Obtaining an Online Education in Religion

Obtaining an online education in religion prepares students to enter a wide range of careers depending on their concentration. Students can learn about religion in regards to faith, the world, pastoral work, and more. Many online colleges offer degree programs at all educational levels.

Students that complete a degree program in religion can enter fields such as teaching, ministry, administration, journalism, and history. The main areas of study that students can enter include:

*Pastoral Counseling

Students learn the different methods used to become spiritual and religious counselors. Students learn about the different aspects of their chosen religion and the proper counseling techniques to work with clients. Education focuses on sociology, religious perspective, counseling theory, and human growth.

*Seminary

The goal of education in seminary studies is to prepare students to enter careers as priests, pastors, and other religious leaders. Education focuses on exploring the Bible and history of a particular religion. Many online programs dedicate schooling to Christian studies where students examine theology, divinity, and music.

*Theology

Theology degree programs focus on the spirituality of religions and teach students how it affects people and society. Students study how to live out their chosen religion and understand the philosophy behind it. Most students that complete a theology degree program go on to enter religious careers where they become youth leaders, missionaries, and pastors.

*World Religion Studies

Inside degree programs in world religion students explore a broad view of the field. The relationship of religion and society is studied to present students with a thorough understanding of religion and how it impacts everyday life from politics to art. With this type of degree students are able to pursue secular careers in a variety of areas. Undergraduate study focuses on world religion. Students that go onto graduate level training typically want to enter a religious career.

To better understand what a degree in religion looks like students can research the different options. A bachelor's degree in religion with a focus on entering clergy careers, for example centers on the history, text, and theology of a chosen religion. Undergraduate training gives students the opportunity to step into entry-level positions as Sunday school teachers and program coordinators. Graduate study prepares students for work as ministers, counselors, professors, and researchers.

Online education in religion covers a wide range of subjects based on student's area of interest. Major topics studied in the four main areas of learning may include:

• Addictive Behaviors
• Behavioral Sciences
• Leadership
• Ethics
• Judaism
• Christianity
• Political Religions

The goal of education is to train students to enter a career based on their area of interest. Students can learn about all of these areas through online study, which prepares them to take on leadership roles within their religious communities. Students that pursue a secular career are able to apply their understanding of religion to government, education, and more.

Students can find the right program for their goals by researching what accredited degrees are available. Full accreditation is offered to qualifying programs that offer the best quality education. Agencies such as the Association for Biblical Higher Education ( http://www.abhe.org/ ) can fully accredited online religion programs. Enroll in an accredited online college today and begin training for a fulfilling career.

DISCLAIMER: Above is a GENERIC OUTLINE and may or may not depict precise methods, courses and/or focuses related to ANY ONE specific school(s) that may or may not be advertised at PETAP.org.

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Renata McGee is a staff writer for PETAP.org. Locate Online Religion Degree Information as well as Campus Based Religion Degree Studies at PETAP.org, your Partners in Education and Tuition Assistance Programs.