Overview

The Christian ministries major explores the biblical, theological, and practical dimensions of ministry. The major educates students for effective ministry and prepares them for graduate programs or seminary study through courses in:

• Significance of the Old and New Testaments
• Christian theology
• The gospel in cross-cultural perspective
• Personal spiritual formation
• Leadership and communication skills in ministry
• Trends and forces influencing ministry

Students will be involved in a supervised ministry practicum during the Christian ministries program. 

Program Outcomes

1. Students will interpret biblical texts with sensitivity to their historical, literary, and theological contexts.
2. 
   Students will evaluate aspects of contemporary culture, including important social issues, using biblical and theological concepts.
3. 
   Students will cultivate skills of collaboration and leadership for effectiveness in ministry.
4. 
   Students will demonstrate effective written, oral, and interpersonal communication skills.
5. 
   Students will apply pastoral care skills to interpersonal and family relationships in ministry settings.
6. 
   Students will construct a plan for lifelong self-directed personal and spiritual growth based on a well-developed personal theology.
7. 
   Students will critically examine diverse contributions to Christian theology and practice.
8. Students will develop culturally appropriate strategies for promoting personal and spiritual growth in others.

Seminary Pathway

Students who complete the B.A. in Christian Ministries can fulfill credit toward the MA in Ministry at Bethel Seminary. For more information see the Christian Ministries pathway page.

Admission Requirements

The Christian ministries major will consider applicants who:

• Meet the general requirements for admission to the College of Adult and Professional Studies.
• Have a combined cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale on previous academic work.
• Have a transcript evaluation completed to determine which, if any, outstanding course requirements or needed credits must be fulfilled.
• Submit a Spiritual Reference form.

Degree Requirements

B.A. in Christian Ministries

The required curriculum for the Christian ministries major comprises a 39 semester credit sequence of courses to be taken consecutively throughout the calendar year. For course sequence, request a program calendar from the College of Adult & Professional Studies.