What Can You Do with a Ministry Degree?

When most of us think about ministry, our minds immediately conjure up images of a lead pastor who stands in front of the congregation and delivers a sermon every Sunday. While working in a church is one facet of ministry, it’s certainly not the only one. Today, we are here to look at how ministry can take place wherever you are. We will answer the questions: what is a Christian ministry degree? What can you do with a ministry degree? And why should you study ministry major at a Christian liberal arts institution? 

What is a ministry degree?

Ministry is the work of Christians spreading the Word of God and helping others grow in faith. So a ministry degree prepares students to accurately and effectively share the gospel in whatever context God calls them to. It trains students to have a missional mindset and to intentionally engage in relationships for the sake of Christ. 

“Students who graduate with a ministry degree are equipped with the skills to go out into their communities and help others right where they are,” said Dr. Freddy Cardoza, Dean of Grace Theological Seminary and the School of Ministry Studies. “Though much ministry happens in churches, ministry is not just in a church, it’s wherever God calls you, whether that be on the streets, in a classroom, or in another country.”

What can you do with a ministry degree?

This is by no means a comprehensive list of what you can do with a Christian ministry degree, but it’s a good start. While some of these careers require additional education or training, your ministry classes can give you a solid foundation for your future jobs. Here are some jobs you can pursue with your Christian ministry degree: 

• Lead Pastor 
• Youth Pastor
• Children’s Pastor
• Pastor of Visitation
• Worship Arts Director
• Teacher 
• Camp Coordinator
• Coach or Sports Staff
• Devotional Writer 
• Spiritual Care Coordinator
• Bereavement Coordinator
• Chaplain
• Missionary
• Counselor

Why should you study ministry at a Christian liberal arts institution?

A liberal arts education will equip you to pursue ministry by exposing you to more than just ministry classes. Classes offered at Grace such as Public Speaking will allow you to communicate more effectively to an audience while Faith, Science, and Reason will give you a foundation to defend your faith through scientific research. With a variety of classes on your transcript, you will be ready to navigate the highs and lows of ministry and be equipped to see circumstances through perspectives different from your own. 

“With Grace’s liberal arts core, ministry students have the tools and knowledge to support them wherever they end up serving,” Cardoza said. “Students receive a solid foundation in classes like Creative Arts and Culture, Public Speaking, and Faith Science and Reason which prepare them to face a wide variety of situations. It is our goal to develop well-rounded individuals who are confident, compassionate, and skilled for the work God has called them to.”

No matter where you end up after graduating from Grace, you will be prepared for a purposeful ministry through the skills you obtain from your ministry classes and the gracious guidance of the Lord. 

Learn more about Grace’s ministry program.