An online ministry degree is the most suitable approach for those who feel a calling to pastoral work. It can pave the way to entry-level careers in nonprofit organizations and churches. Then, advanced education can further upgrade these positions.
Online ministry degree programs help working professionals earn credentials without sacrificing their careers. They are comparable with their on-campus counterparts and are highly affordable, convenient, and comprehensive.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the US needs about 9,700 new ministers by 2028. On average, ministers and clergy members earn about $27.19 per hour, adding to a mean annual income of $56,560. A ministerial career exhibits promising aspects with an expected 4% increase in employment opportunities for these professionals.
Let us delve deeper into the best online associate, bachelor, master, and doctoral ministry degrees. Also, if you are interested in ministry careers, online ministry jobs, and more, you can find them in this article!
Article Navigation: What is a Ministry Degree? | Overview – Online Ministry Degree | Admissions For A Ministry Degree | Paying for Your Degree | How To Choose an Online Ministry Degree | Best Associate’s in Ministry Online | Top Online Ministry Bachelor’s Degrees | Leading Master’s Programs in Ministry Online | Online Doctorate Degrees in Ministry | Certification & Licenses | What To Do With Your Online Ministry Degree | Career Outlook | Career Paths | Continuing Education | Professional Organizations | FAQs Related To Top Programs In Ministry Degrees | Find Your Degree Today
What is a Ministry Degree?
Ministry refers to the specialized work of promoting the religious text and helping others prosper in their faith. A ministry degree, also known as a theology degree, provides comprehensive knowledge of religious doctrines.
Traditionally, it covers Christian and biblical history and organizational leadership to promote and share the gospel in particular contexts effectively. In addition, these programs offer secular and spiritual opportunities along with various career paths. An online ministry degree also equips students with the skills to engage with their community and offer aid to whoever needs it.
Ministry Degree Specializations
Online ministry degrees often offer various specializations. Students can choose a program related to a particular ministry or an inclusive program that integrates it with other areas. Some typical degrees and concentrations for online ministry students are as follows:
Christian Education
This specialization prepares students for leadership roles related to education, such as children’s ministry leaders.
Divinity
Divinity covers biblical studies and ministry coursework, developing the skills to become ministry leaders.
Discipleship
Discipleship programs foster leadership in mission and education roles. An example of this includes discipleship minister and associate pastor.
Missiology/Missions
Students in this specialization master skills and practical knowledge to prepare for mission-related roles.
Pastoral Ministry
Pastoral ministry concentration offers focused preparation for those pursuing pastoral or other relevant leadership roles.
Ministry Leadership
This specialization offers spiritual and practical preparation for students applying to leadership roles in various ministry areas.
Overview – Online Ministry Degree
What Can I Expect From an Online Ministry Degree?
These programs offer a path to an exceptional professional life working for church and service. However, they can also point towards service-oriented careers in nonprofits and mission-driven education, administration, and organizations. Although graduates with an online ministry degree earn adequate salaries, they might not earn exceptionally high wages unless they switch careers.
Ministry degrees also prompt students to overcome frequent public speaking and leadership fears. They can develop such skills through specialized courses like Christian leadership.
Generally, bachelor’s in ministry programs necessitate 120 credit hours within four years of full-time study. On the other hand, some schools also offer accelerated options that can decrease this period. Students can also graduate earlier by taking courses during summer semesters. Although courses primarily focus on public ministry, students can specialize in ministering to particular populations. Some typical concentrations may include church administration, pastoral studies, youth ministry, and urban ministry.
Ministry Degree Courses
Foundations of Christian Ministry
This course covers theological, biblical, and historical topics that allow students to form a foundation for their preaching. It also helps them develop their personal philosophical views as a minister.
Christian Leadership
Since ministers are leaders of particular churches, they must hold mastery over leadership in both Christian and secular contexts. This course helps them cover biblical, historical, and theological leadership examples.
Church Administration
Church administration prepares students to become administrators by covering human resources, budgets, and strategic planning.
Pastoral Care
This program covers the various services and skills ministers provide, including marriage officiation, counseling, funerals, and hospital chaplaincy.
Teaching Ministry
This course delves into the role of teachers in ministry, covering lesson planning, evaluation methods, curriculum development, and teaching philosophy.
Acquired Skills
An online ministry degree fosters the following skills in students:
- Teamwork
- Leadership
- Management
- Ability to love their service
- Networking
- Communication
- Business administration
- Counseling
- Conflict resolution and management
- Public speaking
- Training and education
- Organizational leadership
Timeline
Time taken to complete an online ministry degree varies depending on its level, curriculum requirements, format, and enrollment status. A bachelor’s degree in ministry requires 120 to 130 credit hours. An associate’s degree and online master’s in ministry need about two years of full-time study. In contrast, an online doctoral in ministry is completable in nearly three years or more.
Admissions For A Ministry Degree
The admission requirements for online and on-campus ministry degree programs are generally the same. Christian ministry degrees online may have conditions such as an interview over videoconferencing or voice calls.
Application Submission
All online ministry degree programs require applicants to fill out and submit an application online. Ministries may require individual applications because it is a specialized field.
Test Scores
Although various schools have eliminated SAT or ACT requirements, some undergraduate programs in ministry still have this stipulation. A few ministry programs require standardized test scores compared to humanities and STEM programs. However, students can submit their test scores if they strengthen their admission application.
Recommendation Letters
Most online ministry degree programs require recommendation letters. Although schools expect them from previous teachers, former youth ministers’ letters are also acceptable. Make sure you offer a minimum of one to two-month window to compose the letters.
Essays
Online bachelor programs in ministry generally require specialized essay prompts for the application. Students must consider their commitment to serving the church or their faith journey. It is advisable to give yourself three to four months to compose, edit, and proofread your essay.
Official Transcripts
All ministry programs require applicants to submit official transcripts from previously attended colleges. Students with some completed college credit, like a community college course, can submit transcripts from their previous schools and transfer credit. First-year applicants may need to submit official high school transcripts.
Candidates applying for an associate’s degree may need to submit their high school diploma or equivalent documents. Those applying for a bachelor’s and master’s degree in ministry should submit their GED or bachelor’s documents, respectively. Similarly, doctoral degree students need to provide their master’s degree transcripts.
Additional Admissions Requirements
Some additional admission requirements may include a particular GPA, a personal essay of goals, or experience in religious settings.
Paying for Your Degree
Students who need financial aid for an online ministry degree can fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form. FAFSA allows them to determine the kind of aid they are eligible for after application submission. Other financial aid options include:
Work Study Programs
Work-study programs enable students to earn their keep while working part-time during studying. The federal government, some participating schools, and some employers offer work-study.
Student Loans
Government and private organizations offer student loans, but students must keep this option as a last resort. Government loans are a more suitable option. They have well-regulated interest rates that allow students to choose from diverse, flexible repayment options, some of which are also income based.
Scholarships
Countless sources, such as private and government organizations, colleges, etc., offer various kinds of scholarships. Students can also find scholarship opportunities through religious organizations, churches, schools where they study, the US Department of Labor Career One Stop, and many others.
Some prestigious scholarships are as follows:
- The Mary E. Bivins Ministry Scholarship Program
This program offers $2,500 to $3,500 to qualifying students from Texas counties who wish to pursue a ministry program. - Journey Toward Ordained Ministry Scholarships
This scholarship program offers $5,000 to students from religious minorities pursuing a bachelor’s or graduate degree in ministry. - Gordon and Eleanor Spykman Memorial Scholarship
The program awards $2,000 to students pursuing a program in religion with a minimum of 3.0 GPA. - Milton and Edith Brown Memorial Scholarship
Students in Ohio working in a ministry or students who have relatives who worked in the ministry can avail of this scholarship.
How To Choose an Online Ministry Degree
Cost
In-person programs cost considerably more than online degree programs. Some online programs offer reduced in-state tuition. All of them allow students to save money on boarding and lodging.
Program Format
Asynchronous and synchronous are two types of online degree formats. Synchronous entails live and scheduled online sessions. On the other hand, asynchronous programs offer more flexibility. Other factors are accelerated programs, hybrid or blended formats, and in-person requirements.
Location
The location of a university is as essential for online as on-campus students. Online Christian ministry degrees may require students to complete internships and other in-person requirements. Living in-state can also allow students to benefit from a program’s networking opportunities.
Accreditation
Accreditation is a crucial consideration when choosing any degree. Without regional accreditation, students might not qualify for financial assistance, certain ministry careers, etc.
Transfer Policies
Credit transfer enables students to retain previously completed coursework, often shortening the timeline of their degree. Therefore, look into school transfer policies to see if they accept your particular credits.
Student Support
Ministry programs can be very nerve-wracking and demanding, making adequate student support services essential. It is, therefore, imperative to consider a program that offers mentorship or advising, internships, and technical support.
Best Associate’s in Ministry Online
1. City Vision University
Accreditation: Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC),
Program: Associate’s in Ministry and Leadership
Duration: Requires students to complete at least 15 of the total 60 credits at CVU with a minimum GPA of 2.0
City Vision University in Kansas City, MO, boasts a graduation rate of 100%. Its online ministry and leadership degree leads to careers in urban mission, ministry, and nonprofit services. Furthermore, the program entails 60 credit hours and fosters professional skills and knowledge in theology. It also covers mental health and addiction, biblical interpretation, and maintaining an adequate work/life balance.
More than 70% of these online ministry degree graduates find successful employment. Admission requirements include:
- High school diploma
- GED certificate
- A copy of an applicant’s government-issued identity card
Regardless of the state of residence, all online students pay the same tuition fee.
2. Maranatha Baptist University
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Program: Associate’s in Christian Ministry
Duration: 64 credit hours
Maranatha Baptist University in Watertown, WI, has a graduation rate of 53%. It offers an online Christian ministry degree preparing students to utilize their faith in camp, mission, church, and nonprofit settings. It perfectly balances biblical studies, Christian ministry, and liberal arts courses. Apart from helping students pursue ministry-focused vocations, this program allows graduates to transfer credits toward an MBU bachelor’s degree.
Students can complete this program in two years of full-time study, with all learning using an asynchronous format. Admission requirements for this online ministry degree include a high school diploma or GED and an academic success track record. Students must also actively attend a church and testify to attaining personal salvation.
Top Online Ministry Bachelor’s Degrees
1. Lincoln Christian University
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Program: BA in Christian Ministry
Duration: 120 credit hours
Lincoln Christian University has a graduation rate of 71%. It provides a comprehensive education to more than a thousand students yearly. The bachelor of arts in Christian ministry is a flexible program preparing working students for missions work and education careers. Graduates of this online program are eligible for the positions such as youth and associate pastors.
This online ministry degree program covers evangelism, discipleship, faith development; church administration; and global cultural intelligence. It also fosters leadership skills in students to lead both secular and religious organizations. Students can enroll in this online program or undertake a hybrid learning curriculum through in-person classes. Both asynchronous and synchronous program formats are available.
Admission requirements include a 3.0 or higher GPA for first-year students and a minimum 2.5 GPA for transfer students. Also required are SAT or ACT scores, a Christian character reference, and a personal essay. LCU offers financial aid opportunities, including a scholarship for transfer and incoming students. It further supports students by providing career development resources and service learning opportunities.
Could not look up degree for "Lincoln Christian University (School Closing)" using "5290"!2. City Vision University
Accreditation: Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC)
Program: Bachelor’s in Christian Ministry and Leadership
City Vision University specializes in virtual economic education. This school offers an online Christian ministry and leadership degree with four distinct specialization options. The program is 100% online with a synchronous instruction format. It provides remote coursework in accelerated eight weeks, so students can graduate in less than four years. Core classes include vocation, calling, purpose, biblical theology, and social entrepreneurship. The available concentrations include:
- Counseling ministry
- Urban missions
- Ministry management
- Diversified concentration
The urban mission concentration expands student skills in grant writing, case management, and multicultural counseling skills. Students develop personalized concentrations through the multi-faceted program option in addition to particular tracks.
Students can easily transfer up to 90 credits to this online ministry degree program. The admission application does not include an application fee, and the school also offers substantial financial aid, including:
- Institutional scholarships
- Tuition discounts for military personnel
Leading Master’s Programs in Ministry Online
1. Columbia International University
Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation of the Association for Biblical Higher Education and the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Program: Master of Arts in Ministry Studies
Duration: 39 credit hours
Formerly known as the Columbia Bible School, Columbia International University offers more than 45 remote degrees and certificates. Its online MA in ministry studies requires 18 months of study, where students can take one class at a time. This online ministry degree focuses on innovative steps for missional revival and renewal in lay ministry settings, church, and parachurch.
The school offers two master’s in ministry tracks and admits students without the requirement of professional or educational experience. It covers classes such as:
- Theology and ethics
- Foundations of spiritual formation
- Transformational Bible teaching
Students can also gain practical skills through mentored field experiences. Admission requirements include the following:
- Minimum of 2.5 GPA
- Reference for a church leader with whom a candidate has been acquainted for at least two years
- An 800 to 1000-word essay
Online Doctorate Degrees in Ministry
1. Emory University
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Program: Doctor of Ministry
Duration: 32 credit hours
Emory University, a private research university, started as an educational ministry of the Methodist Episcopal Church in 1836. The university has grown considerably to accommodate more than 15,000 students in its graduate and undergraduate schools. Its Candler School of Theology is an approved seminary for the United Methodist Church and provides a DMin online.
Students with three successful years of ministry and an MDiv can apply to one of the two DMin tracks:
- Biblical interpretation and
- Proclamation and church leadership and community witness
These programs entail four brief in-person campus stays and online coursework. Students must also undertake a culminating project, six additional courses, and relevant colloquies. The courses may include ecclesiologies in action, reflective practice, and cultivating church leadership and witness. Students devise an innovative and practical ministry practice building on their culminating project. Some recent projects include the following:
- The repudiation and possible revival of Wednesday evening suppers in a local church context
- Ways to help African-American congregations develop into a more hospitable environment for visitors
- Learning, devising, and implementing a contemplative prayer program in a local church
Certification & Licenses
Online Ministers License
A quick, unorthodox path to becoming a licensed minister is to pursue an independent organization that performs online ordination services. Ordained minister requirements generally depend upon the kind of ordination you choose. Online ordination provides the authority to officiate at funerals or perform wedding ceremonies. They generally do not have a particular religious affiliation and satisfy simple registration requirements. The process is uncomplicated and brief; all you need to do is:
- Complete the required paperwork
- Donate or pay an ordination fee
- Receive your minister’s identification card and ordination certificate
Licensing
Similar to ordained minister requirements, different states have different online minister license requirements. Although they all require applicants to be 18 years old, several other regulations may apply. For instance, Rhode Island allows all ministers of reputable standing to perform marriages. In contrast, Pennsylvania only recognizes established religious denominations’ ministers. It is imperative to look into your state’s online minister license requirements before becoming one.
What To Do With Your Online Ministry Degree
Online Ministry Jobs and Salaries
Some typical ministry jobs and their salary ranges are as follows:
1. Elementary and Secondary School Teacher, Private
Salary: $36,600
Christian schools generally impart Bible knowledge through primary and post-secondary classes. Religious teachers at the elementary and secondary school level conduct lessons, manage classrooms, assess student learning, communicate with parents, and serve on committees. A Christian ministry degree online, a ministry degree with an emphasis on Christian education, or a bachelor’s degree in Bible teaching can prepare graduates for this position.
2. Director of Music Ministry
Salary: $31,770
Music ministers lead church musical groups, including choirs and orchestras. They also supervise lighting, visual, audio, and other art ministries of the church and preside over congregational singing. In addition, these professionals organize particular musical events such as concerts and cantatas.
3. Associate Pastor
Salary: $48,220
Associate pastors typically serve as the secondary leaders of a congregation and work under a senior pastor. Their job responsibilities can vary in congregations, as they may serve as an executive pastor in some settings and conduct pastoral care and counseling in others. An online pastoral ministry degree is highly suitable for this position.
4. Church Media Manager
Salary: $66,540
Large churches usually hire full-time media managers to supervise and manage the congregation’s audio, visual, digital ministry, and social media. In some churches, this role is inclusive and focuses primarily on church worship services. Other changes may offer a more outward position through web-based ministry to the community.
5. Nonprofit Program Manager
Salary: $52,270
Faith-based nonprofit organizations' program managers supervise the organization’s service program. The responsibilities in this position range from planning, management, supervision, and administration to evaluation and program analysis. These professionals also serve as part of the team in large organizations and work directly under a program’s vice president.
Career Outlook
Ministry is a relatively specialized major and field compared to other professions; thus, a limited number of positions are available that exhibit cut-throat competition. The BLS depicts a whopping 15% job growth for social and community services managers revealing the substantial demand for experts and professionals in adjacent fields. These church professionals made a median annual wage of $69,600 in May 2020. On the other hand, those working for religious organizations made a median yearly salary of $72,860.
A bachelor’s in ministry typically leads to employment positions in faith-based nonprofit organizations. Ministers who do not work directly for a church still make a considerable and commendable contribution to their communities.
Career Paths
Some common ministry careers are as follows:
Youth Minister
Median Annual Wage: $37,240
Youth ministers are responsible for leading mission trips, Sunday school, and other innovative activities for church members below 18. They also plan trips and lessons and manage parent volunteers. Different denominations pose different requirements for youth ministers. Thus, research for every church position is necessary before applying. Youth ministers must be willing to work on weekends and weekdays.
Pastor
Median Annual Wage: $50,070
Pastors supervise and lead a church’s congregation in worship, service, and music. Denominations may have unique requirements for this position, but most require official ordination from their denomination. Many ordained ministers possess a master’s degree in divinity, even though an advanced degree is not a prerequisite. These professionals must also have associate pastor-level experience.
High School Teacher
Median Annual Wage: $62,870
Graduates with a bachelor’s degree in ministry generally opt for a career as a high school teacher in religious schools. Religious schools are typically private, and thus prospective teachers do not always need to take the Praxis exam or possess state licensure. Private religious school teachers generally advise and mentor students as devotional or advisory.
Church Administrator
Median Annual Wage: $39,300
Church administrators are responsible for managing particular churches’ budgets and operations. They also allocate income and donations to fund church services, programming, and outreach efforts. An associate degree is typically the education requirement for this position. Still, a bachelor’s degree is a great way to get ahead.
Nonprofit Executive Director
Median Annual Wage: $67,990
A bachelor’s degree in ministry can lead to employment opportunities at faith-based nonprofit organizations. Executive directors are responsible for managing operations, budgets, and hiring. These professionals also report their workings to a board of directors. Besides the educational requirements, graduates need professional experience to qualify for this role.
Continuing Education
Ministry professionals can pursue continuing education to ensure their congregation’s excellent provision of worship services. Ministers can also undertake particular donation-based courses through the Christian Leaders Institute. The United Methodist Church’s General Board of Higher Education and Ministry also offers professional certification to Methodist pastors.
However, the most typical and beneficial continuing education from a bachelor’s degree is a master’s degree. Similarly, a doctorate in ministry is the most suitable continuing education course from a master’s. Such advanced degrees can pave the way for several senior pastor ordinations and positions in variable denominations.
Professional Organizations
Graduates with online ministry degrees may network with other ministry professionals to access beneficial resources. Check out the following renowned professional organizations available for today’s graduates:
National Association of Christian Ministers
This organization offers entry to Christian ministers across all denominations. It provides event meetings, networking support, and opportunities via regular prayer.
The Association of Youth Ministry Educators
The Association of Youth Ministry Educators offers:
- Networking
- Publication subscriptions and awards
- Professional development
- Collaboration opportunities for leaders of youth ministry activities and programs
Catholic Biblical Association of America (CBA)
CBA offers various kinds of memberships for benefits such as discounts, publication subscriptions, collaborative research and discussion, and support.
The North American Patristics Society (NAPS)
NAPS delves into the history of Christianity and theology studies by giving its members access to networking and publications.
FAQs Related To Top Programs In Ministry Degrees
Is a bachelor’s in ministry worth it?
Although the value of an online degree can be subjective, a bachelor’s in ministry online is worth it. It offers substantial personal satisfaction and fulfillment. According to PayScale, pastors report a median job satisfaction of 4.5 out of 5, rating it as “extremely satisfied.”
How long does it take to get a ministry degree?
The timeline of an online ministry degree depends upon the kind of degree you choose, enrollment status, curriculum requirements, etc. Generally, associate’s and master’s degrees each take about two years. Otherwise, bachelor’s and doctoral degrees take three to four years, respectively.
How much does it cost to become an ordained minister?
You can become an ordained minister online free of cost. However, you may need to pay a small sum, ranging from $35 to $50, to get your certified ordination documents.
What degree do you need to be in ministry?
A bachelor’s degree in ministry, religious education, religious studies, or theology may benefit employment in a ministry.
What can I do with a degree in ministry?
Graduates can pursue the following:
- Mission-driven organizations
- Ministry
- Nonprofit faith-based organizations
- Church administration
- Associate pastor work
- Youth ministry
- Program coordination
- Pursue continuing education in ministry or theology to get ordained and land better employment positions
Do you need a degree to start a ministry?
You need adequate educational and professional experience to become a minister. Ministers have a deep understanding of doctrine and are aware of the history and philosophy of religion. A bachelor’s degree in ministry, theology, religious education, or religious studies is the best way to become a minister.
How much money can I make with a bachelor’s in ministry?
Although most students do not pursue a career in ministry for money, professionals in this field can earn a good salary. According to PayScale, pastors made an average annual salary of $50,070 in October 2021. Youth ministers made an average yearly wage of $37,240 in the exact temporal dimensions as entry-level positions generally pay less.
Find Your Degree Today
Ministry is a fulfilling and satisfying career that pays well. Earning an online ministry degree is the most suitable path. If you feel a calling to church leadership and service, check out accredited online ministry degrees through the GetEducated.com degree database!