Degree Overview: Associate of Arts (A.A.) Degree in Christian Ministry
Majors Overview December 17, 2013Those interested in working in a church or a setting similar to one may want to consider an Associate of Arts (A.A.) degree program in Christian ministry. Students will provide Christian-centered services and get an understanding of Christian life.
A.A. Programs in Christian Ministry
Schools offer various types of associate degree programs in Christian ministry including an Associate of Science in Christian Ministries and an Associate of Arts in Ministry. Additionally, specializations in various ministry specific areas may be offered by some programs; these specializations include music ministries, Christian education ministries, or church ministries. Students who complete the program can expect to acquire a basic knowledge of Christianity. Coursework involves an examination of various Christian values and Biblical morals devised to help people become more successful on the ministry, personal and spiritual levels.
Education Requirements
Admission criteria typically require applicants to hold a GED certificate or high school diploma before they are admitted to associate degree programs in Christian ministry. Additionally, students are not often required to complete any college courses before they embark on the program.
Coursework
Coursework focuses on principles of ministry, theology, Biblical introductory foundations, in addition to general courses such as communications, mathematics or psychology. Coursework related to an associate degree in Christian ministry may include topic areas such as:
•Foundations of Christian social responsibility
•Survey of the Old Testament
•Evangelism and global outreach
•Local church education
•Biblical interpretation
•Christian thought
•Worship
•Preaching and teaching the Bible
•Christian doctrine
•Urban ministry
Career Choices
Students who graduate from an associate degree program in Christian ministry are prepared to seek entry-level jobs in the field, such as ministry positions in various non-professional level settings including:
•Non-profit organizations
•Local churches
•Christian organizations
Continuing Education Choices
Students seeking continued education would benefit by earning a bachelor’s degree in biblical or ministry studies, usually considered as the lowest educational level needed by those seeking to become clergy members. The bachelor’s degree programs of students may also be focused on pastoral leadership, Christian school education, theology or the Bible. They may also consider Master’s degree programs in Christian ministry, with some employers of religious leaders including clergy members expect candidates to have completed graduate degree programs.