Biblical Studies: Program Overview, Universities, Careers & Salaries

Salaries for Biblical Studies graduates vary by role and location. Philosophy and Religion Teachers, Postsecondary earn a median of $78,050 annually, while Directors, Religious Activities and Education earn around $54,840. Geographic location significantly impacts earnings—professionals in Maine average $90,280 compared to $38,790 in Montana. Approximately 42,300 professionals work in related occupations nationwide.

Currently 198 accredited institutions offer Biblical Studies degrees across the U.S. Programs with the highest enrollment include Liberty University (332 graduates), Johnson University (JU) (152 graduates), and University of Northwestern (UNW), St Paul (139 graduates).

Program size doesn't necessarily indicate quality—consider factors like faculty expertise, production opportunities, location, and available degree levels when choosing a school.

Graduate numbers have decreased over the past decade, rising from 5,237 in 2010 to a peak of 4,246 in 2020, before declining slightly to 3,603 in 2023-24. This represents a 31% decrease overall from 2010.

The field remains specialized with consistent demand, though opportunities are most concentrated in major metropolitan areas with active arts scenes like New York, California, and Illinois.

This degree prepares you for roles such as Philosophy and Religion Teachers, Postsecondary, Directors, Religious Activities and Education, . Related occupations employ approximately 42,300 professionals nationwide.

Skills in project management, creative leadership, and collaboration also transfer to event planning, arts administration, marketing, and corporate training roles. Many professionals work freelance or on a project basis across theatre, film, and live events.