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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Top Affordable Online Theology Programs
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).
Online Theology Degree Costs and Financial Aid Options
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
Source: NCES PowerStats
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.
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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.
Apply for Financial Aid
Start at a Community College
Get Exempt from Credits
Attend a "Free" Tuition School
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.
