Types of M. A. Degrees in Divinity Online

An M. A. in Divinity online course may be offered in Pastoral Ministries (preparing students for a role as senior or associate pastors in churches), Christian Leadership (preparing students to lead people in their churches), Worship Studies (preparing students for pastoral duties as worship leaders), Theological Studies (preparing students for Christian ministry duties), Chaplaincy (preparing students for careers in old age homes, prisons, the military and other areas), Biblical Studies (preparing students to tackle ministry roles through the Old and New Testament readings)and so on. There are courses of different types to suit the interests of students.

How to Choose the Right M. A. in Divinity Course Online

While there are many schools offering an M. A. in Divinity online, do check for the accreditation of the school, so that your education is not a waste. Do remember that the leanings of your theological study should match with the kind of church you want to join, on completion of the course. Courses run by Christian schools are most preferred by churches. Financial aid is available in some cases, to ease the burden on students.

Course Duration

The course duration of an M. A. in Divinity online program varies from one school to another. Course duration varies from 72 to 106 hours of study, depending on the program. For example, an M. A. in Divinity (Chaplaincy) takes about 72 hours, with students being taught about types of chaplaincies, qualities required for successful ministership and so on.

Course Content

A student enrolled in an M. A. in Divinity course online is expected to have a good knowledge of biblical languages, church history, philosophy, evangelism, church growth and theology at the end of the course. Students are expected to understand the truths extensively, so that they can spread the faith. There are core papers in the course and electives that students may opt for. These courses promote understanding of the scriptures, development of ministry skills and personal development. In a world that is constantly changing, students also learn how to tackle changing societies.

While a Master of Divinity degree online is not absolutely essential if you want to join the church, this degree does help in understanding the religion better. Further, studying aspects of theology that you are interested in will help you reach out to the people more easily. At the end of this course, you should have developed skills to preach, extend pastoral care and lead the church congregation. Students will also be able to earn a competitive salary of about $35,000 annually at the end of an M. A. in Divinity program online.

Christian Degree #1: Associate of Arts/Bachelor of Science in Religion

A degree in Religion exposes a student to the fundamental principles of the Bible, Christian Theology, and Christian studies with the prime objective of equipping that student to spread the Word. Given the nature of the degree, students will be trained to develop their communications skills, with the expressed intent to use Biblical principles to guide their actions. Though it may lead to a life of ministry or church leadership, a degree in Religion is designed mostly  for those who would like to have a deeper connection with their faith.

Christian Degree #2: Bachelor of Science in Psychology – Christian Counseling

People need to feel understood, welcome, important, and comfortable – these are basic needs of a human being. Students of Christian Counseling are trained to fulfill these and more, all in the context of Christian principles and faith. The guidance given by a Christian counselor requires training in basic counseling, psychometrics, general psychotherapy, and Christian psychology, the courses of which are included in a Christian Counseling degree. For those who want to have a further hand at guiding people through their sorrows and challenges, a Christian Counseling degree would be a great choice.

Christian Degree #3: Associate of Arts in Christian Ministry/Leadership

A degree in Christian Ministry or Leadership trains people to become leaders of their respective churches. A church thrives through the faith of its members, and grows by means of the pastor’s leadership. Given this, it is necessary that pastors undergo a rigorous education that would hone the skills needed for their vocation. Aside from in-depth courses in theology and spirituality, students would also be required to take courses in leadership, management, and finance. Those who want to prepare for an online education in this Christian Degree should really expect hard training ahead.

Christian Degree #4: BA in Christian Studies – Youth Ministry

A bachelor’s degree in Christian Studies with a focus on Youth Ministry is an online program best for those who like to work with children and the youth. The Youth Ministry ensures that there will always be a next generation of leaders in the church, or at least key individuals that would make the church grow. Aside from courses in child psychology and group dynamics, students would also be required to take basic courses in counseling and teaching.

Christian Degree #5: BA in Biblical/Theological Studies

Those who want to devote their lives studying the Bible would benefit from taking a degree in Biblical or Theological Studies. No other degree focuses on the ins and outs of Christianity’s greatest book, and students are trained to work as future scholars of the Bible. They would be responsible for preserving the Bible’s history, and for maintaining theological knowledge for the future.