If you desire to serve God and the Christian Church, then Ministry Studies is the degree for you! Students who graduate with a baccalaureate degree in Ministry Studies are thoroughly prepared to work at the service of the church and to meet the world’s needs.
Learn more about our Department of Theology and faculty
The baccalaureate degree in ministry studies (45-credits minimum) offers a variety of theological and pastoral courses, as well as some social science courses in psychology, sociology, and social work. However, the degree in ministry studies aims at empowering people for full-time ministry in the Christian church. It is a unique program, involving both ministry mentoring with a faculty member (every semester) and pastoral internships in community (every semester). Marian University’s ministry program is one of the finest and fewest Catholic undergraduate programs of its kind in the country. The program is focuses on preparing students for ministry and pastoral work within Christian churches.
Our curriculum focuses on your educational formation on four fronts: (1) human formation (2) theological formation, (3) spiritual formation, and (4) pastoral formation.
Upon completion, you will be:
Marian University's B.A. in ministry studies emphasizes five critical areas of intentional and comprehensive study:
All five areas are interdependent, allowing you to build comprehensive, integrated connections to each of these key areas for successful careers in ministry leadership.
Major Core Courses (18 credits)
One course from the Pastoral Courses (3 credits):
One course from the Morality Courses (3 credits):
One course from the Systematic Courses (3 credits):
One course from the Social Justice Courses (3 credits):
"Pastoral Leadership not only prepared me for academic success, but also equipped me with formation that will be beneficial in my future ministry in the Catholic Church. I believe I am equipped for a career in ministry with all the necessary tools to be a great leader in the Church."
There are numerous opportunities for graduates who have a B.A. in pastoral leadership. Based on your interests and gifts, some career paths you might choose include:
Marian's bachelor's degree curriculum will also prepare you for continued study in a graduate program focused on theology, ministry, or seminary formation leading to ordination. You might also choose to pursue a master's or doctoral degree in fields like social work, mental health counseling, education, or law.
"Studying Pastoral Leadership challenged me to grow personally and professionally. The internships, courses, and professors empowered me to serve others more intentionally with my new knowledge and skill set."
