What can I do with an online master’s degree in biblical studies?
This guide explains the jobs and career paths you can have with an online master’s degree in biblical studies.
An online master’s degree in biblical studies can lead to a career as a professor, theologian, congregation leader, and more. The online master’s degree can lead to excellent jobs in a wide range of spiritual organizations including places of worship, social service organizations, addiction treatment programs, and more. The best online master’s degrees in biblical studies can lead to various leadership roles, especially in organizations with a Christian worldview.
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What jobs can I do with an online master’s degree in biblical studies?
With an online master’s degree in biblical studies, you can become a member of the clergy or hold another leadership role in an organization that shares your spiritual beliefs. This is especially true for those who practice Christianity. For instance, a master’s degree in biblical studies could qualify you to work as a chaplain or youth pastor. A graduate degree in biblical studies can also lead to roles in academia such as theologian or a religious studies professor.
An online master’s degree in biblical studies can lead to a number of rewarding careers, but is it worth it? (Spoiler alert: it is!)
What else can I do with an online master’s degree in biblical studies?
An online master’s degree in biblical studies can lead into alternative careers as a faith-based mental health counselor, community organizer, or educator. Many students who earn a secular master’s degree in biblical studies will go on to complete their studies in seminary or rabbinical school before becoming congregation leaders.
What does a job in biblical studies pay?
A job in biblical studies, which is usually a position in the clergy, can pay an average of $57,230 per year. However, the annual salary for clergy can vary widely. While 10% of clergy make $30,450 a year or less, the top 10% of earners made more than $80,920 per year according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The majority of clergy earned more than the average pay for all jobs, which was $45,760 in 2021. But there are many other kinds of jobs you can do with a biblical studies degree. Each job has a different salary range. For instance, many biblical studies masters become postsecondary educators. The Bureau of Labor of Statistics says the average pay for postsecondary teachers is $79,640.
Will employers respect my online master’s degree in biblical studies?
Employers will respect your online biblical studies degree as long as it comes from a good grad, divinity or rabbinical school. Employers respect online biblical studies degrees from accredited schools. Accreditation is very important. Accreditation means your degree comes from a school that is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. There are two kinds of school-wide accreditation—national accreditation and regional accreditation. For academic institutions, regional accreditation is better than national accreditation. But national accreditation is more common and is well respected when it comes to religious schools like seminary or rabbinical school. Check out the best online master’s degrees in biblical studies to make sure you are getting an advanced online biblical studies degree that employers will respect.
An online master’s degree in biblical studies can help you to accomplish your career goals. Learn more about what it takes to get an online master’s in biblical studies.
Students’ Submitted Questions on Online Master’s Degree in Biblical Studies?
Andy asks, “Are there opportunities to specialize within the program, such as in Old Testament, New Testament, biblical archaeology, or theological studies?”
Dr. James Barham’s answer: This will most likely depend on the program, but many programs will have specialized tracks where you can study areas of your choice in-depth. Look into the program’s curriculum online and see which concentrations are available. There also might be research opportunities or practical experience available for you to engage in areas of your choice.
Jake asks, “How do programs prepare students for practical ministry or academic careers in biblical studies?”
Dr. Jed Macosko’s answer: Programs will typically offer a combination of coursework, research opportunities, mentorship, and practical experiences to ensure that students receive a well rounded education. Many of the courses will cover crucial topics such as theology, church history, and ancient languages. Some programs will also require courses in topics such as counseling and psychology to make sure that students are fully prepared for caring for a congregation. In terms of practical ministry versus an academic career in biblical studies, you should look into the tracks available to see which one would prepare you best.
Taylor asks, “Are there virtual or in-person spiritual life activities, such as retreats, worship services, or prayer groups?”
Dr. James Barham’s answer: This will depend on your program and school. These kind of events and activities will most likely be put on by the school itself so it’s important to see what the school does to foster community. This might come in the form of online worship services, retreats and workshops, and community service projects. The program itself might put on certain events, so check their curriculum design and peer interaction expectations.
