M.Div. degree programs are at least partially focused on real-world application of theory, which complicates some aspects of distance learning. The required coursework can be done online, but there are some practical training requirements in counseling, pastoral work, youth leadership and ministry education that necessitate a student's physical presence at times. All distance-learning programs combine online and in-person courses to meet the accreditation requirements set forth by the Association of Theological Schools (ATS).
Regent University is a private Christian college located in Virginia Beach, Virginia. They offer Master of Divinity degrees in a blended format, with the majority of the coursework online. They do require a minimum residency requirement of one week per semester to comply with the ATS accreditation requirements. The school offers concentrations in practical theology and missiology. One of the specializations must be chosen in order to participate. Regent University seeks candidates who share the college's values of church leadership, with an emphasis on practical training and education, and spreading the word of Christ.
Liberty University, started by Jerry Falwell, is the largest private university in the state of Virginia, and the largest Christian Evangelical university in the world. The school has over 50,000 students enrolled in their online course offerings, and 12,000 students at their brick-and-mortar institution in Lynchburg, Virginia. They offer Master of Divinity degrees with concentrations in chaplaincy, missional studies, pastoral ministries and professional ministries.
Located in Montgomery, Alabama, Amridge University is a small private Christian college. Their Turner School of Theology offers a Master of Divinity degree, with a specific concentration on developing future church and ministry leaders, and serving the less fortunate. They seek candidates capable of humility, emotional maturity, and a sincere desire to assist others in interpreting and spreading the word of Christ. Amridge was an early pioneer of online education. It was one of 15 universities selected by the US Department of Education to pilot distance learning in 1993. The school's innovative techniques helped it blossom into a leading institution for online learning.