Master’s in Theology Online Degree
- Online
Deepen Faith Through Theological Study
The Master of Arts in Theology at Grand Canyon University offers the opportunity to deepen your understanding of Scripture and Christian doctrine. This program can equip you with advanced skills in biblical interpretation, theological research and cultural engagement, which can prepare you to serve faithfully in academic, ministry and leadership contexts.
Ideal for pastors, ministry leaders, educators and those passionate about theological study, the program promotes critical thinking and spiritual formation through the exploration of historical and contemporary theology.
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Up to 12 credits or 1/3 of the total program requirements in transfer (whichever is less)
Credits: Fill out the Lopes Eval to find out what will transfer
Admission Requirements (Master's)
- Undergraduate Degree*
- 2.8+ GPA
OR 2.5+ Unweighted GPA and
- GMAT: 500
- GRE: 300 combined**
Admission requirements may differ based on degree level, program and modality, or transfer status. Some programs of study may require a higher GPA and/or other qualifying criteria for admission. Please review full admission and program requirements in the University Policy Handbook.
* Degree must be from an accredited college or program that has been approved by GCU.
** Combined verbal/quantitative, after August 2011 (1,000 combined verbal and quantitative, prior to August 2011).
Engage in Study of Scripture and Theology
At GCU, our mission-driven approach combines academic excellence with Christian principles. The Master of Arts in Theology program is designed to help you grow both spiritually and professionally, offering the tools to interpret Scripture and engage with culture with wisdom and grace.
Pursue Your Master’s in Theology Online
Rooted in a Christian Worldview
Tuition and Financial Aid Options
Explore the Master's Degree in Theology Coursework
You will engage with a comprehensive curriculum covering biblical studies, systematic theology, historical theology and cultural exegesis. The program can equip individuals to witness God’s kingdom in ways that support human flourishing through both rigorous academic study and practical application.
The journey culminates in a thesis experience, beginning with a proposal course and concluding with a research capstone that allows you to synthesize your learning and contribute original scholarship to the field.
Courses in this program include foundational and advanced studies, such as:
Career Paths for Master of Arts in Theology Graduates
Earning a master’s degree in theology can lead to various career opportunities that blend scholarship, leadership and service. Graduates may become postsecondary philosophy and religious educators, teaching future leaders in colleges and universities. Some institutions, however, require a doctoral degree for full-time or tenure-track teaching roles, making a master’s an important step toward advanced academic positions.
Others may choose to serve as clergy, guiding congregations and communities in their spiritual growth. Some find positions as religious activities directors. These career paths reflect the program’s focus on theological depth and cultural engagement, empowering you to confidently pursue roles that influence both faith and society.
Graduates can explore roles in diverse environments, including:
Religious schools
Colleges and universities
Nonprofit organizations
Churches
Ministry organizations
Faith-based community programs
Median annual wage for clergy in May 2024(See disclaimer 1)
Median annual wage for postsecondary philosophy and religion teachers in May 2024(See disclaimer 2)
Earn Your Master's in Theology From an Accredited University
The master’s in theology is accredited by the Commission on Accrediting of The Association of Theological Schools (ATS), underscoring our dedication to quality theology education. Grand Canyon University has been institutionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission since 1968, demonstrating a long-standing commitment to academic excellence and integrity. We prioritize quality instruction across all degree programs, including our theology degrees.
Frequently Asked Questions
Before committing to a master’s in theology online, take time to explore your options thoughtfully and consider how they align with your goals. To assist in your decision-making, we’ve compiled answers to frequently asked questions as a foundation for your research.
What can you do with a master's in theology?
Is a Master of Arts in Theology worth it?
What is the difference between an MA in Theology and an MDiv?
Program Curriculum
Core Courses
Take the first step toward deepening your understanding of Scripture and Christian doctrine. Explore GCU’s Master of Arts in Theology program today.
- The earnings referenced were reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Clergy, as of May 2024, retrieved January 2026. Due to COVID-19, data from 2020 to 2023 may be atypical compared to prior years. BLS calculates the median using salaries of workers nationwide with varying levels of education and experience. It does not reflect the earnings of GCU graduates as clergy, nor does it reflect the earnings of workers in one city or region of the country or a typical entry-level salary. Median income is the statistical midpoint for the range of salaries in a specific occupation. It is very unlikely that a median salary will reflect an entry-level salary. It represents what you would earn if you were paid more money than half the workers in an occupation, and less than half the workers in an occupation. It may give you a basis to estimate what you might earn at some point if you enter this career. Grand Canyon University can make no guarantees on individual graduates’ salaries. Your employability will be determined by numerous factors over which GCU has no control, such as the employer the graduate chooses to apply to, the graduate’s experience level, individual characteristics, skills, etc. against a pool of candidates.
- The earnings referenced were reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Postsecondary Philosophy and Religion Teachers, as of May 2024, retrieved January 2026. Due to COVID-19, data from 2020 to 2023 may be atypical compared to prior years. BLS calculates the median using salaries of workers nationwide with varying levels of education and experience. It does not reflect the earnings of GCU graduates as postsecondary philosophy and religion teachers, nor does it reflect the earnings of workers in one city or region of the country or a typical entry-level salary. Median income is the statistical midpoint for the range of salaries in a specific occupation. It is very unlikely that a median salary will reflect an entry-level salary. It represents what you would earn if you were paid more money than half the workers in an occupation, and less than half the workers in an occupation. It may give you a basis to estimate what you might earn at some point if you enter this career. Grand Canyon University can make no guarantees on individual graduates’ salaries. Your employability will be determined by numerous factors over which GCU has no control, such as the employer the graduate chooses to apply to, the graduate’s experience level, individual characteristics, skills, etc. against a pool of candidates.