An online Christian ministry degree can offer a well-rounded education and lead to career opportunities in both religious and secular sectors.
A bachelors degree in Christian ministry can also act as a foundation for graduate studies in relevant fields.
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There is a steady and broad job market for professionals with a bachelors in ministry. If you have a calling to serve the church or community, pursuing Christian ministry may be the right path for you.
Online Christian Ministry Degrees
There are several types of online ministry degrees you may pursue. While all of these branches overlap, each has its own particular focus. Most bachelor degrees in ministry can also help prepare you for graduate studies.
Select the program that most interests you to jump to that section of the guide:
- Children’s Ministry
- Christian Counseling
- Pastoral Ministry
- Pastoral Counseling
- Youth Ministry
- Worship Ministry
Regardless of the specialty you select, you will still receive a strong foundation in Christian ministry and related courses.
Children’s Ministry
A degree in children’s ministry is for those who want to educate children in the Bible and nurture spiritual growth. The average children’s ministry degree program focuses on core coursework and can include a practicum, an internship, or an apprenticeship that focuses on children’s religious education.
Courses in the first 2 years of a bachelors program consist of the usual general education courses, such as math, English, and science. The number of faith-based and major-specific courses will often increase as you advance in the program.
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More relevant course topics will likely include early childhood education, spiritual formation in children’s ministry, Christian ministry, and interpretations of biblical texts. This degree can introduce you to several career paths in religious education. Some professionals in this field go on to become children’s pastors, Sunday school teachers, elementary school teachers, or children’s counselors.
Christian Counseling
Christian counseling programs teach you how to counsel others with ideas grounded in biblical values. You might think of this program as related to psychology with the added elements of Christian ministry.
Most of the coursework focuses on psychological studies and research techniques, while additional courses are specifically tailored to Christian counseling. Some programs provide an internship or practicum component as well. This degree can help you on the way to obtaining a master’s degree in psychology and counseling.
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Types of core course topics include psychological research techniques, behavioral and development courses, and Christian counseling courses. While this degree can help you on the way to obtaining a masters degree, there are several career options that only require bachelors-level training.
Depending on the employer, these positions can include non-licensed Christian counselor and substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors.
Pastoral Ministry
There are several different types of pastoral ministry degrees that can be taken online. In general, a pastoral ministry degree can typically set you on the path to church ministry.
Some pastoral ministry graduates train to become counselors, educators, or religious directors. In a bachelor’s degree program in pastoral ministry, you’ll likely take core courses on church history, the Bible, church administration, and Christian ethics.
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Some Christian leadership programs require students to find an internship. These internships may take place in association with churches and other faith-based programs that prepare you for ministerial experiences.
Pastoral Counseling
Similarly to Christian counseling, pastoral counseling uses both psychology and theology in its practices. Pastoral counseling, though, will likely have a more in-depth religious focus than Christian counseling.
Since pastoral counseling is much more niche, there are fewer programs at the bachelor’s level, with most students continuing on to a pastoral counseling graduate or postgraduate degree. A bachelors in pastoral counseling would likely include courses on Christian ethics, developmental psychology, Christian counseling, and psychological counseling techniques.
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Just like a Christian counseling degree, a pastoral counseling degree may require you to do a practicum or internship at the end of your program.
Youth Ministry
Youth ministry is a branch of Christian ministry that is dedicated to the Christian development of youth. The demographic for youth ministry tends to encompass middle school and high school. Many graduates go on to become youth ministers, church educators, and school educators.
Some courses in a youth ministry program are similar to those in Christian counseling and children’s ministry programs. These overlapping topics can include counseling and psychology, critical thinking, biblical philosophy and interpretation, and Christian history. Youth ministry courses tend to include topics on leadership and educational programming as well.
A growing number of universities offer youth ministry degrees online or on campus.
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A youth ministry degree can also be a solid foundation on the path to higher degrees and careers in counseling and education.
Worship Ministry
A worship ministry degree online or on campus focuses more on community and worship. This degree is helpful if you are pursuing ministry and want to specialize in a more community-based field.
There are two main degree paths you can choose from—a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or a Bachelor of Science (BS). A Bachelor of Arts in Worship Ministry often focuses particularly on the musical aspects of the study. So, music courses are combined with Christian and theological courses. The Bachelor of Science route would also involve music courses, but theology and history would be more front-and-center.
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A worship ministry program generally involves courses on music proficiency, history and philosophy of worship, and pastoral leadership. Common careers related to this field include church music director, worship leader or pastor, and even music teacher.
Christian Ministry Careers and Salaries
Graduates who have completed a bachelors in Christian ministry can pursue a range of opportunities, depending on their chosen ministry specialization. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, here are some careers related to various branches of Christian ministry.
| Careers | Annual Median Salaries |
| Social and Community Service Managers | $69,600 |
| Writers and Authors | $67,120 |
| Fundraisers | $59,610 |
| High School Teachers, Private Schools | $58,550 |
| Music Directors and Composers | $52,250 |
| Clergy | $51,940 |
| Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors | $47,660 |
| Religious Activities and Education Directors | $45,110 |
| Social and Human Service Assistants | $35,960 |
| Religious Workers | $33,530 |
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the majority of employment in religious organizations comes under the category of clergy and religious director. While a Christian ministry major has theological focuses, the career path you choose might not necessarily involve theology.
The skills you can gain from a bachelors degree may apply to a wide range of opportunities outside religious communities.
Christian Ministry Bachelor’s Curriculum & Courses
Below is a short survey of the types of courses you can expect in a Christian ministry curriculum:
- Bible Interpretation: This course focuses on in-depth analysis of the Bible and how to interpret Scripture.
- Christian Ethics: This course often puts biblical ethics and values into 21st century contexts, which sets the values and standards for future ministers.
- Christian History: This course is a survey on the history of Christianity and its texts.
- Critical Thinking: This is a core course for any major and teaches you how to analyze and think critically when consuming any form of media or performing scholarly analysis.
- Philosophy: This course surveys different types of belief systems and schools of thought, and it may focus on topics such as death, truth, and reality.
- College Writing: This course teaches you how to write at an academic and professional level, focusing on proper syntax, grammar, and citation methods.
- Spiritual Formation: This course focuses on the student’s personal faith and relationship with God.
- Counseling: This course covers basic counseling skills and pairs these skills with Christian values. This is an important course for those going into Christian counseling.
- Practicum: This is a chance for you to use the skills you’ve learned in a practical setting. For Christian ministry, practicum may take place in a church setting.
- Capstone: Some schools require a capstone or thesis paper at the end of the program, which allows you to demonstrate the skills you’ve learned in an analytical context.
These are just some of the courses you might take when completing a Christian ministries degree. Other courses can include electives in the arts and topics that align with your chosen major and branch of ministry.
How to Become an Ordained Minister
If you want to pursue a leadership role in church ministry, here are some basic requirements for becoming an ordained minister:
- Earn your bachelor’s degree. Most churches and faith-based organizations require a bachelor’s degree for any related career.
- Get a master’s degree. Churches often require ordination candidates to hold a Master of Divinity (MDiv) from a university or seminary. An MDiv is often focused on preparing students for career paths in ministry.
- Complete the ordination process. This process can differ depending on the church or organization you want to be part of. Ordination may involve written or oral exams, apprenticeships, internships, or practicums.
The road to becoming an ordained minister may give you the time and experience you need to pursue a career in Christian ministry.
Online Christian Ministry Degree Admissions Requirements
Just like any degree program, a bachelors program in Christian ministry has certain requirements for admission. Specific requirements can vary from school to school, but here are some common criteria:
- Minimum GPA of 2.0 to 2.5, on average
- SAT or ACT scores (only some schools require them)
- Official transcripts from high school and any previous college classes
- Completed application form
Some ministry schools require applicants to take a placement test if SAT or ACT scores are not applicable.
Accreditation
Regional accreditation is an important qualification for postsecondary degree programs, as it demonstrates that a school meets the standards set by regional accrediting organizations.
Graduating from an accredited school will often put you into higher consideration by postgraduate admissions or future employers. The Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) has a public database of accredited schools, so you can verify that your prospective school meets academic standards.
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For Christian ministry programs, you might also want to investigate faith-based accrediting agencies, such as the Association for Biblical Higher Education.
Ministry Licensing and Ordination
Most churches require ministers to hold at least a bachelors degree, though most prefer prospective pastors to earn a Master of Divinity (MDiv). Even with the proper education, there are further qualifications required to become a licensed minister.
The general requirements for ministry licensing and ordination can be quite similar, though the requirements can vary based on the state and denomination. It’s often necessary to submit an application and perform the functions of a minister under the supervision of a church leader. Some churches also have potential ministers pass an oral or written theological exam.
Since the process can vary, it may be helpful to check with your local church about its specific requirements for obtaining a ministry license.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
There are resources available to help qualifying students cover the cost of bachelor degrees in Christian ministry. Some educational institutions provide scholarships, which might be determined by your area of study or GPA. Other financial aid options can come in the form of grants, the amount of which can be determined by your financial status or academic merit.
Grants are often given by federal or state governments, though they may be given by private organizations. Another aid option comes in the form of work-study programs. Basically, work-study programs allow you to earn money to pay for your degree, often by working in on-campus or university jobs.
To find out more about the different aid and scholarship opportunities, you can visit the Federal Student Aid website.
What Is a Christian Ministry Degree?
A Christian ministry degree is a program that can help prepare you for a wide range of opportunities in ministry, church, and faith-based organizations.
Christian ministry programs offer a well-rounded education with a broad survey of courses. The program not only focuses on biblical and theological studies but can also hone your critical thinking skills, leadership skills, and other skills needed for a range of career paths.
There are Christian ministry degrees that can specialize your studies in a specific branch of ministry—such as counseling, teaching, pastoral ministry, worship ministry, and children’s and youth ministry.
What Can You Do with a Christian Ministry Degree?
A Christian ministry degree can help you qualify for a range of opportunities, both educational and career-based.
Depending on your specialization, a ministry degree can help prepare you for work in counseling, teaching, and church ministry. Careers related to Christian ministry include clergy, music director, counselor, religious activities and education director, and social and community service manager.
This degree can also act as a stepping stone toward graduate degrees in a variety of fields. While the majority of Christian ministry graduates stay in faith-based fields, this type of degree can help you develop soft skills and leadership skills that are needed in secular fields as well.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Degree in Christian Ministry Online?
Many bachelor programs follow a traditional 16 week semester and take 4 years to complete with full-time study.
Some online programs offer a shorter curriculum, and others follow shorter, 8 week terms. If you follow an accelerated academic calendar, you may be able to finish your degree sooner with full-time, year-round enrollment.
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If you choose a degree with a four-year curriculum, you’ll often study general education courses in the first 2 years and complete the core courses for Christian ministry in the last 2.
What’s the Difference Between a Christian Minister vs. Pastor?
Here are some small but key differences between a minister and a pastor.
| Minister | Pastor |
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All in all, while a pastor is a type of minister, a minister is not always a pastor.
What’s the Difference Between a Licensed Minister vs. Ordained Minister?
The differences between licensed and ordained ministers can often rely on the denomination and religious organization.
| Licensed Minister | Ordained Minister |
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Again, the functions of each role may be limited depending on the region or denomination. For more information, you can check your state’s regulations for licensure and your local church’s requirements for ordination.
Is a Bachelor Degree in Christian Ministry Worth It?
Yes, a bachelor degree in Christian ministry is worth it for many students. This field has many opportunities for a well-rounded education, and you may have the chance to specialize in subjects like music, counseling, leadership, and history.
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Many graduates tend to either go on to further their education or enter the fields of religion, counseling, or education. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there is a steady job market for clergy, and there is above average job growth for service occupations. In fact, the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 12% job growth for social and community service occupations over the next ten years.
Universities Offering Online Bachelors in Christian Ministry Degree Programs
Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.
Bethel University’s online Bachelor of Arts in Christian Ministries program can potentially be completed in just 18 to 20 months. The program is designed to provide students with a strong foundation in Biblical studies and theology. Bethel has a generous transfer credit policy and also allows students to earn credit for qualifying professional and military experience.
Bethel University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Campbellsville University offers a Bachelor of Science in Pastoral Ministries. The goal is to help students learn how to positively impact other people’s lives and build healthy church environments. Courses are 8 weeks long, and the full program usually takes 4 years to complete. Faculty members have real-world experience working in Christian ministry.
Campbellsville University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Colorado Christian University offers a B.A. in Christian Ministry that can be earned 100% online. The program is focused on Christian worship, ministerial ethics, preaching, teaching, and general pastoral ministry. Courses are taken one at a time in 5 week blocks. CCU has small class sizes to encourage individualized learning and networking.
Colorado Christian University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Crown College offers a Bachelor of Science in Christian Ministry. The online program includes three accelerated track options for students who want to continue on to a Master of Divinity or an M.A. in Christian Studies or Ministry Leadership. The core curriculum focuses on biblical and theological studies. Courses are just 8 weeks long.
Crown College is one of the online Christian colleges accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Gardner-Webb University offers a completely online program for a Bachelor of Science in Christian Studies. It is designed to prepare students for careers in youth and adult ministry, missionary outreach, chaplaincy, and related fields. It is also designed to be good preparation for pursuing an advanced degree in ministry. The curriculum covers biblical interpretation, philosophy, history, spiritual formation, and more.
Gardner-Webb University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Grand Canyon University offers a Bachelor of Arts in Christian Studies with an emphasis in Global Ministry. Online classes are just 7 weeks long, and classes that are 15 weeks long are available on campus. Courses include Anthropology for Cross-Cultural Ministry, Christianity in a Global Context, Evangelism and Discipleship, and World Religions.
Grand Canyon also offers online theology degrees for students interested in this field.
Grand Canyon University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Hope International University offers a flexible online Bachelor of Arts in Christian Ministry program. The program is designed to be ideal for anyone wishing to work in pastoral, ministry, or church planting careers of any kind. It covers both the historical context of scripture and how to apply it in the modern world.
Hope International University is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission.
Liberty University offers a B.S. in Religion—Christian Ministries. Classes are 8 weeks long and 100% online. Courses include Introduction to Apologetics, Church Ministries, Introduction to Global Studies, and Practical Teaching of Scripture. The average completion time for this degree program is 3.5 years.
Liberty University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Lincoln Christian University offers a BA in Christian Ministry. Courses include Foundations of Christian Ministry, Christian Leadership, Pastoral Care, Global Cultural Intelligence, and Evangelism, Discipleship, and Faith Development. This degree program is intended for those who want to pursue careers in pastoral ministry, mission work, or Christian education.
Lincoln Christian University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Mid-America Christian University offers a Bachelor of Science in Christian Ministries. The program is designed for those who want to work for nonprofits or become pastors or church support staff. All of the online instructors are actively involved in ministry, and they maintain a virtual open-door policy for students.
Mid-America Christian University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Mount Vernon Nazarene University offers an online Bachelor of Arts in Christian Ministry program. The format is completely online in order to meet the needs of working adults. Classes are just 6 weeks long, and they start every month throughout the year. The courses are designed to help students develop a biblical, theological, and historical foundation for practicing ministry.
Mount Vernon Nazarene University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Northwest Nazarene University offers a Bachelor of Arts in Christian Ministry program that is fully online. It meets all the educational requirements for ordination in the Church of the Nazarene. It can potentially be completed in just 3 years and is designed to be very flexible to help students maintain commitments to work and family.
NNU is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
Point University offers an online Bachelor of Science in Christian Ministries program. The degree is 100% online, flexible, transfer-friendly, and faith-based. The average class size is just 13 students. Coursework includes Introduction to Preaching, Administration and Leadership in Ministry, Church Growth and Evangelism, and Accounting and Finance for the Church.
Point University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Regent University offers a B.A. in Christian Ministry. Courses are available both on campus and online. Class options include Principles of Hermeneutics and Theological Thinking, The Gospels, Church History, Pentateuch, Study of the Prophets, and Pauline Literature.
Regent University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
San Diego Christian College offers a Bachelor of Arts in Christian Ministries. The program is faith-based and 100% online. Each term is only 5 weeks long. The curriculum includes studies in leadership, theology, worship, biblical counseling, and more. Students in the program are also required to take research and capstone courses.
San Diego Christian College is accredited by the Senior Commission of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.
Tabor College’s Christian Ministry degree program includes both online and face-to-face meetings. Students in the program take courses in personal development, business, ministry, biblical studies, and cultural engagement.
The program is designed to prepare graduates for careers in churches, nonprofits, and similar organizations. Students can take one 6 week course at a time. All instruction is Christ-centered and taught by Christian faculty.
Tabor College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
The Master’s University offers an online Christian Ministries degree program. It is designed to help students develop a comprehensive biblical philosophy of ministry. Courses are taught in 8 week blocks. Classes include Foundations of Biblical Study, Biblical Interpretation, Theology of the Church, Dynamics of Grace, Church History, Christian Education, and Principles of Effective Teaching.
The Master’s University is accredited by The WASC Senior College and University Commission.
Trinity International University offers a BA in Christian Ministries. Courses are available online and on campus in Miami and North Lauderdale. The online courses are designed to be convenient and flexible. Students can choose from three specializations: Pre-Seminary, Family Ministries, and Broad Field.
Trinity International University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
The University of Mobile offers a Bachelor of Science in Christian Ministry. Online classes are offered in 8 week sessions. Coursework covers theology, practical ministry and leadership skills, business, and group behavior theories. The program is designed to prepare students for work in churches, parachurch organizations, non-profit agencies, and other community service settings.
The University of Mobile is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Warner University’s Bachelor of Science in Christian Ministry is available completely online. Students are expected to take two courses every 8 weeks. Courses include Interpretation for Teaching and Communicating, Teaching for Transformation, Perspective in Christian Missions, Communicating the Gospel, Evangelism, and Pastoral Care. The program is designed to help students identify and clarify their ministry calling.
Warner is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
Getting Your Bachelors in Christian Ministry Degree Online
If you’re interested in receiving ministry training and a well-rounded education, you might consider earning a Christian ministry online degree. At many universities, not only can you earn an online degree at the bachelor’s level, but also an online associates degree in ministry, online masters in ministry degree, and even an online Doctor of Ministry degree.
These types of programs can address many skill sets. They may prepare you for a calling in church ministry, for graduate studies, or for a position in the secular sector. Online studies also tend to offer more convenient or flexible schedules. If you think a ministry program may be right for you, then you may want to start exploring the many accredited institutions that specialize in the various branches of Christian ministry.
The sooner you find the program that best aligns with your goals, the sooner you can start your educational journey.
