[hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”aboveTheFold” /] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A theology degree can qualify you to work as a minister, lead an international mission, or help others through community service programs. If you are curious about religious doctrines, enjoy speaking or writing about your faith, or want to use your education to serve God, then a theology degree might be right for you. Even if there are no seminaries in your vicinity, you still have many options for earning a high–quality online theology degree. Keep reading to learn how you can start your theology degree today.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A theology degree gives you an education in religious ethics, morality, history, philosophy, and literature. While theology can focus on any religion, U.S. theology degrees typically focus on Christianity. Theology is also primarily a philosophical discipline, although people can and do use their theology degrees to enter practical, faith–based professions.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The basic theology degree is an associate degree. This two–year program can help you qualify for an entry–level position in any number of religious organizations. However, in order to minister, teach, or lead, you will likely need to earn at least a bachelor’s degree in theology. If you plan to use your theology degree to serve in a leadership role through a church, religious organization, or charitable foundation, then you may wish to earn a master’s degree. With a doctoral degree in theology, you could have the opportunity to teach at the university level or lead important research efforts in your field.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″ class=”text-tertiary”]Featured Online Schools[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”editorialListings” /] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h4″ id=”what-can-you-series” class=”font-bold”]The “What Can You Do With This Degree?” Series[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-grid columns-md=”2″ gap=”md”] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″ id=”accreditation”]What Kind of Accreditation Should My Degree Program Have?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Accreditation is the process by which colleges and universities are evaluated and validated . Colleges and universities that have earned accreditation have met the standards set by accrediting organizations. These organizations are comprised of faculty from various accredited colleges and universities. Legitimate regional and national accrediting organizations are recognized by the [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.ed.gov/”]U.S. Department of Education[/hen-ui-link] (ED). Typically, the [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.chea.org/”]Council for Higher Education Accreditation[/hen-ui-link] (CHEA) recognizes the same institutions, although CHEA recognition isn’t mandatory. A college or university must be accredited by a Department of Education-recognized accreditor in order for its students to receive federal financial aid.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]For a detailed look at the differences between regional and national accreditation, check out [hen-ui-link href=”/resources/accreditation/”]What Do I Need to Know About College Accreditation?[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″ id=”degree-types”]What Kinds of Theology Degrees Are There?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″ id=”theology-associate”]Associate Degree in Theology[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]An associate degree in theology is typically a 60–credit program that you can complete in about two years. In this program, you’ll be exposed to the basic tenets of theology and philosophy, and get an introduction to religious traditions and influences. As with any other [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/associates/”]associate degree[/hen-ui-link], you’ll also be learning skills like writing, communication, and the basics of research, all which can help you in future courses or in employment. With an associate degree in theology, you could qualify for entry–level employment through a non–profit or community service organization. However, to advance toward a career in the ministry, religious leadership, or education, you will need to obtain at least a bachelor’s degree.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h4″ id=”theology-associate-courses”]What Theology Courses Will You Take?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Biblical Studies in the Old and New Testaments[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Church History[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Introduction to Philosophy[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Introduction to Theology[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Pastoral Counseling[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]World Religions[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h4″ id=”aa-vs-as”]What’s the Difference Between an AA and AS in Theology?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Generally speaking, the difference between an associate of arts (AA) and associate of science (AS) is in the overall focus of the program. An AA in theology will give you a basic grounding in theological principles, and will also require you to take several liberal arts classes. An AS in theology, will give you the same education in theology but also focuses on scientific principles and courses. If you’re interested in how the literature of the Bible can be interpreted and evangelized, an AA may be better for you. If your focus is on the anthropological aspects of Bible study, perhaps an AS is the way to go.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″ id=”theology-bachelor”]Bachelor of Theology[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A bachelor of theology is a 120–credit course that can be completed in four to five years. In this type of program, you’ll delve into subjects like ethics and philosophy, while also deepening your understanding of biblical and historical theology. Depending on your program, you may also learn practical skills, such as interpersonal relations, counseling, and religious leadership. At this level, you’ll have the opportunity to begin focusing on a concentration based on your area of interest. Completion of a bachelor’s degree in theology may qualify you to seek ordination for some religious orders, and can also qualify you for a leadership role in a number or religious or community organizations. A bachelor’s in theology degree will also allow you to continue into a graduate school program if you choose.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h4″ id=”theology-bachelor-courses”]What Theology Courses Will You Take?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Christian Ministry[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Greek Language[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Hebrew Language[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Hermeneutics[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Homiletics[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Systematic Theology[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h4″ id=”ba-vs-bth”]What’s the Difference Between a Bachelor of Arts in Theology and a Bachelor of Theology?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]While it may seem like splitting hairs, the differences between a bachelor of arts (BA with a major in theology) and a BTh (bachelor of theology) are worth highlighting. The BTh is a somewhat shorter program, taking as little as three years to complete. It focuses more specifically on theology courses and is a good choice if you know that you want to go into ministry. The BA with a major in theology, on the other hand, is a more rounded liberal arts education with a focus on theology courses. Because you’ll be taking more classes, it does take longer to complete—at least four to five years. A BA can be the better choice if you plan to enter a master’s program afterwards.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]To add one more wrinkle, some schools also offer a BS (bachelor of science) in theology. As with the associate degree, this will come with a heavier emphasis on science courses. Most schools offer either a BA or BS, but not both.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″ id=”theology-master”]Master of Theology[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The master of theology (ThM) is a postgraduate degree that takes one to two years to complete. These programs require specialized advanced courses in theological research. Some programs might require comprehensive exams and/or a research thesis. A master of theology could also help you take the next step toward a Ph.D. in theology. A ThM degree will allow you to teach theological subjects in some accredited seminaries and graduate schools. This degree is also commonly held by ministers, religious counselors, or chaplains.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h4″ id=”theology-master-courses”]What Theology Courses Will You Take?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Advanced Diaconal Studies[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Hebrew and Christian Scriptures[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Church History[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Christian Ethics[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Pastoral Care in Human Crisis[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Spiritual Life and Evangelism[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h4″ id=”mt-vs-mdiv”]What’s the Difference Between a Master of Theology and a Master of Divinity?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The master’s in theology is generally more academic in nature. If you want to continue to a doctorate in theology, the master’s of theology may be the right choice. The coursework you do in your ThM program can reduce the credit requirement of your doctoral program, and improves your overall qualifications as you seek to advance in your career. A master of divinity (MDiv), on the other hand, is preferable if you plan to go directly into ministry. Your courses will focus more on leadership and administrative skills, preparing you to take on pastoral duties. If you do choose to enter a doctorate program after an MDiv program, that option is still open to you.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]To get started, check out these online program rankings:[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-grid columns=”1″ columns-md=”2″ columns-lg=”5″ gap=”md”] [/hen-ui-grid] [hen-ui-article-card title=”The Best Online Master of Divinity MDiv Programs” href=”/rankings/masters/best-online-masters-divinity/” size=”compact” border=”stroke”][/hen-ui-article-card] [hen-ui-article-card title=”The Best Online Master’s in Missions Ministry Programs” href=”/rankings/masters/best-online-masters-missions-global-ministry/” size=”compact” border=”stroke”][/hen-ui-article-card] [hen-ui-article-card title=”The Best Online Master’s in Pastoral Leadership Programs” href=”/rankings/masters/best-online-masters-ministry-pastoral-leadership/” size=”compact” border=”stroke”][/hen-ui-article-card] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″ id=”theology-doctorate”]Doctorate in Theology[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The doctorate is the terminal degree in theology. This program typically requires 50+ hours of advanced course work, followed by a dissertation. Some programs also require retreats or that you pass a language competency exam. Generally, you can expect to spend four years working toward completion. With a doctorate in theology, you’ll be qualified to lead a congregation, helm a religious organization, conduct field research, or teach at the university level.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h4″ id=”theology-doctorate-courses”]What Theology Courses Will You Take?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Ancient Zoroastrian Tradition[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Apologetic Methods[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Biblical Hermeneutics[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Biblical Languages[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Bibliology[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Modern Christian Liberation Movements[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h4″ id=”phd-vs-dt”]What’s the Difference Between a Doctorate in Theology and a Doctorate in Philosophy?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]On a practical level, the Th.D. and Ph.D. are equivalent programs. Both are terminal degrees in the field. The biggest difference is that a Th.D. will focus more on Christianity specifically, while a Ph.D. in theology may cover other religions and practices.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-link href=”#top/”]Return to the top[/hen-ui-link] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″ id=”certification”]What Kind of Licensing or Certification Do You Need?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The specific licensing or certification you need will depend solely on what you choose to do with your theology degree.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Ordination[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]One of the most common reasons to pursue a theology degree is to become a minister, pastor, preacher, priest, rabbi, or other religious authority figure. All these authority figures must be ordained, or consecrated and elevated to clergy status. Your specific religion and denomination will determine how you can achieve ordination. Individual religious organizations set their own standards and educational requirements. Additionally, some religions will accept a broader range of applicants to ordination than others. For instance, the Catholic Church will not ordain women, LGBTQ+ people, or married men. In the Jewish faith, women and LGBTQ+ people can be ordained within the Reform or Conservative movements, but not in Orthodox Judaism. There are no governing bodies that will apply across the board, so it’s important that you research the parameters and requirements of your specific religious affiliation to find out how you can be ordained.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-link href=”#top/”]Return to the top[/hen-ui-link] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″ id=”careers”]What Can You Do With a Theology Degree?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]If you are wondering, “What can I do with a theology degree?” there are plenty of options. Your theology degree can lead to many inspiring and rewarding jobs in both religious and secular organizations. For more detail, check out a few of these top theology degree jobs:[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Chaplains[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Directors of Religious Activities/Education[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Ministers[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Missionaries[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/careers/career-guide/education/#postsecondary-teachers/”]Professors[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Rabbis[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Religious Workers[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/careers/career-guide/social-services-careers/#social-and-community-service-managers”]Social and Community Service Managers[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/careers/career-guide/education/#postsecondary-teachers”]Private School Teachers[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Youth Pastors[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [hen-ui-link href=”#top/”]Return to the top[/hen-ui-link] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″ id=”salary”]What Kind of Salary Can You Earn With a Theology Degree?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Your theology degree could open the door to a variety of careers in religious leadership, community organization, and social service. The Bureau of Labor Statistics provides median annual salary information for these top theology degree jobs:[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-table] [hen-ui-table-header] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Career[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Median Annual Salary[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Job Growth (2022-2032)[/hen-ui-table-head] [/hen-ui-table-row] [/hen-ui-table-header] [hen-ui-table-body] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Career”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes212099.htm”]Religious Workers[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary”]$45,420[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job Growth (2022-2032)”]5.2%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Career”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes212021.htm”]Directors of Religious Activities and Education[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary”]$60,540[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job Growth (2022-2032)”]4%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Career”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes211099.htm”]Community and Social Service Specialists[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary”]$51,620[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job Growth (2022-2032)”]1.6%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Career”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes212011.htm”]Clergy[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary”]$60,180[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job Growth (2022-2032)”]1.5%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Career”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/social-and-community-service-managers.htm”]Social and Community Service Managers[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary”]$74,240[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job Growth (2022-2032)”]9%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [/hen-ui-table-body] [/hen-ui-table] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Source:[hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/”]Bureau of Labor Statistics[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-link href=”#top/”]Return to the top[/hen-ui-link] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″ id=”organizations”]Are There Professional Theology Associations or Societies You Should Join?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Professional associations are a fantastic way to make connections in your field, learn about valuable seminars or certifications, and improve your own credentials. The association or associations you choose to join will depend to an extent on the career path you take. Look for theology associations that correspond with your academic or professional concentration.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://practicaltheology.org/”]Association of Practical Theology (APT)[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.ctsa-online.org/”]Catholic Theological Society of America (CTSA)[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.etsjets.org/”]The Evangelical Theological Society (ETS)[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://iota-web.org/”]International Orthodox Theological Association (IOTA)[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [hen-ui-link href=”#top/”]Return to the top[/hen-ui-link] [hen-ui-section-header title=”Popular with our students.” /] [hen-ui-article-row variant=”2-col” ids=”970,1538,905″][/hen-ui-article-row]
[hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/degrees/accounting-degrees/”]Accounting Degree[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/degrees/art-design-degree/”]Art & Design Degree[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Automotive Technology[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/degrees/biology-degree/”]Biology Degree[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://thebestschools.org/degrees/business-degrees/”]Business Degree[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/degrees/chemistry-degree/”]Chemistry Degree[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/degrees/communications-degree/”]Communications Degree[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/degrees/computer-science-degree/”]Computer Science Degree[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/degrees/cosmetology-certificate/”]Cosmetology Certificate[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/careers/career-guide/criminal-justice/”]Criminal Justice or Law Degree[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/degrees/economics-degree/”]Economics Degree[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/degrees/education-degrees/”]Education Degree[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/degrees/engineering-degree/”]Engineering Degree[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list]
[hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/degrees/english-degree/”]English Degree[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/degrees/finance-degree-overview/”]Finance Degree[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Game Design Degree[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/degrees/healthcare-administration-degree/”]Healthcare Administration[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/degrees/history-degrees/”]History Degree[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/degrees/kinesiology-exercise-degree/”]Kinesiology[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/degrees/marketing-degree/”]Marketing Degree[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/degrees/mathematics-degree/”]Mathematics Degree[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://thebestschools.org/degrees/nursing/”]Nursing Degree[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/degrees/physics-degree/”]Physics Degree[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/degrees/political-science-degree/”]Political Science Degree[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/degrees/psychology-degree/”]Psychology Degree[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/degrees/social-work/”]Social Work Degree[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/degrees/sociology-degree/”]Sociology Degree[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list]
[/hen-ui-grid] - What is Regional Accreditation?
- Regional accreditation is the signifier of quality education; this includes the currency of curriculum, credentials of educators, and credibility of degrees. Regional accrediting agencies only accredit institutions in their geographical area.
- The Six Regional Accrediting Agencies
- [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.msche.org/”]Middle States Commission of Higher Education (MSCHE)[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.neche.org/”]New England Commission on Higher Education (NECHE)[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.hlcommission.org/”]The Higher Learning Commission (HLC)[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.nwccu.org/”]Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”http://www.sacscoc.org/”]Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.wscuc.org/”]WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list]
- What Is National Accreditation?
- National accreditation is often perceived as a less rigorous standard than regional accreditation and is governed by educational accreditors agencies that are not restricted by region or geography. This means that one such agency can provide accreditation to any college or university in the U.S. that meets its criteria. National accreditation is commonplace among trade schools, religious schools, and for–profit colleges. Most regionally–accredited colleges do not accept or recognize credits or degrees earned from colleges that lack regional accreditation. However, national accreditation may be a useful indicator of quality for students pursuing vocational training, competency-based education, or other education models that operate under a for-profit model.
- What is Programmatic Accreditation?
- Programmatic accreditation certifies that an institution’s program, department, or college has met the standards of the programmatic accrediting agency. While programmatic accreditation agencies often have national jurisdiction, programmatic accreditation is not institutional national accreditation. In fact, programmatic accreditation often coexists with regional accreditation. In some disciplines, a degree with programmatic accreditation may even be required to earn a license or enter professional practice. When it comes to theology, the accreditation your program needs will depend upon the specific content. For example, a program that focuses on ministry may need to be accredited by a different entity than a program that emphasizes Bible studies. And of course, different religions and sects have their own accrediting standards for their schools. Some accreditation agencies that might be relevant to your interests include: [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.abhe.org/”]The Association for Biblical Higher Education[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.acsi.org/”]Association of Christian Schools International[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.ats.edu/”]The Association of Theological Schools[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list]