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Online doctorate programs in theology provide instruction in religious texts and spirituality to prepare individuals for careers in either faith-based settings such as churches and synagogues or in community, social service and academic professions. The theology PhD online degree promotes an enhanced understanding of sacred texts, increases awareness of contemporary issues within religious institutions and develops individuals’ leadership skills. Moreover, students learn ways in which their studies and personal faith can be applied to effect positive change, thereby creating connections with communities and diverse groups of people.

Online PhD in Theology Requirements

Individuals enrolled in online doctoral programs in theology should be interested in engaging in research and writing that demonstrates their comprehension of the subject matter through their contributions to religious organizations and institutions, to the academy and to society.

In general, online doctorate degrees in theology require a Master of Divinity from an accredited institution, and some online PhD programs in theology require students to have maintained a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.5 in their Master’s degree studies. In some instances, this degree requirement may be satisfied through graduate degrees earned in related disciplines such as:

• Religion;
• Theology; and
• Philosophy.

Candidates for admission must also either be competent or acquire competency in the use of the languages in which primary texts and sources are written, and some programs mandate proficiency in an ancient language such as either Hebrew or Greek within the first year of study. Some programs also require the submission of Graduate Record Examination scores and a writing sample for admission purposes.

Online PhD in Theology Education

The online doctorate in theology includes coursework in historical analysis, ethics and ancient civilizations that both address and deepen students’ interests in belief systems. In contrast to degree programs in religious studies, in which students take a comparative approach in the study of religion, the online theology doctorate generally focuses on the Christian faith and its practices, texts and institutions.

Students who pursue online PhD theology degrees in IT must complete a dissertation on a research topic chosen in consultation with their advisors. They may also be required to pass a comprehensive examination and to attend brief residential colloquia to complement their online studies.

Information on Theology Courses

Top online theology courses enable learners to pursue degrees while they remain active in their ministries and/or professional careers. Classes in the degree program enable them to acquire a critical perspective on theological scholarship as it pertains to teaching, learning and research.

Individuals enrolled in online doctoral programs in theology have classes such as:

• Theology in World Context
  Christian theology is examined within the context of the 21st century, particularly from a postmodern perspective. Historical and theological questions are raised and discussed relative to world religious traditions as students discuss religious life and read various theoretical texts.
• The Doctrine of the Holy Spirit
  Students pursuing the online doctorate in theology study the role of the Holy Spirit within the Trinity and in relationship to the Father and to the Son. Coursework delves into the operation of the Spirit within Catholic and Protestant theologies, as well as within renewal movements.
• Politics and Religion
  Political theologies are analyzed from a religious perspective as students learn about the historical relationship between politics and religion. They also study religion within current trends and cultures with emphasis placed on Christianity.
• Contemporary Theologies
  Online theology PhD students study the major theological philosophers and most salient movements of the modern era. These thinkers and events are also discussed within historical and cultural contexts, as well as for their relevancy to Christian life and ministry.
• Principles and Methods of Historiography
  Students learn how history is recorded in written documents as they examine the art of historiography. They also learn about the skills necessary for conducting research for their dissertations.

Specializations and Concentrations

Students pursuing accredited online doctoral degrees in theology may deepen their knowledge in areas of interest if they concentrate studies in specific subject matter. If they opt to do so, students who seek the online PhD in theology can focus their coursework in:

• Old Testament studies;
• New Testament studies;
• Church history;
• Historical theology;
• Christian ethics;
• Philosophy of religion;
• Philosophical theology;
• Practical theology;
• Theology and culture;
• Worship and culture; and
• History of global Christianity

Careers in Theology

Top online PhD programs in theology facilitate graduates’ transition into careers ranging from religious professions, e.g. pastor, rabbi and church minister, to academic roles, e.g., historian and professor. Moreover, the online PhD in theology can prepare individuals to enter careers in the social sector, including as counselors and leaders of nonprofit organizations.

Individuals with accredited online PhD degrees in theology are prepared to become practitioners such as:

• Director of Religious Activities and Education
  These professionals coordinate activities to meet the religious needs of students, including the planning and oversight of church school programs for church membership. Responsibilities of this profession may also entail counseling, e.g., for marital, financial and religious problems. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average annual income for
  directors of religious activities and education is $40,770.
• Clergy
  Online PhD theology graduates may choose to enter the ministry as clergy who conduct worship services and perform other duties associated with religious beliefs and practices, including in churches, hospitals and the civil services. This career, which may also require providing guidance and counsel to church membership, pays an average of $46,960 annually.
• Marriage and Family Counselor
  Individuals with an online doctorate in theology may work to diagnose and to treat emotional, behavioral and cognitive disorders that affect couples and families. This profession pays an average of $49,020 annually and the number of professionals in the field is anticipated to increase by 15% by 2018.
• Historian
  These professionals gather, analyze and interpret data that document the past by using multiple sources such as newspapers, institutional records, texts and manuscripts. Persons in this field may work within colleges, museums and historical sites. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average annual income for
  historians is $56,350.
• College/University Professor
  Graduates may decide to join the academy as professors of philosophy and religion. On average, professors in this discipline earn $67,610 annually.

The best online doctoral degrees in theology equip individuals with a thorough understanding of Biblical doctrine that can translate to careers within religious institutions as well as within workplaces like hospitals, museums and the civil services. The online doctorate in theology helps students to better understand people, issues and events from a perspective that blends historical, contemporary and global perspectives, thereby enabling them to work effectively and tolerantly across all cultures.