Best Affordable Online Theology Programs

Learn about online bachelor’s in theology programs that are not only high quality, but affordable, too.
Matthew Arrojas
By
Edited by
Updated September 30, 2025
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At a Glance: BestColleges’ Top Affordable Online Theology Programs

  • #1: Franciscan University of Steubenville — This liberal arts program’s courses focus on doctrine, morals, and Scripture.
  • #2: Brescia University — The curriculum aligns with standards of readiness for permanent deacons in the U.S.
  • #3: Montreat College — Montreat offers stackable scholarship options to maximize financial aid and lower out-of-pocket costs.

Theology is often described as a calling, but for aspiring ministers and missionaries, getting the best possible education for that calling doesn’t have to mean breaking the bank.

Here, we’ve compiled a list of some of the best online theology programs that are also affordable. That doesn’t mean these are the cheapest online theology programs, but rather the programs that fit BestColleges’ ranking methodology and are still affordable.

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In this Article
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Top Affordable Online Theology Programs

We use trusted sources like Peterson's Data and the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
from our partners appear among these rankings and are indicated as such.
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How We Rank Schools

At BestColleges, we believe a college education is one of the most important investments you can make. We help you navigate the college selection process by offering transparent, inclusive, and relevant school rankings.

We use datasets from trusted sources like the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools and our methodologies. This list is from 2022. To learn more, check out our full rankings methodology.

#1

Franciscan University of Steubenville

Steubenville, OH4 yearCampus + Online

$12,600

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$12,600

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

77%

Acceptance Rate

43%

Online Enrollment

 100% Online | Self-Paced and Scheduled Classes

Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $600
Out of State | $600

Credits to Graduate
121

Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No

Regional Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission

Franciscan University of Steubenville's (FUS) online bachelor's in theology draws on Western philosophy and Catholic values. The program helps prepare learners for further training in Catholic ministry or graduate studies. 

FUS's rigorous Franciscan liberal arts tradition emphasizes critical thinking skills and appreciation for Western literature. Major program topics include ecclesiology, Christology, and moral theology. Degree-seekers choose 12 credits of theology electives. The program concludes with a senior thesis or capstone seminar. 

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$28,420

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$28,420

Retention Rate

88%

Students Enrolled

3,039

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$12,600

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$12,600

Franciscan University of Steubenville

Steubenville, OH4 yearCampus + Online

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$12,600

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$12,600

Acceptance Rate

77%

Online Enrollment

43%

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$28,420

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$28,420

Retention Rate

88%

Students Enrolled

3,039

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

 100% Online | Self-Paced and Scheduled Classes

Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $600
Out of State | $600

Credits to Graduate
121

Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No

Regional Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission

Franciscan University of Steubenville's (FUS) online bachelor's in theology draws on Western philosophy and Catholic values. The program helps prepare learners for further training in Catholic ministry or graduate studies. 

FUS's rigorous Franciscan liberal arts tradition emphasizes critical thinking skills and appreciation for Western literature. Major program topics include ecclesiology, Christology, and moral theology. Degree-seekers choose 12 credits of theology electives. The program concludes with a senior thesis or capstone seminar. 

#2

Brescia University

Owensboro, KY4 yearCampus + Online

$550

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$550

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

42%

Acceptance Rate

43%

Online Enrollment

 100% Online | Self-Paced and Scheduled Classes

Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $425
Out of State | $425

Credits to Graduate
128

Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No

Regional Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

A Catholic school based in Owensboro, Kentucky, Brescia University began as a women's college. The school is now coeducational. Brescia offers an accelerated online bachelor's in theology tailored to nontraditional and ministry students.

Course topics include spirituality and vocation, world religions, and women in Christian tradition. The program meets the National Association of Lay Ministry's competency expectations. It also aligns with National Directory for the Formation, Ministry and Life of Permanent Deacons standards.

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$22,900

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$22,900

Retention Rate

68%

Students Enrolled

1,014

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$550

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$550

Brescia University

Owensboro, KY4 yearCampus + Online

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$550

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$550

Acceptance Rate

42%

Online Enrollment

43%

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$22,900

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$22,900

Retention Rate

68%

Students Enrolled

1,014

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

 100% Online | Self-Paced and Scheduled Classes

Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $425
Out of State | $425

Credits to Graduate
128

Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No

Regional Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

A Catholic school based in Owensboro, Kentucky, Brescia University began as a women's college. The school is now coeducational. Brescia offers an accelerated online bachelor's in theology tailored to nontraditional and ministry students.

Course topics include spirituality and vocation, world religions, and women in Christian tradition. The program meets the National Association of Lay Ministry's competency expectations. It also aligns with National Directory for the Formation, Ministry and Life of Permanent Deacons standards.

#3

Montreat College

Montreat, NC4 yearCampus + Online

$13,770

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$13,770

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

56%

Acceptance Rate

57%

Online Enrollment

 Program Format 100% Online | Course Format Self-Paced Classes

Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $425
Out of State | $425

Credits to Graduate
120

Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No

Program Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges

Montreat College offers an online bachelor's in Bible and theology geared towards students looking to enter theological seminaries or graduate religious studies. The program stands out for requiring use of New Testament Greek by senior year, giving students a working knowledge of Greek grammar and syntax.

Course topics include Biblical interpretation, contemporary theologies, and Greek Exegesis. Studies culminate with a senior thesis project. Students can use their degree to pursue employment in ministry, mission work, and Biblical scholasticism.

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$27,700

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$27,700

Retention Rate

67%

Students Enrolled

930

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$13,770

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$13,770

Montreat College

Montreat, NC4 yearCampus + Online

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$13,770

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$13,770

Acceptance Rate

56%

Online Enrollment

57%

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$27,700

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$27,700

Retention Rate

67%

Students Enrolled

930

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

 Program Format 100% Online | Course Format Self-Paced Classes

Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $425
Out of State | $425

Credits to Graduate
120

Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No

Program Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges

Montreat College offers an online bachelor's in Bible and theology geared towards students looking to enter theological seminaries or graduate religious studies. The program stands out for requiring use of New Testament Greek by senior year, giving students a working knowledge of Greek grammar and syntax.

Course topics include Biblical interpretation, contemporary theologies, and Greek Exegesis. Studies culminate with a senior thesis project. Students can use their degree to pursue employment in ministry, mission work, and Biblical scholasticism.

#4

Concordia University-Wisconsin

Mequon, WI4 yearCampus + Online

$11,052

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$11,052

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

64%

Acceptance Rate

39%

Online Enrollment

 100% Online

Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $540
Out of State | $540

Credits to Graduate
128

Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No

Regional Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission

Founded in 1881, Concordia University Wisconsin offers an accelerated online bachelor's in theological studies. This program caters to students seeking personal spiritual growth or a career as a church worker or lay leader. Core courses delve into biblical interpretation with classes in the Old and New Testaments, Gospel of Luke, and life of Christ. 

Other required courses cover topics like Christian ethics, world religions, and Lutheran church work. Degree-seekers can personalize their studies with 51 elective credits. 

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$30,060

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$30,060

Retention Rate

81%

Students Enrolled

5,777

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$11,052

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$11,052

Concordia University-Wisconsin

Mequon, WI4 yearCampus + Online

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$11,052

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$11,052

Acceptance Rate

64%

Online Enrollment

39%

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$30,060

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$30,060

Retention Rate

81%

Students Enrolled

5,777

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

 100% Online

Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $540
Out of State | $540

Credits to Graduate
128

Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No

Regional Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission

Founded in 1881, Concordia University Wisconsin offers an accelerated online bachelor's in theological studies. This program caters to students seeking personal spiritual growth or a career as a church worker or lay leader. Core courses delve into biblical interpretation with classes in the Old and New Testaments, Gospel of Luke, and life of Christ. 

Other required courses cover topics like Christian ethics, world religions, and Lutheran church work. Degree-seekers can personalize their studies with 51 elective credits. 

#5

Grand View University

Des Moines, IA4 yearCampus + Online

$6,481

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$6,481

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

96%

Acceptance Rate

27%

Online Enrollment

 Program Format 100% Online | Course Format Self-Paced Classes

Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $452
Out of State | $452

Credits to Graduate
124

Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No

Program Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission

Grand View University offers an online bachelor's in theology taught from a Lutheran perspective. The degree imparts strong critical thinking and leadership skills through a rigorous liberal arts foundation surveying world religions and Western philosophy.

Course topics include Christian faith and life, worship and the arts, and ancient and medieval philosophy. The program prepares graduates for further study in seminaries or graduate school, or for work as a missionary, church educator, or social worker.

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$27,972

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$27,972

Retention Rate

68%

Students Enrolled

1,889

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$6,481

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$6,481

Grand View University

Des Moines, IA4 yearCampus + Online

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$6,481

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$6,481

Acceptance Rate

96%

Online Enrollment

27%

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$27,972

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$27,972

Retention Rate

68%

Students Enrolled

1,889

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

 Program Format 100% Online | Course Format Self-Paced Classes

Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $452
Out of State | $452

Credits to Graduate
124

Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No

Program Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission

Grand View University offers an online bachelor's in theology taught from a Lutheran perspective. The degree imparts strong critical thinking and leadership skills through a rigorous liberal arts foundation surveying world religions and Western philosophy.

Course topics include Christian faith and life, worship and the arts, and ancient and medieval philosophy. The program prepares graduates for further study in seminaries or graduate school, or for work as a missionary, church educator, or social worker.

#6

Houston Baptist University

Houston, TX4 yearCampus + Online

$10,350

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$10,350

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

71%

Acceptance Rate

40%

Online Enrollment

 100% Online | Self-Paced Classes

Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $425
Out of State | $425

Credits to Graduate
120

Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No

Regional Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges

Houston Baptist University offers an online bachelor's in theological studies steeped in historical and contemporary Christian thought. The program helps students start a cultural dialogue with their world. Graduates can pursue roles in education and ministry.

Major course topics include hermeneutics, systematic theology, and history of Christianity. Learners also study Greek, Hebrew, or Latin. 

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$31,400

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$31,400

Retention Rate

71%

Students Enrolled

3,741

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$10,350

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$10,350

Houston Baptist University

Houston, TX4 yearCampus + Online

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$10,350

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$10,350

Acceptance Rate

71%

Online Enrollment

40%

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$31,400

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$31,400

Retention Rate

71%

Students Enrolled

3,741

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

 100% Online | Self-Paced Classes

Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $425
Out of State | $425

Credits to Graduate
120

Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No

Regional Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges

Houston Baptist University offers an online bachelor's in theological studies steeped in historical and contemporary Christian thought. The program helps students start a cultural dialogue with their world. Graduates can pursue roles in education and ministry.

Major course topics include hermeneutics, systematic theology, and history of Christianity. Learners also study Greek, Hebrew, or Latin. 

#7

Moody Bible Institute

Chicago, IL4 yearCampus + Online

$8,010

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$8,010

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

94%

Acceptance Rate

42%

Online Enrollment

 100% Online

Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $370
Out of State | $370

Credits to Graduate
120

Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No

Program Accreditation | Association for Biblical Higher Education Commission on Accreditation

Moody Bible Institute's online bachelor's in theological studies focuses on Biblical scholasticism. Studies center on how past and present theology form a continuum. Students gain theological communication skills.

Course offerings include the self and social identity in Christianity, interpreting scripture, and the church and its doctrines. Enrollees choose a concentration in either Christian thought or spiritual formation.

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$11,200

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$11,200

Retention Rate

81%

Students Enrolled

3,009

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$8,010

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$8,010

Moody Bible Institute

Chicago, IL4 yearCampus + Online

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$8,010

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$8,010

Acceptance Rate

94%

Online Enrollment

42%

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$11,200

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$11,200

Retention Rate

81%

Students Enrolled

3,009

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

 100% Online

Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $370
Out of State | $370

Credits to Graduate
120

Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No

Program Accreditation | Association for Biblical Higher Education Commission on Accreditation

Moody Bible Institute's online bachelor's in theological studies focuses on Biblical scholasticism. Studies center on how past and present theology form a continuum. Students gain theological communication skills.

Course offerings include the self and social identity in Christianity, interpreting scripture, and the church and its doctrines. Enrollees choose a concentration in either Christian thought or spiritual formation.

#8

Oral Roberts University

Tulsa, OK4 yearCampus + Online

$12,960

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$12,960

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

68%

Acceptance Rate

15%

Online Enrollment

 100% Online | Self-Paced Classes

Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $410
Out of State | $410

Credits to Graduate
121

Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No

Regional Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission

Based in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Oral Roberts University (ORU) delivers an online bachelor's in historical and philosophical theology. Taught from an Evangelical perspective, the program focuses on training empowered Christian historiographers. Students develop deep knowledge of how philosophical and cultural traditions relate to Christian theology.

Major course topics include history of Christianity in America, Christian apologetics, and philosophy of religion. ORU's curriculum prepares graduates to pursue roles like missionary, pastor, and apologetics instructor.

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$28,998

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$28,998

Retention Rate

81%

Students Enrolled

4,160

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$12,960

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$12,960

Oral Roberts University

Tulsa, OK4 yearCampus + Online

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$12,960

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$12,960

Acceptance Rate

68%

Online Enrollment

15%

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$28,998

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$28,998

Retention Rate

81%

Students Enrolled

4,160

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

 100% Online | Self-Paced Classes

Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $410
Out of State | $410

Credits to Graduate
121

Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No

Regional Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission

Based in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Oral Roberts University (ORU) delivers an online bachelor's in historical and philosophical theology. Taught from an Evangelical perspective, the program focuses on training empowered Christian historiographers. Students develop deep knowledge of how philosophical and cultural traditions relate to Christian theology.

Major course topics include history of Christianity in America, Christian apologetics, and philosophy of religion. ORU's curriculum prepares graduates to pursue roles like missionary, pastor, and apologetics instructor.

#9

Southwestern Adventist University

Keene, TX4 yearCampus + Online

$21,528

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$21,528

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

58%

Acceptance Rate

7%

Online Enrollment

 Program Format 100% Online | Course Format Self-Paced Classes

Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $462
Out of State | $462

Credits to Graduate
121

Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No

Program Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges

Southwestern Adventist University offers an online bachelor's in theology primarily tailored to learners looking to work as a church administrator or pastor-servant. The program features a rigorous pastoral internship and field school for Evangelism. Students also receive Bible preaching training along with their studies.

Course topics include life and teachings of Jesus, history of the Seventh-Day Adventist Church, and Biblical conflict resolution. Graduates can use the program as a springboard to seminary training or further education.

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$21,528

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$21,528

Retention Rate

68%

Students Enrolled

687

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$21,528

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$21,528

Southwestern Adventist University

Keene, TX4 yearCampus + Online

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$21,528

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$21,528

Acceptance Rate

58%

Online Enrollment

7%

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$21,528

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$21,528

Retention Rate

68%

Students Enrolled

687

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

 Program Format 100% Online | Course Format Self-Paced Classes

Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $462
Out of State | $462

Credits to Graduate
121

Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No

Program Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges

Southwestern Adventist University offers an online bachelor's in theology primarily tailored to learners looking to work as a church administrator or pastor-servant. The program features a rigorous pastoral internship and field school for Evangelism. Students also receive Bible preaching training along with their studies.

Course topics include life and teachings of Jesus, history of the Seventh-Day Adventist Church, and Biblical conflict resolution. Graduates can use the program as a springboard to seminary training or further education.

#10

Oklahoma Wesleyan University

Bartlesville, OK4 yearCampus + Online

$9,540

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$9,540

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

58%

Acceptance Rate

32%

Online Enrollment

 100% Online | Self-Paced Classes

Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $299
Out of State | $299

Credits to Graduate
126

Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No

Regional Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission

Oklahoma Wesleyan University offers an online bachelor of science in ministry and leadership. Students develop the skills to work in church ministry, parachurch ministry, or ministry organization administration. 

Enrollees can complete the asynchronous, accelerated program in less than two years. Along with ministry and leadership courses, students can adapt their degree to include an ordination track. 

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$26,496

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$26,496

Retention Rate

55%

Students Enrolled

1,021

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$9,540

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$9,540

Oklahoma Wesleyan University

Bartlesville, OK4 yearCampus + Online

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$9,540

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$9,540

Acceptance Rate

58%

Online Enrollment

32%

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$26,496

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$26,496

Retention Rate

55%

Students Enrolled

1,021

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

 100% Online | Self-Paced Classes

Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $299
Out of State | $299

Credits to Graduate
126

Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No

Regional Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission

Oklahoma Wesleyan University offers an online bachelor of science in ministry and leadership. Students develop the skills to work in church ministry, parachurch ministry, or ministry organization administration. 

Enrollees can complete the asynchronous, accelerated program in less than two years. Along with ministry and leadership courses, students can adapt their degree to include an ordination track. 

Why the Cheapest Online Theology Degree Program Isn’t Always the Most Affordable

“Most affordable” is not always the same as “cheapest.”

While rankings of the cheapest schools may only consider the sticker price to attend an institution — tuition and fees — affordability takes other factors like return on investment (ROI) and financial aid into account. A university that awards institutional financial aid generously, for example, may be a more affordable option for low- and middle-income students than a university with a lower tuition rate.

Additionally, it’s important to consider post-graduation outcomes.

Be sure to look into the types of jobs graduates tend to land after completing different programs. You can use resources like the College Scorecard to compare median earnings and completion rates from different colleges.

Benefits of Getting an Affordable Theology Degree Online

  • An astounding 98% of current and graduated online college students say they would recommend online education to others.
  • 9 in 10 graduates of online programs believe their online degree has had or will have a positive ROI.
  • That percentage jumps to 94% when you look at online bachelor’s students and graduates’ views on the ROI of their degree.
  • Three-quarters of online bachelor’s students say online learning is equal to or better than on-campus learning.
  • Fully online colleges tend to report lower average net costs ($17,100) than public universities ($20,800).

How Much Does an Online Theology Degree Cost?

Theology & Religious Vocations Bachelor’s, 2019-2020

Online

Avg. Tuition & Fees:$8,339

Avg. Net Price: $4,801

On-Campus

Avg. Tuition & Fees: $18,765

Avg. Net Price: $6,965

Many factors determine how much a program costs. Theology and religious vocations bachelor’s degrees tend to be cheaper if taken online, according to data from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES).

It’s also worth noting, however, that most theology-centric programs are offered at private colleges and universities. Generally, private institutions tend to be more expensive than public schools, so getting a bachelor’s in theology may be more expensive than studying religion more broadly at a public university.

The average cost of college, after grants and scholarships, was nearly double at private universities ($36,200) compared to public schools ($20,800) in 2024-25.

However, Faith-based institutions may offer need-based grants and scholarships.

Find Financial Aid for Your Theology Degree

Theology Scholarships
Your Guide to the FAFSA
Your Guide to College Loans
Online Student Scholarships

What Is an Online Theology Degree’s ROI?

It’s worth noting that, generally, you don’t need a theology degree to become a minister or join a related profession.

However, a bachelor’s in theology program provides structured training in scripture and ministry skills. This degree can also open the door to many adjacent careers, although specific roles often vary by denomination or religion.

The ROI of a theology degree is difficult to calculate.

On one hand, the professions you can pursue after earning a bachelor’s in theology often don’t lead to high salaries. However, a high salary is rarely the reason students choose this field, and return on investment can mean more to you than your earnings. Students tend to pursue theology studies to be a leader in their religious community and connect with others.

How to Save Money on Your Online Theology Degree

There are myriad ways to cut costs when pursuing an online bachelor’s in theology. This helps account for why net costs tend to be less than advertised tuition and fees.

  1. Apply for Financial Aid

    2. All prospective college students should file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), as this is how students become eligible for financial aid like Pell Grants and federal student loans. In most instances, it also opens the door to state and institutional grants.

    You aren’t obligated to accept any financial aid offered, including loans, but submitting a FAFSA gives you a better picture of the net cost of your college education.

  2. Start at a Community College

    3. Public, two-year colleges tend to be much more affordable than four-year universities.

    With this in mind, it may be more cost effective to pursue an associate degree from a community college before pursuing an online bachelor’s degree in theology. Many faith-based institutions offer online associate degrees in theology and related topics, setting you up well for your bachelor’s program.

    Many bachelor’s programs also offer pathways to transfer from a community college.

    Avoiding enrollment directly into a four-year degree program could potentially save you thousands, potentially tens of thousands, of dollars on your total college journey.

  3. Get Exempt from Credits

    4. Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) is an opportunity to earn college credit for professional experience if you can show competency in that given subject.

    While not available at all institutions, CPL can help lower the amount of credits you’ll need to earn through a traditional degree program. Doing so can help save you money in the long run, especially if you’re able to graduate faster thanks to CPL.

  4. Attend a “Free” Tuition School

    5. Colleges and universities across the U.S. offer tuition-free education to qualifying students.

    Typically, tuition-free programs are available to low- and middle-income students. A few faith-based universities — including College of the Ozarks and Barclay College — offer tuition-free undergraduate programs.

Frequently Asked Questions About Affordable Online Theology Degrees

An online theology bachelor’s degree typically costs students $4,801 per year.

The average annual cost of tuition and fees for these programs was $8,339 as of the 2019-20 academic year. However, after applying for grants and scholarships, the costs can significantly lessen for.

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