What Can You Do With a Theology Degree?

Yes, ministry — but a lot more

A theology degree prepares you for a wide range of vocations. Here are ten common paths:

1. Pastor or associate pastor — the most common track, usually with an MDiv.
2. Chaplain — hospital, military, prison, or corporate. Board-certified chaplaincy typically requires an MDiv plus CPE units.
3. Missionary — cross-cultural mission agencies favor candidates with Bible or missions degrees.
4. Christian school teacher — Bible, worldview, or humanities.
5. Nonprofit and NGO leadership — faith-based nonprofits value theological literacy.
6. Counselor — many programs pair theology with a MA in Counseling (LPC-track).
7. Denominational staff — regional or national roles in your denomination.
8. Higher education — with a ThM/PhD, teach at a seminary or Christian college.
9. Writer / editor / publisher — Christian publishing and journalism.
10. Marketplace ministry — many degree-holders work in business, tech, or the arts with theological training informing their vocation.

What about salary?

Median compensation for clergy in the US is around $58,000 (BLS 2024), with wide variation by denomination, region, and church size. Chaplaincy and higher-ed roles often pay more; small-church pastoral work often pays less and combines with bi-vocational work.