Bachelor of Ministry - Belmont Univers

Tuition Fee

Start Date

Medium of studying

Duration

Program Facts

Program Details

Degree

Bachelors

Major

Religion | Theology | Religious Studies

Area of study

Humanities

Course Language

English

Intakes

Program start date	Application deadline
2024-08-23	-

About Program

Program Overview

Belmont University's Ministry Major in the Adult Degree Program equips students with the theological foundations, practical skills, and leadership qualities necessary to serve and lead in various ministry settings. The program offers a blend of rigorous academics and practical training, preparing graduates for a wide range of career opportunities in churches, non-profit organizations, educational institutions, and other ministry-related fields. Through flexible scheduling options, personalized attention, and a career-focused curriculum, the program empowers adult learners to pursue their call to ministry while balancing their personal and professional commitments.

Program Outline

To equip students with practical ministry skills in areas like pastoral care, spiritual formation, and church leadership.
To foster leadership development that emphasizes serving others and leading with compassion and integrity.
To prepare graduates to effectively serve in a variety of ministry and leadership roles across diverse communities and organizations.

Program Description:

This degree program is designed for adult learners, including individuals already engaged in ministry work, career changers seeking to answer a call to serve, and others who have a passion for ministry and leadership. The curriculum offers a blend of rigorous academics and practical training, allowing students to apply their learning in real-world ministry contexts. Through the program, students gain theoretical and practical knowledge in various areas, including:

Biblical Studies
Church History
Christian Theology
Pastoral Care
Spiritual Formation
Preaching and Worship
Christian Ethics
Missions and Church Development
Leadership Development

Outline

Program Content and Structure:

The Ministry Major at Belmont University's Adult Degree Program consists of 128 credit hours, including both core courses and major-specific courses.

Core Courses:

Students complete 53 credit hours of core courses across the following areas:

BELL Core: 45 credit hours covering general education requirements in areas like literature, history, science, and social science.
Religion Major Tool Courses: 6 credit hours focusing on research, writing, and personal development in the context of religious studies.

Ministry Major Courses:

Students take 36 credit hours of courses specifically focused on ministry, including:

Ministry Core Courses: These cover topics such as biblical interpretation, Christian doctrine, Christian ethics, pastoral care, and church leadership.
World Religions Course: Students choose one course exploring various world religions and their perspectives on human existence and ultimate concerns.
Ministry Electives: Students select 12 credit hours of electives that cater to their specific interests and career aspirations, including specialized topics like youth ministry, missions, or spiritual formation.

Course Schedule:

The Adult Degree Program offers flexible scheduling options, allowing students to attend courses in person, online, or a combination of both, depending on their individual needs. Courses typically take place in the evenings and on weekends to accommodate working adults.

Individual Modules:

The specific modules within the Ministry Major can vary based on the course offerings each semester. However, some commonly offered modules include:

Introduction to New Testament and Exegetical Methods: Introduces students to biblical interpretation and the study of the New Testament.
Christian Doctrine: Explores central doctrines of the Christian faith.
Vocation and the Christian Life: Examines the relationship between faith and vocation.
Spiritual Formation: Emphasizes lifelong spiritual development through various disciplines and practices.
Christian Ethics: Introduces methodologies for Christian ethical reflection and decision-making.
Dynamics of the Local Church: Practice of Ministry: Develops practical leadership skills for ministry contexts, including time management, interpersonal relations, and decision making.
Pastoral Care: Practice of Ministry: Introduces students to pastoral care theory, models, and practices.

Assessment

Assessment Methods:

The Ministry Major uses various assessment methods to evaluate student learning and program effectiveness. These methods include:

Exams and quizzes: Assessing students' understanding of key concepts and knowledge.
Essays and research papers: Allowing students to demonstrate critical thinking, analysis, and writing skills.
Presentations: Fostering communication, research, and public speaking skills.
Group projects: encouraging teamwork and collaboration.
Reflective journals: Enabling students to engage in personal reflection and self-assessment of their learning and development.

Assessment Criteria:

The specific assessment criteria vary based on the individual courses and assignments. However, overall assessment emphasizes:

Depth of understanding of theological concepts and biblical principles.
Application of knowledge and skills to real-world ministry contexts.
Critical thinking and analysis of theological issues and contemporary challenges.
Effective communication of ideas and perspectives both orally and in writing.
Personal development and reflection as a Christian leader and minister.

Teaching

Teaching Methods:

The Ministry Major employs various teaching methods to engage adult learners and foster deeper understanding and application of concepts.

Lectures: Providing foundational knowledge and introducing key theological themes and issues.
Discussions: Facilitating dialogue, critical analysis, and exchange of ideas among students and faculty.
Case studies: Examining real-world ministry situations to apply course concepts and develop problem-solving skills.
Role-playing and simulations: Offering opportunities to practice and refine ministry skills in simulated environments.
Experiential learning: Integrating classroom learning with real-world ministry experiences through service-learning or internships.

Faculty:

The program boasts experienced and dedicated faculty with expertise in various theological disciplines, ministry contexts, and practical skills development. Faculty are actively engaged in research, writing, and ministry, allowing them to bring real-world insights and perspectives to the classroom.

Unique Approach:

The Adult Degree Program prioritizes fostering a supportive learning community where students can engage with faculty and peers, share their experiences, and grow as Christian leaders and ministers. The program promotes an integrated approach that blends academic rigor with practical application, preparing graduates to serve effectively and make meaningful contributions to their communities and beyond.

Careers

Potential Career Paths:

The Ministry Major offers graduates a wide range of career opportunities across various ministry settings, including:

Churches: Lead Pastor, Associate Pastor, Youth Pastor, Children's Pastor, Music Minister, Worship Leader, etc.
Non-profit organizations: Executive Director, Program Director, Social Worker, Chaplain, Counselor, etc.
Educational institutions: Teacher, Chaplain, Administrator, etc.
Mission organizations: Missionary, Field worker, etc.
Government agencies: Chaplain, Community outreach worker, etc.
Business organizations: Chaplain, Ethicist, Social responsibility officer, etc.
Other ministry-related fields: Writer, Editor, Speaker, etc.

Opportunities and Outcomes:

The Ministry Major prepares graduates for various opportunities to contribute to their communities, organizations, and the broader world through service, leadership, and a deep understanding of Christian faith and values. Graduates develop skills and knowledge to:

Articulate biblical and theological concepts effectively.
Offer pastoral care and guidance to individuals and communities.
Lead worship and faith formation ministries.
Develop and manage programs within various ministry contexts.
Engage ethically in complex social issues.
Bridge faith and relevant fields in various professional settings.

Other

Benefits of Adult Degree Program:

The Adult Degree Program offers several advantages for students seeking to pursue a ministry degree while balancing work, personal commitments, and family responsibilities. These include:

Flexible scheduling options: Evening, weekend, and online courses allow students to tailor their learning experience to their individual schedules and needs.
Personalized attention: Smaller class sizes, dedicated advisors, and a supportive community environment allow for personal interaction and individualized guidance.
Career-focused curriculum: Emphasis on practical ministry skills and real-world application prepares students for immediate contribution in their chosen fields upon graduation.
Affordable tuition: Adult Degree Program students receive a significant tuition reduction compared to traditional undergraduate students, making the program accessible to a broader range of individuals.