Are you interested in getting a theology degree? If so, you can pursue any number of career fields, from working as an ordained religious leader to working in an education role to becoming a missionary. Although salary may be secondary to doing what you feel called to do in this field, let’s take a look at the average salaries you can expect if you earn a theology degree.

Educator Salary

One of the most common career paths for theology students is to become educators themselves. This requires at least a masters degree in theology, but most colleges require a doctorate to teach. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, postsecondary religious teachers earned an average of $69,150 annually as of May 2010, with the top ten percent earning six figure salaries. You can earn more as a educator in the theology field by working toward tenure – a position in which you’re given academic freedom to explore topics and are responsible for upper-level courses.

With a theology degree, you can also consider an education position in a religious elementary or secondary school. Most of these private schools require you to have a teaching license and at least a master’s degree, though some hire teachers with just a bachelors degree.

Clergy Salary

Members of the clergy are religious leaders in their communities. This includes both Christian members of the clergy, such as pastors, priests, and ministers, and clergy members from other denominations, such as rabbis. As a member of the clergy, you will earn, on average $48,290 annually. Some earn much, much more by touring to speak in front of large groups or perform other duties, such as presiding over weddings.

Other Religious Workers

In other kinds of religious jobs, such as faith counseling, serving as a missionary, etc., you can expect to earn an average of $32,070 annually. Some positions don’t come attached to a regular salary – for example, as a missionary, you might receive a stipend to cover your living expenses, but nothing else in terms of a salary. Other jobs can be quite lucrative – for example, there are religious personalities who write books and run television shows who earn six-figure salaries. You can also go a more philosophical route and instead of working to promote a single religion, work as a researcher or historian with a focus on the religions of the world.

Guide to Online Theology Degree Programs

Whether you want to lead a congregation or participate in various ministries theology can prepare you for a career based in faith. We have collected several schools with online theology and related programs like religion and ministry below so simplify your search and help you get started on spreading the Word!

BS in Religion Master of Divinity (M.Div.) M.Div. in Theology	Liberty University – The Bachelor of Science in Religion provides students a strong background in the Bible you can use to serve your community and greater world. The curriculum reviews fundamentals of the Bible, Christianity, and Christian theology and the Christian church. For those that seek advanced study, the Master of Divinity and M.Div. in Theology offer world class experiences in examining your faith.
AA in Christian Ministry BA in Leadership & Ministry	Ohio Christian university – The Associate of Arts in Christian Ministry at Ohio Christian University offers students a curriculum honed over 50 years of careful dedication. The program is designed for the working professional. Classes are taken one at a time, and meet once per week. For those students who are called to lead a ministry, the BA in Leadership & Ministry program is where you can begin that journey.
BA in Christian Studies BA in Youth Ministry MA in Pastoral Ministry MA in Christian Studies	Grand Canyon University – Grand Canyon University is a leader in offering powerful, academically charged programs in religion. If you seek a bachelor's degree, the university offers the BA in Christian Studies and BA in Youth Ministry, which provide a college-level introduction to the Bible and basic Christian doctrines and theology. For students with prior experience, the MA programs in Pastoral Ministry and Christian Studies are available.
BS in Biblical Leadership	Southwestern Christian University – Southwestern Christian University is a private, non-profit Christian college in which students will grow not only professionally, but spiritually as well. SCU focuses on providing an environment that is ethically sound, built upon integrity, and emphasizes faith. SCU offers a online program for a BS in Biblical Leadership for student who seek high-level or administrative positions in Christian organizations.
MA of Business Admin MS in Counseling BS in Healthcare Admin BS in Christian Ministries	Mid-America Christian University – Mid-America Christian University offers online degree programs for those who are interested in bachelors and masters degrees. MCU offers several popular degrees like masters of business administration, masters of science in counseling, and bachelor of science in healthcare administration as well as a bachelor of science in christian ministries. The online programs use multimedia, peer interaction, and industry-driven curriculum for instruction.
Ed.D. in Pastoral Counseling	Argosy University – The online EdD program in Pastoral Counseling is offered through the College of Psychology and Behavioral Sciences. The degree is designed for pastoral counselors to receive advanced individual and communal development. Graduates can be found in churches, hospitals, non-profits, and mental health facilities.
BS in Bible Studies	Lancaster Bible College – In order to enter the BS in Bible Studies program at Lancaster Bible College, you must have at least 45 credits from an accredited college or university. Students receive a comprehensive curriculum that focuses on the Bible and the lessons it brings to each of our lives. Graduation requirements include completing 30 semester credits, maintaining a 2.0 GPA, and completing general education and service requirements.
BA in Liberal Studies AA in Liberal Studies	Saint Leo University – For over 25 years now, Saint Leo University has placed a strong emphasis on developing students' minds and spirits. In addition to curriculum for their intended degree, students will learn to include their ethics and morals into their business and career decisions. The Liberal Studies associates and bachelors programs are offered online and are accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.