What Will I Learn in Ministry Studies Courses?

Ministry studies courses teach students the foundations of theology, and they also give students the practical skills necessary to teach their beliefs to others and lead their congregations. Ministry studies courses are included in degree programs in divinity, Christian studies and ministry education. Continue reading for more information.

Ministry Studies Courses Overview

Classes in ministry studies are offered at both the graduate and undergraduate levels in certificate, bachelor's degree and master's degree programs. Courses are not usually offered in standalone settings. These courses prepare students to act in leadership positions in their spiritual communities.

Important Information About This Field of Study

Common Courses	Theological philosophy, history, religion and sociology,
Online Availability	Fully online curricula are offered
Concentrations	Camp administration, women's leadership
Possible Careers	Youth pastor, missionary, peace corps volunteer, religious staff writer

Skills Learned in Ministry Courses

Typically, degree programs are divided into core courses, an internship or fieldwork and a concentration. These courses typically do not focus on a single belief system. Ministry studies courses don't usually prepare students to become clergy, though they can prepare students to attend a seminary program.

Students need a firm grasp of theology and strong communications skills. Students take courses in theological history, but they also take courses that teach ministry studies skills in these areas:

Preaching and leading worship
Pastoral counseling
Religious education
Community organizing
Ministry leadership

Degree program length depends on the level of education. Bachelor's degree programs usually take about four years to complete, and many schools also offer minors in this subject area for students who are pursuing a different major. Master's degree programs typically take about two to three years.

Field Education

Some programs at both the undergraduate and graduate levels include fieldwork requirements. At the Divinity School at the University of Chicago, students earning M.Div. degrees engage in a congregational placement assignment and an additional fieldwork assignment of the student's choosing. In conjunction with the congregational placement experience, students must enroll in a practicum course where they reflect on their ministry studies field experience and receive guidance from professors. Students may choose venues like these for their ministry studies fieldwork:

Hospital or campus chaplaincies
Community outreach ministries
Local congregations

Career Information

Degree programs in ministry studies can prepare students for a number of positions, including those as worship leaders, school teachers, camp directors and nonprofit administrators. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, job opportunities for clergy are expected to grow by 4% between 2021 and 2031.