What comes to mind when a friend tells you of his intention to get a seminary degree? Your thought must have been that he/she will end up becoming a pastor or a priest, who will spend the rest of his/her life in the four walls of a church always in suit and tie.
Isn’t it? Please cast that notion far away from you.
That’s not the only reason why people get seminary degrees. Some people get a seminary degree because they enjoy theology and some because they love to impact others with that knowledge.
Keep your mind open as we take you through various free online seminary degrees.
What is a Seminary Degree?
Generally speaking, a seminary is a college or graduate school that prepares students to become ministers and offers theological education. However, ministry preparation goes beyond just bagging a degree in theology.
Today, you get to learn about leadership and counseling which could be used in other fields not necessarily in the church.
Check Out: Top 17 Seminary Scholarships In The USA [UPDATED]
Why Study an Accredited Online Seminary Degree?
Getting an online seminary degree might be more important to you than getting it in an accredited institution.
But you need to know that, when it comes to online institutions, there are so many options to choose from.
However, you must know that many churches develop seminary programs that offer undergraduate degrees with a ministry focus, yet, their institutions of higher learning are not accredited.
This makes it very important to attend an accredited online institution, as it helps to maintain credibility and to ensure that the institution you are applying to offers a quality education approved by the accrediting boards or agencies.
Read About: Best Dallas Theological Seminary Free Online Courses in 2024
What Can You Do with a Seminary Degree?
Like we said at the beginning of this article, getting a seminary degree does not necessarily mean you’ll become a preacher or that you have to be dressed in a suit and tie to preach in church every Sunday.
Seminary graduates serve and work in a wide array of professional areas.
There are some who end up a lecturer in schools, leaders of nonprofits (both in religious and non-religious settings), some are authors of spiritual and inspiring books.
Getting a seminary degree does not limit your career outcome, it rather empowers you to do more than you could ever imagine.
Read Also: Denver Seminary Review 2024: Admission Requirements, Tuitions, Scholarships, Cost of Living
Which Body Accredits Online Seminary Degree?
There are some reputable agencies that are specialized in accrediting Institutions. These agencies have built a good reputation over the years and have met all the conditions to become a legitimate accrediting body.
Some of the reputable organizations that are well known for accrediting Bible Colleges are:
The Higher Learning Commission is an accreditation organization that uses a body of peer reviewers to grant membership to degrees granting postsecondary schools.
The Association of Theological Schools in the United States and Canada (ATS) This is an accrediting agency for over 270 Christians. A list of online Programs that has been accredited by ATS Can be found using this link.
ATSOnlineDistance Education List.com
Traditional Association of Christian Colleges and Schools : TRACS is a national organizing agency that specializes in accrediting post-secondary Christian institutions offering Undergraduate and graduate degrees in religious education. TRACs also approves online distance -learning that is able to meet it’s specifications.
The Distance Education and Training Camal (DETC) Accredits online religious Institutions and colleges.
Association for Biblical Higher Education (ABHE) : This is an accrediting agency of Bible colleges which was formed by (ABHE). ABHE has been a well recognized agency for accrediting bible colleges for a number of years now.
It has accredited approximately 200 seminaries, Biblical / ministerial programs and Theological Schools throughout US and Canada-
ABHE also endorses some selected online distancing Learning Programs.
The Link to visit to know more about ABHE is ABHE FAQ.
See Also: 13 Best Online Theology Doctoral Programs in 2024 | Programs, Requirements, Cost
How Much Does a Seminary Degree Cost?
The cost of a seminary degree varies, depending on the type of program you decide to go for and what grant of scholarship you receive.
In some institutions, a single or all-inclusive fee is charged to all students at the time of registration for each semester enrolled.
Don’t Forget to Read: Best Theology Schools in the World | 2024
What Can You Do with a Seminary Degree?
If you’ve been desiring to undertake a seminary degree, what’s stopping you? Not all people who go to the seminary feel called to function as church pastors. Here are some non-traditional career steps you could pursue after graduation.
Music: as a seminary graduate who majors in music, you may be hired as a composer, singer, and musician by many recording agencies in the United States that still support Christian music.
Chaplaincy: some seminary degree holders serve as chaplains in institutions such as hospitals, correctional homes, or in the military.
Counseling: if you had training in psychology or a related field while in the seminary, you can work as a pastoral counselor by becoming a youth counselor or become a marriage counselor.
Education: you can decide to apply your biblical knowledge or training towards an academic career by teaching religious studies in colleges, and as well conduct.
Read Also: Apex School Of Theology: Admission, Acceptance Rate, Tuition 2024
How Long Does It Take to Get an Online Seminary Degree?
The duration for studying for an online seminary degree varies depending on the institution offering it. Some online seminary degrees range from 8 weeks to two years.
Schools that Offer Free Accredited Online Seminary Degrees.
If you are interested in pursuing a seminary degree why don’t you read on and learn about several free online seminary degrees offered by accredited and reputable Institutions?
They are as follows:
1. Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary
Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary is a free online seminary that offers a free online Christian theology course of 25 lecture videos, each of which lasts for about 18 minutes in length.
SBTS offers more than 160 courses online and many more in a hybrid format with intensive weekends on their Louisville campus or nine other satellite sites. SBTS has four free online seminary degrees.
The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary has an affiliation with the Southern Baptist denomination. It is at the forefront of evangelicalism in Us since it is the largest US denomination.
The Online Graduate Degrees are:
- Master of Divinity (88 Hours)
- Master of Arts in Theological Studies
- Master of Church Music (67 Hours)
- Doctor of Ministry
Click this link for more information:
2. Barclay College
Is an Institution that is accredited by well reputable accrediting agencies such as, Higher Learning Commission and Association for Biblical Higher Education. It was known as the Friends Bible College.
Barclay College believes that not everyone is called to serve in the same way, so their Master of Arts in Theology degree program is designed to offer an interdisciplinary model of graduate education, structuring a combination of core theology and Bible courses, relevant research and/or field experiences.
The mission of the institution is largely focused on preparing students for Christian service and leadership.
BC offers nine major Concentration they include:
- Practical Theology
- Missional Multiplication
- Biblical Translation
- Sport outreach
- Transformational Leadership
- Quaker Studies
- Spiritual Formation
- Family Ministry
- Pastoral Ministry
- Practical Theology
- Certificate.
Learn more about Barclay online seminary degrees:
3. BEREA COLLEGE
Berea College was founded by reformers and abolitionists with the mission. Berea College is located in the Southern United States, was founded by reformers and abolitionists with the mission to spread the teachings and principles of Christ.
The number of seminary degrees offered by BEREA College was not provided.
Click on this link to know more about BEREA:
4. Indiana Wesleyan University; Wesley Seminary
This is a free online seminary that allows students to enjoy intimate learning experiences.
The IWU curriculum for online courses is designed in such a way that it maximizes the learning experience for adults. Students of IWU will earn the same degree online as would in a classroom. What differentiates them from every regular student is the platform where they receive their lectures and where they submit their assignments.
The Online Graduate Degrees offered by Indiana Wesleyan University are:
- Master of Divinity (75 Hours)
- Master of Arts in Ministry (36 Hours)
- Doctor of Ministry (38 Hours)
- Master of Practical Theology (36 Hours)
To learn more about IWU click this link:
5. Abilene Christian University
Abilene is a nationally recognized Institution that offers free online seminary degrees designed especially for busy working-class adults.
You’ll focus on one class at a time during six- or seven-week terms. You don’t have to be physically present in a class to get an accredited online seminary degree. You can be part of a vibrant, virtual and Christ centered community choosing ACU.
Online Graduate Degrees available at ACU are:
6. CURTIS INSTITUTE OF MUSIC
This is a highly competitive institution that offers free tuition to undergraduate and graduate students. Since 1928, Curtis Institute of Music has been offering free tuition to all students through scholarships and merit-based aids.
Although it has a few students (179) and does not enroll more than 4% of its applicants annually, Curtis students get to enjoy an exceptionally in-depth and personalized music education that is concentrated on the motto “learning by doing”.
- Master of Arts in Christian Ministry (48 Hours)
- Master of Arts in Global Service (48 Hours)
- a Master of Divinity (72 Hours)
Some of the free online programs offered by Curtis Institute of Music are as follows:
- Bachelor of Music and a Master of Music in Opera.
- Performance diploma program
- and a Professional Studies
- Certificate in Opera.
Click to learn more:
7. Hope International University
This university has been into the mission of preparing students who have been seeking to bag a second career, some for effective Leadership in their local church or para-church organization since 1974.
As a student of HIU you get to experience a blend of professional development, biblical development, and personal development courses that equip you with a firm foundation for Christian Leadership.
HIU offers a degree that consists of 36 units of study, which includes a minimum of 9 units within one concentration.
You also get to complete the courses totally online or through a combination of online courses and short, on-ground permanence with online follow-up. As a students you have the option of picking one of the following concentrations:
- Biblical Studies
- Christian Leadership
- Church Planting
- Intercultural Studies (Missions)
- Pastoral Care
- Spiritual Formation
- Children, Youth and Family Ministry
All these programs are offered 100% online.
Visit for information about the Institution:
8. Calvin Theological Seminary
Calvin Seminary is an accredited online seminary that offers six Seminary degrees. At CTS you are trained in the word of God in such a way that you’ll be able to teach others too.
You are prepared for ordained ministry in the church, train for specialized ministries, and nurtured for effective Leadership.
Their Online Graduate Degrees are:
- Master of Divinity (101 Hours)
- Master of Arts in Ministry Leadership (39 Hours)
- Doctor of Philosophy
- Master of Arts in Bible and Theology (48 Hours)
- Master of Theological Studies (65 Hours)
- a Master of Theology (21 Hours)
Know more about the school here:
9. Fuller Theological Seminary
is an online seminary that offers free graduate seminary degrees. It builds students for all round ministry. Fuller Seminary prepares you for greater ministry and deepens your knowledge and skills for the calling ahead of you.
Fuller Theological Seminary has a flexible system. You have the option of studying fully online or completing your degree on your own schedule with the right combination of online and on-campus courses. At fuller Seminary you have the chance of studying their six online seminary degrees without paying a dime.
The Online Graduate Degrees are:
- Master of Arts in Theology
- Master of Arts in Intercultural Studies
- Westminster Theological Seminary
- Master of Divinity
- Master of Arts in Theology and Ministry
- Master of Arts in Global Leadership
Visit http://fuller.edu/online/ for more information about Fuller Theological Seminary.
10. Regent University
Regent University is an accredited online seminary. It is known for its flexibility and it’s very convenient classes.Regent is vested in versatility and ensures flexibility.
The classes at Regent University begin every eight weeks.
At Regent University it’s easy to choose how you’d like to incorporate each of the courses into your schedule. Six seminary degrees are offered at RU.
Online Graduate Degrees offered by Regent University are:
- Master of Arts in Christian Spirituality & Formation
- Master of Divinity
- Doctor of Ministry
- Master of Arts in Practical Theology
- Master of Theology
- Doctor of Philosophy in Renewal Studies
Click here for more info:
11. Dallas Theological Seminary
It is believed at Dallas Theological Seminary “that all 66 books of the Bible are without error and are ‘useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness. All the interesting online theology courses at Dallas Theological Seminary are all offered without payment requirements. Some of the courses offered include:
The history of the Bible, how was it canonized, and whether or not it can be trusted as the inerrant word of God.
Online Graduate Degrees:
- Master of Biblical and Theological Studies (36 Hours)
To know more about this Institution:
12. Baylor University
Several distinguished and accredited degrees are offered by Truett in collaboration with Baylor University.
As a student of Baylor University you get to choose from 8 unique concentrations which range from Spiritual Formation to Sports Ministry if you choose a Master of Divinity. Some of the degrees you get to enjoy include:
- Master of Divinity,
- a Master of Theological Studies.
13. Central Christian College of the Bible
Is recognized as one of the most respected tuition free online bible colleges.
CCCB offers a full-tuition scholarship to 100 new or transferring students every year which covers up to 17 credit hours per semester.
The student enrollment at CCCB is 200 annually.
Its available online degrees include:
- Bachelor of Religious Studies
- Bachelor of Science in Biblical Ministry.
Students spend as much as eight weeks on intensive courses with 15-20 hours of class work per week depending on the program they offer.
To know more about CCCB click on this link:
CENTRAL CHRISTIAN COLLEGE OF THE BIBLE’S FREE TUITION SCHOLARSHIPS.
14. Bethel Seminary of Bethel University
Bethel University is a university that offers an excellent theological experience and encourages you to live out your beliefs.
At Bethel University you will be built in such a way that you’ll become a well-rounded and diligent theological scholar. You’ll also get to develop talents in biblical knowledge.
Bethel Seminary offers 5 free Online Graduate Degrees. They include:
- Master of Arts in Christian Thought (36 Hours)
- Master of Arts in Theological Studies (51 Hours)
- Doctor of Ministry (48 Hours)
- Master of Divinity (78 Hours)
- Master of Arts in Ministry (51 Hours)
To know more about Bethel Seminary University:
15. Liberty University:
At liberty university you will be well groomed for careers in various faith-based organizations. Liberty University offers 100% free online Biblical studies.
Here you’ll be groomed in bible knowledge and you also get to experience learning as you dive into research methods and ministry.
Seminary Graduate Degrees at Liberty university:
- Master of Arts in Biblical Studies (60 Hours)
- Master of Arts in Christian Apologetics (36 Hours)
- Online Master of Religious Education (MRE)
- Master of Arts in Christian Ministry (36 Hours)
- Master of Divinity (75, 90, 93 Hours)
- Doctor of Ministry (33 Hours)
- Master of Arts in Global Studies (36 Hours)
- Master of Arts in Religion 60 Hours)
- Doctor of Philosophy in Theology & Apologetics (57 Hours)
- Master of Arts in Sports Chaplaincy (36 Hours)
- Master of Religious Education (60 Hours)
- Doctor of Education in Christian Leadership (60 Hours)
- Master of Arts in Theological Studies (36 Hours)
- Master of Theology (30 Hours)
Learn more about Liberty University:
16. Multnomah Theological Seminary
Is a seminary Institution based in Portland, Oregon and was established in the year 1936. As a reputable Institution, Multnomah offers several fully online programs as well as a master of divinity hybrid program. Their online courses are really intensive and span for a period of eight weeks. Multnomah only offer Online Graduate Degrees which includes:
- Master of Arts in Biblical Studies (48 Hours)
- Master of Arts in Christian Leadership (48 Hours)
- a Master of Divinity (78 Hours)
- Master of Arts in Theological Studies (48 Hours)
For more helpful questions concerning the online classes Click on FAQ for general instructions and questions.
17. New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary
NOBTS,is a seminary that is into the work of providing innovative delivery and prepares students for ministry through an innovative system.
NOBTS is modelled like Southern Baptist seminaries. However, NOBTS is much more affordable without minding whether you’re Baptist or not. NOBTS offers seven free online seminary degrees.
If you feel called to be a missionary, youth minister, educator, counselor or an apologist then NOBTS should be your choice.
Here are some of the Online Graduate Degrees you get to enjoy if you study at NOBTS:
- Master of Divinity (84 Hours)
- Master of Arts: Apologetics (50 Hours)
- a Master of Arts: Biblical Studies (52-55 Hours)
- Master of Arts: Theology (52 Hours)
- Master of Arts in Christian Education (60 Hours)
- a Master of Arts in Pastoral Ministry (36-37 Hours)
- Master of Arts in Worship Ministries (42 Hours)
For more information about NOBTS click the link below:
18. Ohio Christian University
When it comes to giving complete support to your family, calling and career Ohio Christian University is the best for you.
It is affiliated to Evangelical (Founded for the Churches of Christ). OCU offers Online Associate and Bachelor programs designed for busy adults.
Accredited and affordable programs that are entirely online are offered at Ohio Christian University with no campus visits or residency requirements.
Some of the Online Graduate Degrees offered at Ohio Christian University are:
- Master of Arts in Ministry (34 Hours)
19. Portland Seminary (George Fox University)
At Portland Seminary students are made to experience what we call a vibrant learning community. Where the students are divided into cohorts called “Threshold Orientation” Portland. Students in each cohort grow together through online dialogue, symposiums and student led events.
Online Graduate Degrees:
- Doctor of Ministry in Leadership and Spiritual Formation (36 Hours)
- Doctor of Ministry in Semiotics and Future Studies (36 Hours)
- Master of Divinity (84 Hours)
- Doctor of Ministry in Leadership and Global Perspectives (36 Hours)
Learn more about Portland Seminary:
20. Reformed Theological Seminary.
If you hunger and desire to dig deeper into God’s Word through formal seminary education then you’ve found the right Institution.
Taking an online seminary degree is the best for you if you feel out of reach due to location. RTS offers three degrees.
The Global Education at RTS offers a pathway to the high-quality and biblically based training. The fully online programs provided by RTS offers you a unique opportunity to study with distinguished RTS faculty, at your own pace.
Online Graduate Degrees offered are:
- Master of Arts: Biblical Studies (66 Hours)
- Master of Arts: Theological Studies (66 Hours)
- a Master of Arts: Religion (60 Hours)
Conclusion
All these online Seminary degrees are all made available for you to fully achieve your dream of becoming a person who is vast in the knowledge of the word of God.
Guess what? You can bag these online seminary degrees all in the comfort of your room from any of the aforementioned accredited institutions without paying a dime.
What are you waiting for?
References
- https://www.westernseminary.edu/admissions/why-go-to-seminary
- https://www.ats.edu/member-schools/member-school-distance-education
- https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_schools_accredited_by_the_Association_of_Theological_Schools_in_the_United_States_and_Canada
- https://www.chea.org/commission-accrediting-association-theological-schools
