Major: Ministry
There's a minister so famous he has a day of the year named after him: Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Dr. King became at minister at the green age of nineteen and continued to preach until his tragic death at age thirty-nine. His sermons were so eloquent and inspired we still listen to them. Drawing on Christ's example, he fought for the rights not only of African Americans but of all poor people. He was willing to put his life on the line for his religious beliefs.
If you feel you could inspire others to walk in Christ's footsteps, consider majoring in ministry.
This major prepares students to become ordained Christian ministers or priests. Courses include such topics as church history, Christian ethics, church organization and management, evangelism, and homiletics (preaching).
Did You Know?
- Some programs offer ministry as a second major that you can choose in addition to a primary major in bible studies or theology.
Are You Ready To...?
- Worship regularly
- Study the Bible intensively
- Practice writing and delivering sermons
- Volunteer at local churches or Christian organizations
- Engage in deep discussions about ministry in and out of class
- Join an honorary society such as Delta Epsilon Chi
It Helps to Be...
Someone who's organized and who enjoys public speaking. You'll thrive in this major if you have a deep religious faith, love Bible study, care deeply about others' well-being, and feel comfortable lending an ear when people need to pour their hearts out.
College Checklist
- Has the program been accredited by the Association for Biblical Higher Education?
- What is the academic and ministering background of the faculty?
- What is the role of women among professors and students?
- What opportunities for hands-on learning will you have?
- Will the program help you find ministry positions upon graduation?
- Do current students like the program? Try to spend time with one, on the phone or in person.
Did You Know?
- Many programs offer specific majors within ministry, such as pastoral, urban, sports, youth, or women's ministry.
Course Spotlight
Before you graduate you'll do one or more internships, practicing what you've been learning about ministry. This experience might take any number of forms: You might make visits to congregation members' homes, work with young people at a Christian summer camp, teach Bible lessons, give sermons, or play sacred music. You might even have the chance to try out several such experiences. You'll treasure this opportunity to get your feet wet before plunging into your vocation.
