spring, summer term 1 or summer term 2. 

Bethesda University

Bethesda University

Quick Facts

  • Total of 96 credit hours 
  • Biblically-centered education 
  • Practicum required
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Programs Offered Online

Not reported

Programs in Department

2

Popularity at School

25%

64%OSR Score

The MA degree in Divinity at Bethesda University is a three-year program that prepares students for effective pastoral or missionary ministry. The program is laid out with a balanced coursework, integrating biblical, theological, and practical training from a Christian worldview. Throughout this program, students are required to take 24 hours of biblical studies, 27 hours of theological studies, 30 hours of practical ministry, and six hours of field work. 

University of Dubuque

Quick Facts

  • Total of 75 credit hours 
  • Must graduate with a 2.0 GPA
  • Internship required
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

79%

Acceptance Rate

74%

Programs Offered Online

Not reported

Programs in Department

2

Popularity at School

0%

62%OSR Score

The distance MDiv program offered by the University of Dubuque can be completed in three to four years entirely online. This program teaches students the foundational understanding of the Bible, Christian history, theology, and ministry. Throughout this program, students are required to take 12 integrative credits, including God’s Redemptive Mission, Gospel in Context, and Disciple Formation. 

Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary

Quick Facts

  • Total of 60-80 credit hours 
  • Program length: three-four years  
  • Five degree tracks offered
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

83%

Acceptance Rate

95%

Programs Offered Online

1

Programs in Department

4

Popularity at School

14%

62%OSR Score

Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary offers five different degree tracks for the Master of Divinity degree. Students can choose a master’s in Advanced MDiv, Christian Ministry, Missiology, North American Church Planting, or Preaching and Pastoral Ministry. Coursework differs by degree program, but all students can expect to complete an internship, practicum, or capstone course experience. 

Claremont School of Theology

Quick Facts

  • Total of 72 credit hours 
  • Four different modes offered 
  • $50 application fee
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

83%

Programs Offered Online

Not reported

Programs in Department

2

60%OSR Score

Claremont School of Theology offers four different modes for the Master of Divinity degree. Students can earn their MDiv in Ministerial Leadership (online), Ministerial Leadership (on campus), Interfaith Chaplaincy, or Islamic Chaplaincy. With these diverse offerings, distance learners can seek the degree they want within three to four years. 

Iliff School of Theology

Quick Facts

  • Total of 116 credit hours 
  • Tracks based on denominations  
  • Internship required
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

79%

Programs Offered Online

Not reported

Programs in Department

2

59%OSR Score

Unlike other master’s programs in divinity, ILiff School of Theology offers a variety of degree programs in divinity based on your desired domination. Throughout your program, you will be required to complete 48 core credits, four personal and professional formation credits, a 12-credit internship, and 52 elective courses. Your curriculum will involve the study of comparative religious traditions, sacred texts, and theology/religious practices. 

Denver Seminary

Quick Facts

  • Total of 78 credit hours 
  • Optional concentration 
  • Transfer-friendly program
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

62%

Acceptance Rate

1%

Programs Offered Online

Not reported

Median Debt

$46,940

Programs in Department

2

57%OSR Score

If you’re interested in becoming a pastor, chaplain, missionary, or church planter, then the master’s in divinity from Denver Seminary is the graduate degree program for you. This online program provides students with a deeper understanding of biblical contexts and the best practices for teaching and sharing it with others. Throughout this program, students are required to complete a summative experience and MDiv oral examination. 

Nashotah House

Quick Facts

  • Total of 48 credit hours 
  • Eight-module program of study 
  • Two-year program
Program Web Page

Schoolwide Rankings

Student Satisfaction

62%

Acceptance Rate

1%

Programs Offered Online

Not reported

Programs in Department

2

56%OSR Score

Nashotah House offers a Master of Ministry degree entirely online that can also serve as a specialized degree in Professional Pastoral Ministry. This program focuses on seven essential components of theological education: the Old Testament, New Testament, church history, homiletics, Christian theology, studies in contemporary society, liturgics and church music, and theory/practice of ministry. With a rigorous curriculum and flexible schedule, students typically complete this program within two years. 

Online Schools Report is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.