Wow, that’s definitely a big decision, and it sounds like you’ve got two very different but strong options on your hands. Here’s what I’m thinking:
First off, Aberdeen is definitely well-known and respected in the field of theology, especially with the chance to work under someone like Dr. Paul T. Nimmo. The prestige of the school could give you an edge when applying for academic positions later on, especially if you're aiming to teach in the U.S. or Korea. However, the cost is a huge factor—$90,000 is a lot, and that kind of debt can weigh on you for years.
On the other hand, CIU’s PhD program being much more affordable is a major plus, and the fact that it’s fully distance learning aligns perfectly with your current role as a pastor. However, as you mentioned, CIU doesn’t carry the same level of recognition as Aberdeen. This could potentially impact your job prospects, especially if you’re looking to teach at a more prestigious institution.
Given your goal of becoming a theology professor, the decision really comes down to what you value more: the prestige and recognition of the Aberdeen degree, or the affordability and flexibility of CIU. If you think the connections and reputation you’d gain at Aberdeen would significantly boost your career, it might be worth the investment. But if avoiding debt and maintaining your current work-life balance is more important, CIU could be the better choice.
It’s also worth considering where you want to end up teaching—if you think your future employers will weigh the name of your alma mater heavily, Aberdeen could pull more weight. But if the focus will be more on your research, experience, and teaching abilities, CIU might be just fine.
In the end, it’s a tough call, but weighing the pros and cons of both options in light of your long-term goals should help clarify things. Good luck with your decision—I’m sure you’ll make the choice that’s right for you!