FIND JOY FROM THE TRUTH

EARN YOUR BA DEGREE ONLINE!

At Catholic Distance University, we turn lifelong learning in faith into a tangible reality for Catholic adults.

SERVICE

Use what you learn in ministry, teaching leadership and more.

COMMUNITY

Foster professional excellence, fellowship and engagement.

FAITH

Discover the mind and heart of the Church.

The need for leaders of the New Evangelization has never been greater.

Today, it’s increasingly important to be able to respond to views contrary to our faith. CDU’s Bachelor of Arts in Theology program equips you with the knowledge and understanding to respond with confidence and make an impact in the world.

OUR BA PROGRAM EMPOWERS YOU TO:

  • Explore Catholic theology’s guidance on promoting common good and dignity.
  • Relate the Old and New Testaments through Catholic teachings.
  • Use philosophy to deepen theological understanding.
  • Apply Church history to address modern challenges.

Program Length

Up to 6 years

Per Credit Hour

$345

Total Credits

120

“A Catholic university shares that Gaudium de Veritate, so precious to St. Augustine, which is that joy of searching for, discovering and communicating truth in every field of knowledge.”

– Pope Saint John Paul II

Join the Pioneer in Catholic Distance Education!

In our fast-paced world where achieving your learning goals is challenging, our highly regarded and accredited program is crafted to lift you to greater heights. With a 40-year history of serving thousands of lay people, clergy and those discerning, CDU is the pioneer you can trust in Catholic distance education.

AFFORDABLE

Benefit from affordable tuition and financial aid.

FLEXIBLE

Engage in our 8-week asynchronous courses and global Catholic community.

 SUPPORTIVE

Enjoy our mobile app, 24/7 tech support, thriving online student life center, and online theological library staffed by a helpful librarian.

What Alumni Are Saying

Our commitment to lifelong learning and service resonates with our students. It’s no surprise that 100% of alumni say they were satisfied with their studies, achieved their goals and would recommend CDU!

“My education from CDU gave me confidence as well as valuable knowledge that has helped me in my professional life. I have also gained critical thinking skills, organizational skills, and increased my ability to look at things through a worldview centered on Jesus and his Church.”

— Francis Cabildo, BA in Theology

“CDU did not just prepare me for my job but gave me an opportunity to grow in my Faith with a wonderful community of classmates and professors. I am so grateful for my time at CDU and cannot wait to share what I have learned with my family, parish community, and all those I encounter in my lifetime.”

— Katlyn Lawler, BA in Theology

“I came across CDU and was surprised at the cost of the program, which was significantly lower than most other universities. My education at CDU … cracked open the rich deposit of faith that I can now share with confidence.”

— Gian Parham, BA in Theology

Top-Notch Online Courses Tailored For You

Many universities offer online programs today, but most prioritize their campus-based programs. At CDU, you aren’t just another online student; you’re our #1 focus! Our broad range of courses offers a personalized learning experience with attentive faculty, small class sizes and a dynamic curriculum that nurtures collaboration with classmates.

EVERY CDU COURSE PROMISES:

  • A dynamic virtual classroom fostering inclusive student participation.
  • A structured class schedule with weekly multimedia learning materials.
  • An interactive platform for direct instructor contact, questions and discussions.

THESE ARE JUST A SAMPLE OF THE ENRICHING COURSES YOU WILL TAKE:

The Art of Catechesis: Dynamic Renewal

Explore catechesis, emphasizing an intimate relationship with Christ, through biblical instruction, doctrinal planning, and Church-endorsed principles and methods for catechists at all levels.

God, Man and the Universe

Explore Catholic teachings on God, original sin, and humanity, delving into Scripture, Tradition, doctrine development, and the mysteries of the Trinity and Divine Providence.

Introduction to Scripture and Salvation History

Embark on a multimedia journey through the Bible’s narrative, from creation to Christ, wrestling with interpretive issues and modern implications.

Our Catholic-Centered Faculty

As the only fully online College in The Cardinal Newman Society Guide, we take your academic success seriously. All of our experienced and learned faculty have taken the Oath of Fidelity to the Catholic Church. They don’t just teach; they also mentor, guiding you to integrate your learning into your life, career and community.

MEET THREE OF OUR INSPIRING INSTRUCTORS:

Cynthia Stalcup, MA

Ms. Cynthia Stalcup, educator, holds a Master of Arts in Theology and Education Ministry from Catholic Distance University. A religious educator for over three decades, serving at the elementary and high school and parish youth ministry coordinator for fifteen years, she currently serves as catechist in the Church of St. Theresa in the Diocese of Arlington, Virginia.

Brandon Harvey, DA

Dr. Harvey holds degrees in theology, and literature, and completed a doctorate in the Great Books of Western Civilization with a concentration in Philosophy and Religion. He has experience teaching children, teens, college students, and men in formation for the diaconate. He has also served as a Headmaster/Principal of a Chesterton Academy. Besides teaching and speaking, he regularly serves as a theological/editorial consultant for content creators and an educational consultant for Catholic/classical schools.

Christine Wood, PhD

A CDU professor since 2014, Dr. Wood has also lectured on systematic and biblical theology and ethics at John Paul the Great Catholic University in San Diego. She is the founder of the Verbum Domini Biblical & Catechetical Institute at the Archdiocese of Hobart, Australia. Her teaching focus is on Christology, Fundamental Theology, Ecclesiology, Catholic Social Teaching, Moral Theology, and Scripture. Her research interests range from the intersection of faith and reason, nature and grace, the theology of revelation, the interrelation of Christology and Ecclesiology, and the liturgical actualization of the salvific events of the mystery of Jesus Christ.

Become an Instrument for God Everywhere

Discerning God’s will for your faith journey isn’t easy, but CDU is prepared to help. Are you ready to deepen your faith, become a leader in promoting Christ and boost your employability right from home? Join today’s leaders in faith by earning your BA degree with CDU!

Here’s how to get started

1. APPLY ONLINE

Complete the easy and free application in just 15 minutes and submit your application materials. Our friendly admissions team is available to answer any questions you may have.

2. MEET YOUR ACADEMIC ADVISOR

Our advisors are here to guide you throughout your graduate journey, providing support and networking opportunities.

3. ENJOY A TRANSFORMATIVE LEARNING EXPERIENCE

As a member of the CDU family, you join a thriving community serving the Church and God.

Explore our Fully Online Graduate Degree and Certificate Programs

Whether you’re interested in Sacred Scripture, Philosophy, Theology, Sacraments, Spirituality or Church History, our online guide will help you find the right courses to achieve your goals.