Guide to Associate Degrees in Theology

Are you interested in pursuing a career in ministry, missions, or religious education? Getting an associate degree in theology could be a great next step.

In this article, we tell you everything you need to know about how associate in theology degree programs work and what classes you’ll take while in school. At the end of this guide, you’ll find our full directory of associate in theology degree programs.

What are Associate in Theology Degree Programs?

An associate degree in theology can help prepare you to work in a church or para-church organization. You’ll take classes that help you interpret Scripture and understand core biblical and theological principles on a basic level.

Like other associate degrees, an associate in theology normally takes around two years to complete. Most programs include about 60 credit hours, covering topics such as biblical interpretation, church history, and practical ministry.

Many students begin working immediately after earning their associate degree. In some cases, though, students transfer to a four-year college to complete a bachelor’s degree after earning their associate’s.

Types of Associate Degrees in Theology

Many colleges offer multiple types of associate degrees. Two of the most common examples are Associate of Arts (AA) and Associate of Science (AS) degrees.

Typically, the main difference between AA and AS degrees is the major they focus on. AA degrees are common in fields such as humanities and liberal arts. AS degrees are usually offered in fields such as engineering and science.

Most associate in theology degrees are Associate of Arts degrees. For example, Holy Apostles College and Seminary offers a fully online Associate of Arts in Theology program. Their coursework equips students with a strong understanding of theology, philosophy, and humanities. Graduates from the program continue with careers in ministry, missions, and religious education.

Associate of Science in theology degrees are uncommon. Most AS degrees in ministry or theology focus on applied ministry skills. Warner University’s Associate of Science in Christian Ministry degree, for instance, includes several practical classes on teaching, ministry, and pastoral care.

Associate of theology degrees can also have different focuses. Some degrees, such as Concordia University’s online Associate of Arts in Theological Studies program, are focused on theology and its application in ministry. God’s Bible School and College offers an AA degree in Bible and Theology that includes 15 hours of biblical studies in addition to 17 hours of theology.

To determine which degree may be right for you, think about your post-graduation goals. Are you hoping to serve on staff at a church? Are you thinking about entering the mission field? Would you like to continue your education after finishing your associate degree? Answering these questions will help you clarify your future plans.

What Will You Learn in an Associate in Theology Program?

Over the course of your associate in theology degree program, here are a few things you can expect to learn:

• Biblical exegesis and hermeneutics. Take classes that teach you how to understand Scripture in its original context and apply it to present-day situations.
• Christian history and tradition. Courses will cover the development of church history from the apostolic fathers through the Reformation and American Restoration Movement.
• Systematic theology. Understand several of Christianity’s core doctrines on a basic level.
• Practical ministry. Typically including at least 1–2 elective ministry courses, these classes may cover topics such as preaching, teaching, leading worship, or providing pastoral care.

At Franciscan University of Steubenville, students spend their first year in the AA in Theology program taking general education core classes in addition to foundational theology classes such as Christian Moral Principles and The Word of God: Scripture and Tradition. During their second year, students choose eight theology-related electives to take alongside courses that cover the theology of Christ and the theology of the Church.

An AA in Theology at Ohio Dominican University takes 60 hours to complete. Students choose from 33 elective hours in addition to core classes such as The Gospels, Introduction to Christian Theology, and multiple college writing courses.

Keep in mind that these degrees are quite different from bachelor’s degrees, both in terms of what you’ll study and what jobs you’ll be most qualified to pursue after graduation. Most seminary programs also require students to have completed a bachelor’s degree, many of which include more general education courses.

What Can You Do with a Theology Associate Degree?

Once you finish your associate in theology degree, you have a few options for what to do next. Some students transfer to a four-year university to complete a bachelor’s degree; others decide it’s time to enter the workforce.

If you opt to look for a job, know that many churches consider applicants with associate in theology degrees for youth ministry or associate pastor positions. A pastor residency position is another option. You’ll receive on-the-job pastoral training to support your classroom experience and further prepare you for your future career behind the pulpit.

Some churches may expect you to complete additional education (such as a seminary degree) after you begin working. Others will ordain only those ministers who have advanced degrees or additional training beyond an associate degree.

Entering the mission field is another possibility. With an associate in theology degree, you can serve in the field alongside an established missionary or participate in a hands-on missionary program such as Youth with a Mission to gain additional experience.

Depending on your denomination, you may need to complete additional training or classes before you can begin serving. Some denominations provide additional funding for missionaries once their training is complete.

If you’re interested in a secular position after earning your associate in theology, you can look for jobs in social or nonprofit work . Becoming a licensed social worker requires a graduate degree, but graduates with an associate degree (with a specialization in social work) may be employed as case managers or residential counselors.

Your next move after graduation may also depend on your career goals or the focus for your associate in theology degree. If you’re looking to serve at a church, you may not need additional coursework. If you’re hoping to teach at a university or pursue hospital or military chaplaincy, you’ll probably need to pursue a more advanced degree.