I guess we could all say that there is a lot that we don't know about studying theology, but recently an internet site was brought to my attention that opened my eyes just a little, on the topic of studying theology.
I discovered for instance that theology is apparently an extremely versatile degree that can be used when one wants to work not only for religious institutions, but also in hospitals, child care and substance abuse facilities as well, and degree holders can also work as missionaries, clergy, writers, youth group leaders, heads of religious programs, and teachers.
According to information I discovered on the Ultimate Guide to Religion and Theology website, Members of the clergy have a job satisfaction rate of 87% and make an average of about $47,000 per year [I will have to check this with Pastor Swank], although only about 30% of women will hold bachelor's degree in the fields of philosophy, religion, or theology.
Interestingly enough the number of graduates with Master Degrees in Theology and Religious Vocations has doubled since the 1970's. I thought that was rather interesting in these God-forsaken times.
Those interested in becoming theology students have several bachelor's degrees options open to them, including theology, divinity, and religious education.
(I guess I need to learn a bit more because I don't know the difference between Theology and Divinity. I do sometimes claim to be a Theologian but I have never claimed to be Divine - although - I have heard many people gasp: 'Oh God!' when they see me!)
According to the 'Guide To Online Schools', the site is an online education directory that specializes in online degrees, online schools, and distance learning. They help adult students find the best online schools, online colleges, and online universities with the best degrees and distance learning programs.
I thought the site was rather interesting and wondered why someone thought it necessary to create it, but apparently there is a lack of 'general information' available on the net for those seeking a theology based education. There is a great photo on site that comes from Creighton University's page entitled "The Vocation of the Seminary Theologian" which states:
The seminary professor approaches the study of theology first and foremost from the perspective of faith, and not primarily critique. He or she thinks out of love, teaches out of a sense of pastoral desire, and writes and publishes so that such a love and desire can further enhance the mission of the parish priest.
Creighton University is not of course the only college listed in the Online Guide. Others include:
Boston University School of Theology
Founded in 1839, officially known as the Boston University School of Theology in 1871. The first seminary to start teaching American Methodism. Certificates available in evangelism, spiritual formation, and sacred music; masters in divinity, ministry, theology; and combined degrees with social work.
Duke Divinity School
Has 500 students pursuing master's degrees in divinity, theology, and theological studies, and doctorates in theology. Students can also opt to enroll in dual-degree programs, combining the Master of Theological Studies with a Juris Doctor law degree, or a Master of Divinity with a Master of Social Work.
Jesuit School of Theology
Berkeley California: Jesuit School of Theology offers several degrees. Its mission is to equip students as teachers and academics to serve the Church to the best of their ability.
Texas Lutheran University
Seguin Texas, just outside of San Antonio. Students have options to choose from three concentrations while studying theology: pre-seminary, youth ministry, and liberal arts. Also on offer - courses in philosophy, Greek, and Hebrew.
The Catholic University of America
Washington, D.C. 7,000 students pursuing degrees from 12 different schools. They offer certificates in pastoral ministry, bachelor's degrees in theology and religious studies, and doctorates in sacred theology and ministry.
The site also lists numerous Theology Journals:
American Theological Inquiry
Harvard Theological Review
Journal for Cultural and Religious Theory
Journal of Philosophy and Scripture
The Denver Journal
The Ecumenical Review
The Online Guide even offers pages that provide 'College Reviews' as well as what 'Online' Degrees and programs there are that you might want to apply for.
If you have ever thought of studying theology, even if only to find out what it is that you don't believe, then start with that site and see where it takes you.
Despite its appearance, this is neither a paid nor unpaid advertisement for the site, and nor is it an endorsement of the same. The site was brought to my attention by a person who thought I might be able to use something from that site on my kingscalendar website.
I was surprised to find such diversity of religious groups that I thought I might as well let the good folks at Magic City Morning Star News know about it. And who knows - maybe people interested in studying theology might find this page and then buy 'my book'.
R.P. BenDedek
Email: rpbendedek@hotmail.com
R.P.BenDedek is the Author of 'The King's Calendar: The Secret of Qumran' and a guest columnist and 'stand-in editor' at Magic City Morning Star News.
"The King's Calendar" [ on sale - $10 - August 2010 to November 2011], is a chronological study of the historical books of the Bible (Kings and Chronicles), Josephus, Seder Olam Rabbah, and the (Essene) Damascus Document of The Dead Sea Scrolls. See Chapter Precis page.
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