Best Online Ministry Programs
Do you feel called to a career in the church? Learn how to get started with an online bachelor’s in ministry.
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Most learners pursue bachelor’s in ministry programs because they feel certain of their calling to perform mission-driven work. A bachelor’s in ministry can lead to entry-level careers at churches and nonprofit organizations and further study in master of divinity programs.
Most on-campus and online bachelor’s in ministry programs take four years to complete. Learners delve into biblical study, church administration, and leadership skills. Some programs focus on general ministry, while others focus on specific fields like youth ministry. After graduating, learners can pursue further education or careers in churches, the nonprofit sector, and Christian education.
Read on to learn more about coursework, careers, and admission requirements for online bachelor’s in ministry programs. You can also find answers to your most pressing questions about these programs.
What Is Ministry?
Ministry is service to God and service to people in God’s name. We most commonly associate ministry with ordained ministers, pastors, and preachers, who perform acts of ministry for a living, but anyone is capable of engaging in ministry activities. Other types of ministers include nonordained youth pastors, volunteer missionaries, faith-based nonprofit workers, owners of faith-based businesses, and individual Christians who look for everyday opportunities to help others.
Ministry serves several important purposes in the Christian faith. In a broad context, ministry seeks to bring more people into the religion by sharing information about God, Jesus Christ, and other biblical teachings. Within the context of individual churches, ministry goals include increasing membership, attendance, active participation, and spirituality. Ministry also includes acts of service — such as those completed by global missionaries — that help meet the physical, emotional, mental, vocational, or financial needs of others, regardless of their personal faith.
A bachelor’s degree in ministry engages students in rigorous study of the Bible, theology, and leadership methods. Visit the program page to learn more.
What Can I Expect From an Online Bachelor’s in Ministry Program?
An online bachelor’s in ministry offers a good fit for students who know they want to dedicate their professional lives to the church. However, this degree can also lead to fulfilling service-oriented careers in nonprofits and other mission-driven organizations, administration, and education.
Nevertheless, all ministry students should feel a strong calling to service. While graduates with a bachelor’s in ministry can earn solid salaries, they are unlikely to grow rich unless they change careers. Ministry students must also be good communicators who are comfortable with frequent public speaking. They also need strong leadership skills, which they can develop during their studies through courses like Christian leadership.
Most bachelor’s in ministry programs require about 120 credits. Most full-time students graduate in approximately four years. However, online accelerated programs can sometimes shorten this timeline. Students who take courses during summer semesters can also graduate more quickly.
Some programs focus on general ministry, while others allow students to specialize in ministering to a specific population. Possible concentrations include urban ministry, youth ministry, church administration, and pastoral studies.
Still Looking for the Right Fit? Discover Similar Programs.
What Courses Will I Take in an Online Bachelor’s in Ministry Program?
Foundations of Christian Ministry
This survey course covers historical, theological, and biblical topics to help students develop a basis for their preaching. This course helps learners shape their own personal philosophy as ministers.
Christian Leadership
Ministers are leaders of their churches. To help prepare them, this course delves into leadership in both secular and Christian contexts, delving into historical, biblical, and theological examples of leadership.
Church Administration
This course prepares students to become church administrators. Covered topics may include budgets, programs, strategic planning, and human resources.
Pastoral Care
This course may cover different skills and services that ministers need to provide, including counseling, funerals, marriage officiation, and hospital chaplaincy.
Teaching Ministry
This course examines the role of teachers and students in the ministry. Covered topics may include curriculum development, lesson planning, teaching philosophy, and evaluation methods.
What Are Admission Requirements for an Online Bachelor’s in Ministry Program?
Admission requirements for on-campus and online bachelor’s in ministry programs are usually the same. In addition to the requirements listed below, some programs may require prospective students to complete an interview over the phone or via videoconferencing, since ministry is such a personal, people-facing field.
Application
All undergraduate programs require students to complete an application. Applicants can usually fill these forms out online. Prospective students can often save time by applying to multiple schools at once through the Common App. However, since ministry is a specialized field, many schools offering bachelor’s in ministry programs require individual applications.
Test Scores
Some undergraduate programs still require applicants to submit ACT or SAT scores. However, more and more schools are eliminating this requirement in terms of more holistic evaluations. Fewer ministry programs require standardized test scores than STEM and humanities programs. Nevertheless, test scores can help you strengthen your application.
Letters of Recommendation
Most programs require 2-3 letters of recommendation. Most undergraduate programs expect recommenders to be former teachers. However, for ministry programs, you may be able to ask former youth ministers for letters. Make sure to give your recommenders at least 1-2 months to write their letters.
Essays
Bachelor’s in ministry programs usually require fairly specialized essay prompts as part of their applications. You may need to discuss your faith journey or your commitment to the church. Give yourself several months to write, proofread, and edit your application essays.
Official Transcripts
All programs require applicants to submit all official transcripts from previously attended schools. If you are a first-year applicant, you need to submit high school transcripts. If you have completed some college coursework, you should submit transcripts from previous schools to earn transfer credit, especially if you are transferring from a community college.
For bachelor’s in ministry programs, you may be able to earn transfer credit for general education courses.
What Can I Do With an Online Bachelor’s in Ministry Degree?
Career Outlook
Since ministry is a relatively specialized field and major, there are a limited number of positions available. As such, competition for ministry and pastor positions can prove fierce.
Nevertheless, there is demand for professionals in adjacent fields. For example, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects 8% job growth for social and community services managers between 2023 and 2033. These professionals earned a median annual salary of $77,030 as of May 2023, and those who work for religious organizations earned a median of $76,180 annually.
Graduates with a bachelor’s in ministry can often find employment working for faith-based organizations. Even if they don’t work directly for a church, ministry graduates can still make a significant difference in their communities.
See where a bachelor’s in ministry can take you. Learn more about ministry and theology careers.
Career Paths
Youth Minister
Youth ministers lead Sunday school, mission trips, and other activities for church members who are under 18. They must plan lessons and trips and manage parent volunteers. They must also be willing to work nights and weekends. Different denominations maintain different requirements for youth ministers, so research each church position before applying.
Average Annual Salary (As of October 2021): $37,240
Pastor
Pastors lead a church’s congregation in service, worship, and often music. Requirements for these positions vary by denomination. They usually need to gain official ordination from their denomination before they can practice.
Keep in mind that many ordained ministers hold a master of divinity degree, although an advanced degree is not always required. Pastors usually also need experience at the associate pastor level.
Average Annual Salary (As of October 2021): $50,070
High School Teacher
Graduates with a bachelor’s in ministry can often pursue careers as high school teachers in religious schools. Since these schools are often private schools, prospective teachers usually do not need to earn state licensure or take the Praxis exam. Private school teachers plan lessons in their content area and may mentor a group of students as an advisory or devotional.
Median Annual Salary (As of May 2023): $65,220
Church Administrator
Church administrators manage day-to-day operations and budgets for the churches where they work. They allocate donations and income to fund church programming, services, and outreach efforts. You can qualify for some church administrator positions with an associate degree in ministry, but a bachelor’s degree gives you an advantage during the job search.
Average Annual Salary (As of October 2021): $39,300
Nonprofit Executive Director
If they don’t want to work directly for a church, graduates with a bachelor’s in ministry can often find work at faith-based nonprofits. Executive directors are the CEOs of nonprofit organizations. They manage budgets, hiring, and operations. They also report to a board of directors. Graduates usually need significant professional experience before they can qualify for these roles.
Average Annual Salary (As of October 2021): $67,990
Ministry Not For You? Check Out These Related Careers.
Continuing Education
Ministry professionals should complete continuing education to make sure they provide their congregation with the best possible worship services. Ministers can complete individual donation-based courses through the Christian Leaders Institute. Methodist pastors can complete professional certification through the United Methodist Church’s General Board of Higher Education and Ministry.
However, the most common continuing education route for graduates with a bachelor’s in ministry is pursuing a master’s degree in theology or divinity. These advanced degrees can lead to senior pastor positions and ordination within several denominations.
How Do I Choose an Online Bachelor’s in Ministry Program?
Cost
According to 2018 data from the National Center for Education Statistics, students enrolled in a bachelor’s program at a four-year, public college spent around $13,900 per year on their program. Private nonprofit schools cost an average of $27,200 that year.
Learners can reduce their true program cost by enrolling in online programs, which may offer reduced or in-state tuition rates. Furthermore, online students can save on room and board.
Students may also be able to save money by enrolling in public, in-state schools instead of private universities.
Program Format
Students who pursue online bachelor’s in ministry programs should decide whether they want to learn synchronously or asynchronously. Students in synchronous programs need to attend scheduled, live online classes, while learners in asynchronous programs do not. Degree-seekers who want to graduate more quickly might also consider enrolling in accelerated programs.
Location
Even if you enroll in an online program, location should be an important consideration. Ministry programs may require internships at a local church, and you may need to visit campus to complete on-campus requirements. Living close to campus may also help you take advantage of program networking opportunities.
Accreditation
You should only enroll in accredited schools. If your school does not hold regional accreditation, you may not be able to receive federal financial aid or find work after graduation. Bible colleges may also hold accreditation from the Association for Biblical Higher Education.
Student Support
Ministry programs require plenty of intent and effort and can feel draining at times. As such, student support services are essential. Check to see whether your program offers internship opportunities, mentorships or advising, and specific support for distance learners.
Best Accredited Online Bachelor’s in Ministry Programs
How We Rank Schools
To create this ranking, BestColleges sourced the most recent data available from the National Center for Education Statistics and the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. We then ranked each school according to the top variables college students selected in our College Choice and Admissions Survey. To learn more, check out our full rankings methodology or read the summary below.
To qualify for our rankings lists, each school must be an accredited public or private, nonprofit institution. Each eligible school was then ranked based on a formula measuring:
- Affordability (30%)
- Student outcomes (30%)
- Reputation (20%)
- Diversity and social mobility (20%)
In addition, we only included colleges with graduation rates in the top third of all online colleges.
City Vision University
Kansas City, MO4 yearOnline
$6,000
$6,000
N/A
N/A
City Vision specializes in affordable distance education. The institution delivers a fully online bachelor's in Christian ministry and leadership that comes with four unique concentration options. Remote coursework spans an accelerated eight weeks, which enables full-time students to graduate in under four years.
Required classes include biblical theology; vocation, calling, and purpose at work; and social entrepreneurship. Candidates who pick the urban missions concentration develop skills in case management, grant writing, and multicultural counseling. In addition to three designated tracks, students can create their own concentration through the diversified degree option.
The online bachelor's in ministry program accepts up to 90 transfer credits. City Vision maintains a flexible admissions policy that does not require an application fee. The university provides ample financial aid, such as tuition discounts for military personnel and institutional scholarships.
- Program Name: Bachelor's in Christian Ministry & Leadership
- Available Concentrations: Urban missions; ministry management; counseling ministry; diversified concentration
- Credit Requirements: 120 credits
- Program Length: 4 years
$6,400
$6,400
100%
182
Private
Yes
$6,000
$6,000
Kansas City, MO4 yearOnline
$6,000
$6,000
N/A
N/A
$6,400
$6,400
100%
182
Private
Yes
City Vision specializes in affordable distance education. The institution delivers a fully online bachelor's in Christian ministry and leadership that comes with four unique concentration options. Remote coursework spans an accelerated eight weeks, which enables full-time students to graduate in under four years.
Required classes include biblical theology; vocation, calling, and purpose at work; and social entrepreneurship. Candidates who pick the urban missions concentration develop skills in case management, grant writing, and multicultural counseling. In addition to three designated tracks, students can create their own concentration through the diversified degree option.
The online bachelor's in ministry program accepts up to 90 transfer credits. City Vision maintains a flexible admissions policy that does not require an application fee. The university provides ample financial aid, such as tuition discounts for military personnel and institutional scholarships.
- Program Name: Bachelor's in Christian Ministry & Leadership
- Available Concentrations: Urban missions; ministry management; counseling ministry; diversified concentration
- Credit Requirements: 120 credits
- Program Length: 4 years
Manna University
Fayetteville, NC4 yearCampus + Online
$6,300
$6,300
100%
94%
Founded in 1978, Manna University is headquartered in Fayetteville, North Carolina. The institution offers an online bachelor of arts in worship ministry that emphasizes both instrumental and vocal training. By completing this innovative program, graduates gain a keen understanding of music theory and its application in a spiritual context.
The curriculum covers topics in applied instrumental techniques, cross-cultural ministry, and communicating to oral cultures. Students develop a personal leadership style through self-assessment and practicum training. Candidates gain additional hands-on experience by attending weekend retreats, where they connect with peers and learn from religious leaders.
To enroll in this online bachelor's in ministry program, applicants furnish a 300- to 600-word personal statement detailing their conversion experience. They also submit a personal reference and a pastoral recommendation. Manna University facilitates a variety of financial aid, including scholarships for first-time students.
- Program Name: Bachelor of Arts in Worship Ministry
- Credit Requirements: 120 credits
- Program Length: 4 years
- Admission Requirements: 2.0 minimum GPA
$5,220
$5,220
100%
256
Private
Yes
$6,300
$6,300
Fayetteville, NC4 yearCampus + Online
$6,300
$6,300
100%
94%
$5,220
$5,220
100%
256
Private
Yes
Founded in 1978, Manna University is headquartered in Fayetteville, North Carolina. The institution offers an online bachelor of arts in worship ministry that emphasizes both instrumental and vocal training. By completing this innovative program, graduates gain a keen understanding of music theory and its application in a spiritual context.
The curriculum covers topics in applied instrumental techniques, cross-cultural ministry, and communicating to oral cultures. Students develop a personal leadership style through self-assessment and practicum training. Candidates gain additional hands-on experience by attending weekend retreats, where they connect with peers and learn from religious leaders.
To enroll in this online bachelor's in ministry program, applicants furnish a 300- to 600-word personal statement detailing their conversion experience. They also submit a personal reference and a pastoral recommendation. Manna University facilitates a variety of financial aid, including scholarships for first-time students.
- Program Name: Bachelor of Arts in Worship Ministry
- Credit Requirements: 120 credits
- Program Length: 4 years
- Admission Requirements: 2.0 minimum GPA
Johnson University
Knoxville, TN4 yearCampus + Online
$17,384
$17,384
63%
48%
JUTN opened its doors in 1894 to a class of 40 learners. Today, the school enrolls over 1,000 students in more than 70 programs, including a fully online bachelor of arts in ministry leadership. In addition to success at the master's and doctoral academic levels, graduates are well-prepared to work as youth pastors, religious educators, and executive ministers.
Major coursework comprises exegetical methods, pastoral counseling, and leading effective churches. Students develop advanced skills for biblical teaching and preaching with emphasis on applying the Scripture to listeners' lives. This online bachelor's in ministry program requires candidates to complete an internship.
JUTN operates six entry dates each year. The university powers online education with the Sakai platform. While distance learners cannot access institutional scholarships, they may apply for state and federal funding through the FAFSA.
- Program Name: Bachelor of Arts in Ministry Leadership
- Credit Requirements: 120 credits
- Program Length: 4 years
- Admission Requirements: ACT or SAT scores
$9,285
$9,285
77%
939
Private
Yes
$17,384
$17,384
Knoxville, TN4 yearCampus + Online
$17,384
$17,384
63%
48%
$9,285
$9,285
77%
939
Private
Yes
JUTN opened its doors in 1894 to a class of 40 learners. Today, the school enrolls over 1,000 students in more than 70 programs, including a fully online bachelor of arts in ministry leadership. In addition to success at the master's and doctoral academic levels, graduates are well-prepared to work as youth pastors, religious educators, and executive ministers.
Major coursework comprises exegetical methods, pastoral counseling, and leading effective churches. Students develop advanced skills for biblical teaching and preaching with emphasis on applying the Scripture to listeners' lives. This online bachelor's in ministry program requires candidates to complete an internship.
JUTN operates six entry dates each year. The university powers online education with the Sakai platform. While distance learners cannot access institutional scholarships, they may apply for state and federal funding through the FAFSA.
- Program Name: Bachelor of Arts in Ministry Leadership
- Credit Requirements: 120 credits
- Program Length: 4 years
- Admission Requirements: ACT or SAT scores
The King's University
Southlake, TX4 yearCampus + Online
$11,640
$11,640
94%
76%
TKU supports more than 600 students every year, offering flexible academic programs at its Southlake, Texas, campus. Learners may also obtain their credentials remotely by enrolling in online programs like the bachelor of Christian ministries. The curriculum centers on charismatic theology, equipping candidates with the skills to communicate the gospel and provide organizational leadership in diverse settings.
Course topics include biblical background and interpretation, cultural apologetics, and sermon preparation. Students learn to offer counseling services that foster healthy family dynamics. Candidates round out their education with a senior capstone project.
This online bachelor's in ministry program emphasizes hands-on skill development, requiring learners to complete an internship and several junior ministry practicums. TKU offers a variety of financial aid options, including institutional and external scholarships. The university also powers distance education with Blackboard.
- Program Name: Bachelor of Christian Ministries
- Credit Requirements: 124 credits
- Program Length: 4 years
- Admission Requirements: 2.5 minimum GPA, ACT or SAT scores
$9,450
$9,450
88%
532
Private
Yes
$11,640
$11,640
Southlake, TX4 yearCampus + Online
$11,640
$11,640
94%
76%
$9,450
$9,450
88%
532
Private
Yes
TKU supports more than 600 students every year, offering flexible academic programs at its Southlake, Texas, campus. Learners may also obtain their credentials remotely by enrolling in online programs like the bachelor of Christian ministries. The curriculum centers on charismatic theology, equipping candidates with the skills to communicate the gospel and provide organizational leadership in diverse settings.
Course topics include biblical background and interpretation, cultural apologetics, and sermon preparation. Students learn to offer counseling services that foster healthy family dynamics. Candidates round out their education with a senior capstone project.
This online bachelor's in ministry program emphasizes hands-on skill development, requiring learners to complete an internship and several junior ministry practicums. TKU offers a variety of financial aid options, including institutional and external scholarships. The university also powers distance education with Blackboard.
- Program Name: Bachelor of Christian Ministries
- Credit Requirements: 124 credits
- Program Length: 4 years
- Admission Requirements: 2.5 minimum GPA, ACT or SAT scores
Hope International University
Fullerton, CA2 yearCampus + Online
$34,500
$34,500
32%
68%
Based in Fullerton, California, HIU powers distance education with Canvas. The institution delivers six fully online undergraduate programs, including a bachelor of science in Christian ministry. Through a flexible curriculum, students increase their understanding of scripture and develop the administrative skills to work as associate ministers and church planting specialists.
Degree candidates take major coursework in ministry models, biblical theology, and literary exegesis and analysis. They learn the strategic leadership and pastoral counseling techniques needed to transform conflict within their congregations. Students complete the online bachelor's in ministry program with a community-oriented field practicum.
Applicants send in a 250-word essay detailing their personal strengths and challenges, along with their professional goals. HIU offers ample scholarships and grants. The university also facilitates veterans benefits, which include active duty tuition discounts.
- Program Name: Bachelor of Science in Christian Ministry
- Credit Requirements: 120 units
- Program Length: 4 years
- Admission Requirements: 2.5 minimum GPA for freshman students; 2.0 minimum for transfer candidates
$14,256
$14,256
66%
1,116
Private
Yes
$34,500
$34,500
Fullerton, CA2 yearCampus + Online
$34,500
$34,500
32%
68%
$14,256
$14,256
66%
1,116
Private
Yes
Based in Fullerton, California, HIU powers distance education with Canvas. The institution delivers six fully online undergraduate programs, including a bachelor of science in Christian ministry. Through a flexible curriculum, students increase their understanding of scripture and develop the administrative skills to work as associate ministers and church planting specialists.
Degree candidates take major coursework in ministry models, biblical theology, and literary exegesis and analysis. They learn the strategic leadership and pastoral counseling techniques needed to transform conflict within their congregations. Students complete the online bachelor's in ministry program with a community-oriented field practicum.
Applicants send in a 250-word essay detailing their personal strengths and challenges, along with their professional goals. HIU offers ample scholarships and grants. The university also facilitates veterans benefits, which include active duty tuition discounts.
- Program Name: Bachelor of Science in Christian Ministry
- Credit Requirements: 120 units
- Program Length: 4 years
- Admission Requirements: 2.5 minimum GPA for freshman students; 2.0 minimum for transfer candidates
Cornerstone University
Grand Rapids, MI4 yearCampus + Online
$27,580
$27,580
82%
49%
Established in 1941, CU specializes in flexible academic programs for working professionals. Degree offerings include an online bachelor of science in ministry leadership that helps students implement critical components of the Christian worldview. Candidates can complete a fully remote curriculum or create a hybrid learning experience with once-per-week classes at the Michigan campuses in Grand Rapids and Kalamazoo.
Required coursework covers topics like ministry ethics and values, interpretive analysis of Old and New Testament literature, and self-management principles. Students cultivate practical skills for organizational leadership and conflict resolution. Moodle powers distance education at CU, delivering accelerated five-week classes.
The online bachelor's in ministry program operates a completionist degree plan that requires applicants to possess 2 years of work experience and at least 56 transferable credits. Distance learners can apply for government grants and loans.
- Program Name: Bachelor of Science in Ministry Leadership
- Credit Requirements: 120 credits
- Program Length: 2 years (degree completion)
- Admission Requirements: At least 2 years of work experience
$14,160
$14,160
80%
1,781
Private
Yes
$27,580
$27,580
Grand Rapids, MI4 yearCampus + Online
$27,580
$27,580
82%
49%
$14,160
$14,160
80%
1,781
Private
Yes
Established in 1941, CU specializes in flexible academic programs for working professionals. Degree offerings include an online bachelor of science in ministry leadership that helps students implement critical components of the Christian worldview. Candidates can complete a fully remote curriculum or create a hybrid learning experience with once-per-week classes at the Michigan campuses in Grand Rapids and Kalamazoo.
Required coursework covers topics like ministry ethics and values, interpretive analysis of Old and New Testament literature, and self-management principles. Students cultivate practical skills for organizational leadership and conflict resolution. Moodle powers distance education at CU, delivering accelerated five-week classes.
The online bachelor's in ministry program operates a completionist degree plan that requires applicants to possess 2 years of work experience and at least 56 transferable credits. Distance learners can apply for government grants and loans.
- Program Name: Bachelor of Science in Ministry Leadership
- Credit Requirements: 120 credits
- Program Length: 2 years (degree completion)
- Admission Requirements: At least 2 years of work experience
Mount Vernon Nazarene University
Mount Vernon, OH4 yearCampus + Online
$23,953
$23,953
85%
58%
MVNU serves over 2,000 students annually, many of whom obtain their degrees remotely through Moodle. Program options comprise a fully online bachelor of arts in ministry leadership that operates accelerated five-week classes. The engaging curriculum helps candidates strengthen their biblical worldview and develop the leadership skills to tackle pertinent challenges facing faith-based communities.
Distance learners take required classes like organizational behavior, evangelism and discipleship, and teaching the Bible. They also develop the ability to recruit and train volunteers. This online bachelor's in ministry program culminates with an applied leadership project that prepares students for careers as missionaries, youth pastors, and nonprofit administrators.
As a completionist track, the MVNU degree requires applicants to transfer at least 56 credits from other regionally accredited colleges and universities. Online students may access financial aid through FAFSA.
- Program Name: Bachelor of Arts in Ministry Leadership
- Credit Requirements: 120 credits
- Program Length: 2 years (degree completion)
- Admission Requirements: 2.0 minimum GPA
$10,674
$10,674
70%
1,941
Private
Yes
$23,953
$23,953
Mount Vernon, OH4 yearCampus + Online
$23,953
$23,953
85%
58%
$10,674
$10,674
70%
1,941
Private
Yes
MVNU serves over 2,000 students annually, many of whom obtain their degrees remotely through Moodle. Program options comprise a fully online bachelor of arts in ministry leadership that operates accelerated five-week classes. The engaging curriculum helps candidates strengthen their biblical worldview and develop the leadership skills to tackle pertinent challenges facing faith-based communities.
Distance learners take required classes like organizational behavior, evangelism and discipleship, and teaching the Bible. They also develop the ability to recruit and train volunteers. This online bachelor's in ministry program culminates with an applied leadership project that prepares students for careers as missionaries, youth pastors, and nonprofit administrators.
As a completionist track, the MVNU degree requires applicants to transfer at least 56 credits from other regionally accredited colleges and universities. Online students may access financial aid through FAFSA.
- Program Name: Bachelor of Arts in Ministry Leadership
- Credit Requirements: 120 credits
- Program Length: 2 years (degree completion)
- Admission Requirements: 2.0 minimum GPA
Amridge University
Montgomery, AL4 yearOnline
$9,000
$9,000
N/A
N/A
Located in Montgomery, Alambama, Amridge delivers remote academic programs through Canvas. Degree offerings include an online bachelor of science in ministry/Bible that emphasizes practitioner skill development. In addition to careers as missionaries and pulpit ministers, graduates are well-prepared to pursue leadership positions in postsecondary schools, correctional institutions, and even the armed forces.
The curriculum contains required classes like the life and teachings of Christ, systematic theology, and homiletics. Students develop strategic leadership skills for Chistian service and nonprofit management. They can use the 48 elective credits to pursue advanced topics relevant to their research interests and career objectives.
Amridge accepts up to 88 transfer credits, which allow candidates to complete the online bachelor's in ministry program in as little as 12 months. The university provides a variety of financial aid, including awards for first-time students, ministry majors, and law enforcement/first responders.
- Program Name: Bachelor of Science in Ministry/Bible
- Credit Requirements: 128 credits
- Program Length: 4 years
- Admission Requirements: 2.0 minimum GPA for transfer students; ACT or SAT scores for first-time freshmen
$10,800
$10,800
50%
647
Private
Yes
$9,000
$9,000
Montgomery, AL4 yearOnline
$9,000
$9,000
N/A
N/A
$10,800
$10,800
50%
647
Private
Yes
Located in Montgomery, Alambama, Amridge delivers remote academic programs through Canvas. Degree offerings include an online bachelor of science in ministry/Bible that emphasizes practitioner skill development. In addition to careers as missionaries and pulpit ministers, graduates are well-prepared to pursue leadership positions in postsecondary schools, correctional institutions, and even the armed forces.
The curriculum contains required classes like the life and teachings of Christ, systematic theology, and homiletics. Students develop strategic leadership skills for Chistian service and nonprofit management. They can use the 48 elective credits to pursue advanced topics relevant to their research interests and career objectives.
Amridge accepts up to 88 transfer credits, which allow candidates to complete the online bachelor's in ministry program in as little as 12 months. The university provides a variety of financial aid, including awards for first-time students, ministry majors, and law enforcement/first responders.
- Program Name: Bachelor of Science in Ministry/Bible
- Credit Requirements: 128 credits
- Program Length: 4 years
- Admission Requirements: 2.0 minimum GPA for transfer students; ACT or SAT scores for first-time freshmen
Frequently Asked Questions About Bachelor’s in Ministry Programs
Is a bachelor’s in ministry worth it?
While the value of your degree is often subjective, many graduates with a bachelor’s in ministry derive great personal satisfaction from their careers. For example, according to PayScale, pastors report an average job satisfaction of 4.5 out of 5, which rates as “extremely satisfied.”
Graduates with a bachelor’s in ministry can also find stable employment and earn solid salaries in the nonprofit sector.
What can I do with a bachelor’s in ministry?
Graduates with a bachelor’s in ministry can pursue careers in ministry, nonprofit and mission-driven organizations, and church administration. Possible job titles include youth minister, associate pastor, program coordinator, and church administrator. To become ordained, they may want to pursue further education by enrolling in master’s programs in divinity or theology.
Are ministry majors in high demand?
The BLS does not list significant data for ministry careers. As such, it is tough to determine demand. However, ministry majors can find significant demand by pursuing careers in faith-based nonprofit organizations. The BLS projects 8% job growth for social and community services managers between 2023 and 2033.
How much money can I make with a bachelor’s in ministry?
While most students do not pursue ministry for the money, church professionals can still earn solid wages. According to PayScale data from October 2021, pastors earn an average annual salary of $50,070. Entry-level positions pay less, as youth ministers earn an average annual salary of $37,240.
What are the highest-paying jobs with a bachelor’s in ministry?
The highest-paying jobs for graduates with a bachelor’s in ministry are likely in the nonprofit sector. For example, social and community services managers who work for religious organizations earn a median annual salary of $76,180. Keep in mind that these positions often require significant nonprofit experience.
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