CU’s affordable online master of theology teaches the advanced skills for biblical and theological studies, ministry and leadership.
Ranked in the top 50 Most Affordable Christian Colleges in the U.S.
Program Details
Next Start Date: 1/15/2025
Course Length: 8 weeks
Estimated Length: 2 Years
Master of Theology Overview
Campbellsville University’s Master of Theology online provides you with the opportunity to pursue a career in ministry, religious research, teaching, policymaking, social care or counseling. There are three emphasis areas available for the degree: biblical studies, pastoral leadership and theology, each consisting of 18 of the total 30 credit hours. As a student, you then broaden your knowledge while selecting elective courses in the other two areas of study.
Within the biblical studies emphasis area, you will explore the history and interpretation of both the Old Testament and the New Testament. You’ll also examine the prophetic literature of the Old Testament prophets and the letters within the New Testament as they apply to pastoral leadership and the contemporary church. This area is perfect if you wish to later pursue a doctoral program.
The pastoral leadership courses in the online master’s of theology explore the ministry of proclamation and worship, pastoral ministries and evangelism and leadership development. You will study the teaching and practice of spiritual formation, pastoral care and counseling and the establishment and maintenance of a healthy church, as well as innovative ministries and trends. You will also learn how to accomplish things within a church or ministry setting while gaining mentoring and leadership skills.
Finally, the theological studies emphasis is a combination of church history and contemporary theological discussion. The courses explore the ethics of the Baptist history and heritage, Christian faith and the history of the church before and after the Reformation. It also examines the Christian moral ideal and Christian principles of judgment and action as they apply to ministry.
Campbellsville’s dedicated theology faculty members complement their teachings with their real-world experience. The program is offered in a convenient and flexible format, which is ideal for the working adult student with busy personal and professional schedules.
Campbellsville University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
“As a three-time graduate from Campbellsville University, having been both a traditional and online student, I can say the fully-online program was good and life-changing. I would highly recommend CU Online for anyone wanting to find their calling in life.”
– Joe Milazzo, Master of Theology
Course Map
The online master of theology is made up of 10 courses for a total of 30 credit hours. Students can choose one of three concentrations:
- Biblical studies
- Pastoral leadership
- Theological studies
The student then takes 6 hours in each of the two areas that are not the student’s 18-hour emphasis.
Required:
- CHS 510: Old Testament History & Interpretation I
- CHS 511: Old Testament History & Interpretation II
- CHS 520: New Testament History & Interpretation I
- CHS 521: New Testament History & Interpretation II
Choose two additional courses from the list and 6 hours in each of the concentrations outside student’s emphasis:
- CHS 513: Studies in Old Testament Prophets
- CHS 515: Poetry & Wisdom in the Old Testament
- CHS 525: The General Letters
- CHS 526: Pastoral Letters, Pastoral Leadership
Required:
- CHS 551: Journey into Christ-likeness
- CHS 552: Pastoral Ministry & Evangelism
- CHS 553: Ministry of Proclamation & Worship
- CHS 567: Leadership Development
Choose two additional courses from the list and 6 hours in each of the concentrations outside student’s emphasis:
- CHS 556: Christian Evangelism & the Church
- CHS 557: Church Planting
- CHS 558: Pastoral Care in Human Crisis
- CHS 562: Intergenerational Ministries
Required:
- CHS 531: Christian Theology 1
- CHS 532: Christian Theology 2
- CHS 571: Pre-Reformation History of the Church
- CHS 572: Reformation and Post-Reformation History of the Church
Choose two additional courses from the list and 6 hours in each of the concentrations outside student’s emphasis:
- CHS 543: Ethics of the Christian Faith
- CHS 544: Philosophy of the Christian Faith
- CHS 576: Baptist History & Heritage
- CHS 634: Gospel and Postmodernism
Admissions Requirements
To apply to the Campbellsville University School of Theology Master of Theology program, prospective students must submit or complete the following:
- Online application.
- Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university.
- Eighteen (18) hours of prerequisite coursework in either undergraduate Christian studies (e.g., Bible, theology, religion, ministry education) or graduate theological education or a combination of both.
- If the student’s overall undergraduate GPA is below 3.0, they must complete either the GRE (Graduate Record Exam) or the MAT (Miller Analogy Test).
- Submit a philosophy of Christian ministry essay, two to three pages in length, in which the applicant summarizes: his or her faith in Jesus Christ, call to Christian ministry, current title and place of service, and current ministry philosophy.
- Submit two (2) reference letters: 1) from a former professor and 2) from the applicant’s current local church pastor.
- Complete an interview with the dean of the School of Theology.
Costs & Financial Aid
The master of theology online costs $319 per credit hour. In order to help students afford their education, Campbellsville University’s staff is available to work with students to discover available financial aid options.
Students can fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to find out what scholarships, grants, loans and payment plans are available for them. There are numerous options available, and not all financial aid is based on need.
A maximum of 12 credit hours from a regionally accredited college or university can be transferred into this program.
Campbellsville University is a military-friendly school and a proud member of the Yellow Ribbon program. Students who are currently serving at home or abroad or are veterans can further their education in a conducive online environment.
Careers in Theology
Those who graduate from Campbellsville University’s online master’s of theology can advance their career. As 5 to 10 percent of churches require candidates to have a graduate degree for a leadership position, this master’s degree is ideal for those wishing to climb the ladder. Some potential career outcomes include:
- Christian counselor
- Minister
- Missionary
- Theology professor
Why Choose CU?
Campbellsville University Online seeks to provide an affordable faith-based education that fosters personal and professional growth for its students. Learning in small, 100% online classes, you'll have opportunities to connect one-on-one with expert professors who prioritize your success and value the experience you bring to the table. From day one, you'll also benefit from Campbellsville's student services, including a personal online academic advisor who will provide tailored assistance on your journey toward graduation. Access further support in the areas of mental health, career and finance, life management, technical resources and more. Finish strong with CU.
Learn MoreBenefits of Learning Online
Choosing to finish your degree 100% online means having the flexibility to study at the times and places that are most convenient for you. You'll learn from supportive, expert faculty members who are experienced in their fields and deliver the wellrounded education you need to take the next step in your career. Campbellsville is committed to the quality of its online courses and offers a dynamic selection of degree programs that are accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still have questions? We’re here to help. Visit our Frequently Asked Questions page for more information.
- Yes, you can. CU honors your educational journey with a generous transfer credit policy that empowers you to make the most of your earned credits. Upon your admission to Campbellsville University, we'll complete a transfer credit evaluation to find out how many of your credits will apply toward your degree. For more information, visit our transfer students page.
- Yes. Your first step is to complete the FAFSA form, and then we will determine your eligibility for any financial aid. Our school code is 001959. Visit our financial aid page to learn more about your options, which include scholarships and grants.
- You can apply to our 100% online degree programs through the online application form. Remember to submit official copies of your high school and/or college transcripts, along with any other required documentation that is specific to your degree program. You can visit the admissions process page to learn more about what to expect throughout the process.