A Bachelor of Theology or BTh is a 3-year under-graduate course which has been designed to equip students for Christian ministry and to lead people with spiritual discipline and knowledge. The program seeks to provide a thorough understanding of the life and teaching of Jesus Christ.

Students who have completed their 12th with an aggregate of minimum 50% marks are eligible for this course. Students who have obtained an ATA diploma in theology are also eligible for this course.

ATA is Asia Theological Association. The association is responsible for providing quality theology education through various christian missionaries and seminaries. It offers various diploma and degree programs on Theology.

Key Highlights of BTh course

• Full Form: Bachelor of Theology
• Duration: 3 years
• Eligibility: 12th from a recognized board
• Admission Process: Merit based
• Top Colleges: Discipleship Bible College, Grace Bible College, Hindustan Bible Institute & College, etc
• Average course fees: INR 10,000 to INR 1,00,000 per year.
• Job Options: Healthcare Worker, Relief Worker, Religious Teacher, Children Pastor, etc
• Average Salary Package: INR 3 to 5 Lakhs
• Top Recruiting areas: Educational Institutes, NGO’s, Workplace, Religious Organisations, Financial and Legal Firms, Charities, Churches, Schools etc

Admission to the course is mainly offered on a merit based criteria. However there are some colleges which conduct a written test or personal interview round pertaining to the teachings mentioned in the holy bible.

The table given below mentions some of the top colleges offering Bachelor of Theology courses.

ATA (Asia Theological Association) 2020 Rank	College Name	Admission Process	Average Annual Fees (INR)
21	Discipleship Bible College	Merit based	INR 29,000
36	Grace Bible College	Merit and test based	INR 13,400
40	Hindustan Bible Institute & College	Direct admission	INR 20,000
43	India Bible College And Seminary	Direct admission	INR 19,910
–	Bethel Bible Institute	Merit based	INR 25,800

The average tuition fee charged by the colleges or universities for this course ranges from INR 10,000 to 1 Lakh, it depends on the type of the institution.

After the successful completion of this course, the student will be a graduate who has knowledge in theological studies. They can work in NGOs, as priests, etc.

An initial BTh Salary of around INR 3 lakhs can be expected by any fresh graduate of the course. It is based on the experience level of the graduate.

Bachelor of Theology Admission Process

• Admission to the course is mainly offered on a merit based criteria. However there are some colleges which conduct a written test or personal interview round pertaining to the teachings mentioned in the holy bible.
• Most of the colleges have online application systems. But some colleges do prefer offline registration by the candidates.
• Application is processed based on the marks obtained by the candidates in the qualifying examination along with their character certificates and letter of recommendation.

Bachelor of Theology Eligibility

Students who wish to pursue this course must meet up with the following eligibility criteria.

• One must have passed their 12th examinations with a minimum 50% marks from any recognized board.
• Applicants who possess a diploma in theology are also eligible for this course.

Bachelor of Theology Entrance Exams

Admission to the course is mainly offered on a merit based criteria. However there are some colleges which conduct a written test or personal interview round pertaining to the teachings mentioned in the holy bible. No separate entrance exam is conducted for admission into this course.

How to Get Admission in a Good BTh college?

• Follow all the rules and regulations regarding the admission process carefully without any mistake.
• Make sure all the required documents are there and that those documents are up to date.
• In case of doubt, call the management and get updated information.
• Ensure that you attempt your board exams well.
• Attend seminars and biblical classes to gain more awareness about the religious theories.

Bachelor of Theology: What is it about?

• The course is beneficial to the students as it provides an opportunity for an intellectually rigorous study of the Christian faith from the perspective of Christian traditions and thought.
• The course also provides a thorough grounding where it recognizes the diversity of the Christian tradition.
• It also focuses on exegesis and hermeneutics and related subjects in Christian Theology.
• The course equips students to study the Bible, so they are in a position to explain what it says and means.
• This course is perfect for those who want to learn more about spirituality and how churches, etc. came into existence.
• This course will also equip students with the skills to teach others regarding spirituality and the simple way of life.

Bachelor of Theology: Course Highlights

The following table shows some of the major highlights of this course in India.

Course Level	Undergraduate
Full Form	Bachelors of Theology
Duration	3 years
Examination Type	Semester/Year wise
Eligibility	50% in 12th
Admission process	Merit based
Course fees	INR 10,000 to INR 1 Lakh
Average Salary	INR 2 to 3 Lakhs
Top Recruiting areas	Educational Institutes, NGO’s, Workplace, Religious Organisations, Financial and Legal Firms, Charities, Churches, Schools etc
Job position	Healthcare Worker, Relief Worker, Religious Teacher, Children Pastor, etc

Why study Bachelor of Theology?

• The course helps one to fulfill their spiritual longings.
• Students extensively learn about the concepts of theology. They are taught the implementations of these concepts in one’s day to day life.
• The course comes with various career opportunities. Students can either choose to work or to pursue further education in the respective field.
• The course imparts a wide variety of skills. Some of the skills imparted through the course are critical thinking, clear writing, problem solving and analysis of social and historical trends.

B.Th vs. B.Div

Course Comparison

Sometimes knowing about different courses helps one in selecting the right one. To ease the process, two similar looking courses have been compared below based on various parameters.

B.Th vs. B.Div.

B.Th and B.Div. are two similar looking courses. But the subjects and insights they offer are different. For making the difference quite visible, these two courses have been compared based on various parameters.

Parameters	B.Th.	B.Div.
Full Form	Bachelor of Theology	Bachelor of Divinity
Course Overview	It’s an under-graduation degree which will give you an in-depth understanding of the disciple of theology and how the church functions, it’s origin and history, etc.	It’s an undergraduate degree program which caters to one’s spiritual quest. It imparts knowledge about religion and various aspects related to it.
Average Annual Fees	INR 10,000 to 1 Lakh	INR 20,000 to 2 lakhs
Average Annual Salary	INR 2 to 3 lakhs	INR 2 lakhs to 5 lakhs
Top Job Profiles	Healthcare Worker, Relief Worker, Religious Teacher, Children Pastor, etc	Pastor, Religion Leader, Educator, Scholar, and such.
Top Recruiting Areas	Educational Institutes, NGO’s, Workplace, Religious Organisations, Financial and Legal Firms, Charities, Churches, Schools etc	Churches, schools, Warner university, Indiana Wesleyan university, etc
Colleges	Logos College Of Theology, Madras Assembly Of God Bible College, Maharashtra Bible College, New Life College, Olive Theological Institute	Aizawl Theological College, DHIU, Faith Theological Seminary, Dharma Jyoti Vidya Peeth, Southern Asia Bible College

What Are The Best Tuition Free Bible Colleges?

College of the OzarksPOINT LOOKOUT, MO	Based in the picturesque community of Point Lookout, Missouri, College of the Ozarks offers free tuition to students through a combination of grants (state and federal), scholarships, and its own work education program. Styling itself as “Hard Work U,” the university earns nationwide acclaim for its work education program, which includes over 100 jobs that students can take to pay for their education.All students must work at least 15 hours per week at on-campus sites, such as the childcare center, computer lab, and museum. Students must also complete two 40-hour work weeks each year during breaks from classes. Students can pay for room and board in addition to tuition by working for six weeks during the summer term.College of the Ozarks offers Bible study groups, mission trips, and ministry-related retreats. The school maintains an affiliation with the Presbyterian Church.	VISIT SITE
2	Barclay CollegeHAVILAND, KS	Based out of Haviland, Kansas, Barclay College is an evangelical, Quaker-affiliated school. Originally opened in the early 20th century as the Kansas Central Bible Training School, Barclay stays true to its origins by preparing graduates for Christ-centered leadership and service positions.The school offers faith-based bachelor’s degrees including Christian elementary education, youth ministry, and pastoral ministry, and provides associate degrees such as biblical studies. Barclay also offers faith-based master’s programs, including Quaker studies, family ministry, and spiritual formation.The school awards full-tuition scholarships to all accepted students who agree to live on campus. Barclay can offer these scholarships thanks to generous donations from alumni, supporters, and advocates for debt-free education. The school currently enrolls about 200 students, providing plenty of opportunity for close student-faculty interaction.	VISIT SITE
3	St. Louis Christian CollegeFLORISSANT, MO	Based in suburban St. Louis in the city of Florissant, Missouri, St. Louis Christian College maintains affiliation with the Restoration Movement (Christian Churches and Churches of Christ). This affiliation informs much of the school’s coursework, theology, and doctrine. The school stays small by design, providing an 8-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio to the approximately 100 students who take courses at SLCC each year. Most students at SLCC enroll in the biblical studies program.Though SLCC does not offer free tuition for all four years, the college’s NexGen+ Leadership Program provides certain students with two years of free tuition, allowing them to earn an associate degree for free. All applicants must meet three qualifications: a 2.5 minimum high school GPA, first-time college student status, and U.S. citizenship.
4	Central Christian College of the BibleMOBERLY, MO	Located on a spacious, 40-acre campus in Moberly, Missouri, Central Christian College of the Bible offers bachelor’s and certificate programs in ministry-related fields. The college offers 100 full-tuition scholarships to new and transfer students each academic year.Students can renew the scholarship by meeting the following conditions: a 2.0 minimum GPA, completion of 90% of the school’s Christian service project hours per semester (four hours per week), and 80% attendance at chapel services. At times, the school also awards full-tuition scholarships to returning students who did not originally earn the scholarship when they enrolled.Central Christian holds national accreditation from the Association for Biblical Higher Education, which is approved by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation.

What Can I Do with a Bible Degree?

Pastor

Many people who study biblical studies go on to earn graduate degrees (MDiv, MAR, ThM) and become pastors. A degree in biblical studies will provide a biblical and theological framework that will help prepare you to serve as a leader and visionary in the church, society, and world.

Here are a few different options:

• Associate Pastor
• Children’s Pastor
• Youth Pastor
• Teaching Pastor
• Community Life Pastor
• Spiritual Development Pastor

Missionary

A Christian missionary is anyone who is commissioned by the Lord to make disciples. While many Christians think that missionaries are people who leave their homes and go to a developing nation to evangelize, missionaries come in all shapes and sizes.

There are many missionaries who go to “First World” countries to witness and build a community in Christ. Some are long-term missionaries who work in community development or plant churches. Others are short-term missionaries and spend time teaching English as a form of ministry.

As all Christians are called to be ambassadors of Christ, a degree in biblical studies will prepare anyone seeking to preach, teach, and share the gospel in order to transform the lives of others.

Director

Many churches have full-time staff members, and a degree in biblical studies can help secure a job as a director of a branch of ministry in the church. As directors lead teams, make decisions, and work closely with other church members, it is important that they have a biblical foundation upon which to base their decisions.

There are many different kinds of directors in the church:

• Christian Education Director
• Children’s Programs Director
• Vacation Bible School Director
• Youth Director
• Worship Director
• Women’s Ministry Director

Teacher

Some biblical studies majors go on to become teachers. To teach in the public school system, you will have to earn certifications from the State. However, some private schools, including many Christian schools, do not require teacher certification, so a degree in biblical studies will provide you with a model for Christian education and give you a leg up on your competitors.

Writer/Editor

Those who major in biblical studies spend much of their time reading, writing, analyzing, and interpreting Scripture. As a result, many go on to find employment as writers and editors. A degree in biblical studies can help you become a writer and editor for both Christian and non-Christian magazines, newspapers, and various online platforms.

Chaplain

A chaplain is typically a minister who provides religious services and counsel. If you feel called to serve as a minister but want to focus on a specific ministry, consider working as a chaplain. As a chaplain, you can serve a variety of contexts depending on your gifts and passions. You can work in places like the following institutions:

• Prisons
• US Military (Army, Navy, Coast Guard, Marine Corps, Air Force)
• Professional Sports Teams
• Hospitals
• College/University
• Police/Fire Department

Human Service Worker

Many students who are interested in majoring in Bible have a heart for serving those in need and pursue further education to work in counseling and social services fields. Some popular careers in these fields include the following:

• Case Worker
• Family and Child Social Worker
• Substance Abuse Counselor
• Probation Officer
• School Guidance Counselor
• Public Health Social Workers
• Mental Health Counselor
• Clinical Psychologist

If you have a strong interest in the Christian faith and have a desire to help and serve others, a degree in biblical studies may be right for you. Although many people think that biblical studies majors only go on to become pastors, your college major can lead you to many jobs, fields, and even to graduate school to pursue another vocation or specialization

Ranking the Top Scholarships for Religious Studies Available

1. AGBU Religious Studies Fellowship

Deadline: May 31st

The Armenian General Benevolent Union awards a Religious Studies Fellowship for up to $5,000 to graduate students of Armenian heritage. They must be pursuing master’s or doctoral degrees in:

• religious studies
• theology
• divinity
• ministry

Eligible applicants must:

• be enrolled full-time at selective universities or seminaries worldwide
• live outside of Armenia
• maintain a cumulative GPA above 3.0
• exhibit financial need

Fellowships are renewable for a maximum of three years.

Contact

AGBU Religious Studies Fellowship
55 East 59th Street 7th Floor
New York, NY 10022
(212) 319-6383
scholarship@agbu.org
Scholarship Link

2. Bishop Lance Webb Scholarship

Deadline: March 15th

The Bishop Lance Webb Scholarship for $1,500 is presented by the Iowa United Methodist Foundation. Eligible are full-time college juniors or seniors. They must plan to attend an ATS-accredited theological school or seminary for graduate degrees in religious studies. Qualified recipients must:

• be U.S. citizen
• currently hold a B average or better
• demonstrate financial need
• have a vocational calling for United Methodist ministry

Submitting two recommendations from ordained pastors is required.

Contact

Bishop Lance Webb Scholarship
2301 Rittenhouse Street
Des Moines, IA 50321
(515) 974-8927
amy.foust@iumf.org
Scholarship Link

3. Charles B. Keesee Educational Scholarships

Deadline: April 1st

The Charles B. Keesee Educational Scholarships range from $2,000 to $8,000 per year. Eligible are members of the Baptist Church. Thy must be earning master’s or doctoral degrees in religious studies at participating seminaries. Acceptable majors include:

• Christian education
• church music
• Islamic studies
• missiology
• youth ministry

Eligible candidates must be U.S. citizens who reside in:

• Virginia
• North Carolina
• South Carolina

They must plan to pursue Baptist religious work.

Contact

Charles B. Keesee Educational Scholarships
P.O. Box 431
Martinsville, VA 24114
(276) 632-2229
information@cbkeesee.com
Scholarship Link

4. David H.C. Read Preacher/Scholar Award

Deadline: January 31st

The David H.C. Read Preacher/Scholar Award  honors the late Chaplain to Her Majesty in Scotland. The gifts $20,000 are made from the Madison Avenue Presbyterian Church each year. To qualify, applicants must be entering their final year of a Master of Divinity program at an ATS-accredited theological school. They must be committed to entering Protestant parish ministry upon graduation. Three religious studies runners-up will receive $1,000.

Contact

David H.C. Read Preacher/Scholar Award
921 Madison Avenue
New York, NY 10021
(212) 288-8920
amcchord@nyc.rr.com
Scholarship Link

5. Dr. Chester A. McPheeters Scholarship

Deadline: March 1st

The Dr. Chester A. McPheeters Scholarship was created by the United Methodist Higher Education Foundation. It awards $1,000 to graduating high school seniors. They must be pursuing post-secondary education to prepare for the ministry or full-time religious vocations. Eligible religious studies majors must:

• be active United Methodist members for 12 months
• have U.S. citizenship or permanent residency
• have a minimum 2.5 GPA
• enroll full-time in an accredited college
• work part-time where possible.

Contact

Dr. Chester A. McPheeters Scholarship
P.O. Box 340005
Nashville, TN 37203
(615) 649-3990
umhef@umhef.org
Scholarship Link

6. Father McGivney Vocations Scholarships

Deadline: June 1st

Annually, the Knights of Columbus distributes 40 Father McGivney Vocations Scholarships for $2,500 each. Eligible are male students who are enrolled full-time in religious studies at an ATS-accredited theology school. They must be preparing for the Roman Catholic priesthood. Preference is given to financially needy students who are members or descents of the KofC. Applications must include:

• academic transcripts
• two letters of recommendation
• a short essay
• the diocesan vocations director’s signature.

Contact

Father McGivney Vocations Scholarships
1 Columbus Plaza
New Haven, CT 06510
(203) 752-4000
scholarships@kofc.org
Scholarship Link

7. GuideOne Foundation Scholarships

Deadline: April 15th

As America’s leading insurer of churches, the GuideOne Foundation provides four $2,500 religious studies scholarships. The annual awards benefit tomorrow’s those who are actively pursuing master’s or doctoral degrees for ministry. Qualified applicants must:

• attend accredited seminaries in the United States or District of Columbia
• carry a minimum overall GPA of 3.25
• submit one letter of recommendation
• write a 350-word essay explaining why they’ve chosen religious vocations.

Contact

GuideOne Foundation Scholarships
1111 Ashworth Road
West Des Moines, IA 50265
(877) 448-4331
espacek@guideone.com
Scholarship Link

8. Harvesters Scholarship Foundation

Deadline: May 31st

The Harvesters Scholarship Foundation offers need-based financial aid to undergraduate or graduate students in the United States and Canada. They must  have declared religious studies majors to serve the Evangelical Christian faith. Eligibility criteria requires:

• being enrolled full-time
• holding a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better
• having combined family income below $60,000 per year
• responding to one’s calling of becoming a missionary

Applications must include:

• a 1,000-word personal statement
• resume
• transcript
• three references.

Contact

Harvesters Scholarship Foundation
7252 Berry Creek Street
Eastvale, CA 92880
edithlo@harvestersscholarship.com
Scholarship Link

9. Hindu Temple Educational Scholarship

Deadline: May 31st

The Hindu Temple Educational Scholarship is funded by the International Geeta Gurukul Foundation. The $1,000 scholarship is awarded annually. It goes to a graduating high school senior planning to enroll full-time at an accredited U.S. four-year college. Interested religious studies majors must:

• be active Hindu Temple members
• exhibit academic merit with a minimum 3.0 GPA
• have leadership potential
• submit two recommendation letters
• show career goals within the Hindu religion.

Contact

Hindu Temple Educational Scholarship
44955 Cherry Hill Road
Canton, MI 48188
(734) 981-8730
Scholarship Link

10. Irene Drinkall Franke Scholarship

Deadline: February 15th

The Evangelical Lutheran Church of America selects laywomen annually to receive the $1,000 Irene Drinkall Franke Scholarship. It goes to to financially support their religious studies and professional preparation for Christian service occupations. To apply, female students must:

• hold ELCA membership
• be U.S. citizens
• attend accredited universities
• be at least 21 years old
• have experienced a two-year or longer interruption in education
• submit a pastor reference form.

Contact

Irene Drinkall Franke Scholarship
8765 West Higgins Road
Chicago, IL 60631
(800) 638-3522 ext. 2741
valora.starr@elca.org
Scholarship Link

11. Juliette M. Atherton Scholarship

Deadline: February 22nd

The Juliette M. Atherton Scholarship is administered by the Hawaii Community Foundation. It presents $3,000 to $5,000 annually to students attending non-profit, accredited theological schools in the United States. They must major in religious studies leading to Protestant Christian careers. Eligible awardees mus:

• t be Hawaii residents
• enroll full-time
• achieve a minimum overall GPA of 2.7
• be active Protestant congregation members
• have unmet financial need

Some funding is reserved for sons and daughters of ordained Protestant ministers.

Contact

Juliette M. Atherton Scholarship
827 Fort Street Mal
Honolulu, HI 96813
(808) 566-5524
foundations@hcf-hawaii.org
Scholarship Link

12. Justin Haruyama Scholarship Program

Deadline: May 31st

Since 1981, the Japanese American United Church in New York City has hosted the Justin Haruyama Scholarship Program annually. It supports students of Japanese heritage who pursue religious studies for a Master of Divinity. Studies must be at accredited Protestant seminaries in the U.S. Eligible applicants must:

• be studying full-time
• hold a minimum 3.0 GPA
• intend to become ordained pastors or missionaries
• be committed to serving Japanese-American congregations
• write a 500-word essay about their spiritual journey.

Contact

Justin Haruyama Scholarship Program
255 7th Avenue
New York, NY 10001
(212) 242-9444
ministryjauc@gmail.com
Scholarship Link

13. Katherine J. Schutze Memorial Scholarship

Deadline: March 15th

The Katherine J. Schutze Memorial ScholarshipIn honors the passionate, ordained missionary who taught Hispanic children in Texas. It’s a $2,000 award by Disciples Home Missions yearly. Eligible women must:

• be enrolled full-time at ATS-accredited seminaries
• pursue a Master of Divinity or relevant religious studies
• be active Disciples of Christ members
• reside in the United States or Canada
• have unmet financial need
• prepare for ordained ministry in the Christian Church.

Contact

Katherine J. Schutze Memorial Scholarship
P.O. Box 1986
Indianapolis, IN 46206
(317) 713-2652
wlynn@dhm.disciples.org
Scholarship Link

14. Mary E. Bivins Religious Studies Scholarships

Deadline: January 29th

The Mary E. Bivins Religious Studies Scholarships are $2,500 for undergraduate juniors or seniors. They’re $3,500 for graduate students. Students must be seeking an accredited degree that leads to ministerial professions preaching the Christian religion. Interested applicants must:

• reside in the Texas Panhandle’s 26 counties for 12 months
• have U.S. citizenship
• take at least 12 credits per semester
• maintain a cumulative GPA above 2.75
• participate in an in-person interview.

Contact

Mary E. Bivins Religious Studies Scholarships
2311 West 16th Avenue
Amarillo, TX 79102
(806) 379-9400
susan@bivinsfoundation.org
Scholarship Link

15. Nathan J. and Virginia H. Friedman Scholarship

Deadline: November 1st

The Nathan J. and Virginia H. Friedman Scholarship is funded by the Jewish Community Federation. It’s for $1,500 to $5,000 annually. Eligible are Jewish undergraduates undertaking religious studies, especially Judaic studies, at accredited, non-profit U.S. universities. Applicants must permanently reside in California counties of:

• San Francisco
• Marin
• Sonoma
• Alameda

They may study anywhere. Selection is based on:

• academic merit
• financial need
• Jewish community involvement
• leadership ability.

Contact

Nathan J. and Virginia H. Friedman Scholarship
121 Steuart Street
San Francisco, CA 94105
(415) 777-0411
info@sfjcf.org
Scholarship Link

16. Native American Seminary Scholarship

Deadline: March 1st

The Native American Seminary Scholarship is granted by the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry. The scholarship is up to $10,000 per year. It’s for tribal members of Native American or Alaska Native heritage who are completing religious studies at an approved U.S. seminary. Eligible candidates must:

• be United Methodist Church members for 3+ years
• maintain a minimum 2.5 GPA
• plan a career in ordained ministry

Other funding includes the Richard S. Smith and Rosalie Bentzinger Scholarships.

Contact

Native American Seminary Scholarship
1001 19th Avenue South
Nashville, TN 37212
(615) 340-7342
umscholar@gbhem.org
Scholarship Link

17. Roy H. Pollack Scholarship Program

Deadline: April 15th

The Roy H. Pollack Scholarship Program is administered by the United Universalist Association. It awards $1,500 to second- or third-year graduate students. They must be earning a Master of Divinity degree to become Unitarian Universalist ministers. Promising candidates must:

• enroll at least half-time
• attend an ATS-accredited seminary
• possess strong academic records
• be U.S. or Canadian citizens
• exhibit outstanding ministerial ability

Preference is given to racial minority students of color.

Contact

Roy H. Pollack Scholarship Program
24 Farnsworth Street
Boston, MA 02210
(617) 742-2100
mcoadministrator@uua.org
Scholarship Link

18. Russell Berrie Fellowships in Interreligious Studies

Deadline: March 11th

Through the Institute for International Education (IIE), the Russell Berrie Fellowships in Interreligious Studies cover full-tuition and provide modest living stipends. These go to 10 excellent fellows studying abroad at the Pontifical University of St. Thomas Aquinas in Rome, Italy. Those who may apply are graduate students from:

• Bangladesh
• Canada
• Hungary
• Indonesia
• Nigeria
• Philippines
• Ukraine
• United States
• Zimbabwe

Having at least a Bachelor of Arts and sufficient knowledge of Italian is mandatory.

Contact

Russell Berrie Fellowships in Interreligious Studies
25 East Washington Street
Chicago, IL 60602
(312) 346-0026
berrie@iie.eu
Scholarship Link

19. Stewards Ministries Graduate Scholarships

Deadline: Varies

Stewards Ministries offers $2,000 Graduate Scholarships for students enrolled full-time in master’s or doctoral religious studies. They must be at ATS-accredited theological schools in the United States or Canada. They must plan to become ministers of Christian Brethren assemblies. They are nominated by an Elder. Exceptional candidates must sign an agreement to devote two years full-time to assembly-related ministry upon graduation.

One annual scholarship is reserved for students attending Emmaus Bible College.

Contact

Stewards Ministries Graduate Scholarships
1101 Perimeter Drive Suite 600
Schaumburg, IL 60173
(847) 842-0227
info@stewardsministries.com
Scholarship Link

20. William R. Johnson Scholarship Fund

Deadline: March 1st

The William R. Johnson Scholarship Fund is supported by the United Church of Christ. It distributes $2,500 scholarships to lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender students. They must be completing religious studies at ATS-accredited seminaries for ordained ministry. Recipients must:

• be open about their sexual orientation
• have belonged to UCC congregations for 12+ months
• maintain a minimum B average
• demonstrate church leadership
• have completed their first seminary year
• be members in discernment.

Contact

William R. Johnson Scholarship Fund
700 Prospect Avenue
Cleveland, OH 44115
(216) 736-2166
scholarships@ucc.org
Scholarship Link

Money likely isn’t a motivator for following your vocational calling into faith-based professions, but it’s important to consider. College tuition can be extremely difficult to afford on modest ministry salaries. According to the BLS, religious organizations pay clergy an average yearly income of $46,420. Minimizing your student loan debt post-graduation with free scholarships is essential to keep your Church-related endeavors afloat.

See also: 20 Best College Deals for Conservative Christians

• 50 Best Deals on Competitive Small Colleges
• Top 50 Great Deals on Bachelor’s Degrees Online
• Top 20 Deals on Small Colleges in Texas
• Top 50 Best Colleges in Texas
• 20 Best Deals on Colleges that Don’t Require SAT
• 20 Best Deals: Small Colleges for Athletic Types
• 20 Highest Paying Bachelor Degrees

What are Top 10 Highest Paying Cities for Biblical Studies Jobs

We’ve identified 10 cities where the typical salary for a Biblical Studies job is above the national average. Topping the list is Richmond, CA, with Stamford, CT and Bellevue, WA close behind in the second and third positions. Bellevue, WA beats the national average by $9,795 (18.9%), and Richmond, CA furthers that trend with another $11,602 (22.4%) above the $51,894 average.

Importantly, Richmond, CA has a moderately active Biblical Studies job market with only a few companies currently hiring for this type of role.

With these 10 cities having average salaries higher than the national average, the opportunities for economic advancement by changing locations as a Biblical Studies appears to be exceedingly fruitful.

Finally, another factor to consider is the average salary for these top ten cities varies very little at 9% between Richmond, CA and Glendale, CA, reinforcing the limited potential for much wage advancement. The possibility of a lower cost of living may be the best factor to use when considering location and salary for a Biblical Studies role.

City	Annual Salary	Monthly Pay	Weekly Pay	Hourly Wage
Richmond, CA	$63,496	$5,291	$1,221	$30.53
Stamford, CT	$61,829	$5,152	$1,189	$29.73
Bellevue, WA	$61,690	$5,141	$1,186	$29.66
Lakes, AK	$59,526	$4,961	$1,145	$28.62
San Francisco, CA	$59,512	$4,959	$1,144	$28.61
Palmdale, CA	$58,871	$4,906	$1,132	$28.30
Santa Clara, CA	$58,648	$4,887	$1,128	$28.20
Hartford, CT	$58,533	$4,878	$1,126	$28.14
Pasadena, CA	$58,319	$4,860	$1,122	$28.04
Glendale, CA	$57,977	$4,831	$1,115	$27.87

What are Top 5 Best Paying Related Biblical Studies Jobs in the U.S.

Analyzing some similar jobs related to the Biblical Studies job category, we found that Bible Study jobs have average salaries greater than Biblical Studies jobs.

Significantly, Bible Study jobs pay 21.5% ($11,150) more than the average Biblical Studies salary of $51,894. If you’re qualified, finding work as a Bible Study may help you make more money than that of the average Biblical Studies position.

Job Title	Annual Salary	Monthly Pay	Weekly Pay	Hourly Wage
Bible Study	$63,044	$5,254	$1,212	$30.31
Bible Study Teacher	$50,855	$4,238	$978	$24.45
Senior Bible Teacher	$49,450	$4,121	$951	$23.77
Independent Bible Church	$48,565	$4,047	$934	$23.35
Trend Bible	$48,434	$4,036	$931	$23.29

Bachelor’s Degree in Biblical Studies

The Bachelor of Arts in Biblical Studies degree program will equip you to interpret the Bible for yourself and others. Your ability to understand and apply the Bible will be enhanced through historical and contextual exploration of scripture. This degree is available in a traditional classroom setting, as well as online. The online biblical studies degree option gives you the flexibility of completing assignments on your schedule.

Program Focus

Creation, sin, reconciliation, and hope within a historical and contextual exploration of Scripture

The goal for graduates of the Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Biblical Studies degree program is not to master the Bible, but rather to be mastered by the Bible and to be servants of God to those with whom you come in contact. This degree not only allows you to understand and study the Bible, it also provides a foundation for seminary, various ministry positions, missions, social service, and/or for personal spiritual development.

• 120 total credit hours (39 in major core)
• Courses are taken one at a time and are typically completed in five-week blocks
• CCU’s generous transfer credit policies help you accelerate your degree completion
• Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission

Three graduate-level courses have been designated as appropriate substitutes for certain bachelor’s in Biblical Studies coursework. Having successfully taken these designated courses in the bachelor’s program, and upon acceptance into the master’s program, students can apply those credits toward the M.A. in Biblical Studies or M.A. in Theological Studies. This provides a head start in the master’s program for select students.

What is a Biblical Studies degree?

Your range of study will span the history of Israel in its ancient near Eastern context, the poetry and wisdom literature of the Jewish bible, and a survey of the major and minor prophets of the Old Testament. You’ll investigate the life and teachings of Jesus Christ as revealed in the gospel accounts.

Within this Biblical Studies degree, you’ll explore the development of the early Church and its theology, including the epistles of Paul and the other New Testament writers, while considering how interpreters address problem passages. You’ll learn apologetics — giving a rational defense of the Christian faith — from historical and philosophical perspectives as well as from textual examination to discover the reasons for why you believe what you believe. Your bible study and teaching skills will grow as a result of courses that will introduce you to effective tools and methods.

Biblical Studies degree program benefits

• The Biblical Studies degree program is specially designed for adult students who are busy with work and family commitments.
• Earn your Biblical Studies degree online. Online courses typically run for five weeks and weekly assignments may be completed around your schedule.
• Small class sizes encourage individualized learning and networking.
• Students have direct access to professors who are also professionals in the field.
• Take advantage of CCU’s generous transfer credit policies to accelerate your degree!

Best Online Bible Schools & Programs

Earning an online degree in bible study is a way to begin or further a career in ministry with the flexibility and autonomy available in online learning. It’s important to find a quality program; one that offers the history and connection that’s needed to be successful in Christian ministry. We’ve compiled a list of some of the best schools for Bible study and provided them here for you so you can make the best decision possible about where you earn your degree.

1

Virginia Baptist College

LocationFredericksburg, VA

Virginia Baptist College is a Christian school located in Fredericksburg, Virginia. Bible focused minors are in music, church office management and youth ministries. Adults who feel called to serve in ministry at the local church and vocational ministry levels can enroll in the Bachelor of Ministry program. Bible is one of the concentrations in the program. Church ministries, pastoral studies and church business are other concentrations. Graduate Bible studies are delivered through the Master of Ministry, the Master of Biblical Studies and the Master of Christian Education programs. These are online degree programs that take four to five years to complete

Clarks Summit University

LocationSouth Abington Township, PA

GRADUATION RATE

52%

Clarks Summit University specializes in undergraduate and graduate seminary instruction. Many of the programs are fully online. Flexible schedules make it easier for working adults to take the classes. Educational material is delivered via lectures, reading materials, research and class discussions that are pushed out via the university’s website. Course curriculums generally cover areas like the New Testament, multicultural church planting and theology. If students enroll in the Master of Divinity, they must complete a one year internship before they graduate. The Master of Theology requires the completion of a 12 week residency

Heritage Christian University

LocationFlorence, AL

Heritage Christian University is committed to preparing students to serve God in the field and in the church. Instructors at the school have been educating adults for more than 40 years. The Bachelor of Arts in Biblical Studies is a 128 hour degree program where courses like psychology, the New Testament, the Torah, elementary Greek and ministry in the local church are taught. Students enrolled in the Master of Divinity program do so through the Ezell Institute of Biblical Research. Focus of the Master of Arts and the Master of Science programs are Christian scriptures, languages, theology and biblical texts. It takes approximately 36 hours to graduate with a master’s degree.

Piedmont International University

LocationWinston-Salem, NC

GRADUATION RATE

32%

Piedmont International University is a faith based postsecondary school that awards undergraduate and graduate degrees in biblical studies. The Bachelor of Arts in Christian Ministry degree has a double minor. It also offers an accelerated bachelor’s and master’s option. Key areas of the 130 hour degree include general ministry, biblical languages, church education and counseling. At Piedmont International University, the Master of Arts in Biblical Apologetics and the Master of Ministry degrees are taught entirely online. Students can also participate in Project Jerusalem initiatives and help establish churches in urban communities.

Colorado Christian University

LocationLakewood, CO

GRADUATION RATE

40%

Lakewood, Colorado is home to Colorado Christian University. Founded in 1914, the university is based in grace and truth. More than 6,000 students attend the school. Among the school’s 50 majors and minors are the Bachelor of Arts in Biblical Studies and the Master of Arts in Biblical Studies. Classes are taught in subjects like theology, social service, missions and the Gospels. The bachelor’s degree is a 120 credit hour program, while the master’s degree is a 39 credit hour program. Residencies are completed at the school’s Lakewood campus. Both on campus and distance education options can be selected.

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