The Best Online Master of Divinity (MDiv) Degree Programs
Updated April 30, 2024
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Master of divinity degree (MDiv) programs prepare graduates for ministry careers.
Graduates can lead congregations in worship services and provide pastoral care for their communities. They can also counsel individuals and groups on personal issues, matters of faith, and religious responsibilities. Clergy members make a mean annual salary of over $63,000.
During an MDiv program, graduate students build leadership, theological, and pastoral skills. Pursuing a master of divinity online gives students the flexibility to balance their studies with personal and professional obligations. Online degrees also allow students to attend top programs in the country without relocating.
Featured Online Schools
20 Best Online MDiv Degree Programs
We use trusted sources like
Peterson's Data and
the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
#1 The Best Online Master of Divinity (MDiv) Degree Programs
Harding University
Searcy, AR - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Graduate students interested in a master's can earn their master of divinity from Harding University, located in Searcy, Arkansas. The program emphasizes industry-relevant knowledge and skills, preparing enrollees for decision-making responsibilities. Master's graduates can also pursue new career opportunities.
The curriculum examines advanced theories and practices in divinity. Learners individualize the program to prepare for focused careers. Applicants who majored in divinity or a related field typically meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees gain hands-on experience during professional internships in their local area. Internships and other networking events help degree candidates expand their professional network.
Harding University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 61%
Total Online Master's Programs: 16
Program Name: Master of divinity
Graduate Tuition In State: $13,372
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $13,372
#2 The Best Online Master of Divinity (MDiv) Degree Programs
Southeastern University
Lakeland, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The online master of divinity at Southeastern University, located in Lakeland, Florida, prioritizes flexibility. Students prepare for advanced roles in the field during the rigorous program. A master's degree can also prepare graduates for opportunities in new fields.
The curriculum emphasizes current research in divinity. Learners focus their training by choosing electives based on their interests and career goals. Applicants with a background in divinity typically meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees work with the program to identify internship opportunities at approved sites in their local communities. The program encourages graduate students to participate in hands-on experiences and networking events to grow their professional connections.
Southeastern University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 48%
Total Online Master's Programs: 4
Program Name: Master of divinity
Graduate Tuition In State: $12,810
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $12,810
#3 The Best Online Master of Divinity (MDiv) Degree Programs
Clarks Summit University
South Abington Township, PA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in South Abington Township, Pennsylvania, Clarks Summit University offers an online master of divinity. The program strengthens enrollees' specialized skills, preparing them for leadership roles with a higher earning potential. A master's degree can also prepare graduates for opportunities in new fields.
The curriculum emphasizes the best practices in divinity. Learners specialize the program by choosing from a variety of electives. The program recommends that applicants bring a background in divinity or a related field.
Online enrollees gain real-world experience through internships offered in their local area. Graduate students also build professional connections by attending networking events.
Clarks Summit University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 41%
Total Online Master's Programs: 5
Program Name: Master of divinity
Graduate Tuition In State: $8,160
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $8,160
#4 The Best Online Master of Divinity (MDiv) Degree Programs
Multnomah University
Portland, OR - 4 years
- Online + Campus
From its campus in Portland, Oregon, Multnomah University hosts a top-ranked master of divinity program. The program encourages career training throughout its curriculum, preparing students for leadership positions. A master's degree can also prepare graduates for opportunities in new fields.
The curriculum emphasizes theory and practice in divinity. Learners prepare for focused careers by choosing electives and concentrations. Applicants with prior experience in divinity or a related field often meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees meet any in-person requirements, such as internships, at approved sites in their local area. The program encourages graduate students to attend networking events to expand their professional connections.
Multnomah University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 53%
Total Online Master's Programs: 6
Program Name: Master of divinity
Graduate Tuition In State: $13,440
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $13,440
#5 The Best Online Master of Divinity (MDiv) Degree Programs
University of Northwestern-St. Paul
Saint Paul, MN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Saint Paul, Minnesota, University of Northwestern-St. Paul enrolls master's students in its top-ranked online master of divinity program. The program emphasizes advanced practice skills, training students for leadership roles and an increased earning potential. Master's degree-holders can advance in their current field or pursue new opportunities.
The curriculum covers theoretical and practical approaches to divinity. Learners specialize the program by choosing from a variety of electives. Applicants who majored in divinity or a related field typically meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees meet any in-person requirements, such as internships, at approved sites in their local area. Graduate students also build professional connections by attending networking events.
University of Northwestern-St. Paul at a Glance:
Type of School: Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 92%
Total Online Master's Programs: 6
Program Name: Master of divinity
Graduate Tuition In State: $8,982
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $8,982
#6 The Best Online Master of Divinity (MDiv) Degree Programs
Abilene Christian University
Abilene, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
From its campus in Abilene, Texas, Abilene Christian University offers an online master of divinity. The program builds specialized skills for advanced practice, preparing enrollees for leadership positions with increased salary potential. A master's degree also helps graduates pursue new career paths.
The curriculum blends theory and practice to provide an advanced understanding of divinity. Learners focus the program with electives or a concentration. Applicants with a background in divinity typically meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees work with the program to find local internships. These and other networking events help graduate students expand their professional network.
Abilene Christian University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 61%
Total Online Master's Programs: 12
Program Name: Master of divinity
Graduate Tuition In State: $22,356
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $22,356
#7 The Best Online Master of Divinity (MDiv) Degree Programs
Moody Bible Institute
Chicago, IL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The master of divinity at Moody Bible Institute, located in Chicago, Illinois, uses a flexible distance learning format. The program strengthens specialized skills, preparing enrollees for leadership roles with a higher earning potential. After completing a master's degree, graduates can advance in their current field or pursue new opportunities.
The curriculum covers theoretical and practical approaches to divinity. Learners choose electives or a specialization to gain focused career training. The admission requirements include a background in divinity or a related field.
Online enrollees work with the program to identify internships at approved sites in their local communities. Graduate students expand their professional network through internships and online events.
Moody Bible Institute at a Glance:
Type of School: Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 94%
Total Online Master's Programs: 2
Program Name: Master of divinity
Graduate Tuition In State: $8,010
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $8,010
#8 The Best Online Master of Divinity (MDiv) Degree Programs
Anderson University
Anderson, SC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The master of divinity at Anderson University, located in Anderson, South Carolina, uses a flexible distance learning format. The program builds specialized skills for advanced practice, preparing learners for leadership positions with increased salary potential. Earning a master's degree helps candidates move into a new career or advance in their current field.
The curriculum covers methodological and research perspectives. Learners take specialized courses to stand out in a competitive job market. The program recommends that applicants bring a background in divinity or a related field.
Online enrollees meet any in-person requirements, such as internships, at approved sites in their local area. The program encourages graduate students to participate in hands-on experiences and networking events to grow their professional connections.
Anderson University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 69%
Total Online Master's Programs: 2
Program Name: Master of divinity
Graduate Tuition In State: $9,651
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $9,651
#9 The Best Online Master of Divinity (MDiv) Degree Programs
Crown College
Saint Bonifacius, MN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Saint Bonifacius, Minnesota, Crown College offers an online master of divinity. The program emphasizes industry-relevant knowledge and skills, preparing students for decision-making responsibilities. After earning a master's degree, candidates can also pursue careers in new industries.
The curriculum incorporates theoretical and applied approaches. Learners prepare for the job market by choosing a specialty through electives. Applicants without a background in divinity may need to complete prerequisites.
Online enrollees work with the program to identify internship opportunities at approved sites in their local communities. Internships and other practicum activities build both hands-on experience and professional connections.
Crown College at a Glance:
Type of School: Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 50%
Total Online Master's Programs: 9
Program Name: Master of divinity
Graduate Tuition In State: $9,720
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $9,720
#10 The Best Online Master of Divinity (MDiv) Degree Programs
Hope International University
Fullerton, CA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The master of divinity at Hope International University, located in Fullerton, California, uses a flexible distance learning format. The program helps graduates move into leadership roles and increase their earning potential. Earning a master's degree can also help graduates pursue new career opportunities.
The curriculum emphasizes both practical and theoretical approaches to divinity. Learners specialize the program by choosing from a variety of electives. Applicants with a background in divinity typically meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees coordinate with the program to complete internships at approved sites in their local area. Internships and other practicum activities also provide professional networking opportunities.
Hope International University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 37%
Total Online Master's Programs: 9
Program Name: Master of divinity
Graduate Tuition In State: $13,764
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $13,764
#11 The Best Online Master of Divinity (MDiv) Degree Programs
Liberty University
Lynchburg, VA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
From its campus in Lynchburg, Virginia, Liberty University hosts a top-ranked master of divinity program. Enrollees prepare for advanced roles in the field during the rigorous program. A master's degree can also lead graduates to new career paths.
The curriculum explores advanced methodologies and research in divinity. Learners prepare for focused career paths by choosing electives and concentrations. The admission requirements include a background in divinity or a related field.
Online enrollees coordinate with the program to complete internships at approved sites in their local area. The program encourages professional development activities, including networking events, so graduate students can expand their professional connections.
Liberty University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 51%
Total Online Master's Programs: 67
Program Name: Master of divinity
Graduate Tuition In State: $7,980
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $7,980
#12 The Best Online Master of Divinity (MDiv) Degree Programs
Olivet Nazarene University
Bourbonnais, IL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Bourbonnais, Illinois, Olivet Nazarene University offers an online master of divinity. The program emphasizes specialized skills, preparing learners for increased responsibilities and a higher earning potential. Earning a master's degree can also help graduates pursue new career opportunities.
The curriculum emphasizes current research in divinity. Learners choose electives or a specialization to gain focused career training. The program builds on undergraduate training or professional experience in divinity.
Online enrollees gain hands-on experience during professional internships in their local area. Graduate students also build professional connections through virtual networking events and other activities.
Olivet Nazarene University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 58%
Total Online Master's Programs: 9
Program Name: Master of divinity
Graduate Tuition In State: $13,420
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $13,420
#13 The Best Online Master of Divinity (MDiv) Degree Programs
Anderson University
Anderson, IN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Graduate students interested in a master's can earn their master of divinity at Anderson University, located in Anderson, Indiana. The program emphasizes specialized skills, preparing enrollees for increased responsibilities and a higher earning potential. A master's degree can also prepare candidates for opportunities in new fields.
The curriculum emphasizes current research in divinity. Learners choose electives or a specialization to gain focused career training. Applicants with prior experience in divinity or a related field often meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees gain real-world experience through internships offered in their local area. Graduate students grow their professional connections through internships and virtual networking events.
Anderson University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 63%
Total Online Master's Programs: 3
Program Name: Master of divinity
Graduate Tuition In State: $9,808
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $9,808
#14 The Best Online Master of Divinity (MDiv) Degree Programs
Cornerstone University
Grand Rapids, MI - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The master of divinity program at Cornerstone University, located in Grand Rapids, Michigan, uses a flexible distance learning format. Students train for leadership roles in the field while earning their degree. A master's degree can also train candidates for roles in new industries.
The curriculum covers methodological and research perspectives. Learners focus the program with electives or a concentration. The master's program builds on undergraduate training or professional experience in divinity.
Online enrollees complement the classroom experience with internship opportunities in their local area. Graduate students also participate in networking events to expand their professional connections.
Cornerstone University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 78%
Total Online Master's Programs: 10
Program Name: Master of divinity
Graduate Tuition In State: $13,680
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $13,680
#15 The Best Online Master of Divinity (MDiv) Degree Programs
Oral Roberts University
Tulsa, OK - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Oral Roberts University, located in Tulsa, Oklahoma, enrolls students in its online master of divinity program. The rigorous curriculum prepares learners for leadership responsibilities. Earning a master's degree can help candidates advance in their current career or pursue a new career path entirely.
The curriculum emphasizes the best practices in divinity. Learners often choose a specialized concentration, which can help them stand out in a competitive job market. Applicants with prior experience in divinity or a related field often meet the admission requirements.
Online enrollees work with the program to find internship opportunities in their local area. The program encourages graduate students to attend networking events to expand their professional connections.
Oral Roberts University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 68%
Total Online Master's Programs: 3
Program Name: Master of divinity
Graduate Tuition In State: $12,960
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $12,960
Online Master's in Divinity Programs Ranking Guidelines
We ranked the following programs based on factors like quality, faculty strength and publications, reputation, and rankings.
Choosing an Online MDiv Program
Prospective MDiv students should consider several factors when researching potential programs. We cover several important considerations for prospective learners below.
- Program Cost: In addition to researching tuition cost per credit, students should research any online learning fees, graduation fees, and book costs when determining the total cost of a prospective program.
- Transfer Policies: Many programs offer transfer credits for prior academic work, military training, and professional experience. Programs with generous transfer credit policies can save students time and money on a degree.
- School Size and Type: Students should consider factors such as average class size, online student support services, and a school's alumni network when seeking the best program for their needs.
- Program Length: An online MDiv program typically takes three years to complete, but some programs offer accelerated timelines.
- On-Campus Requirements: Some online MDiv programs incorporate on-campus requirements, which students should ensure they can meet before committing to a program.
- Thesis, Fellowship, and Work Requirements: Some online MDiv degree programs have thesis or internship requirements. Students should choose a program with requirements aligned with their career goals.
What Is a Master of Divinity Degree?
Online master of divinity programs prepare graduates for ministerial leadership roles in churches, social service agencies, hospitals, and the military. Most MDiv programs require three years of full-time study. During that time, students take courses on topics like ministry studies, religious studies, ministry experience, and scriptural interpretation. Graduate students may also study religious traditions outside of their own faith. Some MDiv programs conclude with a capstone project, research paper, or senior seminar.
Applicants to master of divinity programs typically need a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. They must also submit essays on their religious faith and reasons for pursuing the degree. Some programs set prerequisite undergraduate courses for admission.
What's the Difference Between a Master of Theology and a Master of Divinity Degree?
Both master of theology and master of divinity programs include coursework on religious traditions, theology, and biblical studies. However, master of theology programs emphasize academic pursuits, including textual analysis and theological theory, while master of divinity programs focus on preparing graduates for leadership roles in ministry.
During a master of theology program, students may conduct original research and write a master's thesis. In MDiv programs, graduate students build the leadership and administrative abilities necessary for providing pastoral care to a congregation. Divinity school may also incorporate field experiences.
After earning a master of theology, graduates can enter a doctoral program or pursue academic or research positions. A master of divinity leads to ministerial roles, such as pastor, chaplain, or spiritual counselor.
Divinity Careers
Master of divinity programs prepare graduates for religious leadership roles, like minister, pastor, or preacher. Students also gain pastoral and counseling skills that prepare them for roles like military chaplain or spiritual counselor. In addition to clergy positions, graduates can pursue careers as community service managers, high school teachers, and college professors.
The following list outlines several common careers and potential salaries for graduates.
Clergy
Clergy members conduct worship services and provide pastoral care for members of their churches. They write sermons, advise their congregations, and offer spiritual guidance to individuals and groups. They also analyze religious texts and interpret them, often sharing their conclusions with their church communities. Clergy may also manage the financial and administrative needs of a church. In some churches, they perform community outreach to expand church membership and engage in fundraising for the church.
Social and Community Services Managers
Social and community services managers supervise social service programs and oversee community organizations. They identify a community's needs for programs and services, implement programs, and analyze data on a program's effectiveness. They may also plan outreach activities and write proposals to secure funding.
Many faith-based organizations hire social and community services managers to oversee programs that address poverty, hunger, and other social problems.
Private High School Teachers
Private high school teachers can teach a variety of subjects, depending on their educational background and the school's needs. Some private schools hire graduates with a master of divinity to teach courses on religion and theology.
High school teachers create lesson plans, deliver lectures, and design assignments and exams to assess student abilities. They also communicate with parents and work with school administrators to carry out the school's functions. Some private high schools may require a state-issued teaching license.
College Professors
College professors instruct students in a particular subject. MDiv graduates may teach subjects like religion, theology, or pastoral care. Professors plan lessons based on specific topics and assess student learning through assignments and exams. Many professors also conduct research and publish in scholarly journals.
Professors may also supervise graduate students, apply for grants, or serve on specialty committees at their institutions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Does Master of Divinity Mean?
A master of divinity trains students for religious leadership roles, such as minister, pastor, and preacher.
Is a Master of Divinity a Master's Degree?
Yes, a master of divinity is a master's degree. Prospective students must hold a bachelor's degree before gaining entry into a master's program.
What Is the Study of Divinity?
The study of divinity examines theology and ministry, particularly Christian theology.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Master's Degree in Divinity?
A master's degree in divinity typically takes three years to complete, though some programs offer accelerated timelines.
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