
Online degrees differ from traditional degrees only in delivery format; most programs on this list are taught by the same faculty who teaches on-campus. Courses are structured in the same way and are offered live or on-demand through different virtual portals. And, of course, online students most often can take on accelerated term formats, making it easy for them to graduate on time, even if they are studying part-time. The programs on this list have all these features and more, enabling students to continue their education while still focusing on their career path.
Methodology
This ranking was created by researching a variety of schools; tools used in this endeavor include the National Center for Education Statistics and its College Navigator database. An initial group of 30 schools was identified simply by searching for an online Doctorate of Ministry programs. Each school was then independently reviewed and compared to each other based on a variety of factors, including tuition fees. The final 25 schools were chosen based on the school’s total estimated in-state graduate tuition for the program.
Ranking Low-Cost Doctorate in Ministry
25. Bethel University
St. Paul, Minnesota
Online Doctor of Ministry in Transformational Leadership

Tuition: $26,400
Bethel University confers an online Doctorate in Ministry that focuses on transformational leadership. It was designed for professionals who are already engaged in ministry leadership and are searching for an online education that will complement their real-world experience. This program has other concentrations that are not offered online; these include Biblical and Theological Engagement, Church Leadership, and Congregation and Family Care. This concentration is offered 100 percent online and is completed in a cohort. The program is structured as a four-year program; three years are spent on coursework and one year is dedicated to the student’s dissertation. This program requires 48 credit hours of coursework and a dissertation for graduation. More information on the program, including graduation requirements as well as a list of course offerings, can be found by contacting the school’s graduate admissions office.
24. Regent University
Virginia Beach, Virginia
Online Doctor of Ministry

Tuition: $23,400
The affordable online Doctorate in Ministry program that is offered through Regent University is a low-residency program that features accelerated course terms and courses taught by a renown faculty that are respected in the field. This degree program is the 13th largest divinity program in the world and is approved by the Association of Theological Seminaries. The program is offered entirely online. Courses focus on biblical insights and theories needed for leadership positions within the field. Students will be required to complete a minimum of 28 credit hours of coursework, a dissertation, and an oral defense of the dissertation. Sample courses include Leading Spiritual Renewal, Minister’s Life and Calling, and Ministry Research Methods.
23. Portland Seminary (George Fox University)
Portland, Oregon
Online Leadership and Spiritual Formation Doctor of Ministry Program

Tuition: $21,760
Portland Seminary, a branch of George Fox University, delivers a low-cost Doctorate in Ministry online that is accredited by the Association for Theological Studies. It was designed as a low-residency, cohort program. Students will progress through the program’s four main themes as a group; these themes include The Leader’s Inner World, Leadership and Spiritual Formation Literature, Personal and Organizational Transformation, and The Role of Art and Culture in Change. These themes focus on both the personal and professional practices and obligations that are expected of ministers and chaplains. Students will be required to complete four “retreat” intensives, each of which consists of six to eight nights of face-to-face instruction with faculty in Cannon Beach, Oregon. This is a customizable program; students will note that their required courses focus on their stated intention for their career and will be chosen with the support of an academic advisor. All students will be required to complete a minimum of 32 credit hours of coursework and a dissertation. Sample courses include Introduction to Research and Resources, Designing a Research Model, and Leadership and Spiritual Formation – The Inner World of the Leader.
22. Luther Seminary
St. Paul, Minnesota
Online Doctor of Ministry in Biblical Preaching

Tuition: $21,000
Students who are interested in an online Doctorate in Ministry will find a special offering at Luther Seminary. This school confers a degree in biblical preaching that was designed as a low-residency program that can be completed in three years. Students will work together in cohorts, finishing projects and attending sermons in groups chosen based on their acceptance date. The program has three main themes: Preaching as the Word of God, Preaching as the Proclaimed Word, and Preaching as the Word in Context. Each year, students will be required to complete a three-week residency on campus; students then complete the rest of the coursework online. The program requires a minimum of 34 credit hours of coursework and a dissertation.
21. Lancaster Bible College
Lancaster, Pennsylvania
Online Doctor of Ministry

Tuition: $20,570
Lancaster Bible College is home to an online Doctorate of Ministry online that was designed for leaders in the field who are ready to move into senior leadership roles. This degree was designed to be completed as a low-residency, two-year program. Students will have the option to complete one of three concentrations: Chaplaincy Studies, Formational Leadership, and Strategic Leadership. Each concentration focuses on leadership skills in three different settings, including the chaplaincy, holistic settings, and organizational leadership. Students will find that they only need to attend campus for a total of three weeks during the program. The program requires that students complete a minimum of 34 credit hours of seminars and coursework as well as a dissertation that correlates to their chosen concentration. Sample courses include The Spiritually Formed Leader, Contextual Ministry Leadership Praxis, and Ministry Leadership in an Interconnected World.
20. Wesley Seminary (Indiana Wesleyan University)
Marion, Indiana
Online Doctor of Ministry

Tuition: $19,950
The online Doctorate of Ministry that is offered by Wesley Seminary every year is one of the most innovative in the field. The low-residency program changes its educational emphasis every year, enabling professionals to learn about the various side of ministry leadership all while taking care of their professional obligations. The program is fully accredited by the Association of Theological Schools. The 2019 concentration that will be offered in 2019 is Transformational Leadership. The program is split into two sections. The first is coursework, which can be completed in two years. Students will also need to complete a two-week residency every year during coursework. The second phase is a doctoral project. This phase can be completed in one year. The current concentration that will be offered next year focuses on personal transformation as well as how to use leadership skills and Biblical studies to help others transform their own lives. This degree requires a minimum of 30 credit hours and a doctoral project for graduation. Sample courses include Statement of the Problem, Practices of Personal Leadership, and Theory and Theology of Personhood and Leadership.
19. Southeastern University
Lakeland, Florida
Online Doctor of Ministry

Tuition: $18,000
Southeastern University is home to an affordable Doctorate in Ministry online that was designed to provide students with the skills and knowledge they need to become leaders in church and parachurch settings. This is a low-residency program; students will be required to attend campus twice a year for intensives. All other coursework is completed online with the mentorship of a doctoral mentor. Students will find that their coursework and chosen electives will have a direct impact on their dissertation; a doctoral proposal will focus on issues and insights they have encountered during their time in the program. Courses stem from theology and practice to contextual engagement and leadership in church health problems. This degree requires a minimum of 36 credit hours of coursework and a dissertation. Sample courses include The Leader and Organizational Health, Contextual Engagement, and Theory and Practice of Ministry.
18. Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary
Wake Forest, North Carolina
Online Doctor of Ministry

Tuition: $17,345
The low-cost online Doctorate in Ministry that is offered by Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary is perfect for working professionals who are ready to advance their ministry leadership to a new level. This is a cohort, low-residency program that will provide students with the leadership skills and Biblical knowledge needed to serve a variety of ministry settings. This degree has eight concentrations, including Christian Leadership, Disciple-Making, and Next Generation Ministry. Students will find that each concentration was created to meet a unique need within the ministry, from teaching to preaching to creating the next generation of ministry leaders. Students will find that they must make four trips to campus of various lengths during the program. The program requires that students complete a minimum of 31 credit hours of coursework and a doctoral project. Sample courses include The Minister as Person and Professional, Integrative Theology Workshop, and Strategies in Disciple-Making and Evangelism.
17. Southwestern Assemblies of God University
Waxahachie, Texas
Online Doctor of Ministry in Leadership and Creative Communication

Tuition: $17,250
Southwestern Assemblies of God University confers an affordable online Doctorate of Ministry that focuses on leadership and creative communication. This is a low-residency, cohort program. Students will take just one course every term, making it a great choice for working professionals who are looking for a part-time program. The entire program lasts for five years and requires just three on-campus meetings during that time. Students will move through the coursework, learning about Biblical perspectives and how to put them into practice as a leader in the field. Only students with a Master of Divinity and at least one year of ministry experience is required for admittance into the program. This degree requires 30 credit hours of coursework and a doctoral project. More information on this degree and its course offerings can be found by contacting the school directly.
16. Baptist Bible Seminary (Clarks Summit University)
Clarks Summit, Pennsylvania
Online Doctor of Ministry

Tuition: $16,800
The online Doctorate of Ministry that is available from Clarks Summit University was designed for professionals who work in Baptist ministries and are interested in global ministry as well as leading parachurch ministries. The degree is designed to acknowledge, research and resolve biblical needs of any given ministry; coursework for this program focuses on the tools and skills a professional will need in order to be an effective leader. There are five concentrations: Communication, Pastoral Ministry, Global Ministry, Counseling and Spiritual Development, and Theological Studies. This is a hybrid program; select classes online, but all required courses are available on-campus through one-week intensive programs. Students will note that the length of their program will depend on their previous theological education and experience; the minimum requirements include 28 credit hours of coursework and a doctoral project. Sample courses include Current Trends in Global Ministry, The Centrality of Scripture in Ministry, and Developing Effective Leadership Skills.
15. Wesley Biblical Seminary
Jackson, Mississippi
Online Doctor of Ministry in Pastoral Leadership for Transformational Ministry

Tuition: $16,500
Wesley Biblical Seminary is home to an affordable Doctorate in Ministry online, a program named after Dr. John Case, one of the Seminary’s supporters; it is fully accredited by the Association of Theological Schools. This is a professional in-ministry doctorate that was designed to provide advanced leadership education to students who have received a master’s degree in a theological field and have previous experience in ministry. This program was developed as a low-residency, cohort program that has two one-week residencies during the coursework phase of the program. Students will also need to complete a research project that will take, at a minimum, one year to complete. This degree requires a minimum of 30 credit hours of coursework and a final research project. More information on this degree and its course offerings can be found by contacting the school’s doctoral admissions office.
14. Amridge University
Montgomery, Alabama
Online Doctor of Ministry

Tuition: $16,300
The affordable online Doctorate in Ministry that is conferred by Amridge University was designed for ministry professionals who are interested in combining their spiritual growth with advanced knowledge in theology and Biblical studies. This is a good degree for students who wish to tailor their education to previous work experiences or those who want to specialize in an area in ministry. The program focuses on in-service projects as well as courses that students choose to complement their experiences. This degree is offered online with one campus residency that is taken in the first term of the degree plan. Students will find that courses range from practical ministry seminars to courses relating to administration and leadership. The degree requires a minimum of 30 credit hours of coursework and a dissertation. Sample courses include The Minister’s Message of Salvation, Ministry and the Contemporary World, and The Minister and Preaching Christian Doctrine.
13. Southern California Seminary
El Cajon, California
Online Doctor of Ministry

Tuition: $15,732
Southern California Seminary confers a low-cost online Doctorate of Ministry that was designed for practicing ministry professional. This is a low-residency, cohort model that requires one two-week residency every year for the duration of the program. The degree comes with three tracks for students to choose from, including Biblical Exposition, Christian Education, and Christian Leadership. Students will find that they will have a professional understanding of Christian ministry and leadership upon graduation. This degree requires a minimum of 36 credit hours and a dissertation. More information on this degree, including a list of course offerings, can be obtained by contacting the school’s admissions office.
12. Knox Theological Seminary
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Online Doctor of Ministry

Tuition: $15,300
The online doctorate this is offered by Knox Theological Seminary was designed to be an advanced education in ministry that focuses on ministry in the 21st century. Students will find that this is a professional program for ministers, pastors and other leaders in the field. The program dedicates coursework to biblical and exegetical training, providing professionals with an advanced degree that will translate to senior leadership roles in the field. This degree comes with three concentrations: Biblical Preaching and Teaching, Gospel in Church and Culture, and Theological Exegesis. This program is offered online and has no residency requirements. Students can expect to complete a minimum of 30 credit hours of coursework and a doctoral project. More information on this degree, including graduation requirements and a list of course offerings, can be found by contacting the school’s graduate admissions office.
11. Phoenix Seminary
Scottsdale, Arizona
Online Doctor of Ministry

Tuition: $14,400
Phoenix Seminary is home to an affordable Doctorate of Ministry online that was designed for minister professionals working in all ministry settings. Students will find that this degree is offered as a low-residency program; residencies are limited to one week and are placed at important steps along the degree plan in order to minimize travel requirements and give professionals the chance to arrange travel effectively. This program focuses on a reflective practice that combines seminars with real-world experience. Students will also dedicate a large portion of their education to research, making it an interactive way for them to bring their education into their practice. This degree requires a minimum of 30 credit hours of coursework and a research project. Sample courses include Spiritual Replenishment for the Experienced Ministry Leader, Counseling in Contemporary Culture, and Renewing and Revitalizing the Static Church.
10. North Greenville University
Greer, South Carolina
Online Doctor of Ministry

Tuition: $13,600
Students interested in attending North Greenville University will have the chance to complete the Doctorate in Ministry online. This program was designed for professional ministers and leaders who are interested in researching and expanding their education in the field. This degree is a hybrid program; students will be required to complete some courses online, so it is best undertaken by professionals who live in the area or who have no problem traveling for a term or two. The curriculum has an emphasis on church revitalization, missions, and discipleships. The degree requires a minimum of 32 credit hours of coursework and a doctoral project. Sample courses include Christian Leadership, Applied Ministry Experience in Church Growth and Revitalization, and Evangelism and Missions.
9. Apex School of Theology
Durham, North Carolina
Online Doctor of Ministry

Tuition: $12,900
Apex School of Theology is home to an online Doctorate in Ministry program that was designed as a three-year degree. The program comes with a variety of tracks: Leading for Congregational Change, Biblical Studies: Mentoring Relationships in the Old and New Testament, Christian Counseling, and Developing Effective Series: Preaching and Christian Models for Leadership in the 21st Century. Students will focus on one track for the duration of the program and will also take on a core curriculum that focuses on Biblical and theological studies. Students will be required to complete a minimum of 42 credit hours of coursework and a dissertation. More information on this degree and its graduation requirements can be found by contacting the school’s graduate admissions office.
8. Piedmont International University
Winston-Salem, North Carolina
Online Doctor of Ministry

Tuition: $12,480
The online Doctorate of Ministry at Piedmont International University was designed as an advanced practical degree that was designed for professionals working in ministry. This is a low-residency program; there is just one one-week residency that takes place during the first two years of the program. Students will have seven concentrations to choose from, including Missions, Pastoral Leadership, and Biblical Counseling. This degree focuses on the specializations more so than the core curriculum, which consists of ministry leadership and project design. Students can expect to complete a minimum of 30 credit hours of coursework as well as a dissertation. Sample courses include Current Impact of World Religions, Counseling Ethics and Administration, and The Christian Educational Director in the Local Church.
6. Tie – Grace School of Theology
Woodlands, Texas
Online Doctor of Ministry

Tuition: $12,000
The affordable online Doctorate in Ministry that is offered by the Grace School of Theology was designed for students who are looking for a low-residency program that will provide them with advanced knowledge in biblical and theological applications. Students will be able to participate in week-long residencies while completing the majority of their coursework, enabling them to complete their studies and utilize what they learn in their work in the field. Students have five tracks to choose from: Ministry and Missions, Counseling, Interdisciplinary, Leadership, and Practical Theology. This degree requires a minimum of 30 credit hours of coursework and a doctoral level practical ministry project. Sample courses include Issues in Grace Theology and Praxis, Effective Biblical Leadership, and Contemporary Theological Issues.
6. Tie – Faith International University
Tacoma, Washington
Online Doctor of Ministry

Tuition: $12,000
The online Doctorate of Ministry that is conferred by Faith International University was designed for professionals working in vocational ministry and are interested in increasing the effectiveness of their ministry. This is a low-residency program that offers three concentrations: Expository Communication, Christian Apologetics, and Strategic Leadership. Students will find that while the courses focus on the academics of the discipline, each course has real-world effects for their ministry work. This degree requires a minimum of 48 credit hours of coursework and a dissertation. Sample courses include The Leader’s Inner Journey, Leadership Research, and Foundations of Strategic Leadership.
5. Luther Rice College and Seminary
Lithonia, Georgia
Online Doctor of Ministry

Tuition: $9,480
Luther Rice College and Seminary is home to a low-cost online Doctorate of Ministry that was designed to provide ministers and other professionals with the ethics and guidance needed to lead effective ministries. This is a low-residency degree; students will need to complete four week-long seminars on-campus that make up the core curriculum. All other courses are offered online for the convenience of working professionals. Students will note that this degree has no free electives and is provided in a sequential format. This degree requires a minimum of 30 credit hours of coursework and a doctoral ministry project. Sample courses include Relationships in Ministry, Contemporary Preaching, and Issues in Biblical Counseling.
4. Liberty University
Lynchburg, Virginia
Online Doctor of Ministry

Tuition: $9,180
The low-cost Doctorate of Ministry online at Liberty University was designed as a terminal degree for ministry professionals. Focusing on ministry skills, biblical principles and outreach strategy, the degree will provide students with the chance to work as leaders in a variety of different pastoral settings. This is an online degree; residencies are optional but not required for graduation. There are 10 different concentrations, including Ministry Leadership, Church Revitalization, and Pastoral Counseling. Students will focus on the studies of their specialization which will also serve as the basis for their dissertation. This program requires a minimum of 30 credit hours of coursework and a dissertation. Sample courses include Theology of the Gospel, The Theory and Practice of Biblical Theology, and the Bible and the Pastor.
3. Trinity College of the Bible and Theological Seminary
Newburgh, Indiana
Online Doctor of Ministry

Tuition: $8,748
Trinity College of the Bible and Theological Seminary confers an online doctorate in ministry. This is a program that was designed for practicing ministers who want to hone their theological and leadership skills. There are four different concentrations available for students; they include Christ-Centered Counseling, Biblical and Theological Studies, Pastoral Leadership, and Christian Apologetics and Evangelism. Students will note that this degree is highly tailored to the specialization; the core curriculum focuses on just three courses while the rest of the required courses are selected from directed electives. This degree requires a minimum of 36 credit hours of coursework and an academic presentation. Sample courses include Contemporary Biblical Hermeneutics, Writing for Christian Scholarship, and Studies in Resurrection Defense.
2. Providence Bible College and Theological Seminary
Portsmouth, Virginia
Online Doctor of Ministry

Tuition: $8,280
The online Doctorate of Ministry that is conferred by Providence Bible College and Theological Seminary was designed as a three-year program for experienced ministry professionals. This degree focuses on theological learning as well as leadership skills. The program has five concentrations: Black Church Studies, Church and Society, Pastoral Ministry, and Worship. Students will complete a curriculum that is split in half; the core curriculum focuses on advanced courses in ministry and the electives are chosen from one of the specializations included in the degree. Students will be required to complete a minimum of 48 credit hours of coursework, a project, and a dissertation. Sample courses include Strategies in World Missions, Leadership in the Context of Church and Community, and Communicating the Gospel in the Contemporary World.
1. Colorado Theological Seminary
Lake Helen, Florida
Online Doctor of Ministry

Tuition: $5,044
Colorado Theological Seminary provides ministry professionals with an online Doctorate in Ministry that focuses on a Biblical foundation for leadership and ministry skills. This degree is offered entirely online; there are no residency requirements. Students will find that they will be accompanied on this educational journey by a mentor that will help them figure out their degree plan as well as make plans for their dissertation. The program is sequential and has no electives or concentrations, instead focusing on advanced Biblical studies and courses on advanced leadership. Students will be expected to complete a minimum of 30 credit hours of coursework and a dissertation. Sample courses include Understanding Prayer, Epistles to the Hebrews, and Building Strong Leaders.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Career Options for an Affordable Online Doctorate in Ministry?
- Chaplain
- Executive Director of a Nonprofit Organization
- Church Administrator
- Religious School Headmaster
- Senior Pastor
- Director of Operations
- Hospice Chaplain
- Worship Pastor
- Pastoral Care Head
- Church Planter
- Residential Counselor
- College or University Professor
- Minister
- Chief Diversity Officer
- Chief Executive Officer of a Religious Organization
How Much Can You Earn in this Field?
The average salary for a professional with a Doctorate in Ministry is $62,000. The average salary range for the field is between $25,000 to $75,000. This includes all career options, including those that do not require a doctorate degree, as well as some positions that may require additional training.
The average salary range for this field is not indicative of the highest-paying jobs that can be found in the field. For instance, televangelists make upwards of $1 million a year, with donations providing them with a very comfortable lifestyle while they teach and minister to the masses. Authors, too, who have dedicated audiences may have six-figure advances for their books, which adds to their annual salary. It is important to keep all this in mind when considering what career path that a professional would like to embark upon.
What are the Various Disciplines of Ministry?
Ministry is a field that empowers professionals with a strong devotion to their religious practice to heed the call of ministering their beliefs to society. It consists of a variety of careers and occupations but focuses on how the Bible and religious practices can inform and positively benefit the lives of individuals and families.
Ministry is a field that encompasses much of religious studies. The main disciplines found in the field include theology, Bible studies, dead languages, counseling, comparative religion, and leadership. Depending on a professional’s chosen concentration, some of these disciplines may be more apparent than others.
Other disciplines that make an appearance include history, Biblical theory, service, ethics, culture, diversity, and more. Professionals will find that secondary disciplines will be directly influenced by their chosen path. Some students may also find other disciplines may be included in their studies depending on their program as well as their concentration.
What is the Difference Between a Doctor of Ministry and a Doctor of Philosophy in Ministry?
It can be difficult to decide between a Doctor of Ministry and a Doctor of Philosophy in Ministry, especially for students who have not yet chosen what direction they want their career to take. While both degrees will enable students to have a variety of career options, knowing which one will facilitate which paths are important. Here is a short primer on the difference between the two degrees.
The Doctor of Ministry, known as the DMin, is a practical and professional degree that focuses specifically on the professional development of ministers and other professionals who work in the field. It was designed for individuals who wish to go into ministry as a full-time career. Because of its applied focus, students will find that field experiences, including study abroad and missionary trips, are common.
A Doctor of Philosophy in Ministry, known as a Ph.D. in Ministry, is a research degree. It was designed for academics and researchers who work to uncover and understand the mysteries, theories and concepts that dominate the field. It is a great choice for translators, interpreters, Biblical scholars, and individuals who wish to work as part of an archaeology or anthropology team.
In short, the difference is that a Doctor of Ministry is a practical degree and the Doctor of Philosophy in Ministry is a research degree. The best way to keep this in mind is to remember that a doctorate degree that focuses on philosophy is an academic degree; degrees without the philosophy distinction are practical programs.
Is it Necessary to Have Earned a Master’s in Divinity Prior to Applying for the Doctorate?
The Master’s in Divinity is the best degree available as a stepping stone towards a doctorate in the field. Most schools state that students who have an accredited master’s degree in this field have a good chance to get into doctoral programs because they have the foundational education necessary to keep pace with the curriculum. Therefore, many programs only welcome applicants who have the degree.
However, it is possible to enter into a doctoral program without a Master’s in Divinity. Some schools provide alternate admissions requirements, including a master’s degree in a related field, such as divinity, theology, pastoral counseling, and more. Other schools also look at personal essays and recommendations to make their final decision on who will be accepted into their programs.
Students without a Master’s in Ministry will want to ensure that their application shows passion and commitment to the field. The first way to do this is to ensure that volunteer work, especially that within a religious context, is supplied with the application. The personal essay, which is a favorite among doctoral program admission committees, must also be taken seriously. Lastly, references from those within the Church are prized above all else and will ensure that a professional’s dedication to their path is well documented.
How Long Will it Take to Complete the Program?
A Doctorate in Ministry is generally completed within four to five years when a student decides to study full-time. The program is split into two sections: seminars and the doctoral project. Students will be able to complete all the seminars within three years. The doctoral project generally takes between one to two years to complete.
It may also be possible to complete the degree as a part-time program. It will take between six to seven years to graduate with this program of study. The ability to become a part-time student will depend on the school; some programs do not allow for part-time study, so students are encouraged to seek confirmation from the department that it is possible.
In the part-time plan, seminars tend to take between four to five years. The doctoral project will take the same time as in the full-time program, which is one to two years. Students who dedicate more of their time to the project may be able to graduate in six years.
It is important to note that many programs have a time limit. This is the time that a student has in order to graduate with the degree. Because the time limit varies depending on the school, it is advised that students check with the program about this requirement.
Ministry is more than a career; it is a calling. While the profession isn’t suited for everyone, those who are called to work in the field are passionate individuals who strive to be of service to others. Students who truly feel the pull towards the field should seriously consider the online Doctorate in Ministry programs that can be found on this ranking.
AS Staff