While there are a variety of home study lessons, programs and classes for theology, not all of them will actually confer a degree. So if that is your ultimate goal, your best bet is to enroll in an online degree-granting program. Make sure that the program is given by an accredited academic institution. Online theology programs confer a number of different awards, including bachelor's to master's degrees. Additionally, you have the opportunity to achieve certification in certain programs in fields like Religious Studies. Some programs even offer a Ph.D.
While some degrees will fall under the general term "theology," you will often be directed to Theology Schools at different institutions, which have various degrees offered under that umbrella. These programs can be divided into many categories, but two general approaches can be recognized. The first is that which trends toward the more academic side of the field such as Biblical Studies or Exposition, or Historical and Theological Studies. Alternatively you have those degrees concerned with the practical ministerial elements of theological education. These degrees include but are not limited to degrees in Divinity, Personal or Parochial Ministry, and Christian Services.
Theology degrees concerned with biblical studies and the like will introduce you to a broad number of research topics. History is foremost among them, particularly with regard to issues like church history, philosophy and the history of theology itself. You may receive instruction in biblical or church-related languages like Hebrew, Aramaic, Latin and Greek. For prospective ministers and counselors, courses are designed to apply theology to everyday life contexts and to enhance your communication and problem-solving skills.
As of 2011, some of the online schools offering degrees in theology include DeVry University, Canyon College, Grand Canyon University, Indiana University Wesleyan Online, Regent University, St. Joseph's College of Maine and Southern Christian University. Most of these programs do not disclose either pricing or program specifics to the general public. Therefore the surest way to shop around and compare is to request official information packets from each institution.