An undergraduate degree in ministry prepares individuals to work in a wide variety of fields pertaining to the Church. Whether individuals are seeking a career in counseling, education, or youth ministry, this type of curriculum prepares future professionals to utilize their understanding of the faith, the liturgy, and their particular specialization.
A Bachelor in Ministry Degree Program is an educational pathway that focuses on equipping individuals to become spiritual leaders and ministers in faith communities. It provides a foundational education that covers many aspects of ministry, such as preaching, teaching, service, leadership, and evangelism. Coursework in a Bachelor in Ministry Degree Program typically includes theology, pastoral care, spiritual formation, Christian apologetics, and ethics.
Students can expect to participate in activities such as writing sermons, leading group discussions, engaging in outreach programs, visiting patients, and ministering to individuals in their faith community.
Featured Programs
A Bachelor in Ministry Degree Program can lead to a variety of ministerial roles, such as pastor, church administrator, or youth minister. Graduates may also continue their education and pursue a master’s or doctoral degree in ministry.
These 19 distinguished academic institutions give students the opportunities and resources to achieve their biggest professional goals!
Page Jumps!
- Best Online Schools for Bachelor in Ministry Degree Programs
- LEE UNIVERSITY
- TREVECCA NAZARENE UNIVERSITY
- CAROLINA UNIVERSITY
- ASBURY UNIVERSITY
- BAPTIST COLLEGE OF FLORIDA
- LIBERTY UNIVERSITY
- GRACE BIBLE COLLEGE
- LINCOLN CHRISTIAN UNIVERSITY
Methodology
Are you interested in our selections for the 19 Best Online Schools for Bachelor in Ministry Degree Programs? Online-Bachelor-Degrees.com has researched each school’s website to obtain degree-specific information relevant to the field of Ministry. In addition, the voices of the students attending schools offering this degree have been weighed and retrieved from various viable sources on the web.
Listed in random order, feel free to locate a degree program in Ministry that will fit your spiritual needs, as well as, your career aspirations. Our choices for the Best Online Bachelor of Ministry Degree Programs were based on the following aspects:
- Equips students with the knowledge and foundations needed to lead in a Ministry,
- Designed for students who are ready to serve the Lord through spreading the Word,
- 100% Online learning format,
- Financial Aid opportunities,
- Properly accredited to ensure quality education,
- Emphasizes Biblical Foundations, Servitude, and Spiritual Transformation,
- Hands-on and Outreach Internships available,
- Instructed by faculty presently serving in a Ministry capacity,
- Interact with fellow students passionate about a career in Ministry,
- Encourages interaction with faith-based organizations and churches,
- Offers degree concentrations, such as Children’s and Youth Ministries, Family Counseling, or Pastoral Ministries.
Also see our Methodology page, which details the plethora of criteria we use in order to develop the most accurate and up-to-date rankings on the web!
Best Online Schools for Bachelor in Ministry Degree Programs
LEE UNIVERSITY
ONLINE BACHELOR’S DEGREE IN MINISTRY LEADERSHIP PROGRAM
Program Standouts:
The purpose of the Lee University Bachelor in Ministry Leadership is to prepare adult learners with the desire to involve themselves in church ministry to take on positions of leadership in this field. Students also have the option of specializing their degree program in one of eight unique areas!
Campus Location: Cleveland, TN
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400
Acceptance Rate: 83%
Retention Rate: 79%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, the nonrefundable application fee, official high school or GED transcripts as well as those from any undergraduate institutions attended, and ACT or SAT scores.
Program Options:
- Business
- Church Administration
- Children’s Ministry
- Counseling
- Discipleship
- Music and Worship
- Pastoral Ministry
- Youth Ministry
Degree Outcomes:
Students who complete this rigorous and rewarding coursework have the ability to: articulate a developed knowledge of the biblical and theological basis for leadership; demonstrate leadership skills through group and individual interaction; and formulate strategies to direct Christians to apply leadership skills in life contexts; as well as much more!
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE LEE UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE BACHELOR’S DEGREE IN MINISTRY LEADERSHIP PROGRAM
TREVECCA NAZARENE UNIVERSITY
BACHELOR OF ARTS IN CHRISTIAN MINISTRY
Program Standouts:
At Trevecca Nazarene University, the online Bachelor in Christian Ministry has four primary areas of emphasis, which are holistic mindset, missional vision, ministry competence, and servant leadership skills.
Students in this program build strong relationships with their classmates and professors, who are immensely helpful resources throughout their academic and professional journeys. Trevecca has been educating students in Christian ministry since 1901 and today offers some of the most in-depth and engaging online programs available in this discipline.
Campus Location: Nashville, TN
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400
Acceptance Rate: 78%
Retention Rate: 73%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants to TNU must submit a completed online application, official high school transcripts representing a cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher, and ACT or SAT scores. Non-high school graduates may submit GED, HiSET, or TASC scores in place of transcripts. International students from non-English speaking countries must also submit TOEFL scores.
A sampling of Coursework:
- Theology of the Church
- Christian Ethics
- Congregational Discipleship
Degree Outcomes:
TNU’s undergraduate degree in ministry is an excellent start for many newcomers to this area, as well as seasoned professionals who are seeking to advance their standing. Many students choose to take on additional coursework in other areas of interest that are invaluable to their futures as professionals. Some of these areas include healthcare administration, information technology, management and leadership, and psychology.
LEARN MORE ABOUT TREVECCA NAZARENE UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE BACHELOR OF ARTS IN CHRISTIAN MINISTRY DEGREE PROGRAM
CAROLINA UNIVERSITY
ONLINE SCHOOL OF MINISTRY DEGREE OFFERINGS
Program Standouts:
Carolina University, formerly Piedmont International University, offers two incredibly unique opportunities in online Ministry education. In the Christian Ministry with a Double Minor, students can choose two of over a dozen options to specialize their degree in distinctive ways. The Bachelor to master program can be completed in five years and presents its own set of outstanding benefits.
Campus Location: Winston-Salem, NC
Accreditation:
- Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools
Acceptance Rate: 46%
Retention Rate: 69%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, official high school transcripts, as well as those from any undergraduate institutions, attended, a headshot, and SAT/ACT scores. Applicants must also complete an interview with an admissions representative.
Program Options:
- Christian Ministry with a Double Minor
- Accelerated Bachelor to Masters in Christian Ministry
Degree Outcomes:
Depending on their major of choice, students will go on to take various positions of employment within ministries and churches across the nation. Graduates exiting the Bachelor to master program will be guaranteed a higher pay scale, more respect and responsibility, and positions of leadership.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE CAROLINA UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE SCHOOL OF MINISTRY DEGREE OFFERINGS
ASBURY UNIVERSITY
ONLINE LEADERSHIP AND MINISTRY PROGRAM
Program Standouts:
Asbury University provides an accelerated online ministry undergraduate in which distance education students complete classes over eight-week periods. It is also an incredibly affordable bachelor’s degree in ministry with a tuition rate for all students of $399 per credit hour, which is one of the most competitive on this ranking by far.
The degree has a strong emphasis on leadership development through intensive theological, Biblical, and ministerial studies.
Campus Location: Wilmore, KY
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
- 230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
- Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
- www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400
Acceptance Rate: 77%
Retention Rate: 85%
Admission Requirements:
Those who are applying to Asbury University must submit a completed institutional application or common app, official high school transcripts, and SAT or ACT scores. Homeschool, international, and GED students must submit their applicable transcripts/scores.
A sampling of Coursework:
- OT Prophetic Literature
- Congressional Education
- Church in Contemporary Society
Degree Outcomes:
This program provides excellent training and preparation for future leadership in community programs, church communities, parachurch ministries, and non-profit organizations. Asbury maintains an incredibly high percentage of 98%, a figure that represents graduates who are either working in full-time positions or in graduate school.
LEARN MORE ABOUT ASBURY UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE LEADERSHIP AND MINISTRY PROGRAM
BAPTIST COLLEGE OF FLORIDA
BACHELOR OF ARTS IN MINISTRY OR MINISTRY STUDIES
Program Standouts:
The Baptist College of Florida is an Evangelical Christian school that provides a Bachelor of Arts in Ministry online which includes numerous topics in evangelism and discipleship. Students engage in the history of Christianity as well as the study of sectarian groups, world regions, and American cults. BCF also has a BA in Ministry Studies which allows for more flexibility in the coursework.
Campus Location: Graceville, FL
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Retention Rate: 57%
Admission Requirements:
Individuals who are applying to the Baptist College of Florida are required to submit a completed online application,
Program Options:
- Ministry
- Ministry Studies
Degree Outcomes:
Graduates from this fine online Christian school have well-developed skills that fill numerous needs in the church environment. They are highly capable of taking on positions of high responsibility and leadership in their communities, and many choose to continue their education in a seminary, graduate school, or divinity program.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE BAPTIST COLLEGE OF FLORIDA’S ONLINE BA IN MINISTRY
LIBERTY UNIVERSITY
ONLINE BACHELOR’S IN CHRISTIAN LEADERSHIP MANAGEMENT DEGREE PROGRAM
Program Standouts:
Liberty University is perhaps the most well-known and popular online school in the country, offering a multitude of state-of-the-art distance education programs, including this Bachelor in Christian Leadership and Management.
This fabulous online Christian university provides a ministerial curriculum that explores human resources, accounting, and business law from a biblical perspective.
Campus Location: Lynchburg, VA
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400
Acceptance Rate: 99%
Retention Rate: 82%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, the nonrefundable application fee, official high school transcripts as well as those from any undergraduate institutions attended representing cumulative GPAs of 2.0 or higher, and SAT or ACT scores.
A sampling of Coursework:
- Introduction to Church Ministries
- The Personal Development of the Leader
- Biblical and Theological Foundations of the Leader
Degree Outcomes:
This online program gives students access to the crucial business aspects of managing ministries and churches from a higher level of responsibility and understanding. With this kind of education, graduates can make a difference in pastoral leadership, communication, executive leadership, and educational administration.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE LIBERTY UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE BACHELOR’S IN CHRISTIAN LEADERSHIP MANAGEMENT DEGREE PROGRAM
GRACE BIBLE COLLEGE
ONLINE BACHELOR’S IN LEADERSHIP AND MINISTRY CONCENTRATION DEGREE PROGRAM
Program Standouts:
This online Bachelor in Leadership and Ministry trains culturally intelligent students for diverse careers in the global marketplace. The coursework is Bible-centered, and ministry-focused, and influences transformational relationships with peers, faculty members, and with God.
Campus Location: Grand Rapids, MI
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400 - Association for Biblical Higher Education
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Retention Rate: 76%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, official high school or GED transcripts, and SAT or ACT scores.
A sampling of Coursework:
- Letters of Paul
- Teaching and Preaching
- Mobilization of Volunteers
Degree Outcomes:
This online coursework prepares graduates to serve Christ in church and society, by contributing their individual skills in a variety of areas and positions of employment. The strongly supportive, virtual, Grace Christian University community gives students the foundation to achieve their career goals.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE GRACE CHRISTIAN UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE BACHELOR’S IN LEADERSHIP AND MINISTRY CONCENTRATION DEGREE PROGRAM
LINCOLN CHRISTIAN UNIVERSITY
ONLINE BACHELOR OF ARTS IN CHRISTIAN MINISTRY DEGREE PROGRAM
Program Standouts:
The Lincoln Christian University Bachelor in Christian Ministry covers a wide variety of ministerial positions and can nurture students’ interests in pastoral ministry, mission work, and Christian education. Individuals in this online school develop a personal philosophy of ministry and implement that every day through evangelism, discipleship, and spiritual formation.
Campus Location: Lincoln, IL
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400 - Association of Biblical Higher Education
- Association of Theological Schools
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Retention Rate: 85%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, the nonrefundable application fee, official high school transcripts, SAT or ACT scores, a completed Christian Character Reference form, and an LCU written essay.
A sampling of Coursework:
- Foundations of Christian Ministry
- Evangelism, Discipleship, and Faith Development
- Christian Leadership
Degree Outcomes:
Graduates from this fine online program have gone on to work as associate pastors, discipleship pastors, small group leaders, and administrative pastors. Alumni have well-developed skills and mindsets to prove care and support in whatever ministry context they choose.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE LINCOLN CHRISTIAN UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE BACHELOR OF ARTS IN CHRISTIAN MINISTRY DEGREE PROGRAM
HORIZON UNIVERSITY & SEMINARY
ONLINE BACHELOR’S IN LEADERSHIP AND MINISTRY (BLM) DEGREE PROGRAM
Program Standouts:
Horizon University’s Bachelor in Leadership and Ministry degree equips ministry professionals and leaders in the church and secular marketplace to effectively integrate biblical truths with contemporary life and thought. Students engage in numerous areas of the discipline such as preaching, youth, children’s and worship ministries, and leadership.
Campus Location: San Diego, CA
Accreditation:
- Association of Biblical Higher Education
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Retention Rate: 50%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, the nonrefundable application fee, official high school transcripts, as well as those from any undergraduate institutions, attended, a personal essay, and financial aid documentation. Applicants must also complete an interview with an admissions representative.
A sampling of Coursework:
- Biblical Living: Engaging Faith and Life
- Biblical Concepts of Leadership
- Wisdom Literature of the Bible
Degree Outcomes:
This program is designed to develop a biblical understanding of leadership and management strategies consistent with one’s ministry and/or professional goals. Graduates have the ability to combine attitudes, values, beliefs, and communication skills with Christian character and leadership in ministry.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE HORIZON UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE BACHELOR’S IN LEADERSHIP AND MINISTRY (BLM) DEGREE PROGRAM
HOPE INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN CHRISTIAN MINISTRY
Program Standouts:
The Christian Ministry Major from Hope International University’s College of Ministry and Biblical Studies is designed to help all individuals develop a more in-depth understanding of scripture and various church leadership roles. Most students are already highly involved in their church communities and use their education at HIU to actively enhance their abilities in the field.
Campus Location: Fullerton, CA
Accreditation:
- Western Association of Colleges and Schools
- Association for Biblical Higher Education
Acceptance Rate: 40%
Retention Rate: 85%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants to Hope International University must submit a completed online application, official high school transcripts with a GPA of at least 2.5, official college transcripts (if applicable), and SAT or ACT scores.
A sampling of Coursework:
- Ephesians in the Context of Pauline Theology
- Conflict Transformation in Ministry
- The Church in Context
Degree Outcomes:
Alumni from this fine online school have gone on to become associate ministers, senior pastors, children’s pastors, and youth/family pastors in numerous environments. Graduates are excellent additions to any church planting or men’s/women’s ministry and supply invaluable service to Christian communities across the entire world. The program emphasizes thinking and acting globally so that students can affect the most significant degrees of possible change.
LEARN MORE ABOUT HOPE INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE CHRISTIAN MINISTRY BACHELOR’S DEGREE
CORNERSTONE UNIVERSITY
ONLINE BACHELOR’S IN MINISTRY LEADERSHIP DEGREE PROGRAM
Program Standouts:
As it is shrewdly worded on the program website, Cornerstone University’s online Bachelor in Ministry Leadership will “identify and apply critical components of the Christian worldview, demonstrate cross-cultural communication and collaboration, and develop decision-making skills needed for management and leadership roles.”
Campus Location: Grand Rapids, MI
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400
Acceptance Rate: 91%
Retention Rate: 79%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, the nonrefundable application fee, official high school or GED transcripts, as well as those from any undergraduate institutions, attended a statement of Christian faith and church involvement, and a reference from a church or ministry leader.
A sampling of Coursework:
- Principles of Self-Management in Ministry
- Personal Growth for Effective Leadership
- Ministry Ethics and Values
Degree Outcomes:
Students leave this coursework as ministry leaders who have new, highly sharpened skills and proficiencies rooted in foundational biblical, theological, and management principles. The curriculum prepares individuals for the incredibly complex nature of leading congregations of all ages.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE CORNERSTONE UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE BACHELOR’S IN MINISTRY LEADERSHIP DEGREE PROGRAM
BETHEL UNIVERSITY
ONLINE BACHELOR OF ARTS IN CHRISTIAN MINISTRIES DEGREE PROGRAM
Program Standouts:
Throughout this rewarding curriculum, Bachelor in Christian Ministries students grow in their knowledge of the Bible, theology, and themselves as they develop the leadership skills that allow them to serve in the place to which they are called. The accelerated coursework allows students to complete the program in as few as 18-20 months.
Campus Location: St. Paul, MN
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400
Acceptance Rate: 89%
Retention Rate: 85%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, the nonrefundable application fee, official high school transcripts, as well as those from any undergraduate institutions, attended a pastoral/spiritual reference, and a current résumé with two years of relevant work experience.
A sampling of Coursework:
- Biblical Interpretation for Ministry
- Significance of the Old Testament
- Research Writing for Christian Ministry
Degree Outcomes:
This array of coursework presents numerous unique and distinctive perspectives into the discipline of Christian ministry, making graduates incredibly well-versed in communication, worship, ministerial duties, and leadership. Students are particularly well-stances to enter into master’s programs.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE BETHEL UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE BACHELOR OF ARTS IN CHRISTIAN MINISTRIES DEGREE PROGRAM
NORTHWEST NAZARENE UNIVERSITY
ONLINE BACHELOR OF ARTS IN CHRISTIAN MINISTRY DEGREE PROGRAM
Program Standouts:
This online degree program is well-suited for students who are fresh out of high school or adults who have had years since their last class. The Bachelor in Christian Ministry from Northwest Nazarene University is taught by doctoral faculty members who bring years of experience in their fields to the virtual classroom.
Campus Location: Nampa, ID
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400
Acceptance Rate: 88%
Retention Rate: 76%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, the nonrefundable application fee, official high school or GED transcripts, SAT or ACT scores, and an introductory essay.
A sampling of Coursework:
- Old Testament Studies: Psalms
- Spiritual Formation and Christian Discipleship
- Pastoral Leadership
Degree Outcomes:
This flexible program is particularly well-suited to students who have busy professional lives, yet who are looking to dedicate their lives more intently to the church. This curriculum is guaranteed to meet all educational requirements for ordination in the Church of the Nazarene.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE NORTHWEST NAZARENE UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE BACHELOR OF ARTS IN CHRISTIAN MINISTRY DEGREE PROGRAM
TOCCOA FALLS COLLEGE
ONLINE BACHELOR’S IN MINISTRY LEADERSHIP DEGREE PROGRAM
Program Standouts:
The Toccoa Falls Colleges online Bachelor in Ministry Leadership is an exceptional degree program that has received a tremendous amount of recognition from journalistic resources. This coursework equips students to serve the church and faith-based nonprofit organizations as vocational leaders.
Campus Location: Toccoa Falls, GA
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400
Acceptance Rate: 62%
Retention Rate: 61%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, the nonrefundable application fee, official high school transcripts with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher, and SAT or ACT scores.
A sampling of Coursework:
- Biblical Foundations of Leadership
- Strategic Non-profit Management
- Organizations and Administration of Christian Ministry
Degree Outcomes:
This highly interactive curriculum is instructed by competent and highly personable departmental faculty who are, themselves, ministry leaders in various contexts. Students are put in touch with professionals in their areas of interest, giving them a hands-on approach and creative partnerships with relevant ministry contexts.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE TOCCOA FALLS COLLEGE’S ONLINE BACHELOR’S IN MINISTRY LEADERSHIP DEGREE PROGRAM
REGENT UNIVERSITY
ONLINE BACHELOR’S DEGREE IN BIBLICAL STUDIES/CHRISTIAN MINISTRY PROGRAM
Program Standouts:
Regent University is one of the most popular and well-regarded online schools in the nation, in which all the degrees are rooted in the tenets of Christianity. This online school offers four opportunities to major in Ministry, all of which give students access to leadership positions in the future.
Campus Location: Virginia Beach, VA
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400
Acceptance Rate: 41%
Retention Rate: 76%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, the nonrefundable application fee, official high school or GED transcripts, and a completed admissions questionnaire.
Program Options:
- Christian Ministry
- Professional Studies – Christian Ministry
- Leadership Studies – Christian Ministry
- Christian Leadership and Management
Degree Outcomes:
Depending on their individual career goals and personal aspirations, graduates from Regent University’s ministry programs go on to make fabulous strides as leaders in the church. Alumni provide a tremendous amount of positive support to their communities and congregations.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE REGENT UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE BACHELOR’S DEGREE IN BIBLICAL STUDIES/CHRISTIAN MINISTRY PROGRAM
MOODY BIBLE INSTITUTE
ONLINE BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN MINISTRY LEADERSHIP DEGREE PROGRAM
Program Standouts:
Faculty members at the Moody Bible Institute’s Bachelor in Ministry Leadership are “world-class professionals who have traveled the globe ministering to others in Christ’s name,” and bring that special experience to the virtual classroom. Despite a student’s program of choice, they will develop their own philosophy of ministry leadership with which they can then change the world.
Campus Location: Chicago, IL
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400
Acceptance Rate: 98%
Retention Rate: 77%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, the nonrefundable application fee, and official high school (or GED) transcripts representing a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher. Applicants must be born-again Christians who are active in the life of an evangelical Protestant church.
Program Options:
- Leadership
- Preaching
- Ministry to Women
- Disability Ministry
- Children and Family Ministry
Degree Outcomes:
Graduates of this fine ministerial bachelor program go on to practice organization skills for ministry, integrate biblical interpretation into life, foster character, develop leadership skills in their congregations, and disciple others. The five exciting concentrations lead alumni to marvelous places.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE MOODY BIBLE INSTITUTE’S ONLINE BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN MINISTRY LEADERSHIP DEGREE PROGRAM
SOUTHWESTERN ASSEMBLIES OF GOD UNIVERSITY
ONLINE BACHELOR’S IN CHURCH LEADERSHIP DEGREE PROGRAM
Program Standouts:
The Southwestern Assemblies of God University offers two exciting opportunities for online students to earn their undergraduate degree in ministry. Through the Church Leadership major, students are given eight concentration options to choose from, four of which are focused on different areas of ministry!
Campus Location: Waxahachie, TX
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400
Acceptance Rate: 85%
Retention Rate: 69%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, the nonrefundable application fee, official high school transcripts, as well as those from any undergraduate institutions, attended representing cumulative GPAs of 2.0 or higher, and placement test scores.
Program Options:
- General Ministries
- Church Leadership
Degree Outcomes:
The Church Leadership option takes students in various directions within the Church, and graduates have gained theology and practical skills through extensive field ministry experience. The General Ministries major leads students to serve as leaders in a ministry field.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE SOUTHWESTERN ASSEMBLIES OF GOD UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE BACHELOR’S IN CHURCH LEADERSHIP DEGREE PROGRAM
THE MASTER’S UNIVERSITY AND SEMINARY
ONLINE BACHELOR’S DEGREE IN CHRISTIAN MINISTRIES
Program Standouts:
The Master’s University is a popular online school that offers a Bachelor’s in Christian Ministries that is intended to “provide individuals with a comprehensive biblical philosophy of ministry through a systematic examination of key aspects of God’s program within a local church.”
Campus Location: Santa Clarita, CA
Accreditation:
- Western Association of Colleges and Schools
Acceptance Rate: 67%
Retention Rate: 86%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants must submit a completed online application, the nonrefundable application fee, official high school transcripts, as well as those from any undergraduate institutions, attended, SAT or ACT scores, financial aid documentation, personal statements, and a pastor’s recommendation. Applicants must also read the TMU statement and handbook.
A sampling of Coursework:
- Worldview, Apologetics, Evangelism
- Principles of Discipleship
- Contemporary Issues in Church Ministry
Degree Outcomes:
The goal of this degree program is to provide graduates with a thorough understanding of what God is doing in the world through the church and the role of each believer within that work. In this way, alumni can go on to provide individuals and entire congregations with leadership and positive support.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE MASTER’S UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE BACHELOR’S DEGREE IN CHRISTIAN MINISTRIES
CLARKS SUMMIT UNIVERSITY
MULTIPLE BACHELOR’S DEGREES IN MINISTRY
Program Standouts:
Clarks Summit University offers two undergraduate degrees in ministry. The Christian Ministries program is designed to train students in the leadership of entire congregations and includes courses such as Dynamics of Discipleship, Personal Life of the Ministry Leader, and Family Life of the Ministry Leader.
The Counseling Ministries degree, however, is more focused on counseling and psychology and preparation for graduate studies, all of which include a foundation in scripture.
Campus Location: Clarks Summit, PA
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400
Acceptance Rate: 58%
Retention Rate: 65%
Admission Requirements:
Applicants to Clarks Summit University are required to submit a completed online application, the $40 application fee, official transcripts from high school representing an excellent GPA, SAT and/or ACT scores, and letters of recommendation.
Program Options:
- Christian Ministries
- Counseling Ministries
A sampling of Coursework:
- Abnormal Psychology,
- Women Counseling Women,
- Pastoral Counseling
- Marriage and Family Dynamics.
Degree Outcomes:
Graduates from CSU go on to pursue various professions within their local ministries. Individuals who are exiting the Christian Ministries program carry on roles of active leadership in their church and surrounding communities. Those who completed the Counseling Ministries degree will focus more on the mental and psychological well-being of the members of their congregation and can offer professional, ministerial counseling services.
LEARN MORE ABOUT CLARKS SUMMIT UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE BACHELOR’S DEGREES IN MINISTRY
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to earn a Bachelor of Ministry degree?
Earning an online Bachelor of Ministry degree typically takes students approximately two years to complete, that is… after they’ve earned an associate degree. If you are participating in an accelerated degree program, you may be allowed to complete your degree much faster, such as between 12 to 18 months or so.
What can I do with a Bachelor’s degree in Ministry?
Depending on your focus, interest, and most importantly… what you are called to do, students with a Bachelor of Ministry degree have several varied options in career choices, such as:
- Church Pastor
- Church Planter
- Youth Pastor
- Associate Pastor
- Sunday School Director
- Missionary
- Church Business Administrator
- Christian Counseling
- Plus, much more.
Please note that most senior pastoral positions will require a Master of Divinity degree or training from a seminary. You will need to check for job specifications in your area.
Am I prepared to be a Pastor?
Well, of course, becoming a pastor is a commitment to serve others. As you know, most pastoral students feel (or most certainly should feel) that they are called by the Lord to carry out such duties. Careful prayer and consideration should take place before entering the ministry. If you are passionate about telling others about Christ, then you are well on your way to becoming an excellent pastor.
By earning an online Bachelor’s degree in Ministry, you will expand on your knowledge and skills which will confidently help you succeed in helping others and in spreading the word about our Savior.
How much do Pastors earn?
According to the BLS, as of May 2021, clergy workers earned approximately $49,720 annually; however, many factors come into play when considering an accurate salary. Your earnings will be commensurate to the congregation size, the area of the country, as well as the size of the city and/or community in which you serve. In addition, your pastoral experience will be considered.
What are the differences between a Bachelor of Ministry and a Bachelor of Theology degree?
A Bachelor of Ministry degree focuses more on the application of religious thought to the modern world, while a Bachelor of Theology degree focuses more on the history and theological traditions of a given faith.
In addition, a Bachelor of Ministry degree is generally more focused on practical aspects of ministry, such as teaching and preaching, while a Bachelor of Theology degree is generally more focused on understanding religious texts, history, and theology.