If you have been called to any high-level role in Christian leadership, and certainly if you plan to lead from the front as a church pastor, then you already know that there are number of major legs that are part of that journey. And chances are, if you’ve come to this resource, you are preparing for one of the most significant steps in that process: earning your Master of Divinity (MDiv) from a college recognized by your denomination.
An MDiv isn’t the only graduate degree that church pastors and other Christian leaders hold, but in many ways it is the most complete scriptural and pastoral training you can receive. This fact places the MDiv among the most widely recognized and respected ways to prepare for a career in ministry. As a comprehensive course of graduate study lasting as many as four years, it’s also among the most expensive Christian graduate degrees.
All MDiv programs are offered through private Christian Universities. This provides the assurance that you will receive a first-rate Christ-centered education. That kind of preparation comes with a significant cost. According to 2020 data from the National Center for Education Statistics, the average cost of tuition and fees at a private university in the United States rings in at $26,500 per year.
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With most MDiv programs lasting between three and four years of full-time study, you are easily looking at six-figures to earn that important qualification.
You already know that God will provide everything you need to fulfill your calling. But that doesn’t change the fact that the responsibility falls to you to make prudent and wise decisions as you follow that path.
With our comprehensive, state-by-state analysis of the most affordable Master of Divinity degrees, we give you the tools to make well-informed decisions about how you spend your tuition dollars.
How We Identified the Most Affordable Christian Universities Offering MDiv Programs
We have a simple formula for finding the MDiv programs with the best comparative tuition rates in each state.
First, we start with only fully accredited universities.
We understand the integrity it takes to follow the path to a life in ministry. Looking for the most reasonable tuition rates available must start with a baseline assumption that we are evaluating only high-value MDiv programs that are uncompromising about quality and rigor. Rest assured, those are the only types of programs we even consider in our tuition evaluation.
We only look at Christian universities that have met the rigorous standards it takes to receive a stamp of approval from an institutional accrediting agency sanctioned by CHEA (the Council for Higher Education Accreditation) and the US Department of Education. This type of institutional accreditation is a requirement for any university to be eligible to receive Title IV federal subsidized loans and grants.
Then, we collect detailed tuition data for every MDiv program in the United States offered at an accredited university.
Those tuition details include the per-credit rate and total credits required for the MDiv, which allows us to present a clear picture of the total program cost at each school. Although we include everything from tuition to technology fees to give the real cost of the education you’ll receive, we exclude cost of living expenses, room and board, as well as books and other necessary and discretionary supplies.
Because some schools run on a quarter-system, rather than the more common semester-system, we use a standard conversion (1.5 quarter credits = 1 semester credit) for all quarter-system schools to provide an apple-to-apple cost comparison in each state.
Next, we simply find the average total cost for all accredited MDiv programs in each state.
In the end, it’s the Christian universities offering MDiv programs with total costs below the state average that earn the distinction of being called the “most affordable.” From coast to coast, each one of those MDiv programs is featured right here on this list, conveniently organized by state.
Oh, and you might find a few that sneak in just over the line—if a school’s total tuition costs are closer to the typical cost of the more affordable options but just over the state average, we make an exception to ensure we’re providing you the full breadth of affordable MDiv options in your state.
In all cases, you will find that you can get a high-quality MDiv for considerably less than you might have thought.
Saving You Money Without Compromising the Quality and Rigor of Your MDiv Program
Of course, both your calling and your church may have a lot to say about the Christian university you should attend. No two MDiv programs are exactly alike. They have different concentrations, are taught in different ways, and come in different formats, from online, to hybrid, to traditional.
So, although we are giving you only the most affordable options in the marketplace, we’re also laying out a lot more information for you to help narrow down your choices. For each listing, in addition to the per-credit and total estimated program cost, you’ll find other key points that will be very important in helping you make your final decision:
- Total savings over the average cost of an MDiv in your state
- MDiv concentration options
- Whether the program is available on-campus, online, or in a mixed hybrid format
- Other advanced degrees offered by the same university
And we also looked closer at every single program to tease out some of the important factors you might want to weigh in making one of the most important decisions of your life – the key points that may differ from school to school. Every school is unique, and every program has something special to offer that you might not find anywhere else. So we dove in to look for things like:
- Accolades and recommendations from former students or ranking organizations like U.S. News & World Report
- Dual-degree options that can double up your expertise in the same amount of time
- Unique online support features
- Contemplative and community-oriented campuses
- Resources and support for research and scholarship
- Global and local experiential study opportunities
You’ll find every point that stood out to us about the school when we performed our evaluation - things that make each one a place you might want to consider as another step to fulfilling your unique calling.
Most Affordable MDiv Degrees by State
Most Affordable Master’s of Divinity Programs
ALABAMA - State average: $38,048
Heritage Christian University
Ezell Institute of Biblical Research
Florence, AL
Master of Divinity (on-campus, online)
Total Estimated Cost: $18,675
Cost Per Credit: $249
Total cost is $19,373 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: Master of Ministry, MA in Christian Scripture
- Unique courses such as studies of the writings of CS Lewis help this program provide essential historical context for ministers
- Small class sizes with a 6:1 student-teach ratio allows you to receive more mentoring from experienced, dedicated instructors
- The lowest cost program for divinity studies in Alabama hands-down lets you launch your career without debt
- Generous school scholarships can further ease your concerns about paying for a degree
The holistic program offered at HCU specifically focuses on the needs of a Christian community, building leadership skills out of the shared religious heritage stretching back to the Old and New Testament. You’ll study those writings in the original Hebrew and Greek for the complete experience. You’ll also get a better picture of the church through history as you explore world religions and specific cultural contexts such as the limits of resource dynamics in Ancient Israel. A six-hour practicum rounds off your studies to allow you to hone leadership skills in front of a real congregation.
Amridge University
Turner School of Theology
Montgomery, AL
Master of Divinity (online)
- Ministerial Leadership
Total Estimated Cost: $37,440
Cost Per Credit: $480
Total cost is $608 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: MA in Christian Education, MA in New Testament Studies, MA in Old Testament Studies, MS in Christian Ministry, MS in Ministerial Leadership
- More than half of all credits for the program are offered through electives, offering an excellent opportunity to customize your education
- A biblically-oriented program sets your training on top of a solid foundation of Scriptural understanding
- Distance learning offers the flexibility that working adults need to get through an intensive MDiv program
- With experience in online education going back to 1993, Amridge programs are built on extensive expertise in remote teaching
A lifetime of learning and leadership are offered at Amridge through a focus on church, family, and society. As an independent co-educational school dedicated to Christian ideal and heritage, Amridge has been in a unique position to break new ground in divinity studies since it was founded in 1967. The school was one of the first 15 participants in the U.S. Department of Education’s pioneering distance education project, a forerunner in schools that resulted in changes to federal law to open up remote training. You can be sure you’re getting the total experience here with no shortcuts, and no massive loans to pay off!
ARIZONA - State average: $48,665
International Baptist College and Seminary
Chandler, AZ
Master of Divinity (on-campus)
Total Estimated Cost: $41,280
Cost Per Credit: $430
Total cost is $7,385 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: Master of Christian Education, MA in Ministry
- Placements at local churches such as Tri-City Baptist Church provide a wide variety of opportunities for hands-on ministry experience
- Strong language training New Testament Greek anchors this program in original Biblical texts
- Facilities on campus include a media center, student center, and family life center with gymnasium, kitchen, and fellowship hall
IBC was founded to fill a gap in seminary education in the growing Southwest region. Charged with training young men and women for gospel ministries in evangelism, church planting, missions, and education, the school has been offering graduate degrees since 1986. The strong relationship with Tri-City Baptist Church opens up many regular opportunities for students to experience path such as music pastorship and Christian education. With residential options for students, this program offers a holistic approach to divinity training that includes your personal growth with pastoral training.
Phoenix Seminary
Scottsdale, AZ
Master of Divinity (hybrid)
- Biblical and Theological Studies
- Leadership and Administration
- Christian Studies
Total Estimated Cost: $48,300
Cost Per Credit: $525
Total cost is $365 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: MA in Ministry (Christian Studies, Ministry Skills, Leadership and Administration, Intercultural Studies), MA in Biblical and Theological Studies
- Three areas of emphasis allow you to customize your training toward the area of ministry to which you feel most called
- The Seminary’s Text and Canon Institute offers in-depth research and resources into Bible translation and interpretation
- As a nationally-recognized seminary, Phoenix integrates biblical scholarship with practical experience in local churches for a life-long skillset in learning and adaptation
- The hybrid learning experience is enhanced by the school’s adaptation of new technologies such as blogs and podcasts to keep all students looped into the latest thinking and studies
Practical and effective training at Phoenix Seminary’s MDiv program comes along with something else that you don’t often find when training for the ministry: adventure! The joy and inspiration of the ministry come front and center through your journey here, in fellowship with a community of students and leaders destined to change the world. Phoenix Seminary hands you all the tools you need to be effective in this role, from detailed biblical studies in the original Greek and Hebrew to learning how to communicate Christ’s truth in a pluralistic world.
CALIFORNIA - State average: $49,264
America Evangelical University
Gardena, CA
Master of Divinity (on-campus)
- Pastoral Ministry
- Christian Counseling
Total Estimated Cost: $21,600
Cost Per Credit: $300
Total cost is $27,664 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: MA in Counseling
- Program is offered in Korean
- A required internship puts you through field experience to meet specific goals and develop real-world skills
- Mentorship offers a strong guiding hand throughout the program
- Internship clusters keep you in contact with fellow students through your field work
AEU trains lay leaders, missionaries, and pastors through strong donation to biblical principles but using the latest educational methods. By cultivating partnerships with organizations in different sectors, the university offers unique and in-depth internship experiences. A strong emphasis on accommodating the local cultural environment makes this school a natural choice for those performing mission work overseas.
SUM Bible College and Theological Seminary
El Dorado Hills, CA
Master of Divinity (on-campus, online)
Total Estimated Cost: $21,660
Cost Per Credit: $285
Total cost is $27,604 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: MA in Biblical Studies, MA in Christian Leadership
- At least 85 percent of graduates go on to work in the ministry after graduation
- The school raises up Pentecostal ministry leaders using the Jesus Model of Leadership
- Dynamic chapel services and a strong, unified dorm community make on-campus attendance a spiritual experience
- Expect personal mentorship not just from faculty, but also via administration and alumni
SUM originally stood for the School of Urban Missions. Although the college has a broader mission and more programs now, it remains a center for training for pastors interested in evangelizing in cities throughout the world. A significant emphasis on online learning means that you’ll be joined in your studies by students from around the world. The school intentionally doubles down on this by focusing on creating leaders for the global Christian movement. A requirement for MDiv applicants to already be active in ministry ensures you are joined on your path by fellow students who are serious and experienced.
World Mission University
Los Angeles, CA
Master of Divinity (hybrid)
- Biblical Preaching
- Christian Counseling
- Church Ministry
- Church Music
Total Estimated Cost: $24,640
Cost Per Credit: $280
Total cost is $24,624 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: MA in Theology; MA in Worship Studies
- A flexible program that offers a variety of concentrations in various pastoral arts
- The hybrid approach allows most coursework to be completed online, but includes at least one on-campus course
- On-campus required coursework can be completed through intensive modular courses
- Committed evangelical faculty are motivated by fidelity to the Word of God and hold advanced degrees in their fields
Founded in the firm belief that the global village is the pastor’s ranch, WMU is the place to go for experienced training in the missionary aspects of pastoral work. The international perspective brings training in innovative worship models and cultural diversity, preparing you for a soft landing in any ministry you end up in. Taking a broader vision of what a Biblical education means leads the school to develop new and innovative approaches to divinity training. Outreach to other ethnic groups is part of the process here, meaning WMU offers a multicultural experience throughout your program of study.
Bethesda University
Graduate Department
Anaheim, CA
Master of Divinity (on-campus, online)
Total Estimated Cost: $25,440
Cost Per Credit: $265
Total cost is $23,824 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: MA in Biblical Studies
- A library of over 30,000 volumes offers plenty of research material for advanced studies
- Located in multicultural Orange County, Bethesda offers an immersive opportunity to practice preaching to diverse groups and communities
- A bright, modern facility makes on-campus studies easy
Striving to become a global center for Christian academic training is all the motivation that is needed at Bethesda to create an effective program for training future Christian leaders. Taking the Pentecostal Evangelical perspective, the MDiv program trains you in both theological and social constructs to develop the knowledge and professional skills you will need to bring the Word of God to the faithful. A devotion to developing the spiritual life of students also fires the passion and drive that you need to do His work each day.
Presbyterian Theological Seminary
Santa Fe Springs, CA
Master of Divinity (on-campus)
Total Estimated Cost: $25,480
Cost Per Credit: $260
Total cost is $23,784 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: Master of Arts in Christian Counseling Psychology
- Sponsorship from the Korean Presbyterian Church Abroad helps PTS maintain a solid financial foundation for education
- Program is offered in Korean as well as English
- New facility established in 2009 provides well-equipped classrooms and a substantial library for a high-quality theological education
You’ll graduate from PTS with a deeper knowledge of yourself and your own relationship with God on top of the strong Christian worldview and comprehensive Biblical knowledge their MDiv program prepares you with. The cultural context of Christianity is placed with insights from the humanities, natural and social sciences, and the arts to give you a better footing in evangelism and theological reasoning.
Shasta Bible College and Graduate School
Redding, CA
Master of Divinity (on-campus)
- Pastoral and General Ministry
- Military Chaplaincy
Total Estimated Cost: $27,000
Cost Per Credit: $375
Total cost is $22,264 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: MA in Christian Ministries; MA in Biblical Counseling
- Faculty members and administrators at Shasta are both academically qualified and have direct experience in the ministry
- Overseas study opportunities have include a tour tracing the path of the apostle Paul through the Holy Lands
- Annual Alpha and Omega conference offers a variety of speakers and opportunities to contemplate both the miracle of creation and the prophecies of the end-times
The main priority at Shasta is creating an atmosphere that is conducive to spiritual growth, in the knowledge that academic excellence is sure to follow inspiration. With passionate, highly-experienced and academically accomplished professors and mentors, the MDiv program here gives you every chance at success in the ministry. An active residential campus is family-oriented and offers plenty of outreach opportunities for students, as well as the promise of making new friends.
Epic Bible College and Graduate School
Sacramento, CA
Master of Divinity (on-campus, online)
Total Estimated Cost: $33,912
Cost Per Credit: $471
Total cost is $15,352 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: M.A. in Christian Ministry; M.A. in Biblical Studies; M.A. in Ethical Leadership
- Epic uses the popular and effective Populi platform for online learning management, making your remote classes a breeze to attend and understand
- Almost half the program is composed of electives you choose, giving you a great opportunity to customize your education
- A two-hour course offered each week by guest lecturers on Christian Life and Ministry offers the opportunity to hear diverse opinions on hot topics like church administration, cross-cultural communication, and the theology of worship
- A commitment to diversity means new friends and new experiences always await you at Epic
Epic divides their MDiv program objectives into spiritual, professional, and academic realms, then gives you all the support you need to hit all three targets. The school works hard to cultivate a sense of family, with each student valued for their individual abilities and contributions. The school bases its curriculum on current and relevant experiences, delivered by instructors with a background in real-world ministry. You can be sure the skills you are learning here are the best practices being used out in the field of ministry today.
Fresno Pacific University
Biblical Seminary
Fresno, CA
Master of Divinity (on-campus)
Total Estimated Cost: $34,920
Cost Per Credit: $485
Total cost is $14,344 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: MA (Theology, Old Testament, New Testament, Ministry Leadership and Culture, Christian Ministry)
- FPU is a globally-recognized leader not just in theological studies, but also marriage and family therapy and urban missions
- A beautiful 50-acre campus in Fresno places you squarely in the middle of God’s most beautiful creations, include Yosemite and Sequoia national parks
- The school hosts institutes such as the Center for Community Transformation and the Center for Anabaptist Studies
- The school’s on-site counseling centers has partnerships with both faith-based and secular agencies locally for broad experience and cross-cultural contact
Empowering churches and transforming people into leaders is what the MDiv program at FPU is all about. Kingdom-minded leaders are developed through accessible and affordable educational programs here, including the Master of Divinity. Faculty here bring together strong, dynamic Christian faith with a commitment to warm and personal relationships with students. Year of experience in both ministry and teaching offers you the best of both worlds in your coursework here.
Simpson University
A.W. Tozer Theological Seminary
Redding, CA
Master of Divinity (online, hybrid)
Total Estimated Cost: $37,000
Cost Per Credit: $500
Total cost is $12,264 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: MA in Ministry Leadership
- Online interaction with professors and other students powers your remote studies to another level with constant support
- Course options include hybrid and polycom courses that offer one-week intensives at off-campus learning centers to better connect you with your classes
- A range of denominations educated at Simpson expose you to diversity in both thought and culture
Calling, character, and competence are the three things that are most developed at the A.W. Tozer Theological Seminary at Simpson. Rigorous and respected Biblical training is delivered by faculty who are both accomplished scholars and experienced ministers. Simpson’s Bible studies go back as far as 1921, with a strong track record of developing missionaries for overseas evangelizing. Long known as the Gateway to World Service, Simpson today trains ministers for a wide range of different pastoral duties just as comprehensively and effectively.
Hope International University
Pacifica Christian College of Ministry and Biblical Studies
Fullerton, CA
Master of Divinity (hybrid, online)
- Christian Ministry and Leadership
- Church Planting
- Intercultural Studies
- Pastoral Care
- Spiritual Formation
- Worship Ministry
Total Estimated Cost: $37,800
Cost Per Credit: $525
Total cost is $11,464 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: MA (Ministry, Ministry and Business); Master of Church Music
- With six available concentrations to focus your studies, HIU can be the right choice for almost any calling to the ministry
- Real-world vocational settings include churches, parachurch organizations, social services, hospitals, and hospices for a wide range of experiential learning opportunities
- An accelerated track can get you through the entire program in only 30 months
- Academic coaches are available to ensure you get the support you need to pass every class
- Fifteen different student organizations make it easy to share interests and find friends along the way
You can expect to be transformed through your education at HIU, as previous graduates have reported. The tools and techniques of ministry are all offered through the MDiv program, of course, but the heart and secret of your schooling here will be in the personal growth of your self-confidence and your relationship with God. The expansive Fullerton campus is located right in the heart of Orange County, a diverse, urbanized area with plenty to see and do.
Azusa Pacific University
Azusa Pacific Seminary
Azusa, CA
Master of Divinity (on-campus)
- Biblical Studies
Total Estimated Cost: $42,106
Cost Per Credit: $569
Total cost is $7,158 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: MA in Korean Pastoral Studies; MA in Pastoral Studies (English, Spanish); MA in Theological Studies
- The MDiv program at Azusa is available in English, Korean, and Spanish
- On-site internships offer real-world experience in navigating the complexities of pastoral work
- Faculty are prepared with both years of ministerial experience and strong academic credentials
- A faculty-to-student ratio of 1 to 20 means you get the personalized attention you need to succeed
- School ranks highly in the U.S. News and World Reports list of America’s Best Colleges and scores high on the Forbes and Princeton Review rankings as well
- As a military-friendly Yellow Ribbon University, more than 500 military-connected students attend Azusa
Azusa is located in one of the most diverse corners of the country, and is recognized as having one of the most diverse student populations. That’s a key setup to the MDiv’s purpose in offering a global awareness of Church and ministry, teaching you to develop effective patterns of ministry through a combination of classroom instruction and practical experience. You’ll get a chance to learn as much from your peers in this setting as you will in turn offer them from your own lived experiences. Transformational mentoring relationships with faculty round out this very human, very expressive path to the ministry.
Southern California Seminary
San Diego, CA
Master of Divinity (on-campus, online)
Total Estimated Cost: $43,680
Cost Per Credit: $455
Total cost is $5,584 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: MA in Christian Ministry; MA in Science and Religion; MA in Christian Counseling; MA in Biblical Studies; Master of Theology
- With the Bible as your primary textbook, all your courses here are directed by His inerrant Word
- Graduates are working more than 20 foreign countries and more than half of all states in addition to chaplaincies in the Armed Forces
- A belief that every priest is spiritually gifted means that your individual strengths and grace will be honored and cherished through your studies here
- Learn in a diverse, multi-cultural, multi-lingual environment that offers you an appreciation for all His creations
Although SCS is proud of their diverse, far-ranging alumni and multi-cultural campus, they are first and foremost educators of pastors to local churches. The modest tuition is in service to that goal, as is the school’s partnership with Shadow Mountain Community Church, where you can hone your practical skills on top of the strong course of Biblical knowledge you get through class. The highest standards of study are maintained by devoted, highly qualified instructors. You graduate equipped to serve in senior leadership in the pastorate, missions, Christian education, or social work.
La Sierra University
HMS Richards Divinity School
Riverside, CA
Master of Divinity (on-campus)
- Youth Ministry
- Family Ministry
- Cross-Cultural and Urban Ministry
- Preaching
- Cross-Cultural Missions
- Creative Evangelism
- Relief and Development
- Community Service
- Social Justice
Total Estimated Cost: $44,496
Cost Per Credit: $618
Total cost is $4,768 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: MA in Religion; Master of Theological Studies
- Every student is assigned an advisor appropriate to their goals and program
- In addition to the listed concentrations, interdisciplinary specializations can be created through collaborations with other schools
- Students enjoy the unique advantage of health foods store on campus and operated by the university, with fresh, nutritious dining options
- On-campus centers of expertise include the Center for Conflict Resolution, Center for Philanthropy, and the Center for Near Eastern Archaeology
La Sierra offers an open community of learning and service. You’ll find a hospitable environment here for your education and personal growth, fostered by caring, engaged, compassionate instructors and staff. A collaborative approach to teaching follows through in offering additional opportunities to expand your studies to other schools at the college, delivering unique specialization options such as in Christian Philanthropy and Worship and Music. La Sierra is a big school with many resources that offers an MDiv at an extremely attractive price.
California Lutheran University
Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary
Berkeley, CA
Master of Divinity (on-campus, online)
- Climate Justice and Faith
- Evangelism and Justice
Total Estimated Cost: $44,895
Cost Per Credit: $615
Total cost is $4,369 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: MA in Spirituality and Social Change; Joint MA-MDiv
- Flexible pathways to completion offer you programs that range from three to five years in length, based on your personal availability and energy
- The only Lutheran seminary located in the western half of the United States
- The Graduate Theological Union has the largest theological faculty in one location in the entire United States, comprising 8 seminaries and 11 research centers
- Resources include the Flora Lamson Hewlett library, the most comprehensive of its kind with nearly 500,000 volumes
- A Spiritual Care Team offers pastoral counseling and spiritual direction to all students
An intellectual engagement with Scripture, various traditions of faith, and the wider world of culture and society opens up for you at PLTS through engagement with a wide array of theological voices. You’ll get a solid grounding in Biblical studies and Christian doctrine, but also learn how to peer through the socio-ecological lens at modern cultural challenges in race, class, gender, and even ecology to find new ways to apply those immaculate teachings in today’s world. Located in the heart of the Bay Area, you’ll find diversity on and off campus to support your understanding of faith and society.
The Master's University and Seminary
Los Angeles, CA
Master of Divinity (on-campus)
Total Estimated Cost: $45,570
Cost Per Credit: $465
Total cost is $3,694 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: MA in Biblical Counseling; MA in Biblical Studies; Master of Theology
- Faculty members are fully-equipped pastor-theologians with both practical and academic expertise
- Learn to master the original languages of the Bible and interpret any part of the text for improve comprehension of His Word
- Offers hands-on local church experience to ground your studies in real-world training
- A partnership with Master’s Academy International offers opportunities to enter missionary work after graduation
- Nearly 80 percent of graduates go on to serve as pastors, with others becoming missionaries, professors, or chaplains
The Master’s University and Seminary is aptly named on several fronts. First, faculty are acknowledged leaders in spiritual and academic fields alike, offering great experience and expertise to draw on in your training. Next, the school offers no shortcuts in their studies, requiring as much as twice the credit hours of other programs and requiring mastery of Biblical languages so you have no doubt that your understanding of Scripture is correct. You will fully master the disciplines of holiness, prayer, leadership, and compassion, which will come together to make you the minister you are meant to be.
COLORADO - State average: $55,020
Denver Seminary
Littleton, CO
Master of Divinity (on-campus, online, hybrid)
- Apologetics and Ethics
- Biblical Preaching
- Biblical Studies
- Chaplaincy
- Christian Formation and Spiritual Direction Leadership
- New Testament
- Old Testament
- Pastoral Care and Counseling
- Theology
Total Estimated Cost: $50,955
Cost Per Credit: $645
Total cost is $4,065 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: MA (Apologetics and Ethics, Biblical and Theological Studies, Christian Formation, Christian Studies, Counseling Ministries, Cultural Engagement, Leadership, New Testament, Old Testament, Theology); Master of Theology (New Testament, Old Testament, Theology)
- World-class faculty offer rigorous academic preparation combined with intentional mentorship to get you through the hard parts of the program
- A self-directed Training and Mentoring program delivers a focused experience for development of both character and professional skills
- With ten different concentrations available, opportunities to focus your studies in any area of ministry are open
- The Denver Counseling Center and the Gospel Initiative offer additional study resources and practical training opportunities
- The on-campus Bridge Gallery offers a perspective in ministry work through art
- More than 6,0000 alumni working globally offer a ready-made network for graduates to get their bearings in all types of ministry work
A broad but deep foundation in Biblical and theological studies awaits you at the Denver Seminary, whether you choose to attend at either physical location (a campus is also operated in Washington D.C.) or in hybrid or online formats alone. More than 70 years of preparing graduates for intensive work in the ministry gives Denver Seminary an unsurpassed standing in a community that embraces more than 50 denominations. The flexibility of fully online, on-campus, or hybrid training shows that this school has also kept up with the times, though, with a global campus that relies on the same faculty and a cohort model that keeps you connected to fellow students throughout your studies.
CONNECTICUT - State average: $53,208
Holy Apostles College and Seminary
Cromwell, CT
Master of Divinity (online)
- New Evangelization
Total Estimated Cost: $27,000
Cost Per Credit: $375
Total cost is $26,208 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: MA in Pastoral Studies (Apologetics, Catechetical Ministry, General Studies, Marriage and Family Studies, Pastoral Counseling, Spiritual Direction, Youth & Young Adult Ministry); MA in Theology (Bioethics – with NCBC Certification, Bioethics – non-NCBC, Church History, Dogmatic Theology, General Studies, Moral Theology, Sacred Scripture, Thomistic Studies)
- A Cardinal Newman Society Recommended college
- A 10-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio offers plenty of direct attention from skilled and accomplished professors
- Low costs driven by the school’s commitment to a debt-free education for students
- The seminary and faculty are both faithful to the Magisterium, offering daily mass, the Sacrament of Confession, and Adoration
- Student body has a strong sense of community, with group activities centered around the January March for Life and the student-run Life League
Although Holy Apostles is a small seminary, as seen in the attractively low student/faculty ratio, it has a big reach. Students here are drawn from all 50 states and 5 different continents, bringing a multicultural perspective to Christianity as part of the package. Yet the school is unique in that, as both college and seminary, you may find both fellow divinity students and lay students attending the same classes. A top-quality, affordable education grounded in Catholicism and academic excellence is available to all.
DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA - State average: $80,474
Wesley Theological Seminary
Washington, DC
Master of Divinity (on-campus)
- Children and Youth Ministry & Advocacy
- African American Church Studies
- Arts
- Missional Church
- Urban Ministry
- Public Theology
Total Estimated Cost: $55,242
Cost Per Credit: $682
Total cost is $25,232 below the state average for similar programs!!
Also offers: Master of Theological Studies; MA (Faith and politics, Faith and health Pastoral care ministry, Multicultural ministry)
- A practical field education placement ensures that every Wesley MDiv graduate has hands-on experience and cultural immersion training
- The school’s Community Life Office eases your integration into busy Washington D.C. and the Wesley spiritual community
- The campus hosts the Lewis Center for Church Leadership and the Henry Luce III Center for the Arts and Religion, offering resources and expertise to students
Collaborative agreements with local churches, hospitals, and other agencies put an exclamation point behind this seminary’s commitment to practical field learning. You’ll be trained in your calling not just by accomplished faculty members, but also by church officials, pastors, and even the laity. The complementary nature of academic and practical training is part of the school’s commitment to prepare every graduate for service. The seminary also offers continuing education, certificate programs, and other community educational programs, bringing the liberating Gospel to a wide range of people.
FLORIDA - State average: $39,813
South Florida Bible College and Seminary
Deerfield, FL
Master of Divinity (on-campus, online)
Total Estimated Cost: $22,125
Cost Per Credit: $295
Total cost is $17,688 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: MA in Biblical Studies; MA in Christian Counseling; MA in Pastoral Counseling; Master of Theology (Christian Apologetics, New Testament Studies)
- Ranked in the top 10 Most Affordable and Best Online Degrees by several different organizations including BestColleges and Study.com
- Receive credit for life experiences as well as enjoying generous transfer policies
- Small class sizes ensure that you get individual attention from instructors
- The Steven R. Sylvester Memorial Library on campus offers more than 17,000 books as well as computer resources for your research and homework
- An online Christian Classics Ethereal Library opens up study resources to remote students
Flexibility and affordability are the dual hallmarks of the MDiv program at SFBC. A senior pastor discount can make it even more affordable for those who are eligible! Many specialized areas of study ensure that your specific requirements are met for whatever ministry you feel called to. In-depth research ensures that you get to the bottom of thorny theological questions, and options to study in the original Greek or Hebrew allow you to take your explorations further.
Southeastern University
School of Divinity
Lakeland, FL
Master of Divinity (on-campus, online)
Total Estimated Cost: $35,640
Cost Per Credit: $495
Total cost is $4,173 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: MA in Ministerial Leadership (Executive); MA in Biblical Studies; MA in Theological Studies; MA in Family Ministry; MA in Ministerial Leadership
- Names one of the fastest-growing liberal arts universities in the country by The Chronicle of Higher Education
- The new Live/Learn Buena Vida facility includes classrooms, student residences, and common areas to keep everything accessible for your educational needs
- Strong academic supports through the Center for Student Success and active academic advising counselors keep you on track for graduation
- Online students still qualify for full campus amenities including access to tutoring and career placement assistance
- School of Honors offers tuition support and study abroad opportunities for qualified students
Southeastern understands that location matters, and beautiful Lakeland offers a vibrant community in which to study. Close to some of the country’s best beaches and Disney World and Busch Gardens, you won’t have trouble finding ways to stay occupied after class. But you might not ever feel the need to leave this new, modern, and still-growing campus, with a brand new Welcome Center, expanded Student Activities Center, a coffeehouse, and even an on-campus Chick-fil-A. But none of the amenities here distract from a quality program that covers Old and New Testaments in the original Greek and Hebrew and offers inspirational courses in ecclesiology and preaching.
GEORGIA - State average: $48,401
Luther Rice College and Seminary
Lithonia, GA
Master of Divinity (on-campus, online)
- Biblical Languages
Total Estimated Cost: $21,420
Cost Per Credit: $238
Total cost is $26,981 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: Master of Arts in Apologetics; Master of Arts in Biblical Counseling; Master of Arts in Christian Studies; Master of Arts in Leadership; Master of Arts in Ministry
- Choose open electives or a biblical languages concentration to focus your studies where you feel they are most needed
- School offers the option of transferring in up to 45 credit hours
- Almost 90 percent of graduates are involved in ministry work after graduation
- A complete 100 percent of the 2021 graduating class were placed in jobs after graduation
- A campus library with 60,000 volumes is joined by a digital electronic library with more than half a million volumes for extensive research support for both on campus and online students.
As a center for Christian academic excellence for over 50 years, Luther Rice College and Seminary is a beacon in the metro Atlanta area for ministerial training. Many students are non-traditional, which gives the school great expertise in offering flexible online coursework to help you complete your studies while working or maintaining other obligations. Dedicated faculty here bring real-world experience to their lessons, adhering to the inspired, inerrant, and authoritative Word of God at every turn. All the tools you need to graduate and become a success in ministry are offered while you attend or when you join more than 8,000 alumni out in the working ministry.
Truett McConnell University
Balthasar Hubmaier School of Missions & Theology
Cleveland, GA
Master of Divinity (on-campus, online)
Total Estimated Cost: $31,488
Cost Per Credit: $384
Total cost is $16,913 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: MA in Theology
- Course of study focuses on theological approaches including centrality of Scripture and missiology
- Truett McConnell has been building leaders through Biblically-centered education for more than 70 years
- A strong community and vibrant campus life supports you throughout your studies and helps you fulfill your calling
- Community groups are organized in both residence halls on the campus community at large and are primarily student-led
- The school actively helps to connect students with local churches for worship and service
You’ll be trained not just as a fully equipped minister, versed in Scripture and theology, but also as a critical thinker. You’ll get the knowledge and training you need to evaluate thorny issues of ethics and morality here, grounded in the bedrock of the Word of God. The four pillars behind this successful program of study are love of the Lord, love of His Word, love of the Church, and love of the lost. You’ll quickly feel part of the TMU community through leadership opportunities and campus organizations offering opportunities for service.
Beulah Heights University
Atlanta, GA
Master of Divinity (on-campus, online)
- Leadership
- Chaplaincy
Total Estimated Cost: $38,250
Cost Per Credit: $425
Total cost is $10,151 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: MA in Religious Studies
- Student organizations such as Club Give offer service opportunities with fellow students in the local community
- The CATS programs allows students to assist the Dean of Chapel in the running of actual services to give you a first-hand taste of liturgical duties
- The school’s Career Services team offers a great resource for finding internship opportunities and lining up jobs after graduation
As the premier Christian university in Atlanta and one of the oldest Christian universities in the Southeast, you can’t go wrong with choosing BHU for your Master of Divinity program. Two specializations allow you to tailor your training toward your individual calling, while strong core coursework in Biblical studies and ministry skills equip you for leadership and evangelical work in any ministry. The school’s goal of becoming a resource center for Christian leaders means it has accumulated the materials and the expertise to offer a top-notch program in Divinity, at an extremely affordable price.
Mercer University
McAfee School of Theology
Atlanta, GA
Master of Divinity (on-campus, online)
Total Estimated Cost: $38,610
Cost Per Credit: $495
Total cost is $9,791 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: Master of Theological Study; MA in Christian Ministry; M.Div+(MBA, MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, MS in Organizational Leadership); Master of Theological Studies-MS Clinical Mental Health Counseling; MA in Christian Ministry-MS in Organizational Leadership
- An 8-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio keeps you in close contact with instructors for intensive education with a personal touch
- Faculty-guided peer learning and reflection sessions also give you the opportunity to learn from fellow students as well as instructors
- Combined degree opportunities allow you to broaden your professional opportunities by pursuing multiple opportunities in education simultaneously
- Optional certificate programs taken alongside your MDiv studies offer additional training in areas such as Congregational Ministry, Christian Ethics, and Faith-based Social Transformation
- School is partnered with the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship
Mercer was founded in 1833 with a dual goal of providing both classical and theological education simultaneously. That sort of recognition of the combination of culture and religion services graduates from today’s Mercer MDiv program well. The school embraces traditional Baptist principles of intellectual and religious freedom, while offering rigorous training in serious theological matters and practical aspects of ministry. Faculty with enormous academic expertise and solid practical experience offer a broad range of interests to pass along, from Celtic Spirituality to Faith and Art.
HAWAII - State average: $42,840
Pacific Rim Christian University
Honolulu, HI
Master of Divinity (on-campus)
Total Estimated Cost: $42,840
Cost Per Credit: $595
Total cost is consistent with the state average for similar programs.
Also offers: MA in Christian Studies; MA in Christian Leadership
- Motivated and helpful staff helped make this college certified one of the Best Christian Workplaces of 2019
- School maintains connections with other institutes and colleges in Japan, Washington, and Myanmar
- Highly respected faculty present at conferences or teach in exchanges in Australia, Japan, Saipan, Singapore, and China
The Pacific Rim has a great need of disciples and missionaries, and PRCU is ideally placed to help train them. Located in beautiful Honolulu, the school has forged ties on both side of the Pacific to offer an unparalleled opportunity to tap into the resources of larger schools and institutes on the Mainland and conduct direct missionary work in Asia and the South Pacific. Students have made mission trips to Japan, Costa Rica, and the Philippines. The student experience is built around community and discipleship, with a characteristically friendly island attitude. You’ll still get the in-depth studies in Greek and Hebrew, but it’s easier and more fun to make an impact with the support and attitudes you will find here.
IDAHO - State average: $42,840
Northwest Nazarene University
College of Theology and Christian Ministries
Nampa, ID
Master of Divinity (online)
- Mission Leadership
- Spiritual Formation
- Youth, Children, and Family Ministry
Total Estimated Cost: $42,840
Cost Per Credit: $540
Total cost is consistent with the state average for similar programs.
Also offers: MA in Leadership and Formation (Missional Leadership, Spiritual Formation, Youth Children and Family Ministry); MA in Pastoral Ministry
- One of only eight colleges affiliated with the Church of the Nazarene, NNU handles higher education for the entire Pacific Northwest region
- Three quarters of faculty hold the highest possible degrees in their field for a solid academic grounding
- Named to U.S. News & World Report’s 2021 Best Regional Universities in the West and highly ranked by the Princeton Review
- 68 percent of students have a job offer prior to graduation
NNU graduates head off to a wide variety of ministerial positions after graduation, ranging from staff ministry to church planting. Other graduates head on to pursue doctoral studies at prestigious schools such as Drew Divinity School, Portland Seminary, and Fuller Theological Seminary to name a few. The broad range of jobs they are prepared for is a testament to the excellent MDiv education that NNU has to offer. The leading-edge theological education offered here is powered by a highly-respected, well-prepared cadre of professors with strong academic credentials piled on top of legitimate real-world experience. You can tap into that expertise and head off to your next ministerial position with confidence and grace with this MDiv behind you.
ILLINOIS - State average: $62,305
McCormick Theological Seminary
Chicago, IL
Master of Divinity (on-campus, hybrid)
Total Estimated Cost: $25,920
Cost Per Credit: $320
Total cost is $36,385 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: MA in Ministry (Spanish option); Master of Theological Studies
- More than ten on-campus student groups offer fellowship and shared focus on issues from eco-justice to pan-African heritage
- The JKM Library, a shared resource with the Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago, doubles your resources for study and research
- Various initiatives launched by the school include efforts to build solidarity and faith among incarcerated populations, to heal from trauma, and to explore science research in the seminary context
- On-campus centers include the Center for Reparatory Justice, Transformation, and Remediation and he Center for African American Ministry and Black Church Studies
McCormick has been in the business of religious education for 190 years and is still going strong. That tells you something about the tradition and quality you will find here, either online or on campus. Yet the campus remains on the leading edge of progressive Christian education, with a multicultural student body and a faculty committed to teaching social justice and the latest perspectives in Biblical hermeneutics. You’ll get diverse perspectives in your classes here, but also a strong element of classical training through Greek and Hebrew exegesis and courses in Church history. Institutional partnerships with other area schools and faith-based organizations broadens your horizons even further, and opportunities for service are endless.
Olivet Nazarene University
School of Theology and Christian Ministry
Bourbonnais, IL
Master of Divinity (on-campus, hybrid)
- Pastoral Leadership
- Missional Multiplication
- Ministerial Studies
- Urban Ministry
- Family Ministry
- Pastoral Ministry
- Theology
- Bible
- Religious Studies
Total Estimated Cost: $32,400
Cost Per Credit: $450
Total cost is $29,905 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: MA in Pastoral Leadership; MA in Missional Multiplication; MA in Ministerial Studies; MA in Urban Ministry; MA in Family Ministry; MA in Pastoral Ministry; MA in Christian Ministry; MA in Religion; Master of Ministry; Master of Ministry in Spanish
- A requirement for mentored ministry ensures that each student undergoes ministry with the guidance and direction of experienced guides
- Firmly rooted in the Wesleyan-Arminian and Holiness tradition of the Church of the Nazarene
- On-site intensives combine with online and video options to offer an extremely flexible approach to education
- Students from more than 40 states and 20 countries, representing almost 50 different denominations ensure you will find a range of views and cultures to broaden your education
- More than 90 student clubs and organizations offer fellowship and community to students
- Active campus cultural events ranging from Christian singers to the Christmas banquet combine entertainment with enlightenment
Just 50 miles outside of Chicago, Olivet is within easy range for remote students flying in to attend one-week intensive seminars as part of the hybrid program here. The beautiful campus evokes public parks, but includes 25 well-equipped buildings on 275 acres. SMART classrooms and some 400 network access locations, on top of a campus-wide wireless network, makes it easy to connect for online resources access from anywhere on campus. It’s a big educational opportunity for a surprisingly low cost.
Moody Bible Institute
Moody Theological Seminary
Chicago, IL
Master of Divinity (on-campus, online, hybrid)
- Pastoral Studies
- Ministry Leadership
- Biblical Spiritual Formation and Discipleship
- TESOL
- Interdisciplinary Studies
Total Estimated Cost: $32,712
Cost Per Credit: $376
Total cost is $29,593 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: BA-MA; MA in Ministry Leadership; MA in Biblical Spiritual Formation and Discipleship; MA in Biblical Studies
- The school offers an accelerated Bachelor to MDiv program where both degrees can be completed in only six years total
- On-campus options are available in eatery Chicago or in Plymouth, Michigan
- A modular class style gives you the flexibility of a hybrid approach, with some classes online, and others offering the full classroom experience
- Faculty have a strong track record in academic publications, offering great subject matter expertise in their areas of focus
- Two internships built into the curriculum help you develop practical skills based on your theological studies
- Study abroad options can take you to Italy, Greece, Ireland, Scotland, or elsewhere, with new options offered each year
Education at Moody begins with the Word. The Institute proudly claims that you will spend more time studying the Bible than any other book, pulling truth from the pages at every step. If you are interested in an MDiv program that makes serving Christ your lifelong pursuit, you have picked the right school. But a spiritual education does not have to be a traditional education, and Moody delivers high-tech options to make sure your grad program fits in with your obligations. With practical ministry options ranging from churches, youth outreach programs, homeless shelters, and refugee ministries, you won’t have trouble getting hands-on opportunities on top of your academic progress.
Lincoln Christian University
Lincoln, IL
Master of Divinity (on-campus, online)
- Bible
- Biblical Languages
- General
- New Testament
- Old Testament
- Theology and Philosophy
- Church History/Historical Theology
- Philosophy and Apologetics
- Theology
- Christian Ministries
- Chaplaincy
- Christian Education
- Intercultural studies (Missions)
- Leadership Studies
- Pastoral Care & Counseling
- Preaching Ministry
- Spiritual Formation
- Worship Studies
Total Estimated Cost: $36,300
Cost Per Credit: $484
Total cost is $26,005 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: MA in Biblical Studies; MA in Church History/Historical Theology; MA in Theology; MA in Bible and Theology; MA in Ministry
- Pick from one of 15 different specialization options, or use those credits with electives to blend your own concentration
- Strongly supportive environment means help is always at hand
- A diverse student body will expose you to new cultures and new perspectives, bound together in a desire for service
- LCU focuses on creating community as a path to transformation, which means you’ll feel welcome and included from day one
Lincoln Christian recognizes that every calling is different, and builds their extremely flexible, extremely affordable Master of Divinity program around that. With an enormous array of specializations, you would think that just about every ministry would be covered, but that’s really just the start—students are free to combine their elective credits in any way to create their own unique specialization track. You’ll form deep relationships with fellow students and staff, and always find a helping hand near when you need one.
North Park University
Theological Seminary
Chicago, IL
Master of Divinity (on-campus, hybrid)
Total Estimated Cost: $44,240
Cost Per Credit: $560
Total cost is $18,065 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: MA in Christian Formation; MA in Christian Ministry (Restorative Arts); MA in Christian Formation-MBA/MNA; MA in Theological Studies
- International and cross-cultural experiences include immersion trips or work with Sankofa, an international social justice organization
- Both on-campus and remote students have access to a wide range of school resources
- Your education is powered by world-class faculty and scholars, who offer close relationship and advanced scholarship in New Testament, Old Testament, Evangelism, and more studies
- Situated as an urban university, you’ll find plenty of opportunities for both scholarship and education in the city setting
North Park’s MDiv is a great course of study to prepare for ordination in Christian service to the ministry. But the college also goes broader, serving up a degree that is also solid training for roles in parachute and nonprofit organizations, allowing you to take your training to support almost any Christian calling. Located on the North Side of Chicago, North Park embodies a multi-cultural heritage that is exemplified by their 3,200 strong student body, drawn from around the world. But with international study options, you don’t have to settle for second-hand exposure. Opportunities exist around the world for practical ministry experience.
Bexley Seabury Seminary
Chicago, IL
Master of Divinity (on-campus, hybrid)
Total Estimated Cost: $54,675
Cost Per Credit: $675
Total cost is $7,630 below the state average for similar programs!
- A unique approach to field education puts you into a two-year internship at a congregation, chaplaincy, or other ministerial setting
- Flexible scheduling allows you to ramp up or down your class commitments to complete the program in as few as three or as many as five years
- Some courses offered in conjunction with the Chicago Theological Seminary for broad access to acknowledged experts in the field
- Travel seminars to locations such as London are available
Bexley Seabury is the King of contextual divinity studies. Every course you go through here will link to both other classes you have taken, as well as real-world settings that will keep your studies on a practical level. The Communities of Learning and Formation emphasis offers an unparalleled course of instruction in ministerial and pastoral leadership skills as well as equipping you for management and organizing work that is key in effective ministries of all types. You’ll develop interpretive and interpersonal skills through interfaith reading of sacred texts, broadening your cultural competency and empathy.
Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago
Chicago, IL
Master of Divinity (on-campus, online)
Total Estimated Cost: $58,725
Cost Per Credit: $725
Total cost is $3,580 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: Master of Theology; BA-MDiv; AM(MSW)-MDiv; AM(MSW)-MA; Master of Arts in Ministry-AM(MSW); MA in Ministry
- A strong faculty offers guidance and mentorship to build your academic, spiritual, civic, and professional skills and qualities
- A twelve-month internship process for ELCA ordination candidates offers in-depth field experience
- Campus centers such as the Center of Christian-Muslim Engagement for Peace and Justice and the Zygote Center for Science and Religion broaden your perspectives in cultural and religious matters
- An innovative Public Church Fellows program offers service at community non-profits with small group reflection and faith formation (includes a monthly stipend for select students)
- Broad community connections offer opportunities for service in child and youth ministries, social justice organizations, and refugee committees to name a few
A commitment to social transformation and witnessing the Gospel is at the heart of the MDiv program at LSTC. You’re doing more than just checking boxes when you pursue your degree here—you will be building key competencies for leading a practical ministry. The organizing principle behind the program is the LSTC concept of Public Church, using community-building skills to grow congregations and engagement beyond the church itself. The school is a shining beacon of community involvement, offering you the opportunity to put down roots in the Chicago area and make connections for your future.
Trinity International University
Trinity Evangelical Divinity School
Deerfield, IL
Master of Divinity (on-campus, online)
Total Estimated Cost: $62,640
Cost Per Credit: $720
Also offers: MA in Chaplaincy and Ministry Care; MA in Educational Ministries; MA in Systemic Theology; MA in Church History; MA in New Testament; MA in Old Testament and Semitic Languages; MA in Theological Studies; Master of Theology
- 100% online coursework conducted through both synchronous and asynchronous classes
- Graduates have become not only pastors but denominational leaders, scholars, authors, and community development leaders
- A beautiful, world-class Christian camp offers respite and a place for contemplation
- The Rolfing Library offers an impressive collection of both physical and digital volumes for research, including scholarly articles from a wide range of journals
- Collaborative work in theology is boosted by the Carl F.H. Henry Center for Theological Understanding, which brings together ministers and academics from different field to develop new visions and theories
- The Center for Transformational Churches serves as a resource for church planting and congregational growth ideas
TEDS offers a diverse community of cultures, traditions, experiences, ideas and stories to immerse yourself in for a full perspective on divinity and what faith really means in a cross-cultural context. Trinity staff and faculty are known for their engagement with and mentorship of every student. A strong set of on-campus centers and a comprehensive library offer plenty of resources to fuel your academic pursuits, while Career Services and Ministry Placement offices help you get your footing in the real-world workforce after graduation.
INDIANA - State average: $85,913
Oakland City University
Chapman Seminary
Oakland City, IN
Master of Divinity (on-campus)
- Pastoral Care
Total Estimated Cost: $24,750
Cost Per Credit: $275
Total cost is $61,163 below the state average for similar programs!
- More than 30 student organizations offer plenty of opportunities for connection to fellow students and service in the community
- Passionate faculty offer mentorship and strongly advocate for student success
- A 12-to-1 student/faculty ratio ensures you receive individual attention from each of your instructors
- Ranked among the 10 Safest Colleges in Indiana
OCU can feel like a family, drawing on its roots as a basic two-story brick building when it was founded in 1885. You’ll feel the same sense of connection and support as those first classes of students must have known, with dedicated faculty and administrators who have a genuine interest in your learning and success. The campus is a lot bigger today, with a beautiful, comfortable 34 acres for you to enjoy and contemplate the divine. A strong alumni network worldwide, with more than 15,000 members, will help you get connected after graduation and start your ministerial career off on the right foot.
Anderson University
School of Theology and Christian Ministry
Anderson, IN
Master of Divinity (on-campus, online)
Total Estimated Cost: $33,840
Cost Per Credit: $470
Total cost is $52,073 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: MA in Christian Ministry; Master of Theological Studies
- The only seminary of the Church of God
- Named a Christian College of Distinction for 2019 and among the Best Christian Schools for Online Studies
- Graduates have gone on to service in charitable organizations, hospital and military chaplaincies, and as missionaries as well as pastors
- Three different tiers of scholarship make this affordable program even cheaper for qualified students
- The Kardatzke Wellness Center offers health, recreation, and wellness resources to rejuvenate your physical, emotional, social, and spiritual well-being
- The Nicholson Library offers a place to study, services, resources, and concepts for your research needs
Anderson sees your studies for the Master of Divinity as not just an education to develop your ministry for others, but also as a way to grow your own passion and faith for success. With a relatively small student body but more than 130 different clubs, intramurals, and service opportunities available, you’ll quickly find your personal growth happening alongside your studies. Twice weekly Chapel services helps focus your spiritual needs while you develop your academic expertise in the ministry.
Bethany Theological Seminary
Richmond, IN
Master of Divinity (on-campus, hybrid)
- Pastoral Care
Total Estimated Cost: $36,000
Cost Per Credit: $500
Total cost is $49,913 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: MA (Biblical studies, Brethren studies, Historical studies Peace studies, Theological studies); MA in Theopoetics and Writing; MA in Spiritual and Social Transformation
- Program completion is possible in as few as 36 months
- Includes a 9-month ministry placement and unit of clinical pastoral education lasting up to a year during a practical Ministry Formation sequence
- Community life on campus integrates students through backyard fires, movie nights, and communal meals for an improved sense of connection
- The Connections distance education program offers synchronous video lectures to give you the same in-class experience as traditional students receive on campus
A completely reorganized and refocused MDiv program awaits you at BTS, revolving around how students can put their learning into practice. Hands-on ministry work is combined with classroom or remote instruction to give you the academic founding for day-to-day ministry tasks. As part of both an intellectual and spiritual community of distinction, you’ll come to better understand Christianity and your own faith through supportive interactions with both faculty and fellow students. BTS has been nimble and adaptive throughout its more than 100 years as a theological seminary, and you’ll pick up the same traits in this affordable MDiv program.
Indiana Wesleyan University
Wesleyan Seminary
Marion, IN
Master of Divinity (online)
- Children, Youth, and Family Ministry
- Church Planting and Multiplication
- Intercultural Studies
- Leadership
- Pastoral Care
- Pastoral Ministry
- Spiritual Formation
- Worship Arts
- Biblical Studies
Total Estimated Cost: $39,000
Cost Per Credit: $520
Total cost is $46,913 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: MA in Biblical and Theological Studies; Master’s in Christian Theology; MA in Ministry (Children Youth and Family Ministry, Biblical Studies, Leadership, Pastoral Care, Spiritual Formation, Worship Arts, Pastoral Ministry); Master of Practical Theology; Master’s of Spiritual Care
- Offsite courses are offered in overseas locations like Greece, Israel, and London for a truly global Christian perspective
- Scholarships are offered to qualifying students
- One-week on-campus intensives give you the opportunity to make closer connections with professors and your fellow students
- Multiple start dates each year offers flexibility in when you begin your divinity education
The innovative degree program at Indiana Wesleyan is built around the real-world demands of a local church ministry. You’ll find intellectual explorations of Scripture bound closely together with practical skills training for counseling and delivering sermons, equipping you with the knowledge and hands-on skills to step up to pastorship immediately on graduation. Nearly ten different specialties give you a chance to hone those academic and practical skills around specific ministries, making this an affordable choice for almost any goal you have in mind.
Anabaptist Mennonite Biblical Seminary
Elkhart, IN
Master of Divinity (on-campus, online)
- Pastoral Ministry
- Chaplaincy
- Christian Faith Formation
- Theological Studies (on-campus only)
Total Estimated Cost: $43,200
Cost Per Credit: $540
Total cost is $42,713 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: MA in Christian Formation; MA in Theology and Global Anabaptism; MA in Theology and Peace Studies
- Recent graduates have gone on to serve as congregational pastors, chaplains, in pastoral education, and even bio vocational ministries that combine pastoring with community gardening
- Generous needs-based financial aid assists students who might have challenges even with the already low tuition costs
- A “try before you buy” option allows a discounted graduate course of up to three credits to be taken even without admission
- A variety of institutes and centers on campus offers additional expertise and resources for research and training, including the Institute of Mennonite Studies, the Center for Faith Formation and Culture, and the Intercultural Competence and Undoing Racism team
As a program designed for spiritually mature, Spirit-led leaders, you can expect focus and intensity alike in your fellow students and in the goals of the program. The MDiv Connect online option deepens this commitment to mature students even further, offering flexibility that is welcome for anyone with existing career or family commitments. Affordable pricing is another key selling point for the mature student demographic, with less than seven percent of AMBS students requiring loans to complete the program.
Grace Theological Seminary
Winona Lake, IN
Master of Divinity (on-campus)
- Chaplaincy
- Ministry
- Exegetical Studies
- General Studies
- Intercultural Studies
- Pastoral Counseling
- Pastoral Studies
- Women’s Leadership
Total Estimated Cost: $43,950
Cost Per Credit: $586
Total cost is $41,963 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: MA Local Church Ministry; MA in Chaplaincy; MA in Women’s Ministry Leadership
- Eight concentration options offer a focus in unique aspects of ministry not offered at many other schools
- Faculty are widely published and respected scholars, involved in such efforts as producing the New American Standard Bible and the New Living Translation among others
- Seminary is affiliated with Chris Fellowship, a family of evangelical congregations
Positive biblical standards have been the foundations for education at Grace ever since the seminary was first established in 1937. Staying true to that history and to the Word of God has led Grace to earning a worldwide reputation for excellence. That’s part of the reason the student body here represents more than 30 different denominations and various non-denominational churches. Grace offers a transformative experience through in-depth Biblical knowledge that will both boost your pastoral skills and affect your life.
Earlham College
School of Religion
Richmond, IN
Master of Divinity (on-campus, hybrid)
- Pastoral Care
- Pastoral Ministry
- Peace and Justice
- Quaker Ministry
- Spirituality
- Teaching
- Writing
- Unitarian Universalist Ministry
Total Estimated Cost: $45,000
Cost Per Credit: $600
Total cost is $40,913 below the state average for similar programs!
- Rare option in Quaker and Unitarian Universalist ministry makes this program a stellar option for those denomination
- ESR Access offers a superb online learning platform for distance studies
- Flexible Occasional Student Program allows you to pursue your studies on your own timetable
- Instructors at Earlham are committed to creating collaborative learning environments where students are challenged to engage course materials deeply and critically
- The school’s Digital Quaker Collection offers a terrific repository of titles available anywhere you have internet access
- The historic Lauramoore Guest House and Retreat Center offers peaceful accommodations suitable for onsite intensive courses
Rooted in the Christian Quaker tradition, Earlham offers students a course of study that teaches how contemplation can inspire action. Your spiritual formation comes together with social engagement and academic study here, whether you are engaged on-campus in full-time study or participate through the innovative ESR Access remote hybrid learning option. Either way you have access to the same excellent instructors and the same clear style of deep engagement and preparation for ministry.
Christian Theological Seminary
Indianapolis, IN
Master of Divinity (on-campus, online)
Total Estimated Cost: $51,120
Cost Per Credit: $710
Total cost is $34,793 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: Master of Theological Studies
- One complete year of field experience through supervised ministry offers a guided introduction to pastoral work
- A variety of learning formats accommodates your needs while emphasizing community life and peer learning
- Reflection and contemplation are encouraged not just for purposes of spiritual formation, but also to ensure you take the proper path to your unique calling
- Remote students are supported by both an introductory orientation to the technology platform, and also two dedicated online TA positions
- An extensive counseling program is available through the school’s Counseling Center to help you work through any academic or life challenges
CTS offers an intellectually rigorous but spiritually formative course of study that addresses the whole student. Both spiritual and academic needs are addressed through the program, rooted in inclusivity and dignity. You’ll find support everywhere you turn here, whether you are studying entirely online or in the beautiful, classic campus environment. Field experiences are stressed here, and additional options to fulfill your calling are offered in social justice through the school’s highly respected Faith and Action Project.
IOWA - State average: $38,334
Shiloh University
Ministry and Leadership Program
Le Claire, IA
Master of Divinity (online)
- Traditional
- Care of Souls
Total Estimated Cost: $27,000
Cost Per Credit: $375
Total cost is $11,334 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: MA in Practical Ministry (Jewish Foundations of the New Testament, Care of Souls); Master of Apostolic Leadership; Master’s in Healing and Spiritual Care
- A cohort model keeps you connected with fellow students throughout the program as you form fast friendships through study
- Every class is taught by a qualified, motivated professional with real-world and academic experience to match
- A student-centered education is supported by innovative course design and strong advising and support services
- Each new student completes and online orientation to help adjust them to Shiloh programs and introduce available resources
Shiloh’s innovative online MDiv program makes it a truly global university, exposing students from every nation to the kind of divinity program that will help them boost their community and change the world. With a strong biblical basis for ministry serving as the foundation of the degree, you can branch out into either traditional studies or explore the Care of Souls track to build your expertise in assisting those facing difficult life challenges in your congregation.
Faith Baptist Bible College and Theological Seminary
Ankeny, IA
Master of Divinity (on-campus, online)
Total Estimated Cost: $35,040
Cost Per Credit: $365
Total cost is $3,294 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: MA in Biblical Studies; MA in Practical Theology; MA in Religion; MA in Theological Studies
- Strong curriculum emphasis on Greek and Hebrew offers a chance to read Scripture in the original languages and empower your understanding of the Word
- A field trip to Israel offers valuable opportunities to practice your languages and study in the Holy Land
- An active student center, park, and coffee shop make it easy to adjust to campus life at Faith Baptist
- Chapel, discipleship Deep Groups, and required ministry service in local churches or across the Midwest deepens spiritual life as you study
- A campus Missions Conference brings together thinkers and speakers in this important ministry once each year here
Faith Baptist is not just a regional, but also a global center for divinity studies. The Refresh Conference draws in pastors from all over for an emphasis on ministry each spring; the Missions Conference in the fall similarly focuses on outreach. A terrific campus experience centered around daily chapel helps keep your own faith focused and your own calling clear. The incredible Faith Music Academy uses the gift of music to take worship for both students and the surrounding community to a new level. Expert instructors bring their knowledge and wisdom to class each day, taking an active interest in each student and helping you fulfill your full potential as a pastor.
KANSAS - State average: $50,323
Saint Paul School of Theology
Leawood, KS
Master of Divinity (on-campus, online, hybrid)
- Evangelism
- Wesleyan Studies
- Women, Society, and Church Studies
Total Estimated Cost: $50,323
Cost Per Credit: $637
Total cost is consistent with the state average for similar programs.
Also offers: MA in Christian Ministry (Prophetic Witness and Service, Deacon Ministries); MA in Theological Studies
- The school’s unique FLEX (Flexible Learning EXperience) allows student to choose online, on campus, or hybrid courses to meet their personal schedules
- Dynamic classes keep a rigorous academic approach to theology fun and focused
- A holistic experience in theological education comes through the interconnection of your personal spirituality, worship, and academic pursuits here
- Expert faculty members are at the forefront of reinventing theological studies through collaborations with both local churches and their own real-world experiences
- The two-semester PLUM group instruction follows a cohort model to approach ministry experience supported by both instructors and fellow students
As the only accredited program offering a master of divinity degree in Kansas, St. Paul is the most affordable in the state by default. But at a substantially lower cost than most regional schools as well, it’s sure to draw in students from all over through the superb online and hybrid programs. Either way, you get a contextual education through St. Paul through strong ties to local church and Ministry Collaboration Groups. You’ll get a more intensive experience in these small instructional units that gives every student a voice and opportunity to reflect on life and ministry experiences.
KENTUCKY - State average: $37,130
Campbellsville University
Campbellsville, KY
Master of Divinity (online)
- Missions & Ministry Leadership
- Biblical Studies
- Pastoral Care & Chaplaincy
Total Estimated Cost: $22,425
Cost Per Credit: $299
Total cost is $14,705 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: Master of Theology
- Ranked as one of the 50 most affordable Christian Colleges in the United States
- Faculty are selected in part for the real-world expertise each have in their fields
- Frequent start dates make it easy to move toward your educational goals at the right time
- Regarded as one of the most innovative online colleges, CU has a big investment in online education and a strong platform for remote learning
Convenience comes with affordability at Campbellsville. A strong faith-based education here focuses on your own growth through a combined arts and sciences program that informs the cultural context for your divinity studies. The online campus has received accolades from numerous evaluators, and provides a strong and cohesive platform that remains flexible enough to match your schedule. Although remote, you’ll find the school’s dedication to your growth in both personal and professional fields is up close and entirely focused.
Southern Baptist Theological Seminary
Louisville, KY
Master of Divinity (on-campus, online)
- Christian Ministry
- Great Commission Studies
- Apologetics
- Biblical and Theological Studies
- Biblical Counseling
- Biblical Spirituality
- Ethics and Philosophy
- Evangelism and Missions
- Islamic Studies
- Leadership and Discipleship
- MBA
- Missions and Bible Translation
- Missions and Bible Counseling
- Missions and Church Planting
- Pastoral Studies
- Worship Leadership
Total Estimated Cost: $24,200
Cost Per Credit: $275
Total cost is $12,930 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: MA in Apologetics; MA in Biblical Counseling; MA in Christian Education; MA in Church Ministries; MA in Church Music; MA in Discipleship and Family Ministry; MA in Islamic Studies; MA in Missiology; MA in Theological Studies (Intercultural Leadership, Lay Leadership); MA in Worship Leadership; Master of Theology (Biblical Studies, Biblical Theology, Church History, Evangelism and Missions, New Testament, Old Testament, Philosophy Worldview and Apologetics, Practical Theology, Systematic Theology, Biblical Theology and Exegesis, Evangelism and Missions, Philosophy Worldview and Apologetics, Practical Theology, Theological and Historical Studies); BA+M.Div
- An impressive 19 ministry-specific concentrations let you tailor your studies toward exactly where your calling is leading you
- The Advanced MDiv through the Billy Graham School offers an accelerated course of study to get you into the ministry that much sooner
- Over 300 elective courses available to further customize your degree program
- World-renowned faculty include experienced pastors, seasoned theologians, and accomplished scholars and writers in Christian subjects
- Biweekly chapel, professor-led mentoring groups, and a strong community in faith offers support throughout your education here
- Take short-term mission trips to a variety of destinations for on-the-ground learning
- Build deep involvement with local churches for a multitude of service opportunities
If you were looking for coddling in a Master of Divinity program, SBTS isn’t the place for you to find it. The seminary is up front about the demands of the MDiv here: the degree is challenging because ministry is challenging. With the kind of comprehensive training, you will receive here, however, you will be well-equipped for any kind of issue that ministry work throws at you. A jaw-dropping number of concentrations are compounded by the availability of more than 300 electives in all kinds of subjects to fulfill any need you can name. The teachers and students here are all serious about the Gospel, and you will be too once you enroll. It’s an enormous foundational education at an extremely low price.
Louisville Presbyterian Theological Seminary
Louisville, KY
Master of Divinity (on-campus)
Total Estimated Cost: $34,506
Cost Per Credit: $426
Total cost is $2,624 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: MA in Religion
- Available scholarships may cover a student’s full-time tuition costs, dramatically cutting already low rates for this program
- The on-campus Louisville Seminary Counseling Center offers a center of real-world counseling expertise for your studies
- Faculty have degrees from prestigious institutions such as Vanderbilt and Yale Divinity for a top-flight academic experience
- A beautiful park-like campus offers room for contemplation as well as fun and companionship
- The Campus Kids program offers special activities for people of all ages through service projects and outings
LPTS has a long history of reaching across cultural and religious divides to produce compassionate, effective, inspirational leaders. Graduates have become pastors, chaplains, social justice advocates, non-profit leaders, and community organizers. The community support you receive here will enhance your spiritual, ethical, and professional development over the course of the program through resources such as the Women’s Center. As a notably family-friendly campus, LPTS also make a great choice for students with families.
Lexington Theological Seminary
Lexington, KY
Master of Divinity (hybrid)
Total Estimated Cost: $38,760
Cost Per Credit: $510
Also offers: Master in Pastoral Studies; Master of Theological Studies
- A uniquely flexible approach to training leads to a well-rounded development for students at LTS
- Each student is assigned a compatible mentor that will offer close and careful guidance throughout the program
- A close community spirit means that each student has a constant sense of support
- All faculty members hold doctorates or the terminal degree in their field of expertise
- Significant grants and a stellar Infinite Table fundraising even means the school remains well-funded without requiring huge tuition payments
LTS is dedicated to offering a 100 percent online, hybrid model of study that delivers a modern approach to a more than 150-year tradition of pastoral study. Affordability is part of the package, but you’re not sacrificing a sense of support or community here, which is part of what has led the school to a nearly 90 percent retention rate for the most recent school year in which data was available. And the online presence has drawn in students from 34 states, giving you a broadly intercultural experience in your class.
LOUISIANA - State average: $23,940
New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary
New Orleans, LA
Master of Divinity (on-campus, online)
- Standard Track
- Biblical Languages
- Biblical Studies
- Chaplaincy/Pastoral Care
- Christian Apologetics
- Christian Education
- Christian Leadership
- Christian Theology
- Christian Thought
- Church Music
- Church Planting
- Collegiate Ministry
- Counseling (non-licensure)
- Evangelistic Church Growth
- Expository Preaching
- Islamic Studies
- Marriage and Family Counseling
- Mentoring
- Ministry to Women
- Missions
- Pastoral Ministry
- Philosophy
- Urban Missions
- Worship Ministries
Total Estimated Cost: $23,940
Cost Per Credit: $285
Total cost is consistent with the state average for similar programs.
Also offers: MA Apologetics; MA Biblical Archaeology; MA Biblical Studies; MA Cross-Cultural Studies; MA Philosophy; MA Theology; MA in Christian Apologetics; MA in Christian Education; MA in Church and Community Ministries; MA in Counseling (Specialization in Clinical Mental Health); MA in Counseling (Specialization in Marriage and Family); MA in Discipleship; MA in Missiology; MA in Ministry Leadership; MA in Ministry to Women; MA in Pastoral Ministry; MA in Worship Ministries; Master of Theological Studies; Master of Music in Church Music; Master of Theology
- All NOBTS master’s programs have been designed with the needs of the individual in mind and a high level of curriculum concentrations available
- Centers such as the Cecil B. Day Center for Church Planting and the Leavell Center for Evangelism offer unparalleled on-campus expertise to tap into during your studies
- 17 extension centers allow in-person courses even for remote students
- The Museum of the Bible and Archaeology offers a unique resource for exploring Biblical history and scholarship through the years
- Providence Learning Center offers a Cultural Institute that opens up travel opportunities around the world
You can tell just by looking at the more than 20 specializations available for the NOBTS MDiv that this is a school that values giving students options. A curriculum tailored to your specific calling is just the beginning. Characteristic excellence is a key value here, expressed through helping every student develop into the kind of servant leader that Christ intended. You’ll find the New Orleans setting an ideal reflection of the kind of combination of scholarship, practicality, and accessibility that NOBTS offers. It’s a seminary that is as one-of-a-kind as the city where it lives, and as the most affordable, and only, program in Louisiana, it’s a clear choice for students from across the Southeast.
MAINE - State average: $35,820
Saint Joseph's College of Maine
Standish, ME
Master of Divinity (online)
Total Estimated Cost: $35,820
Cost Per Credit: $398
Total cost is consistent with the state average for similar programs.
Also offers: MA in Theology (Pastoral Theology, Sacred Theology, Advanced Diaconal Studies)
- An accelerated track is available to students who already hold a master’s in theology or ministry
- This Roman Catholic program is aimed at laity and deacons but does not offer a track to ordination
- The professors at Saint Joseph’s combine professionalism with compassion, becoming friends and mentors through the course of the program
- More than twenty student clubs offer outlets and bonding experiences for any interest
Saint Joe’s, as it is lovingly referred to by both students and alums, offers you a community that will grow your talents, shape your ambitions, hone your innovation, and give you the tools you need to help build a more compassionate world. You’ll find staff and professors interested in boosting your professional development as well as mastering coursework. Your fellow students will pull together with you to lighten the load of study. And an active campus ministry helps fuse faith with daily life throughout your training.
MARYLAND - State average: $27,000
Maple Springs Baptist Bible College & Seminary
Capitol Heights, MD
Master of Divinity (on-campus)
- New Testament
- Old Testament
- Christian Counseling
- Church Administration
Total Estimated Cost: $27,000
Cost Per Credit: $300
Total cost is consistent with the state average for similar programs.
Also offers: MA in Biblical Studies; MA in Christian Counseling
- As a small seminary, you will be assured of close interpersonal contact with all your instructors as well as a tight-knit class of fellow students
- Project 36 is a scholarship funding campaign run by the school to help support current students and keep your costs low in an already low-priced program
- A one semester practicum or internship placement is required to make sure you get real-life experience in ministry before graduation
You’ll get a comprehensive graduate education in divinity here at a low cost that is dropped even lower by generous scholarship options available at the school. The program itself delivers a healthy balance of biblical, theological, historical, and practical studies to prepare you for a wide range of different positions in or out of the ministry. Once you’ve graduated, your ties to MSBBC&S will be kept strong through an active alumni association.
MASSACHUSETTS - State average: $78,441
Hellenic College
Holy Cross Greek School of Theology
Brookline, MA
Master of Divinity (on-campus)
Total Estimated Cost: $66,156
Cost Per Credit: $731
Total cost is $12,285 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: Master of Theological Studies; Master of Theology
- The Field Education Program required of all MDiv students offers real-world ministry experience in a number of different fields across six semesters
- Centers such as the Cecil B. Day Center for Church Planting and the Leavell Center for Evangelism offer unparalleled on-campus expertise to tap into during your studies
- The Seminarian Program, available after completing the first year of your MDiv, leads to ordination in the Greek Orthodox Church
- Holy Cross offers a vibrant community that grows both individually and together over the course of your training
- The Archbishop Iakovos Library and Learning Resources Center supports all your research needs through more than 60,000 monographic volumes and 300 active serial titles, plus numerous digital resources
- As a member of the Boston Theological Interreligious Consortium, you will find resources and connections far beyond only those at Hellenic
- Centers and institutes on campus such as the Stephen and Catherine Pappas Patristic Institute offer additional research and experiential learning options
Education at Hellenic goes hand-in-hand with the school’s mission to elevate the whole person of each student. You’ll pursue higher education here to develop your moral and spiritual self as well as to follow intellectual pursuits. And culture is an integral part of the education, with the Archbishop Iaokovos Collection of the personal effects of His Eminence reflecting almost 40 years of leadership and ministry on two continents. The Office of Vocation and Ministry further supports your goals through various student programs such as vocation retreats, leadership workshops, and career services counseling.
Gordon Conwell Theological Seminary
Boston, MA
Master of Divinity (on-campus, online, hybrid)
Total Estimated Cost: $67,500
Cost Per Credit: $750
Total cost is $10,941 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: MA in Theological Studies; MA in Christian Ministries; Master of Theology
- The school hosts students from 85 different denominations and 50 different countries for a truly multicultural experience
- In addition to the online option, the MDiv is available at campuses in Hamilton, Charlotte, NC, and Jacksonville, FL
- The Gordon Conwell Institute hosts 8 different centers for research and scholarship in Christian studies that offer unparalleled resources and expertise in their focus areas
- Scholarship such as the Discipleship Experience offer additional ways to keep your costs down on top of an already low cost of attendance
- High, low, and no-residency online and hybrid models of instruction offer flexibility for students from all over
- A Digital Theological Library offers resources and support even for entirely remote students
- Each student is assigned a Student Success Counselor on admission to ensure you make the most of your studies here
Fulfilling a calling to vocational ministry is what the program at Gordon Conwell is all about. Coming from the strong working-class tradition of Boston, GCTS nonetheless offers cutting-edge educational innovation. The school remains priced for students of every background, however. Online student life support keeps you connected to the community no matter where you will be studying. Hybrid learning options also give you a chance to change up your training from online to on-campus, taking advantage of the array of local campuses the school supports from Florida to North Carolina to Massachusetts. Your urban ministry skills have a chance to be sharpened at the Boston location, known as the Campus for Urban Ministerial Education, an international leader in the field.
Boston University
School of Theology
Boston, MA
Master of Divinity (on-campus)
- Pastoral Ministry
- Global and Community Engagement
- Religion and the Academy
- Organizational Management
- Chaplaincy
- Interfaith Leadership
- Theology and the Arts
Total Estimated Cost: $69,116
Cost Per Credit: $934
Total cost is $9,325 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: Master of Theological Studies; Master of Sacred Music; Master of Sacred Theology
- The track-based MDiv allows you to customize your coursework to meet your personal calling
- Dual degrees are available in theology and social work and theology and education for an extra edge of expertise
- Part of the Boston Theological Interreligious Consortium, extending resources across several area seminaries and colleges
- Student body represents 55 different faith traditions from nearly 40 states and territories for a broad exposure to Christian beliefs
- Offers the highest average financial award among all UMC seminaries to cut down on your costs even further
- Almost 80 percent of master’s students receive full tuition scholarships
- Ranked 38th for Best Value and 42 for Best Global Universities by U.S. News & World Report
- Take part in any of 5 different travel seminars available each year for global study experience
Transformation happens every day at the BU School of Theology. A world-famous program anchored by renowned faculty and a rigorous curriculum, no student passes through this MDiv without deep spiritual formation and fresh inspiration to the ministry. At the same time, BU recognizes that every calling is unique, and strives to present each student with unique opportunities through the track-based system to get exactly the education they need. With 21 different student interest groups, you will be sure to find others on campus who are on a similar path, and enjoy their fellowship and support. And with an 11-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio, you will also enjoy unparalleled support from your professors.
MICHIGAN - State average: $46,885
Andrews University
Seventh-Day Adventist Theological Seminary
Berrien Springs, MI
Master of Divinity (on-campus, online)
- Chaplaincy
- Youth and Young Adult Ministry
- Marriage and Family Ministry
Total Estimated Cost: $22,230
Cost Per Credit: $285
Total cost is $24,655 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: MA of Pastoral Ministry; MA in Religion; MA in Discipleship in Lifespan Education; MS in Community and International Development-MA in Youth and Young Adult Ministry; MA in Discipleship in Lifespan Education-MSW; MA in Religious Education
- Year-round admission with program entry three times per year lets you get started on your studies without delay
- Subsidized by the Generous Conference of Seventh-day Adventists and the North American Division to help keep it affordable to all students
- Study tours world-wide offer exposure to multiple cultures, faiths, and missions for a wide-ranging experience of Christianity
- The School also offers dual degree options in M.Div-MS in Community and International Development, M.Div-MSW, M.Div-MPH
- Graduates have gone on to service as church pastors, scholars, and administrators in high-level church positions
- Internship opportunities ensure that you have the opportunity to practice your lessons in real-world settings for polish before graduation
A multi-cultural student population of more than 400 complements internationally-renowned faculty members in this program with global scope and recognition. Kept affordable by design, the seminary still manages not to sacrifice quality or experience. The Seminary Online Learning Center (SOLC) is a high-tech solution to remote studies, using cutting-edge technology to keep students connected from anywhere. With nine other on-campus centers for research and ministry, from the Global Research Center to the International Religious Liberty Institute, there are plenty of experts and learning opportunities to be found in every specialization or niche.
Western Theological Seminary
Holland, MI
Master of Divinity (on-campus, online)
Total Estimated Cost: $44,805
Cost Per Credit: $515
Total cost is $2,080 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: MA in Christian Studies; Master of Theology
- The faculty, staff, and peers here offer genuine care for you as a person and interest in your journey to the ministry for constant personal attention and support
- An intercultural immersion trip in your second year helps deliver new perspectives and new commitments to global ministry
- A dual MSWA/MDiv option is available for extra expertise for those called to social work
- Internship options start in your second year with supervised ministry settings, watchful mentors, and site teams to ease you into your ministry
- The Cook Library offers both online and on-campus resources to support all kinds of study and research efforts
- Attend chapel on campus in the beautifully restored John R. Mulder Memorial Chapel
- The Writing Studio offers tutors to help you perfect the challenging process of conceiving, developing, and crafting everything from term papers to sermons
The fact that students plan and lead chapel services at Western every Monday through Thursday tells you all you need to know about the commitment here to practical ministry education. Internship settings include congregational placements, hospitals, parachurch organizations, and faith-based agencies among others. You can tune your studies to almost any kind of ministry practice, and faculty work hard to match you with placements that offer the best fit. Student support services help you through the entire program, from the Student Assistance Program that delivers counseling and spiritual direction, to formative workshops and other campus events that educate you for ministry.
MINNESOTA - State average: $51,526
University of Northwestern-St. Paul
College of Graduate and Online Adult Learning
St. Paul, MN
Master of Divinity (on-campus, online)
- Biblical Studies
- Clinical Pastoral Education
- Educational Studies
- Human Services
- Organizational Leadership
- Practical Theology
Total Estimated Cost: $37,924
Cost Per Credit: $499
Total cost is $13,602 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: MA in Ministry Leadership (Pastoral Leadership, Organizational Leadership, Biblical Studies, Theological Studies, Human Services, Educational Studies, Clinical Pastoral Education); MA in Theological Studies (Biblical Studies, Cultural Engagement, and Ministry Leadership); MA in Theological Studies
- Curriculum is centered around a Biblically-based evangelical theology for an education rooted in the core messages of Scripture
- Named among Best Master’s Programs in Divinity by Best Value Schools for 2021
- Professors include internationally-known experts in fields such as the Dead Sea Scrolls, Old and New Testaments, and minor prophets
- An accelerated MDiv option allow you to combine your bachelor and master’s studies through a fast-paced five-year format
- A 14-to-1 student-to-teacher ratio gives you plenty of opportunities to receive individual attention from your professors
A recent survey of Northwestern grads found that 92 percent of them felt professionally prepared by the education they received here. That’s what is in store for you, too, with a curriculum that is rooted in Scripture and designed to develop your abilities to analyze theology and doctrine, think critically, and communicate effectively with your congregation and community. Students also give a great deal of credit to their advisors and professors, who stay close and offer real care and attention throughout the program. You’ll be inspired as well as instructed by these expert faculty. The campus setting, for in-person instruction, is also perfect for contemplation and spiritual reflection on the shores of beautiful Lake Johanna.
Bethel University
Seminary
St. Paul, MN
Master of Divinity (on-campus, online)
Total Estimated Cost: $39,624
Cost Per Credit: $508
Total cost is $11,902 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: MA in Christian Thought; MA in Theological Studies; MA in Ministry
- On-campus studies include both daytime and evening cohorts to maximize your flexibility
- The quiet wooded St. Paul campus offers a serene experience that nurtures the soul as well as the intellect
- Although the college is sponsored by Converge, it hosts students from nearly 50 different Christian denominations
- About 45 different student-led academic, athletic, and special interest organizations can be found here, offering fellowship and community for students with any interests
Bethel delivers both the skills and knowledge to ascend to leadership in the church. Become a pastor or a chaplain, train others as a teacher, or go on to doctoral studies—it’s all available to you through the comprehensive education and spiritual transformation of the MDiv degree here. After 145 years in operation, Bethel is clearly doing something right when it comes to training for the ministry. By tapping into your passion, the school can prepare you for everything from youth ministry to urban community leadership. Through the three centers philosophy, Bethel offers you a strong biblical foundation, strength of leadership, and an impeccable spiritual character to go forth and fulfill your calling.
Crown College
Saint Bonifacius, MN
Master of Divinity (online)
- Church Development
- Community Development
- Disaster and Emergency Management
- Executive Leadership
- Hmong Ministry
- Intercultural Ministries
- International Christian Education
- Media Ministry
- Non-profit Leadership
- Pastoral Counseling
- Pastoral Leadership
- Spiritual Formation
- Theological Studies
- Urban Ministry
Total Estimated Cost: $41,400
Cost Per Credit: $575
Total cost is $10,126 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: MA in Christian Studies; MA in Ministry Leadership; MA in Pastoral Counseling; Accelerated Master’s in Ministry
- With 14 different concentrations, you’ll be able to find the perfect fit for your calling in this program
- Dual degree options may allow you to graduate with both an MA in Christian Studies or MA in Ministry Leadership together with your MDiv
- A summative final-year experience offers deep engagement in practical ministry to tie together the strands of your education
- Close mentorship ensures that you are shepherded through every part of your training
Crown views spiritual formation as a lifelong journey, not a checkmark on the box of your college education. You’ll learn to think and act with theological convocation and clarity here, yet maintain an openness to personal growth and inspiration that will last through your entire career in ministry and life with the Lord. Beyond that, you are trained to empower other leaders, enhancing the impact of your individual ministry by inspiring others. Not only does Crown make it all affordable, but also easy, with a Canvas-based virtual classroom that is open 24/7 to fit your life and commitments.
United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities
Minneapolis, MN
Master of Divinity (on-campus, online, hybrid)
- Interreligious Chaplaincy
- Islamic focus
- Social Transformation
- Theology and the Arts
- Church Leadership
- Methodist Studies
- Presbyterian Studies
- UCC Studies
- UU Studies
- Bahá’í Pastoral Care
- Spiritual Direction
- Biblical Studies
- Religion and Theology
- General Studies
Total Estimated Cost: $47,880
Cost Per Credit: $575
Total cost is $3,646 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: MA Theology and the Arts; MA Ethics and Justice; MA Religion and Theology; MA Biblical Studies; MA Bahá’í Studies; Master of Arts in Leadership (Faith Formation, Spiritual Direction, Specialized Ministry)
- A required practicum or internship field experience ensures you get real-world experience in the ministry before graduation
- Community events and numerous student groups with various interests or denominations ensure that fellowship is always available
- A brand new campus puts your learning right at the heart of the Twin Cities, one of the best places to live and study in the United States
- A particular focus on the intersectionality of spirituality and the arts makes this a great school for creative souls
- The Wilson Yates Center for Theology and The Arts offers a conduit for vibrant and collaborative efforts of worship through the arts
- A virtual campus tour introduces you to your new community without the expense and trouble of an in-person visit
United delivers a low-cost education with an incredible number of concentration options. You’re encouraged to ask big questions, take big risks, and grow your capacity as a leader and a human being in the process. Support for your personal and social transformation comes from fellow students and staff from diverse backgrounds and perspectives who nonetheless offer you every part of themselves to help you through the program. A particular focus on the intersectionality of spirituality and the arts makes this a great school for creative souls. No matter what, you’ll find a great education and a great experience through this open and affirming community.
MISSOURI - State average: $50,574
Urshan Graduate School of Theology
Wentzville, MO
Master of Divinity (on-campus)
- General Studies
- Arts and Worship
- Intercultural Studies
- Pastoral Care and Counseling
- Historical Studies
- Biblical Theological Studies
Total Estimated Cost: $28,800
Cost Per Credit: $400
Total cost is $21,774 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: Master of Theological Studies (General, Research); MA in Christian Ministry (General Studies, Arts and Worship, Intercultural Studies, Pastoral Care and Counseling)
- The school has only recently relocated to a beautiful new campus, offering a brand new residence hall, chapel, and conference areas in which to study
- The Urshan Progress fundraising initiative takes care of many school expenses to keep your costs low!
- The Urshan Student Success Center has all the tools you will need to help you achieve your academic goals
- Both online and on-campus Biblical and library resources make research easy
UGST equips students for service in the church and to the world. Global leaders emerge from the program here, with big ambitions fueled by the big support you get for your calling throughout the program. Core values of Scriptural fidelity, spiritual empowerment, and personal integrity come together to make the student body here a diverse, collegial group who create a community you will come to love. Academic excellence is provided by a core of experienced, highly credentialed faculty who subscribe to the same servant-leadership model that they teach.
Calvary University
Kansas City, MO
Master of Divinity (on-campus, online)
- Pastoral Ministry
- General Ministry
Total Estimated Cost: $30,525
Cost Per Credit: $407
Total cost is $20,049 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: MA in Bible and Theology
- The Calvary campus is less than 30 minute from downtown Kansas City
- You’ll find Biblical foundations in every single class you take
- Faculty are committed to your personal group through discipleship, offering support and genuine care for every student
- The Christian Ministries and Study Work Programs offer real-world experience
- The Nikao Leadership Institute supports students as they group their leadership through education
- Faculty are qualified academics but also strong, moral role models
- With an 11:1 student-to-teacher ratio, you will have no problem finding time to get personal attention from professors
If you are ready to grow, you a ready for Calvary. The MDiv program here is a course of study that will prepare you for ministry through intensive Scriptural study in the original languages and strong theological perspectives grounded in research. You will graduate equipped with a philosophy of ministry and practice you will develop individually but with strong support along the way. The school prides itself on delivering high quality at a low cost, delivering an excellent education that will have churches clamoring to hire you.
Baptist Bible College
Theological Seminary
Springfield, MO
Master of Divinity (online)
Total Estimated Cost: $31,875
Cost Per Credit: $425
Total cost is $18,699 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: MA in Bible Counseling; MA in Church Ministry
- It’s possible to transfer in up to half of the total credits required for your graduation thanks to a generous transfer policy
- Alumni are serving in ministry worldwide, giving you alumni contacts as well as inspiration for your own global ministry
- Faculty have years of practical, real-life experience in a wide range of ministry fields including pastoring churches, evangelizing, teaching, and performing missionary work
- All courses are taught from an evangelical Christian perspective with Biblical principles and weekly devotions in every class
BBC has such an impact on students that they sometimes call themselves “Life Change U.” The threefold mission of the school is to develop your head, heart, and hands: Biblical knowledge, faith, and community and global awareness. With those tools, students have taken their evangelism on the road, performing effective ministry work both close to home and worldwide. If you want to make a difference, no matter where you are, BBC has the tools and the knowledge to help.
Nazarene Theological Seminary
Kansas City, MO
Master of Divinity (hybrid)
- Pastoral Ministry
- Chaplaincy
- Custom
Total Estimated Cost: $41,040
Cost Per Credit: $540
Total cost is $9,534 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: MA in Transformational Leadership (Intercultural Studies, Nonprofit Management, Organizational Leadership, Curriculum and Design, Ministerial Entrepreneurship, Music or the Arts, Media and Communications, Urban Renewal, Spiritual Direction, Age-level Ministries, Church planting development or evangelism); MA in Theological Studies
- Weekly virtual conferencing combined with asynchronous courses keeps your studies flexible but tightly connected to fellow students and instructors
- Convene one-week intensive courses further develop your relationships and understanding on campus
- 97 percent of students enrolled at NTS receive financial assistance on top of extremely low tuition costs
- The Center for Pastoral Leadership represents an on-campus resource for expertise and lifelong learning
- A dedicated student services app, myNTS, keeps assistance at your fingertips from any location at any time in your studies
- The Wynkoop Center for Women in Leadership creates space to develop women’s contributions in ministry
You can’t look at what NTS offers without the term “forward-thinking” coming to mind. Whether it’s a dedicated on-campus center dedicated to imagining the possibilities of women’s contributions in ministry to the development of a dedicated mobile app to offer student services, NTS is clearly on the cutting edge of what’s possible in ministry education today. A hybrid program takes full advantage of the possibilities, building in both flexibility and community to give you the best of both worlds. And with on-campus intensives baked in, you won’t miss out on the strong community formation that comes from gathering for worship, sharing meals, and taking part in on-campus events one week per semester.
Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary
Kansas City, MO
Master of Divinity (on-campus, online)
- Preaching and Pastoral Ministry
- Worship Ministries
- Women’s Ministry
- Biblical Education
- Christian Education
- Church Planting
- Biblical Counseling
- International Church Planting
- Leadership
- Youth Ministry
- Biblical Languages
Total Estimated Cost: $43,650
Cost Per Credit: $485
Total cost is $6,924 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: Master of Theological Studies (Church Planting, Church Revitalization, Biblical Counseling, Leadership, Discipleship Ministries, Missions, Preaching and Pastoral Ministry, Women’s Ministry, Worship Ministry); MA (Biblical Counseling, Christian Education, Worship Ministries, Ministry Service)
- The innovative Timothy Track MDiv option allows select students develop expertise in the field through local ministry service through two full semester internships, plus scholarship funding
- The Mathena Student Center offers a place for community as well as knowledge, with the on-site Sword & Trowel Bookstore
- Faculty are committed to mentoring students and enjoy seeing graduates go on to flourish in the ministry or other roles
- Only minutes from downtown Kansas City, you’re right on top of the pinnacle of midwestern cultural experiences
- The Center for Public Theology offers a resource center for deep theological investigation on campus
MBTS is dedicated to producing pastor-theologians, experts in knowledge of Scripture and doctrine who also have advanced pastoral care skills. A broad range of specializations can develop your skills toward almost any calling, and the school’s innovative Timothy Track, if you qualify, can give you a unique set of on-the-ground experiences in a tight-knit community of supportive fellow students and mentors. With a vibrant on-campus experience but extensive online connections and support, MBTS is a great choice whether you pursue their residential or online program options.
Evangelical University
Assemblies of God Theological Seminary
Springfield, MO
Master of Divinity (on-campus, online, hybrid)
- Expository Preaching
- Islamic Studies
- Military and Institutional Chaplaincy
Total Estimated Cost: $44,070
Cost Per Credit: $565
Total cost is $6,504 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: MA in Theological Studies; Master of Leadership and Ministry; Master of Theology
- As one of the largest doctoral seminaries in the world, you are surrounded by a high level of research and theological expertise at AGTS
- Faculty are all experienced and academically-accomplished Pentecostal scholars
- Every student meets with the Student Life Coordinator during the first two semesters and once a year thereafter to ensure you are fitting in and getting all your questions answered
- The Write Place offers coaching and support to MDiv students engaged in heavy academic writing
- Ministry Network partners nationwide offer student field experience in a wide variety of settings
- The Admiral Vern Clark Veterans Center assists veterans in making connections, with moral and mental support, and offers companionship for those who have served
- An array of classic, well-equipped campus centers such as a state-of-the-art fitness center, the World Prayer Center, and Chapel all create comfortable community spaces
You might be able to tell from the concentrations available that AGTS has a high level of expertise in preparing military chaplains for service. Accustomed to helping candidates meet both denominational and branch requirements, and with flexible study options that match the military lifestyle, you won’t go wrong choosing Evangel’s MDiv as a service chaplain. But the course of study here is flexible and deep enough to pursue almost any kind of ministry, with experiential learning in local districts and churches to give you all-important hands-on experience. The school has a strong belief that education doesn’t happen just in the classroom, so in addition to field placements, you should expect plenty of support for social, personal, and spiritual growth outside of class hours.
Eden Theological Seminary
Saint Louis, MO
Master of Divinity (on-campus)
Total Estimated Cost: $45,000
Cost Per Credit: $625
Total cost is $5,574 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: Master of Theological Studies (Bible, Historical, Theological, Ethical Studies)
- The Walker Leadership Institute offers a variety of experiential supports for both students and alums to develop pastoral leadership skills
- A clear roadmap for program completion makes every step of your path to the MDiv straightforward
- Experienced faculty offer strong leadership and mentorship to every student
- Sitting on a wooded 20-acre property near St. Louis, you have both tranquility and culture on tap
Springing from the needs of frontier churches, ETS believes that community can be transformative. They have done their level best to putting together a comprehensive education that still offers an intimate, interconnected setting. You live, learn, and worship alongside classmates from all kinds of backgrounds and varied denominations. And as a proud icon in the larger community of St. Louis, the school also encourages your engagement with issues of racial justice, equality, and social transformation. Your voice is a welcome addition, and your educational experience will be both affordable and holistic.
NEW JERSEY - State average: $54,794
Seton Hall University
Immaculate Conception Seminary School of Theology
South Orange, NJ
Master of Divinity (on-campus)
Total Estimated Cost: $51,948
Cost Per Credit: $702
Total cost is $2,846 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: MA in Jewish-Christian Studies; MA in Theology (Biblical studies, Moral Theology, Systematic Theology, Church History Jewish-Christian Studies); MA in Pastoral Ministry
- Graduates offer high marks for professor quality, belief, and attention
- A variety of retreats, lectures, and workshops are available to strengthen your commitment and knowledge on top of regular coursework
- Students from 20 countries attend, from 4 different religious orders
- A Career Center facilitates your development as a professional priest through experiential education and lifelong career management
- 90 percent of graduates report satisfaction with their job placement after graduating Seton Hall
Personal, academic, ministerial, and spiritual formation have been the pillars of building men for the priesthood at Seton Hall since the 1860s. This storied Catholic seminary might well have been your top choice for the MDiv even before you found out that it was among the lowest priced programs in the state. Your studies take place on the larger campus of Seton Hall University, surrounded by experts in a wide range of areas both spiritual and secular. Campus resources such as the Institute for Christian Spirituality and the G.K. Chesterton Institute for Faith and Culture represent expertise you can tap into to take your studies and your calling in almost any direction.
New Brunswick Theological Seminary
New Brunswick, NJ
Master of Divinity (hybrid, online)
Total Estimated Cost: $54,675
Cost Per Credit: $675
Total cost is $119 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: MA in Pastoral Care and Counseling; MA in Theological Studies (Biblical Studies Concentration, Theology and Public Policy Concentration, Ministry in the Church Concentration Individualized Concentration)
- Adaptive courses are not only available in hybrid or online formats, but also on days, weekends, and evenings for maximum flexibility
- Field education puts you in a work experience for as many as 180 hours of actual practice, plus time for reflection with your field supervisor
- Support for international students is rated as top-notch in this diverse student body
- Dual degrees are available in MDiv-MA in Pastoral Care and Counseling or MDiv-MA in Theological Studies
- The Underwood Center for Global Education underscores NBTS’ long history of participation in global missions and offers unique expertise and fieldwork opportunities to students
Your studies at NBTS will lead you to think critically, act justly, and lead faithfully… all critical skills for a future pastor. It’s a justice-oriented MDiv program with a vocational focus that gives you hands-on preparation for ministry, advocacy, or even non-profit management. A flexible online or hybrid class offering is complemented by an elastic time to complete the degree—you set your own pace here! A frequent calendar of events offers opportunities for learning and fellowship outside of class, helping develop your community ties alongside your expertise in ministry.
Drew University
Madison, NJ
Master of Divinity (on-campus, online, hybrid)
- Congregational Ministries
- United Methodist Congregational Ministries
- Social Justice Advocacy
- Chaplaincy Ministries
Total Estimated Cost: $55,536
Cost Per Credit: $712
Also offers: MA in Religion (General Studies, Bible and Cultures, Theology and Philosophy, Religion and Society, self-declared); MA in Theology and Ministry; Master of Sacred Theology
- A commitment to contextual education means that you will engage in full experiential immersion learning in your third year of the program
- Experimental learning approaches help find the right techniques to get you the knowledge you need, including through problem-solving labs and study abroad experiences
- Exploration of different vocational pathways helps you settle on the right path to fulfill your calling through experience
- On-campus centers of expertise offer resources for your research and study, including the Center for Christianities in Global Contexts, the Center on Religion, Culture & Conflict, and the Institute for Ecstatic Naturalism
Drew offers the education you need to answer your call to the ministry. From community organizing to producing congregational leaders and ordained ministers, this comprehensive MDiv hands you the tools to do God’s work. A flexible approach to studying here means you may take classes entirely online in video conferencing courses, in the glorious Seminary Hall on campus, or through off-campus immersion courses that put you in the thick of real-world studies. Drew’s MDiv marches to the beat of a different drummer, while still inculcating you with the kind of deep Scriptural and theological knowledge you need in the ministry.
NEW YORK - State average: $50,730
St. Vladimir’s Orthodox Theological Seminary
Yonkers, NY
Master of Divinity (on-campus)
Total Estimated Cost: $37,800
Cost Per Credit: $525
Total cost is $12,930 below the state average for similar programs!
- Up to 12 credits are accepted for full-value transfer from other education institutions thanks to a generous transfer policy
- Unique language course offerings include classical Armenian in addition to New Testament Greek
- Two required field education projects include experiential learning in both hospital ministry and parish ministry
- Develop a student portfolio throughout your studies for a compact perspective of your accomplishments to demonstrate to your church
- Extended essay or honors thesis completion opens allow you to decide on your own capstone project
- The Institute of Sacred Arts explores the intersection of creativity and worship and offers a resource center for expertise for students to tap into
St. Vladimir’s traces a lineage of Orthodox Christianity in America back through 1794, but it’s a school that has kept up with the challenges of service in the 21st Century. A flexible program that is nonetheless rigorous and focused, you’ll find tradition woven together with modern tools and techniques. The school still believes in the importance of music in worship, and incorporates it into the MDiv program. The seminary has been a valued and respected member of the Yonkers community since 2962, recognized and honored by both the city, county, and state. A diverse and enriching community that reflects both Yonkers and the world, you’ll feel right at home no matter what your background.
Northeastern Seminary
Rochester, NY
Master of Divinity (on-campus, online)
- Advanced Bible Study
- Chaplaincy
- Christian Spiritual Formation
- Theology and Social Justice
- Transformational Leadership
- Denominational Studies
Total Estimated Cost: $44,240
Cost Per Credit: $553
Total cost is $6,490 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: MA in Theology and Social Justice; MA in Theological Studies; MA in Spiritual Formation, MA in Ministry Practice
- With only 25 students per class and a 13:1 student-to-faculty ratio, you never have to worry about getting lost in the crowd at Northeastern
- Six well-developed focus areas allow you to concentrate your studies exactly to your individual calling
- Full and part-time attendance options allow you to fit your training into your life
- Fewer than 15 percent of students pay the full cost of attendance due to generous scholarship policies
- Faculty are experts in their respective fields, with strong academic and real-world experience
- A free mini class offering allow you to try before you buy
Northeastern offers this highly customizable MDiv both online and on-campus, but it offers a transformational experience either way. A unique seminary-wide course sequence introduces you to the Great Conversation, exploring Christian history and developing your individual sense of spirituality. That builds a sense of community and camaraderie, one that extends beyond graduation—alumni enjoy ongoing benefits in career advising, job search, resume writing, and even mock interviews. The diversity, with online students from all over the world and 30 different denominations represented, expands your perspectives and strengthens your convictions in this affordable, affecting program.
Unification Theological Seminary
New York, NY
Master of Divinity (on-campus, online)
- Youth Ministry
- Campus Ministry
- Interfaith Ministry
- Pastoral Care
- Social Justice Ministry
Total Estimated Cost: $45,200
Cost Per Credit: $565
Total cost is $5,530 below the state average for similar programs!
- The required 400 hours of field experience gets you off to a good start in extensive real-world ministry practice
- UTS serves as the seat of Unificationism
- A gifted, highly respected, experienced faculty comes from a wide range of different backgrounds and denominations for a broad perspective on Christianity
- The school’s more than 1600 graduates have taken positions in fields ranging from politics to faith to law and medicine
- Regular events, such as Career Development Workshops, offer assistance and professional development outside the classroom
Community life at UTS is considered a vital part of your Master of Divinity education. Organized daily chapel services not only foster your connection to God, but also bring in a variety of noted speakers and offer an opportunity for student-led worship. Extracurricular service opportunities hone your faith too, along with encouragement in participation in services at other local churches. With broad cultural horizons and strong academic support, you can take your UTS education and turn it into extraordinary support for your calling, no matter what your destination.
Colgate Rochester Crozer Divinity School
Rochester, NY
Master of Divinity (on-campus)
Total Estimated Cost: $46,644
Cost Per Credit: $598
Total cost is $4,086 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: MA in Theological Studies; MA in Religious Studies
- A full year of supervised ministry including on-site work at a field placement ensures active and instructive practical experience
- Many conferences and lectures are available on top of the ordinary coursework of the program, including the African American Legacy Lecture, the Gene Bartlett Preaching Conference, and the Helen Barrett Montgomery Conference
- A rich history going back more than 200 years makes this the oldest Baptist seminary in America today
- The school’s legacy includes graduating Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., a luminary who became emblematic of the social ethics taught at the seminary
- A high-tech campus boasts 21st century technology for the latest in learning advances
CRC takes a completely fresh approach to the Master of Divinity degree. Usually seen as a specialized course of study to prepare candidates for ordination, the MDiv here is instead presented as a Swiss Army knife that can lead not only to ordination, but also chaplaincy, church administration, youth work, or even education. Although faithful to its distinctive identity, the school prepares ministers for many different denominations. The school’s unique heritage as a merger between three different seminaries with different roots gives you a diverse set of traditions to stand for, including the Social Gospel and American Civil Rights movements.
St. Bernard’s School of Theology and Ministry
Rochester, NY
Master of Divinity (on-campus, online)
Total Estimated Cost: $49,320
Cost Per Credit: $685
Total cost is $1,410 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: MA in Theological Studies (Biblical Studies, Historical Theology, Systematic Theology, Pastoral Theology); MA in Pastoral Studies; MA in Catholic Philosophy
- With a chapel that is only steps away from the classrooms, students on campus are never far from improving their devotion and spirituality through worship
- The Rush Rhees Library was merged with the theological collection of the University of Rochester to create a reference resource that is one of the premier Christian knowledge centers in North America
- The school’s partnerships with local organizations such as the Abbey of the Genesee and the Finger Lakes Guild offer off-campus resources for expertise and field experience
- Complete online access to campus systems through Populi and Canvas learning management systems ensures that remote students have all the same tools as on-campus attendees
You are assured of getting a dynamic but extensive education in the critical areas of theology and ministry here at St. Bernard’s, combining in-depth explorations of the various dimensions of formation with practical applications of your newfound tools and expertise. Founded in 1893, the Roman Catholic foundations offer the very best of American Catholic philosophical and theological traditions. At the same time, tradition can be found blended with the practical advantages of high-tech modern life through the robust online distance learning option. Access to online resources such as the Academic Writing Services as well as library references through Populi makes this school a strong candidate for students anywhere in the country.
New York Theological Seminary
New York, NY
Master of Divinity (on-campus, hybrid)
Total Estimated Cost: $50,040
Cost Per Credit: $695
Total cost is $690 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: MA in Pastoral Care and Counseling (Buddhist track); MA in Religious Education (Youth Ministry concentration); MA in Transformational Leadership and Administration
- Occupies a key role in training ministers to transform urban community through global, economic, and social strategies
- A multicultural faculty with advanced degrees and plenty of street experience empowers your learning with energy and mentorship
- Located in Manhattan for 121 years and counting, the seminary counts Columbia and Barnard among its neighbors as part of a strong intellectual community
- A 13:1 student-to-faculty ratio ensure personal attention and assistance along your transformation journey in divinity
Ministry studies in the Big Apple offer advantages you won’t find anywhere else in the country: strong traditions, a vast multicultural canvas of humanity, and inclusiveness that comes from experience. NYTS has a strong intellectual and moral legacy as a foundation, in one of the major cities of the world, buzzing with potential. You’ll tap into a community of proud roots and forward-thinking practices that offer strong training for social justice and organizational skills for the modern world. The hybrid program options show how well the school has kept up with modern tools, though, allowing you to tap into this low-cost but priceless education from anywhere in the country.
NORTH CAROLINA - State average: $51,085
Manna University
Fayetteville, NC
Master of Divinity (on-campus, online)
- Chaplaincy
- Community
- Military
- Intercultural Studies
- Pastoral Ministry
Total Estimated Cost: $21,000
Cost Per Credit: $280
Total cost is $30,085 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: MA in Biblical Studies; MA in Christian Leadership (Biblical Studies, Intercultural Studies, Organizational Leadership, Worship Ministry); MA in Religious Studies
- Learn to lead with an integrity grounded in the Judeo-Christian values and worldview
- In addition to offering one of the lowest-cost programs in the country, almost 70 percent of Manna students receive financial aid or scholarships
- All of Manna’s graduate programs are accepted but Chaplain candidate programs for all branches of the U.S. Military
- Ranked as the #4 Online Bible College and the 12th Most Affordable Online Christian College
- Through partnership with mPact church, in addition to Fayetteville and online programs, on-campus options exist in:
- Abilene, TX
- Chapel Hill, NC
- Columbia, NC
- Lafayette, LA
- Newport News, VA
- Weldon, NC
Manna is quick to point out that the 12 Apostles were all from different backgrounds, overlooked by traditional religious leaders of their era. That fact is a touchstone for the divinity program here, following Jesus’ path in offering a transformational course of instruction to individuals from every culture and background. Co-located with the broadcast location of Manna Church, practical experience in a wide variety of ministries can be had at one of the largest and fastest-growing churches in the U.S. You’ll find a strong community exists that promotes relationships with both other students and faculty, for a web of support that extends across the nation.
Carolina University
Piedmont Divinity School
Winston-Salem, NC
Master of Divinity (on-campus, online)
Total Estimated Cost: $28,330
Cost Per Credit: $395
Total cost is $22,755 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: MA in Ministry (Portuguese, Spanish, English); MA in Biblical Studies
- Well-prepared faculty members have extensive credentials and experience in their fields, and take a personal interest in the success of their students here
- Students come first with development of the whole person, spiritually and theologically, as a priority
- Experiential learning prepares you for service with practical out-of-classroom opportunities to build skills
Piedmont combines a rich heritage with a strong and deserved reputation for cutting-edge innovation. Put that together with the affordability and flexibility that comes with their online MDiv program, and you have a recipe for a degree that can prepare almost any type of student for service in a dynamic church environment, theological research, or chaplaincy. By studying at a major Christian university, you tap into the strength of diversity and strong programs in many related fields. You also join a global family of pastors, missionaries, chaplains, educators, and leaders who are eager to help make your life in the ministry a success after graduation.
Gardner-Webb University
School of Divinity
Boiling Springs, NC
Master of Divinity (on-campus, online, hybrid)
- Pastoral Studies
- Biblical Studies
- Congregational Health Through Formation: Christian Education
- Pastoral Care and Counseling
- Missiology
- Intercultural Studies
Total Estimated Cost: $39,390
Cost Per Credit: $505
Total cost is $11,695 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: MA in Religion
- Faculty have a breadth and depth of experience for you to tap into from leading churches to active missionary work on their resumes
- Tremendous flexibility comes through online, on-campus, and hybrid MDiv options
- Small class sizes offer a close-knit environment where support and community are always available
- International experiences are available in Israel, Greece, Turkey, or Cuba, with at least three opportunities available during your studies
- A dedicated faculty mento will advise and guide you throughout the course of your program
- The school also offers dual degree options in: MDiv-MBA, MDiv-Master of English, MDiv-Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, MDiv-MA in Religion
Gardener-Webb offers a pathway for you to not just develop theological and practical ministry skills, but also to uncover your personal gifts, talents, and abilities along the way—and tap into the best ways to apply them in your own individual call to the ministry. That’s also reflected in the wealth of dual-degree options available, which let you hone your expertise through multiple masters to take on new and interesting aspects of ministry according to your own plan. No matter what, you will graduate with leadership skills forged in a supportive and diverse Christian environment.
Charlotte Christian College and Theological Seminary
Department of Pastoral Studies
Charlotte, NC
Master of Divinity (on-campus, online)
- Chaplaincy
- Pastoral Counseling
- General Pastoral Studies
Total Estimated Cost: $44,640
Cost Per Credit: $465
Total cost is $6,445 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: MA in Biblical Studies (Old Testament, New Testament, Theology); MA in Urban Christian Ministry (Multi-Cultural Studies, Youth Ministry)
- The Goldberg Library on campus offers more than 24,000 print volumes, biblical research software, and periodical databases to support your research and studies
- The Charlotte campus location offers plenty of attractions for after class, including the Billy Graham Library and the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art
- A Tutoring Center offers extensive support in developing writing styles, mastering Biblical languages, or even honing research skills
- Students from over 17 different countries offer a diverse cultural experience on campus and in class
- The Populi web-based college management system offers online discussion boards and posting to keep you connected with both professors and fellow students
CCCTS offers a non-traditional fast-track approach to educating divinity students that delivers an affordable but comprehensive preparation for ministry. Eight-week block classes move you through subjects quickly, with always some new and exciting class on the horizon. At the same time, the CCCTS family will ensure you never have to worry about getting left behind, with close ties developed among students as well as strong support services like tutoring and advising coming through the school itself. You’ll graduate with a high level of academic accomplishment, strong interpersonal skills, and a rock-like foundation in your individual moral constitution to base a career in ministry upon.
Shaw University
Divinity School
Raleigh, NC
Master of Divinity (on-campus)
Total Estimated Cost: $45,084
Cost Per Credit: $578
Total cost is $6,001 below the state average for similar programs!
- Graduates have progressed a wide variety of vocations including ordained and lay ministry, chaplaincy, higher education, and counseling
- The Divinity School Alumni Association offers a strong network of support to graduates with connections across the country
- The school’s Office of Academic Success helps make your experience more successful through advising, workshops, and tutorial services
- The Experiential Learning and Career Development Center offers resources for internship and study abroad opportunities
- The Office of Student Activities coordinates many social events, networking opportunities, and other student organizations to keep you connected to the community
A rich Baptist heritage backs up the educational programs at Shaw. That tradition remains a strong point of connection with the regional church community, with many of them hosting Shaw Day observances to showcase the university and affirm the contributions made by both student volunteers and graduates from the school. Experiential learning is a crucial component of the Shaw experience, and the ELCD center has the resources to connect MDiv students with graduate internships to help polish your pastoral skills in the field.
Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary
Wake Forest, NC
Master of Divinity (on-campus, online)
- Preaching and Pastoral Ministry
- Christian Ministry
- Student Ministry
- Christian Ethics
- Biblical Counseling
- Ministry Leadership
- Ministry to Women
- Christian Apologetics
- Advanced Biblical Studies
- Worship Leadership
- Missiology
- North American Church Planting
- International Church Planting
- Advanced
- Church Revitalization
Total Estimated Cost: $49,329
Cost Per Credit: $609
Total cost is $1,756 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: MA in Worship Ministry; MA in Biblical Counseling; MA in Christian Education (Bible Counseling); MA in Church Planting; MA in Ministry Leadership; MA in Ministry to Women; MA in Philosophy of Religion; MA in Biblical and Theological Studies; MA in Biblical Languages; MA in Christian Studies; MA in Ethics Theology and Culture; MA in New Testament; MA in Old Testament; MA in Christian Marriage Family and Individual Counseling; MA in Christian Ministry; MA in Intercultural Studies; MA in Student Ministry; MA in Church Revitalization; MA in Ministry to Women with Biblical Counseling
- A wide array of concentrations offers you the chance to specialize in a field most in line with your calling
- The school also offers a combination MDiv-MBA program to hone your business skills alongside your ministry talents
- The advanced MDiv program offers students with previous experience in ministry to earn credit for their work and avoids repeating studies in areas you’ve already mastered
- The Ledford Student Center offers a campus hub with fitness center, game room, and community dining facility to increase your fellowship experience
- School scholarships such as the Hispanic Leadership Development, the East Asian Leadership Initiative, and the Society for Women in Scholarship offer ways to help pay for your education
- The Center for Great Commission Studies, Center for Faith and Culture, and Center for Preaching and Pastoral Leadership offer on-campus resources for research and study
As a Great Commission seminary, SBTS seeks to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ and spread His love and acceptance around the globe. You never have to worry about where your courses here are focused with a clear mission and inspired, compassionate instructors leading the way. You’ll find your own leadership skills being developed through in-depth, challenging courses that revolve around specializations that develop your unique calling to its full potential.
Campbell University
The Divinity School
Buies Creek, NC
Master of Divinity (on-campus, hybrid)
- Biblical Studies
- Christian Education
- Counseling and Chaplaincy
- Historical and Theological Studies
- Missions and Evangelism
- Music and Worship
- Preaching and Pastoral Ministry
Total Estimated Cost: $52,200
Cost Per Credit: $580
Also offers: MA in Christian Ministry (Christian Education, Church Music and Worship, Congregational Leadership, Ministry to Children, Teaching the Bible, Youth Ministry); MA in Faith and Leadership Formation
- Some courses for the MDiv can be completed entirely online, while others are available in only traditional or hybrid formats
- Part-time completion options are available for students with other commitments
- With a wide variety of scholarships and other financial assistance available, around 96 percent of students get financial aid, and 60 percent of program costs covered
- The school also offers dual degree programs in MDiv-MBA and MDiv-MA Counseling for more in-depth studies in those areas
- With around 40 percent of students coming from minority backgrounds, diversity is a strong feature in the Campbell education
The Campbell Divinity School is well aware that a calling can lead you in unexpected directions. That’s why this low-cost program offers robust preparation that can take you in any direction of service, from education to a career as a pastor. You’ll find that professors here are also partners, with the school taking a strong interest in your individual preferences. In fact, the Student Advisory Leadership Team takes part in decision making for the school as a hole, hosting fellowship events and facilitating mission-focused projects designed by the student body.
OHIO - State average: $61,554
Winebrenner Theological Seminary
Findlay, OH
Master of Divinity (on-campus)
Total Estimated Cost: $10,773
Cost Per Credit: $133
Total cost is $50,781 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: MA in Practical Theology (Pastoral Care and Counseling, Homiletics, Christian Worship, Leadership Communication, History and Polity, Spiritual Formation, Discipleship Ministries, Spiritual Direction, Formational Prayer, Human Growth and Development, Group Counseling, Career Counseling, Multicultural Counseling, Counseling Children and Adolescents, Family Relations, Counseling the Dying and Grieving, Addictions and Counseling)
- A partnership with United Theological Seminary allows UMC students to complete a portion of their studies in this excellent program
- Students give the school high marks for fully developing their ministry skills and engaging in personal transformation
- Part-time attendance options make this MDiv a favorite with students already serving in a ministry
A rigorous education of the whole person is one of the key features of an MDiv at Winebrenner. You can expect a place at the table in this welcoming, grace-filled community, which will offer you support through the course of the demanding, but fulfilling program of study here. You’ll develop the education and skills you need for effective service in lay or ordained ministry, all at an incredibly low price not just for the state, but for the country! Winebrenner is a school that builds its identity around its students, not a campus, and so you’ll find every class is focused on your needs and calling.
Cedarville University
School of Biblical and Theological Studies
Saint Louis, OH
Master of Divinity (on-campus)
- Academic Ministry
- Biblical Apologetics
- Biblical Care and Counseling
- Missions
- Pastoral Ministry
- Women’s Ministry
- Worship and Theology
- Youth and Family Ministry
Total Estimated Cost: $31,521
Cost Per Credit: $399
Total cost is $30,033 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: Master of Ministry; MA in Biblical Leadership; MA in Worship and Theology
- Engage in guided ministry experience starting in year one and throughout your time here for fully-developed field skills
- A third-year internship offers even more experiential learning opportunity
- Graduates have gone on to roles as pastors, bible teachers, church planters, and pastoral counselors among other professional roles
- You’ll have close faculty interaction in every class from expert instructors with experience as ministers and strong academic credentials
- Each student receives mentorship from an experience minister
- The beautiful setting of the Center for Biblical and Theological Studies offers collaboration rooms, a homiletics laboratory, a biblical archive, and computer equipment to offer all the study support and resources you may need
Field experience is the name of the game in Cedarville’s School of Biblical and Theological Studies MDiv program. Guided ministry work starts as soon as you do, and builds to a full internship experience by the end of your studies. With a strong academic backing from coursework in one of eight different concentrations, you’ll be set for success. As a comprehensive university, Cedarville also puts you shoulder-to-shoulder with many other future professionals in different fields, expanding your horizons and developing your skills as a multicultural minister.
Payne Theological Seminary
Wilberforce, OH
Master of Divinity (on-campus, online)
Total Estimated Cost: $49,200
Cost Per Credit: $600
Total cost is $12,354 below the state average for similar programs!
- An Africentric Curriculum offers a unique approach to ministry for the African-American community
- The school maintains 15 educational partnerships to expand your access to resources and expertise
- With an 83 percent retention rate and a more than 95 percent job placement rate in the MDiv program alone, PTS has a stamp of approval from regional churches
- A 100 percent online option ensures you have the opportunity to complete your degree without ever setting foot on campus
- The Bishop Revery C. Ransom Memorial Library holds more than 35,000 volumes with a unique focus on African American culture and religion for your reference and studies
Payne offers an environment of tolerance and excellence, with the community giving both support and upholding high standards for every student enrolled here. In the finest tradition of servant leadership, you’ll find experienced, expert professors who are compassionate and invested in making your MDiv experience a success. Affiliations with both the African Methodist Episcopal Church and the Anderson Ecumenical Institute offer inroads for experiential learning and future employment. With top-notch student and academic services behind you all the way, your odds of getting the job you want with a PTS MDiv behind you are some of the highest in the state!
Ashland University
Ashland Theological Seminary
Ashland, OH
Master of Divinity (on-campus, online, hybrid)
- Chaplaincy
Total Estimated Cost: $50,400
Cost Per Credit: $630
Total cost is $11,154 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: MA in Biblical Studies; MA in Black Church Studies; MA in Historical and Theological Studies
- You’ll have the opportunity to join the LIFE631 program that offer a residential, co-curricular learning opportunity that prioritizes emotional and spiritual formation
- With 94 percent of students from the 2020 graduating class reporting high satisfaction with the teaching here, you can be sure you’ll absorb everything in the program
- With a broad evangelical approach, you’ll be equipped to take God’s teaching and apply it across your life and ministry
- Individualized attention meets community support and discussion for the best of both worlds in your journey to the MDiv
Ashland recognizes that effective ministry evolves with culture. Today’s pastors face more challenges than ever, which is why they have built a comprehensive MDiv offering that steps up your skills, devotion, and critical knowledge to successful navigate modern ministry demands. Even better, the program is built around the realities of modern life, which means it can be conducted both in-person and remote, with on-demand classes that are available when you have time for them. Better yet, you can mix and match in a hybrid style that delivers the right kind of class to match the coursework involved. All those options at one of the most affordable prices in the state make this a program worth considering for anyone!
Capital University
Trinity Lutheran Seminary
Columbus, OH
Master of Divinity (on-campus)
Total Estimated Cost: $53,760
Cost Per Credit: $640
Total cost is $7,794 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: MA in Youth and Family Ministry; Master of Theological Studies (option to combine with JD); Master of Sacred Theology (Biblical Studies, Mission and Evangelism, Pastoral Leadership and Practice, Theological Studies)
- The unique 2+2 structure of this program ensures that two full years of strong academic studies are followed by another two of full-time internship work
- Students participate in and lead daily worship services while on campus to build community spirituality and togetherness
- Support ELCA students in their ordination candidacy process
- A diverse student body that includes traditional undergraduates as well as divinity students gives you a broad perspective on ministry
- Columbus offers a vibrant metropolitan experience and great livability ratings
- Project Indigo program offers digital tools to offer holistic support even to students on campus
Contextual education is the biggest emphasis at Capital, which you can immediately spot in their well-designed internship program. With a full two years of on-site pastoral ministry work, punctuated with intensive return visits to campus and part-time online studies, you get far more real-world experience than most seminary programs can offer. At the same time, you get full support from classmates and faculty during your immersion, smoothing your entry to the ministry. Capital offers a dynamic, exciting, comprehensive ministerial education at a low price you don’t want to miss.
United Theological Seminary
Datron, OH
Master of Divinity (on-campus, online)
- Biblical Interpretation
- Chaplaincy and Pastoral Care
- Church Planting
- Holy Spirit and Renewal
- Ministry Leadership
- Preaching
- Wesleyan and Methodist Studies
Total Estimated Cost: $61,620
Cost Per Credit: $790
Also offers: Master of Ministry; MA in Christian Ministry; Master of Theological Studies
- Graduates not only find positions as pastors but also as lay professional, chaplains, nonprofit leaders, and in education
- Gathering Weeks bring you back to campus for face-to-face interaction with faculty and professors to keep your connection even when taking the online format
- LIVE Interactive Virtual Education courses offer remote real-time video of on-campus classes
- A flexible curriculum offers not only a set of standard concentrations, but allows you to brew your own unique specialization through electives
- Also offers a dual MDiv-MBA degree for additional business expertise
Enormously flexible class options and diverse Christian perspectives characterize the Master of Divinity degree program at UTS. The courses are pursued not only by traditional students from more than 30 different denominations, but also but currently working pastors and professionals who bring valuable insight to combined courses. It also helps ensure that you get a tremendously practical education, rooted in the real-world challenges of ministry, with realistic solutions and an education from faculty who have been there and know what works.
OKLAHOMA - State average: $33,378
Family of Faith Christian University
Global Awakening Theological Seminary
Shawnee, OK
Master of Divinity (on-campus)
- Bible
- Ministry
Total Estimated Cost: $20,625
Cost Per Credit: $275
Total cost is $12,753 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: MA in Evangelism; MA in Pastoral Ministry; MA in Bible
- All courses are taught from the perspective of continuationism, a unique feature of this program
- Learn to identify Christ-like character and operate in the spiritual gifts as well as ministry gifts
- Teachers, pastors, prophets, and evangelists work as team members bound in deep covenant together for a coordinated education.
If learning the commanded instruction to heal the sick, cast out demons, raise the dead, and minister to the poor were on your checklist for things to learn in a Master of Divinity program, then FFCU has got you covered. With a universal perspective of continuationism, you’ll learn in each class how the ever-living miracles brought by God and Jesus Christ continue into the present day, not just in Biblical history. The school is associated with International Christian Leadership Connections for a network of churches and training centers worldwide that help provide a quality education with local and trans local experience.
OREGON - State average: $52,120
Corban University
School of Divinity
Salem, OR
Master of Divinity (hybrid, online)
- Biblical Languages
- Church Ministry
Total Estimated Cost: $38,250
Cost Per Credit: $250
Total cost is $13,870 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: MA in Christian Leadership (Christian Teaching, Non-Profit Leadership, Spiritual Formation)
- Expert faculty hear bring decades of real-world experience to the classroom as church planters, Bible commentators, pastors, and administrators
- Faculty mentors ensure that all your learning is relevant and meaningful to your calling
- A 12:1 student-to-faculty ratio keeps class sizes small and maximizes your learning experience
- Recognized as a College of Distinction and ranked by U.S. News & World Reports as among the Best Universities in the West
- A gorgeous 220-acre forested campus offers space for quiet reflection and contemplation
- Alumni and matching scholarships are available to help lower your costs even further
When it comes to getting a multicultural education, West Coast campuses are hard to beat. In Corban’s case, the students on campus here are actually outnumbered by worldwide students, bringing a virtual diversity to your education that few other divinity schools can match. The school places a big emphasis on accurate interpretation of scripture, which makes their Biblical Languages track even more important. You’ll graduate with a solid foundation in Christian apologetics, lived theology, and have the skills to clearly communicate the gospel in any scenario.
George Fox University
Portland Seminary
Portland, OR
Master of Divinity (hybrid)
- Biblical Studies
- Chaplaincy
- Christian History and Theology
- Spiritual Direction
- Spiritual Formation and Discipleship
Total Estimated Cost: $46,020
Cost Per Credit: $590
Total cost is $6,100 below the state average for similar programs!
- The on-campus BridgeWeek face-to-face meetings each semester keep you closely tied to both instructors and fellow students
- A strong commitment to spiritual formation for every student ensures that you are prepared to face the world after graduation
- A required three-day orientation for new students called WaterFront builds your connections with students and staff before you even get started
- Founded in the Wesleyan tradition, today the seminar hosts students of almost 50 denominational traditions
The emphasis on spiritual formation at George Fox is front and center in this MDiv program. You’ll pursue an ever-deepening sense of the reality of Jesus Christ as you progress through the program. That’s a boost to your intercultural and interpersonal relationships, and offers benefits as you learn pastoral care, preaching, and Christian leadership. You’ll find clarity in Christianity both through your own spiritual development and the diversity of Christian heritages that you will find enrolled and teaching at this program.
Multnomah University
Seminary
Portland, OR
Master of Divinity (on-campus, online)
- Theological Studies
- Chaplaincy and Pastoral Care
Total Estimated Cost: $46,401
Cost Per Credit: $595
Total cost is $5,719 below the state average for similar programs!
- Respected faculty members have decades of experience and deep connections with God
- A gorgeous Portland location offers all the benefits of living in an exciting multicultural city with the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest
- The spiritual focus here is field by Chapel, a weekly Agora, and weekly gatherings organized by the Institute for Cultural Engagement for discussion
- The program offers broad exposure to various aspects of vocational ministry, engaging in hands-on learning in several ministry contexts
- Study abroad opportunities can take your studies to various parts of the world for new perspectives and experiences
- A day of outreach each fall helps connect students to the community for service throughout the city
Multnomah knows that you were made for more, and this MDiv sets you up for wherever the Lord has called you. The school believes that higher education is an empowering experience, and understanding the Holy path you are on requires guidance from committed, faithful faculty. You deserve to earn your MDiv at a university that believes in you, and the tight-knit Christian community here delivers the ultimate in support to help you along your path. Education goes beyond the walls of the classroom here, not just through the community, but also in a deep appreciation for God’s world and the people who inhabit it.
Western Seminary
Portland, OR
Master of Divinity (on-campus, online)
- Biblical/Theological Studies
- Chaplaincy
- Coaching
- Exegetical Studies
- Pastoral Studies
- Women’s Transformational Leadership
Total Estimated Cost: $50,594
Cost Per Credit: $617
Total cost is $1,526 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: MA in Ministry and Leadership (Biblical/Theological Studies Chaplaincy, Coaching, Pastoral Studies, Women's Transformational Leadership); MA in Biblical and Theological Studies (Biblical Languages, Biblical/Theological Studies, Chaplaincy Coaching, Exegetical Studies, Pastoral Studies, Women's Transformational Leadership); Master of Applied Biblical Leadership; Master of Theology (Systematic Theology, Historical Theology, Pastoral Theology, Old Testament, New Testament)
- Also offers locations in San Jose and Sacramento
- Program emphasizes Gospel-centrality and biblical theology with a personal statement of faith rather than seminary doctrine
- Study tours available to Israel or Greece and Turkey for extra elective credit and additional cultural experience
- A unique approach to Ministry Leadership Formation allows you to form a mentoring team within your own ministry setting
Western Seminary seems to always know exactly where you are coming from. Rather than force you to adopt a standard seminary Statement of Faith, you’re allowed to create your own, expressing your denominational and personal views. Where you are concerned about cost, WS offers a low-cost program and encourages financial stewardship through schooling to keep your costs down. Where you want to know that your education will bring you knowledge and skill in your own individual ministry, Western encourages the formation of a leadership mentoring team drawn from people within that ministry already. It’s a custom-tailored education at a fraction of the cost of larger seminaries, with the freedom and flexibility to be accessible to any student.
PENNSYLVANIA - State average: $62,070
Evangelical Theological Seminary
Myerstown, PA
Master of Divinity (on-campus)
Total Estimated Cost: $14,256
Cost Per Credit: $198
Total cost is $47,814 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: MA (Ministry, Bible, Religion, Leadership, Spiritual formation)
- A competency-based model allows you to demonstrate your skills and knowledge across a range of outcomes
- A team of three mentors, covering faculty, vocational, and personal needs accompany you on your journey throughout the program
- Contextually-integrated learning experiences ensure that you develop knowledge within the realm of your chosen ministry
- The Pense Learning Center offers leadership training through partnerships with local churches and denominations, offering ongoing scholarship opportunities
Rooted in the Wesleyan tradition, ETS adopts the qualities of boldness and broadness in its evangelical commitments. That has resulted in many innovative and useful collaborations, including the Kairos Project through which this epic MDiv is offered. You are challenged by your coursework to become a person of skill and integrity, yet you are supported with innovative contextual learning that maintains a constant focus on your personal calling. Community and mentorship round out the experience, with not just one, but three devoted mentors for each student.
Reformed Episcopal Seminary
Blue Bell, PA
Master of Divinity (on-campus)
Total Estimated Cost: $24,500
Cost Per Credit: $345
Total cost is $37,570 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: MA in Theological Studies (Anglican Theology, Christian Education)
- Faculty come with extensive pastoral experience and apply it directly to classroom lessons
- An honors thesis option for the top students prepares them for further writing or theological study
- Convocation Series presentations dive into special presentations on subjects such as world religions and missions
- 83 percent of students have scholarships, cutting down on your costs even further
- Founded in 1873, the continuing commitment of this seminary to the education of clergy is demonstrated by its heritage
As the flagship degree at this seminary, the MDiv offers the best the school has to offer: top-notch instructors, first-rate curriculum, unparalleled rigor. You’ll study with the best here, with students and faculty alike committed to orthodox biblical Christianity and integrity. The faculty have a passion for historic faith and worship of the Gospel, and you’ll be a good fit if you do, too. A low student-to-faculty ratio means you will have plenty of interaction along the way with experienced and expert professors.
Pittsburgh Theological Seminary
Pittsburgh, PA
Master of Divinity (on-campus)
- Church Planting
- Anglican-Episcopal Studies
- Urban Ministries
Total Estimated Cost: $38,070
Cost Per Credit: $479
Total cost is $24,000 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: MA in Pastoral Studies (Anglican-Episcopal Studies, MAPS-JD); Master of Theological Studies (MTS-JD)
- Benefit from contextual learning in your Field Education experience, a year-long placement that delivers firsthand experience in ministry
- A required cross-cultural experience ensures you will be exposed to new ideas and new perspectives
- Field placements may happen at churches in urban, suburban, or rural environments, hospitals, nonprofits, or dozens of other special agencies
- The school hold the largest theological library in the tri-state area for vast research and scholarship support
- A low student-to-faculty ratio ensures plenty of direct attention from professors
- Dual degrees in MDiv-MSW and MDiv-JD are also available to boost your expertise in social work or the law
PTS has a lot going for it even before you realize that it offers one of the lowest cost MDivs in Pennsylvania. The school develops a deep integration between classical theological disciplines and the modern necessity of missional outreach. You will appreciate the emphasis on contextual education, as you take part in a mandatory cross-cultural mission trip and spend a full year in a ministry field placement. But along with the rigor comes flexibility in electives and learning more about your own faith as well as that of others. Graduates have gone on to further education, chaplaincies, non-profit management, church planting, and of course successful pastoral positions. Cooperative agreements with the University of Pittsburgh and Duquesne University expand your scholarly horizons even further with two dual degree options.
Eastern University
Palmer Theological Seminary and College
St. Davids, PA
Master of Divinity (on-campus, online, hybrid)
- Pastoral Leadership
- Adaptive Leadership
Total Estimated Cost: $38,454
Cost Per Credit: $493
Total cost is $23,616 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: MA in Theological and Cultural Anthropology; Master of Theology-Spanish; Master of Practical Theology
- A second campus location in Parchment Valley, West Virginia expands your attendance options with a blended residency/online format
- Afternoon and evening courses make this program accessible to currently working individuals
- Enjoy studying in a diverse group of students, faculty, and staff
- Many scholarship opportunities are available to keep your costs even lower
- An MDiv-MBA dual degree option can blend your theological studies with business expertise
- A 13:1 student to faculty ratio keeps accessibility to expert instructors easy
- Almost 90 percent of students receive scholarship or financial aid
A deep commitment to social justice throughout the coursework and work of the faculty here characterize the Palmer program in divinity. With both online and on-campus programs, you will master six key dimensions of church practice as well as absorbing traditional knowledge of history and scripture. You won’t find yourself buried in the past, however. You’ll be asked to identify emerging questions within your own ministry context and learn how to apply theological thought and humanities to help answer them.
Byzantine Catholic Seminary of Saints Cyril and Methodius
Pittsburgh, PA
Master of Divinity (on-campus, hybrid)
Total Estimated Cost: $39,750
Cost Per Credit: $375
Total cost is $22,320 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: Master of Arts in Theology
- Option to complete either a thesis project, an integrative pastoral research project, or a comprehensive exam in order to fulfill graduation requirements adds flexibility
- Ability to pursue directed independent study through electives allow you to effectively create your own specializations
- The campus library offers access to nearly 25,000 items and a catalog of 150 periodicals for your research and study basis
You’ll find your gifts quickly uncovered and nurtured to maturity through this proud and effective MDiv program. As one of the foremost schools offering education in Eastern ecclesial traditions, BCS has a strong history of supporting students through a tight-knit community of active priests and accomplished professors. Spiritual guidance is a deeply integrated part of the program, with prayer rule formation and other helpful instruction offered. There is a commitment to your success as a person, a priest, and a student here that you won’t soon forget.
Clarks Summit University
Baptist Bible Seminary
Clarks Summit, PA
Master of Divinity (on-campus, online, hybrid)
- Pastoral
- Greek
- Non-greek
- General
- Greek
- Non-greek
Total Estimated Cost: $41,325
Cost Per Credit: $475
Total cost is $20,745 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: MA (Bible Language and Theology, Bible Apologetics, Languages, Studies, Church Planting and Renewal, New Testament Studies, Old Testament Studies, Theological Studies); Master of Ministry (Pastoral, General); Master of Theology
- Get immediate experience in ministry through a 12-credit hour internship or integrative ministry project
- A unique modular course option packs some courses into two-weeks of accelerated on-campus study
- Small class sizes and professors who are fully invested in your success guarantee a lot of faculty interaction when you need it
- Ranked as the top faith-based online college in the state, and the 18th most affordable Bible or Christian college
Baptist Bible Seminary is on the lookout for students who are passionate about professional ministry, value rigorous academics, and aren’t afraid of a practical, hands-on education. That’s exactly what they deliver, with a core curriculum of Bible and theology coursework built up into first-hand experience for excellence in ministry. Additional discounts are available to some students, which can make this already affordable program even more inexpensive. A focus on languages means your two track options can be further split into advanced standing by your command of Greek. You’ll graduate with the ability to understand Scripture and deliver the healing Word of God to a hurting world.
Lancaster Bible College
Capital Seminary and Graduate School
Lancaster, PA
Master of Divinity (online, hybrid)
- Formational Leadership
- Christian Care
- Bible Exposition
- Children and Family Ministry
- Christian Apologetics
- Christian Theology
- Church Planting
- Organization Leadership
- Pastoral Studies
- Worship Arts
- Youth and Young Adult Ministry
Total Estimated Cost: $41,475
Cost Per Credit: $553
Total cost is $20,595 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: MA in Biblical Studies (Bible Exposition, Christian Apologetics, Theology); MA in Christian Care; MA in Ministry (Church Planting, Formational Children & Family Ministry, Leadership Studies Pastoral Studies, Youth & Young Adult Ministry)
- Designed with both flexible formats and attendance options so you can pace out your classes to fit your lifestyle
- Highly customizable studies are available through more than 10 different available concentrations
- The school’s partnership with Faithlife allows each student to be provided with the Logos Bible Software package for a fraction of the normal price
- Offers a 14:1 student-to-faculty ratio to ensure positive access to your professors when you need them
Intentional formation and reflective practice are two of the things that make the LBC|Capital program unique among MDivs. Foundational coursework dedicated to help you develop personal spiritual formation and ongoing support from faculty are key pieces of this distinction. You’ll also have a healthy helping of cultural awareness here, with diversity addressed both through courses and your field experience. Students have gone on to become teachers, church planters, non-profit leaders, pastors, and chaplains. High tech here means high flexibility, with many concentration options and both scheduling and location based freedom through online and hybrid attendance options.
Missio Theological Seminary
Pennsylvania, PA
Master of Divinity (on-campus)
- Language
- Pastoral Ministry
- Urban Ministry
- Counseling
- Missiology
Total Estimated Cost: $45,780
Cost Per Credit: $545
Total cost is $16,920 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: MA in Ministry; MA in Missiology Theology (Ministry, Counseling); MA in Missional Theology; MA in Biblical Studies; Master of Theology (hermeneutics and biblical interpretation)
- A tremendously flexible attendance plan allows completion in as few as three years
- Courses meet one night per week and one Saturday per month to allow working students the option to attend
- In addition to the structured concentrations, students may select most other elective options as a unique concentration choice
- Philadelphia campus locations offers studies in the heart of a multicultural urban environment with both historic and cultural benefits
Students from Missio graduate fully equipped to enter with vocational ministry or academic or research professions. Original biblical language studies are rigorous and deep, allowing you to form your own perspectives on Scriptural text. But despite strength in ancient language programs, Missio operates with full appreciation for the modern world, tailoring their training to the messy reality that you will need to engage with as a minister. The Philadelphia location of the school makes it and ideal place to prepare for urban missions anywhere in the country. Students here feel both challenged and supported by their peers and professors.
Trinity School for Ministry
Ambridge, PA
Master of Divinity (on-campus, hybrid)
- Lutheran Focus
- Presbyterian Focus
Total Estimated Cost: $50,400
Cost Per Credit: $560
Total cost is $11,670 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: MA in Religion [Biblical Studies, Catechesis & Christian Formation, Christian History & Theology, Christian Ministry and Missiology, Christian History & Theology (Lutheran Focus), Christian Ministry and Missiology (Lutheran Focus)]; Master of Sacred Theology (Church History, New Testament, Old Testament, Theology of the Trinity, The Atonement, Baptism, Christianity and the Arts)
- The school’s unique InterTerms offer a 5-day seminary class or conference even on campus with daily worship, witness, meals, and study blended together
- Lutheran and Presbyterian tracks are conducted in partnership with NALS and EPC respectively for a solid course of training in either denomination
- Daily prayer offerings are officiated by students, allowing direct ministry experience on campus
- The Eucharist is conducted with a variety of worship and liturgical styles to expose you to different forms of Christian worship
When you find a school that offers Lenten Devotionals online, then you know you’ve found a divinity program where you can truly feel comfortable with a mostly remote course of study. Trinity is that school, and the ways they go the extra mile to support remote students will make you feel right at home. But the traditional on campus program brings you to the heart of a strong community with genuine care and accountability among students and faculty. It’s a superb learning environment for the intricacies of scripture as well as the details of spiritual formation. The small-town setting means Trinity is a big part of the community, and vice versa, offering a real home-town feeling for students attending here.
Cairn University
School of Divinity
Langhome, PA
Master of Divinity (on-campus)
Total Estimated Cost: $58,464
Cost Per Credit: $609
Total cost is $3,606 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: MA in Religion; MA in Worship and Music; Master of Theology
- Studies are offered in a multi denominational (more than 40!) conservative evangelical setting
- Courses are held Tuesday and Thursdays to help students accommodate work schedules
- Transfer in up to 24 credits earned at accredited Christian schools
- Scholarship opportunities available to select students can reduce you costs by 50 percent from the already low rate
- The Center for University Studies serves students through more than a dozen study abroad opportunities as well as a rigorous Honors Program
Cairn is serious about biblical knowledge as a part of this classic Master of Divinity program. You’ll study the Bible cover-to-cover, and dive in with the original Greek and Hebrew with two years of language studies. When this divinity school says they create Biblically-minded students, they mean it! But your study opportunities range far broader than just the Good Book. Guest lectures and conferences, faculty presentations, forums, and university-sponsored field trips all help you broaden your perspective and develop your ministry skills for success in the 21st century.
Bryn Athyn College of the New Church
Bryn Athyn, PA
Master of Divinity (on-campus)
Total Estimated Cost: $59,013
Cost Per Credit: $472
Total cost is $3,057 below the state average for similar programs!
- A New Church-centered program that is founded in doctrinal study, communication skills, and experiential learning
- The brand new College Center building features a state-of-the-art fitness center and health clinic
- An amazingly low 6:1 student-to-faculty ratio puts you on track to building strong relationships with your professors in the classroom and out
- Spiritual and volunteer opportunities abound through volunteering, spiritual growth groups, and guided meditation
- Community worship is a regular occurrence with strong connections to the local community as well as the student body
You’ll be challenged here to think independently, to develop your thoughts clearly, and to communicate them effectively. It’s a core concept that serves both your religious learning and your abilities to successfully minister in a modern community. That starts close to home, in delightful Bryn Athyn, home to the Glencairn Museum, the Bryn Athyn Cathedral, and Cairnwood Estate. At the same time, you’re on the doorstep to busy, thriving Philadelphia, with all the cultural and urban ministry opportunities that await. The CARE Community Service Organization is just one student-run volunteer group that organizes community service events and opportunities for off-campus contributions. It all fits together with strong, intellectually open coursework that give you the knowledge and tools you need to be a success in the ministry.
SOUTH CAROLINA - State average: $32,083
Allen University
Dickerson-Green Theological Seminary
Columbia, SC
Master of Divinity (on-campus, online, hybrid)
- Chaplaincy
Total Estimated Cost: $25,350
Cost Per Credit: $338
Total cost is $6,733 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: MA in Religious Studies
- Faculty are all qualified by both academic strength and professional experience in the field
- The school is an HBCU founded in 1870 and continuing to uphold a tradition of preparing clergy with a quality education
- Many scholarship opportunities are available to cut your costs down even lower than the already low pricing here
- Faculty all hold advanced degrees and have strong publication and presentation histories in the academic fields they specialize in
Prepare for leadership roles in Christian congregational life and beyond with this fast, affordable Master of Divinity program. Allen has been producing educators, clergy, and officials with character since 1870. When you go to a school with a campus core listed on the Register of Historic Places, you know you’ve found somewhere that heritage counts. In particular, the school definitely has a handle on preparing high-quality graduates with a community focus and strong theological backing to fulfill their calling.
Anderson University
Clamp Divinity School
Greenville, SC
Master of Divinity (on-campus, online, hybrid)
- Youth Ministry
Total Estimated Cost: $28,125
Cost Per Credit: $375
Total cost is $3,958 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: Master of Ministry; Master of Ministry Management
- All faculty hold advanced degrees and have years of practical experience to bring to the classroom
- Choose between traditional 15-week semesters or a special accelerated 7-week term in either online or traditional formats
- Graduates have gone on to missionary work around the world as well as roles as pastors or even executives
- A Southern Baptist Convention affiliated university
Clamp faculty take a vested interest in your performance throughout your time in this intense but practical program. You’ll get valuable mentorship from individuals who have been there and done the work. Their real-world experience is reflected in the curriculum here, which emphasizes leadership training far beyond what most MDivs offer. At least three courses in leadership, teaching you how to deal with the practical issues of ministry like budgeting, volunteer management, and strategic planning give you a strong foundation in managing large or small churches or foundations. You’ll graduate here fully prepared to lead and to serve, and with your bank account intact.
North Greenville University
Graduate School of Christian Ministry
Tigerville, SC
Master of Divinity (online)
- Pastoral Ministry
- Church Health and Revitalization
- Discipleship and Spiritual Formation
- Missions and Evangelism
Total Estimated Cost: $31,125
Cost Per Credit: $415
Total cost is $958 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: Master’s in Christian Ministry
- With 5 different start dates per year, you’ll have no trouble finding the right time to match up with this program
- Professors with advanced degrees in their fields and plenty of real-world experience help you at every step of the journey
- The Center for Student Success and the Center for Teaching and the Writing Center offer strong academic and advisory support to every student
- The specialized eLearning Center offers practical tools and personalized support for online students and instructors to get the most out of this fully online program
The NGU MDiv won’t make you choose between academic growth and learning the day-to-day people-centered skills required of practical ministry. The program successfully integrates academic learning with real-world impact, teaching you how to translate classical theological and biblical frameworks into ministry areas such as evangelism, missions, discipleship, and more. The four available tracks are enough to cover most interest areas without stretching the curriculum outside the bounds of the reasonable. With an emphasis on strong support for remote learning, you can absorb everything that this information-packed degree has for you and graduate ready to excel.
SOUTH DAKOTA - State average: $22,833
Kairos University
Sioux Falls Seminary
Sioux Falls, SD
Master of Divinity (on-campus, online)
- Missional Theology
- Systems Design and Thinking
- Pastoral Care
- Clinical Pastoral Education
- Biblical Languages
- Spiritual Formation and Direction
- Chaplaincy
- Finances
- Strategic Leadership
Total Estimated Cost: $8,136
Cost Per Credit: $113
Total cost is $14,697 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: MA (Biblical studies, Theology, Spiritual formation and direction)
- With one of the lowest cost programs in the entire country, Kairos opens up options for almost any student
- A context-based program delivers relevant but faithful training in the areas of ministry most important to effective growth
- You’ll work with a mentor team to help design your own unique experiential program of study
- Focus areas are not limited to those listed, but can be designed for unique options unavailable at any other program
- Small group reflection offers an opportunity to commune with both pastors and peers on your studies and experiences
Kairos offers a unique MDiv experience that has turned out to be a wild success. Started only a decade ago, it has successfully educated more than 4,000 students, with partners and mentors from more than 30 countries and over 70 denominations. That’s a big stamp of approval for a program that clocks in with possibly the lowest cost-per-credit in the nation, and one of the lowest total costs of education. Personalization is part of the brand, with unique focus areas available, a design revolving around your own calling and interests, and a team of not one, not two, but three different mentors with different specializations to give you support in every area of study.
TENNESSEE - State average: $59,406
Lipscomb University
Hazelip School of Technology
Nashville, TN
Master of Divinity (hybrid)
Total Estimated Cost: $37,800
Cost Per Credit: $525
Total cost is $21,606 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: MA in Christian Ministry; Master of Theological Studies (Scripture, Old Testament, New Testament, Theology & History)
- In-person coursework can be completed in Nashville or in Austin, Texas, offering additional flexibility for regional students
- Cohort-based or traditional formats allow you to pick the most flexible model for your studies
- A comprehensive curriculum offers training in Scripture, languages, theology, history, and more in a global context
- Attentive and expert faculty help you make the most of your time in every class
- Each semester includes a service day during which classes are canceled and students go out into the community to meet the need of various local organizations
- The Joshua Project is a unique program of mentorship that connects students to mentors from alumni, faculty, or staff
Graduates from this comprehensive MDiv program have gone on to work in areas as varied as nonprofit work, Christian publishing, and education alongside the usual path to ordination as pastors. A basic competence in practicing day-to-day works of the ministry is delivered alongside elective options that allow you to narrow down your studies in line with your personal calling. A flexible hybrid structure with multiple campus locations and options for which courses to pursue online and which to take on-campus makes this a suitable program for both traditional and non-traditional students.
Welch College
Welch Divinity School
Gallatin, TN
Master of Divinity (on-campus)
Total Estimated Cost: $38,250
Cost Per Credit: $450
Total cost is $21,156 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: MA in Theology and Ministry
- The school offers an accelerated BA-MDiv track for exceptional undergraduate students that can have you completing both degrees in only five years
- Up to 25 credit hours of instruction can be transferred from other relevant programs toward your degree completion here
- A low tuition rate is dropped even further through the many institutional scholarships available at Welch for divinity students
- Faculty have extensive in the field experience on top of advanced academic credentials to give you the best of both worlds in the classroom
- Campus life is filled with exciting service and cultural events at Welch alongside opportunities for spiritual growth
Welch starts students off with a traditional perspective in Scriptural interpretation and systematic theology. But you’ll find your education quickly shifting to modern debates and cultural challenges, as theological critique informed by a Christian worldview tackles modern trends and issues in secular cultures, as well as exploring the effects of these trajectories in church culture itself. It’s a nuanced, informed perspective to take in the education of future pastors. You’ll cultivate lifelong friendships with fellow students in your program, and find plenty of support as you enter your own ministry after graduation.
Pentecostal Theological Seminary
Cleveland, TN
Master of Divinity (on-campus, online)
- Biblical Studies
- Historical Studies
- Theological Studies
- Chaplaincy
- Children’s ministry
- Discipleship and Christian Formation
- World Mission and Evangelism
- Ministry Leadership
- Community Development and Urban Care
- Youth and Family Ministry
- Counseling/Marriage and Family
Total Estimated Cost: $40,640
Cost Per Credit: $508
Total cost is $18,766 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: Master of Theological Studies (Biblical Studies); MA in Christian Studies; MA in Church Ministries (Discipleship & Ministry Leadership, Global Pentecostalism & Mission, Congregational Care & Counseling)
- Full and part-time formats available for a flexible approach to higher education
- A wealth of different concentrations available to allow you to pursue a track most in line with your personal calling
- A dedicated alumni group means that you will keep your connection with the school and with fellow students throughout your career for both fellowship and support
- Learn from professors who are world-renowned educators but nonetheless bring heart and compassion to your classes
The effective PTS MDiv program is built so that every student has the flexibility to design a course of study most appropriate to their personal calling and needs. Dedicated academic advisors help you put your plan together for the most tailored experience, online or on campus. In both cases, you’ll find a vibrant community that is committed to helping you explore the roots and progression of Pentecostalism. A strong alumni group is a good sign that people who go to PTS are connected to their fellow students and their formation in this program for life.
Milligan University
Emmanuel Christian Seminary at Milligan
Milligan, TN
Master of Divinity (on-campus)
- New Testament
- Old Testament
- Church History
- Historical Theology
- Christian Care and Counseling
- Christian Ministries
- Christian World Mission
- Christian Spiritual Formation
Total Estimated Cost: $44,550
Cost Per Credit: $495
Total cost is $14,856 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: MA in Christian Ministries; MA in Religion (New Testament, Old Testament, Church History, Christian Theology, Historical Theology)
- School also offers an accelerated BA+MDiv program that allows you to complete both degrees in only six years
- With 10 specialization options, you won’t have trouble finding a concentration to fit your calling
- Ranked as one of the Best Regional Universities in the South by U.S. News & World Report, and one of Washington Monthly’s Top 20 Master’s Universities in the Nation
- Respected Christian faculty have high credentials in their field and established teaching experience
- A 12:1 student-to-faculty ratio guarantees personal attention and a more informed educational experience
Located in beautiful northeast Tennessee, you’ll fall in love with this campus from the first moment you visit. You’re not alone—1,300 students from 35 states and more than 30 countries are already there studying. It’s also a sign of quality and continuity that some 60 percent of Milligan professors are there for the long haul, with 10 or more years teaching here. More than 40 social, service, honorary, professional, or campus life organizations make it a sure bet that you will fit in somewhere with your interests. You’ll also find plenty of service projects and mission works to help you with experiential progress toward your MDiv.
Memphis Theological Seminary
Memphis, TN
Master of Divinity (on-campus, hybrid)
Total Estimated Cost: $51,240
Cost Per Credit: $610
Total cost is $8,166 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: MA in Christian Ministry (Youth and Young Adult Ministry, Christian Education, Social Justice, Methodist Ministry, Chaplain Studies)
- A night track schedule is available for students who prefer on-campus learning but have other commitments during regular class hours
- Practicums are scattered throughout the program for immersive, hands-on learning
- Certificate add-ons in Wesleyan Studies or Chaplain Studies allow you to tune your degree to particular callings in those areas
- Past graduates give the school high marks for diversity in lifestyles and doctrine that deep understanding and compassion
Practical, hands-on ministry is a highlight and area of emphasis in the MTS program, with plenty of experiential studies starting right from the very beginning of the program. You’ll spend plenty of time in class, too, interpreting Scripture and doctrine, developing personal piety, and growing your sense of justice, but be prepared to put all those things into practice, because MTS is serious about equipping competent pastors ready for the field. A strong emphasis on social justice here and ties with the larger Christian community also open your eyes to the challenges the church faces today, and equips you with the skills to meet them.
Freed-Hardeman University
Graduate School of Theology
Henderson, TN
Master of Divinity (on-campus, online)
- Old Testament
- New Testament
- Biblical Languages
- Apologetics
- Ministry
- Missions
- Church History
- Chaplaincy
Total Estimated Cost: $53,070
Cost Per Credit: $610
Total cost is $6,336 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: MA in Ministry (Preaching, Missions, Leadership); MA in Old Testament; MA in New Testament; MA in Pastoral Care and Counseling
- Participates in the Zondervan Awards, recognizing students for outstanding achievements in Biblical Studies
- Students are mentored by expert faculty who are dedicated to finding your personal strengths
- Many on-campus events and lectures add to your scholarship through extracurricular experiences
- The opportunity to serve on mission trips can take you to places like the Dominican Republic or Honduras to broaden your compassion and interests
- This fast-paced program can be completed in as few as two years
An emphasis on your spiritual life, academic excellence, and fellowship, FHU offers a supportive community for your transformation to ministry. Prayer, scripture, and service are embedded into all classes and activities, deepening your relationship with the Lord even as you advance your education in Bible studies and doctrine. The strong community here makes the academic elements of your MDiv even more powerful, as dedicated faculty mentors seek to help you find your passions and strengths and build on them.
University of the South (Sewanee)
School of Theology
Sewanee, TN
Master of Divinity (on-campus)
Total Estimated Cost: $54,900
Cost Per Credit: $732
Total cost is $4,506 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: MA (General Track, Concentration in Bible, Concentration in Church History, Concentration in Theology, Concentration in Religion and the Environment); Master of Sacred Theology (General Track, Anglican Studies Track)
- A required portfolio you will build throughout your training gives both you and future employers a full picture of your accomplishments
- Illustrious graduates or former staff of the university include famous musicians, decorated military veterans, and the current U.S. Ambassador to South Africa
- Community and cultural events such as performances by the American Spiritual Ensemble enliven your attendance here
- Graduates speak highly of community and collegiality found in this program
The Sewanee community is grounded in worship. Morning prayer, the Eucharist, and evening prayer are going to be regular features in your days here, taken together in the Chapel of the Apostles with fellow students and instructors. Your preparation for the ministry will be both practical and rigorous, however, with extensive field experience and plenty of training for the day-to-day aspects of pastoral care: cross-cultural and diversity workshops, mental health training, and parish leadership. Professors are approachable and accessible, and open to new challenges just as they expect students to be.
TEXAS - State average: $46,825
Arlington Baptist University
Graduate School of Theology
Arlington, TX
Master of Divinity (online)
- Chaplaincy
- Theology
- Pastoral Ministry
- Biblical Counseling
- Biblical Missions
- Apologetics
- Biblical Languages
- Educational Ministries
Total Estimated Cost: $24,000
Cost Per Credit: $250
Total cost is $23,895 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: MA in Biblical and Theological Studies
- Eight concentration options create a personalized learning experience
- 96-hour program can be completed in four years by taking two courses per block
- ABU is supported by the World Baptist Fellowship, an association of independent fundamental Baptist churches
For more than 80 years, Arlington Baptist University has been fully devoted to preparing men and women for Christian life and ministries. Through the integration of faith and learning in a Christian worldview, students of ABU have gone on to become leaders and changemakers in Christ, whether in a lay or professional role. Today, ABU’s MDiv continues this legacy of learning and exploration through Christ. Offering both a comprehensive study of the Bible and an overview of theology, the MDiv dives deep into the Christian worldview with topics like the Hebrew and Greek languages, the historical and poetical writings of the Old Testament, the Reformation in Christian history, and much more. This thoughtful graduate course of study offers no less than eight concentrations, allowing you to create a program that’s built with your interests and professional pursuits in mind.
Houston Graduate School of Theology
Houston, TX
Master of Divinity (on-campus)
Total Estimated Cost: $14,250
Cost Per Credit: $190
Total cost is $32,575 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: MA (Christian Ministry, Theological Studies, Bible, Religion, Leadership, Spiritual Formation)
- A Kairos Project based program
- Following a strong competency-based model, your experience will count toward your accomplishments as measured against real outcomes
- Each student is assigned mentors in faculty, vocational, and personal roles to ensure complete coverage of your needs
- Partnerships with other organizations offer training and service in a broad range of ministries
- A newly remodeled space on the campus of Willow Meadows Baptist Church offers a conducive learning environment
A passionate pursuit of the calling to reconcile the world and conform to the image of Christ is behind this strong community. The school is known for welcoming all students, regardless of background or calling. As a multicultural, multi denominational school, collaboration and acceptance are key to educational success. That includes demonstrating competency in Christian spirituality, biblical exegesis, theology and worship, and care and collaboration. You’ll develop all those skills and more in a program that is contextually integrated with your own life and ministry setting.
Grace School of Theology
The Woodlands, TX
Master of Divinity (on-campus, online)
- Church Planting
- Pastoral Ministry
- Counseling
- Interdisciplinary
Total Estimated Cost: $23,750
Cost Per Credit: $250
Total cost is $23,075 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: Master of Ministry; MA in Biblical Studies; Master of Theology; MA in Chaplaincy; MA in Military Chaplaincy
- An available chaplaincy minor can stack on to your chosen concentration to give you additional ministry skills in that field
- A 24/7 online library catalog and database search facility gives you access to research materials even during late-night study sessions
- Online courses delivered through the high-tech Canvas learning platform for flexible but comprehensive access to coursework
- A Discipleship and Mentorship Program offers support from peers and professors in a small group setting designed to boost your success
- An Office of Institutional Success is dedicated to continual improvement of all academic and administrative elements of Grace programs
Grace embraces a global vision for spiritual leadership that means you will leave this program with broad horizons and full of new ideas and new possibilities for your own ministry journey. Although the Grace learning community is worldwide, you’ll find it is a tight-knit and nurturing part of your MDiv journey, offering support through the Discipleship and Mentorship Program, or even just giving you a little boost in your day with the ShareGrace acts of kindness. It all comes with a deep academic foundation based on the absolute truth of God’s Word, with sound theological teaching that will leave you fully equipped for service.
Southwestern Assemblies of God University
College of Bible & Church Ministries
Waxahachie, TX
Master of Divinity (on-campus)
- Compassion Ministry and Islamic Studies
- Biblical Languages
- Biblical Studies
- Counseling
- Chaplaincy
- Intercultural Studies
- Family Ministry
- Pastoral Theology
- Theological Studies
Total Estimated Cost: $28,440
Cost Per Credit: $395
Total cost is $18,385 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: Master of Theological Studies (Biblical, Theological); Master’s of Bible and Theology; Master’s of Children and Family; Master’s of Intercultural Studies; Master’s of Practical Theology
- Thesis and non-thesis program options are available
- Enjoy full access to campus resources such as the Career Center, Counseling Center, or Wellness Center for professional and personal well-being
- Graduates emerge from the SAGU program with 20 percent less debt on average than other private universities, a testament to affordability
- Degree prepares students for careers as diverse as authors, coaches, volunteer directors, pastors, or spiritual care counselors
Experiences at SAGU go far beyond just academics. Your spiritual well-being is a focus that is given almost as much attention as your academic success here. Chapel and student organizations offer plenty of opportunities for fellowship, while full-person support is available in academic counseling, healthcare, or tutoring. With a wide range of concentrations available, you’ll be prepared for either Christian ministry or post-graduate work in your field of choice.
University of St. Thomas
Saint Mary's Seminary
Houston, TX
Master of Divinity (on-campus)
- Ordination
- Non-ordination
Total Estimated Cost: $36,630
Cost Per Credit: $407
Total cost is $10,195 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: MA in Theology; MA in Pastoral Theology (Spanish option); MA in Philosophy and Theology; MA in Pastoral Studies; MA in Sacred Writings (Spanish); MA in JPII Studies, MA in Faith and Culture
- Receive the personal attention you deserve from an online success coach
- An 11:1 student-to-faculty ratio means you’ll have no trouble getting assistance from your instructors
- Serving 12 regional diocese, the school enjoys a wide range of ethnic diversity reflecting the multicultural makeup of the area
- The Cardinal Beran Library offers a central resource for research and study for both students and ecclesial ministries throughout the region
- Located in the Museum District and Innovation Corridor, the campus is just steps from downtown and alive with possibility and cultural experiences
- Ranked as one of the Best Value Regional Universities for 2021 by U.S. News & World Reports
You’ll experience the formation of a true shepherd through the Master of Divinity program at UST, in line with the decree of the Second Vatican Council. Your complete formation is overseen by dedicated instructors who are ordained priests themselves, dedicated to offering you the support and guidance you need on your path to ministry. Although the MDiv comes with a strong traditional education in liturgical skills, Scriptural reading and interpretation, and pastoral fidelity, you’ll be engaged on a campus that is multicultural and innovative, offering new perspectives and fellowship across a range of different groups. Your student experience here isn’t defined solely by your major, making you a more well-rounded person as well as a more effective minister.
Wayland Baptist University
School of Christian Studies
Plainview, TX
Master of Divinity (on-campus, online)
- Language/Non-Language
- African American Church Leadership
- Hispanic Church Leadership
Total Estimated Cost: $37,080
Cost Per Credit: $515
Total cost is $9,745 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: MA in Christian Ministry (African American Church Leadership, Hispanic Church Leadership); MA in Theological Studies
- Learn valuable lessons not just in the classroom, but from hands-on experience with local churches, ministry, and mission trips
- Students who are eligible for the Baptist General Convention of Texas Ministerial Finance Program may receive assistance that makes this low-cost program even less expensive!
- The school offers several different accelerated paths to the MDiv from bachelor’s studies, allowing you to complete both degrees in as little as five years
- Faculty mentors assist you with identifying and honing your gifts in ministry
- The Wayland Missions Center offers many opportunities to broaden cultural diversity and serve internationally
- Advanced standing admission is possible for graduates with bachelor’s degrees in related fields to allow you to waive certain core coursework
WBU goes a long way to building strong, multicultural church leaders from day one in these innovative MDiv programs. With a campus center devoted to setting up opportunities to serve in overseas missions, you can broaden your horizons and your perspectives in ministry. Two unique specializations in African American and Hispanic church leadership go even further, building your knowledge and skills for effective ministry in either of those areas of practice. A strong Student Services team keeps you connected and offers full support whether you are online or on campus with Career Services, Student Ministries, and Counseling available.
Houston Baptist University
School of Christian Thought
Houston, TX
Master of Divinity (on-campus, online)
- English Language
- Biblical Languages
Total Estimated Cost: $37,800
Cost Per Credit: $525
Total cost is $9,025 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: MA in Apologetics; MA in Biblical Languages; MA in Christian Counseling; MA in Christian Leadership; MA in Christian Psychological Studies; MA in Christian Psychology; MA in Classics and Early Christianity; MA in Intercultural Studies; MA in Theological Studies
- A five-year fast-track BA-to-MDiv program allows you to accelerate your progress to the priesthood
- Seminar-style instruction keeps class sizes small, with only 10-15 students, and discussion lively in a close-knit program
- Most classes are held in the evenings and only one night per week to keep them accessible to working students
- A mandatory internship means you will get real field experience during your studies here
- Faculty bring a wealth of ministry experience back from local, national, and international settings to pass along to you
This integrated MDiv program has a strong focus on personal formation and acquiring practical experience in real-world ministry settings. Discipleship is a core part of the program, with the school’s belief that faith is caught, not just taught, driving fellowship and spiritual formation activities in and out of the classroom. The program is holistic and culturally relevant, helping you deal with the problems ministry faces today. Instructors have valuable ministry experience to bring to the classroom, and their challenges and successes in dealing with real-world issues are valuable lessons to every student here at HBU.
Criswell College
Dallas, TX
Master of Divinity (on-campus)
Total Estimated Cost: $40,410
Cost Per Credit: $449
Total cost is $6,415 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: MA in Christian Leadership; MA in Christian Studies; MA in Theological and Biblical Studie
- The Criswell 360 offers a common student experience that both challenges and supports every single student in developing the core values of the college
- Highly qualified faculty members are all experts in their discipline, with over 90 percent holding a PhD or terminal degree in their field
- Both faculty and staff are committed to working with every student to find success in their program
- Located in Old East Dallas, you’ll find a vibrant and growing community on the doorstep of one of the most modern cities in America
- An 8:1 student-to-faculty ratio means you will receive plenty of personal attention from your instructors
Criswell understands that callings can be messy things. If you are destined for some sort of ministry work but aren’t quite sure yet whether you’re heading toward pastoral, missionary, or evangelical work, that’s no problem… the caring, compassionate instructors here will help you find your path and give you a solid grounding to pursue any kind of ministry work with solid biblical, theological, and ministerial skills. You’ll find a family here as well as a solid education, with small class sizes, plenty of fellowship opportunities, and motivated peers.
The King's University
Southlake, TX
Master of Divinity (on-campus, online)
- Messianic Jewish Studies
- Women in Ministry Leadership
Total Estimated Cost: $40,950
Cost Per Credit: $525
Total cost is $5,875 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: Master of Practical Theology (AJA, MJS)
- Two unique concentration options prepare students for new and exciting roles in modern ministry
- A divinity capstone project allows you to explore your own interests through original research and action
- A unique integrated learning model incorporates strong higher education in Scripture and theology with practical ministry experience in dynamic local churches
- On campus courses are available in day or evening formats to allow even working students to enjoy the campus experience
The King’s University offers the opportunity for all MDiv students here to become a bridge. From non-belief to belief; between the Church and the Jewish people; from a gender that was once prohibited from the priesthood to leadership of the church. A spirit-empowered community is behind you the whole way, brokering strong connections with God, faculty, and other students. It all comes at a tremendous value, with some of the lowest costs in the state. A partnership with Gateway Church means you have nearly 40,000 active members and seven campuses to both learn from and minister to along your path to graduation.
Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary
Austin, TX
Master of Divinity (on-campus)
Total Estimated Cost: $43,200
Cost Per Credit: $360
Total cost is $3,625 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: MA in Theological Studies; MA in Religion; MA in Youth Ministry
- Supervised Practice of Ministry program blends action and reflection together in an internship under an experienced mentor
- Greek and Hebrew language option offers elementary language training and additional exegesis courses
- A diverse community and student body await you in Austin, with exciting cultural opportunities on and off campus
- Also offers a dual MDiv-MSW for additional social work expertise
You’ll be both living the faith at APTS and practicing your profession at the same time in this attractively priced MDiv program. With an emphasis on practical ministry work, you can pursue Clinical Pastoral Education in a hospital setting, or take the Supervised Practice of Ministry Program. The SPM program offers a year-long internship, a three-month intensive internship, or active ministry service in the Austin area while enrolled part-time. With generations of experience training ministers here, you’ll find that learning blends together with fellowship. Pastoral formation happens not just in the classroom, but at barbecues, during pickup basketball games, in chapel, or just sitting around a table.
VIRGINIA - State average: $35,909
Liberty University
John W. Rawlings School of Divinity
Lynchburg, VA
Master of Divinity (on-campus, online)
- Biblical Languages
- Biblical Studies
- Christian Apologetics
- Christian Leadership and Church Ministries
- Christian Ministries
- Christian Thought
- Church History
- Church Ministry in the Discipleship Ministries
- General
- Global Studies
- Homiletics
- Leadership
- Pastoral Counseling
- Professional Chaplaincy
- Community
- General
- Healthcare
- Military
- Theology
- Youth and Family Ministry
Total Estimated Cost: $17,850
Cost Per Credit: $238
Total cost is $18,059 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: MA in Biblical Exposition; MA in Biblical Languages; MA in Biblical Studies; MA in Christian Apologetics; MA in Christian Ministry; MA in Music and Worship; MA in Pastoral Counseling; MA in Religion; Master of Religious Education; MA in Sports Chaplaincy; MA in Theological Studies; MA in Worship Studies
- Transfer in up to 45 credits earned in other programs to streamline your progression to the ministry
- A wealth of concentrations offer specialized training for almost every area of ministry
- First-rate faculty hold advanced degrees in their fields and bring decades of real-world experience to the classroom
- A Student Activities Offices has a vast roster of social and recreational opportunities on tap for campus-based students
- As a renowned research university, Liberty offers various centers of resource and area expertise such as the Center for Apologetics and Cultural Engagement and the Center for Church Advancement
- The Liberty Biblical Museum offers insights as well as educational expertise stretching back 4,000 years of artifacts and exhibits
Founded by luminaries Dr. Jerry Falwell, Sr, and Dr. Elmer Towns, the heritage of Liberty is impeccable. But as strong as the heritage and tradition here are, you don’t come to Liberty’s MDiv for the past, but for the future. You’re completely covered there, since the school has been a pioneer in remote learning options and offering complete instruction to non-traditional learners. With state-of-the-art online support as well as high-tech classrooms on campus, you’ll get exceptional training with the latest educational tools. Liberty is at the forefront of cultural religious studies as well, so you’ll find that your coursework offers excellent preparation for ministry in the modern world.
Virginia University of Lynchburg
Leonard N. Smith School of Religion
Lynchburg, VA
Master of Divinity (online)
Total Estimated Cost: $30,780
Cost Per Credit: $342
Total cost is $5,129 below the state average for similar programs!
- Offered online in both traditional and accelerated formats which allow you to progress at the pace that best fits your calling
- Courses taught by some of the finest educators in the country
- The Writing Center offers assistance for students polishing their academic papers and presentations
Great minds are developed here, or virtually here, anyway—the fully online options for the MDiv in both traditional and accelerated formats allow you to take advantage of this great program from anywhere in the country. The school focuses on developing students into scholars and servant-leaders with an education that is both relevant and culturally sensitive. A gifted and diverse student body offers exposure to new ideas and perspectives that will help inform your studies of Scripture, theology, and pastoral skills. With 130 years of training leaders behind it, VUL has a strong track record that gives you solid odds for success in your own ministry.
Virginia Beach Theological Seminary
Virginia Beach, VA
Master of Divinity (on-campus)
Total Estimated Cost: $32,640
Cost Per Credit: $340
Total cost is $3,269 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: Master of Theology; Master of Theological Studies; Master of Biblical Studies
- Hosted by Colonial Baptist Church, which allows students easy observation and participation in practical ministry work
- Over 20 other area churches a represented by VBTS students and alumni as well and offer other ministry opportunities
- A free online Alumni and Career Portal helps you stay connected and land ministry jobs after graduation
The Master of Divinity is the flagship degrees at Virginia Beach Theological Seminary, putting the traditional elements of a ministry education front and center: biblical languages, theology, Scripture, and pastoral ministry training. An emphasis on the text of the Bible and on community gives you a rigorous but well-supported education to equip you as a servant of Christ in any kind of ministry context.
Regent University
Virginia Beach, VA
Master of Divinity (on-campus, online)
- Biblical Languages
- Chaplain Ministry
- Christian Discipleship
- Christian Theology
- Church History
- Church and Ministry
- Church Planting
- Interdisciplinary Studies
- Marketplace
- Missiology
- New Testament
- Old Testament
- Online Ministry
- Spiritual Formation
- Worship and Media
Total Estimated Cost: $36,000
Cost Per Credit: $500
Also offers: MA in Apologetics and Cosmogony; MA in Christian Discipleship; MA in Christian Ministry (Church & Ministry, Interdisciplinary Studies, Marketplace Ministry, Missiology, Worship & Media); MA in Church Leadership; MA in Church Planting; MA in Evangelism and Mission; MA in Human Services (Biblical Counseling, Christian Counseling); MA in Online Ministry; MA in Pastoral Counseling; MA in Spiritual Formation; Master of Theological Studies (Biblical Languages, Biblical Studies, Christian Theology, Church History); M.Ed in Christian School Administration
- Learn practical and strategic ministry skills for local and global service
- Professors are highly respected pioneers in fields such as Christian history, biblical studies, and Renewal theology
- Alumni currently serve the ministry and other purposes of faith in 47 states and 42 nations around the world
- Multiple options for a capstone experience include a master’s thesis, spiritual formation portfolio, or clinical pastoral education
- Ranked among the top national universities by U.S. News & World Report for three years running
- Transfer in up to 90 credit hours from other schools toward your degree here
- Recognized as a top military-friendly school
The sole purpose for Regent University is to develop Christian leaders to change the world. The Master of Divinity program here is the keystone degree in that purpose, with concentrations that cover all the bases for making a difference. The school has high standards for both scholarship and practical aspects of leadership according to graduates, who also report being well-equipped for both local and international ministry service. A strong sense of purpose and community is felt by both on campus and online students, and anyone choosing the remote program option will be happy to learn that Study.com ranks the school #1 among Best Accredited Schools for Online Degree programs. As one of the few programs that also offers a concentration in the cutting-edge area of online ministry, you can be sure you’re in the right place if that’s your calling!
WASHINGTON - State average: $53,498
Faith International University
Tacoma, WA
Master of Divinity (on-campus, online)
- Pastoral Care and Counseling
- Missional Studies
- Church History
- Apologetics
- Leadership
- Expository Communication
- Education
- Youth Ministry
- Chaplaincy
Total Estimated Cost: $34,125
Cost Per Credit: $375
Total cost is $19,373 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: MA in Leadership Ministry; MA in Christian Education; MA in Theological Studies
- Transfer in up to 24 credits from other programs involved in military chaplaincy training
- Instructors seek active involvement from students in the education and training process
- Build your practical skills with field ministry, practicum, and internships
- An alumni association keeps you connected with your FIU family long after graduation
FIU offers a very traditional introduction to MDiv studies with Greek and Hebrew exegesis to give you access to Scripture in the original languages and an ability to interpret and defend the teaching of the Bible. That’s just the ground floor, though, in a program that inescapably builds toward leadership skills for roles in local or global ministry. You’ll build skills in professional pastoral care and counseling, learn how to deal with contemporary cultural issues, and administer education and practical ministry in any field.
The Seattle School of Theology and Psychology
Seattle, WA
Master of Divinity (hybrid)
Total Estimated Cost: $56,170
Cost Per Credit: $685
Also offers: MA in Theology and Culture
- Students graduate fully equipped to become pastors, missional pioneers, chaplains, or congregational revitalizers
- Weekly online classes are reinforced through five residency gatherings to put you face-to-face with fellow students and your instructors
- Field experiences at local faith communities allow practical hands-on experience even for remote students
- A final-year Integrative Project develops a new understanding of all the skills and knowledge you have learned through the course of the program
- A diverse community is united in both ritual and faith to keep you connected no matter where you are studying
- Tap into school resources such as the Allender Center, which fosters redemption and healing in individual, couples, and communities
Graduates from the Seattle School report that they use their training in their ministry positions every single day. That’s because the curriculum here leans into the practical and applicable tools of ministry, seeking culturally relevant applications of ancient wisdom and Scriptural doctrine. An innovative approach to ministry and pastoral education goes beyond just high-tech remote learning tools. You’ll also get the benefit of school efforts such as the Resilient Leaders Project, which empowers leaders with sustainable practices, integrative thinking, and emotional resilience by tapping into research and conversations with leaders in not just denominational roles, but out in the larger world of nonprofits as well. It’s an example of an education that is well worth the price tag!
WISCONSIN - State average: $51,000
Maranatha Baptist University
Watertown, WI
Master of Divinity (on-campus, online)
- Military Chaplaincy
- Biblical Counseling
- Biblical Languages
- Intercultural Studies
- New Testament
- Old Testament
- Pastoral Theology
- Theology
Total Estimated Cost: $33,120
Cost Per Credit: $345
Total cost is $17,880 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: MA in Bible; MA in Biblical Counseling; MA in Biblical Studies
- Approved by the Department of Defense for military chaplaincy training
- The Church Site program allows students to complete their MDiv while actively working as a pastor
- Campus module options offer some classes in an intensive one-week on-campus format
- Online research tools and assistance makes remote studies in advanced topics a breeze
- Start-up incentive scholarships combined with an already low tuition cost makes this program attractive for anyone on a budget
Maranatha offers a solid biblical and theological basis for ministry, but also gets you out into full-time service as quickly as possible. In fact, many students are already engaged in pastoral ministry, taking advantage of virtual class options to complete their education and connect their training to real-world challenges. Even with that practical emphasis, the school brings a strong, traditional, fundamentalist focus on academic rigor. There are no compromises here on matters of theology or training. You are guaranteed to graduate with a strong command of evangelical and Baptist fundamentals.
Nashotah House
Nashotah, WI
Master of Divinity (on-campus)
Total Estimated Cost: $45,000
Cost Per Credit: $500
Total cost is $6,000 below the state average for similar programs!
Also offers: Master of Theological Studies; Master of Ministry; Master of Pastoral Ministry; Master of Sacred Theology
- Twice-daily community worship, including immersion in the Anglican choral tradition, provides spiritual formation focus and guidance to every student
- Worship in the historic St. Mary’s Chapel offers a beautiful context for contemplation and reverence
- Experience field education in nearby parishes with ministry internships, and a opportunities for certified Clinical Pastoral Education
- Around-the-clock access to the comprehensive resources of the Frances Donaldson Library, with 124,000 volumes including rare medieval illuminated manuscripts, ensure you can work on scholarly projects at any time
- Faculty are influential scholars and prominent voices in the Anglican theological world
You’ll become a better Christian here all the way around in addition to specific training in the ministry, according to graduates. The professors are leading theological voices with vast experience and academic credentials. Still, they always have time and interest in mentoring you through the program. The beautiful, historic campus environment makes it easy to immerse yourself in your studies, with a community and tradition stretching back to 1842. Surrounded by buildings of ancient stone and the myriad colors of Wisconsin’s native forests, you’ll find God’s bounty spread all around you for contemplation. The school continues to pursue a proven and classical model of education, but the scholarship here is cutting-edge, dealing with modern issues facing Christianity through well-developed theological thought and research.
