Contemporary Christian Ministries

Parent Program: 
Overview & Highlights: 

The contemporary Christian ministries major is designed for students who have an interest in practical forms of service in church and para-church ministries. The major prepares for ministry in three ways: it  equips students to enter specific areas of ministry (e.g., youth ministry) in church and para-church organizations, it provides knowledgeable lay leaders for the church and it provides a basis for further graduate work in seminary or other fields of study.

In addition to the 40-unit major, the student is required to complete one of the following:

  1.  A second major. This is a popular option for students who intend to pursue a career in another field but desire to become informed participants in church ministry or to pursue seminary training and then full-time ministry.
  2. A minor. This option allows the student who wants to focus on preparation for ministry to develop knowledge and skills in another area of interest.

The contemporary Christian ministries major consists of:

  1.  A section of required core courses totaling 23-24 units. This section addresses three different areas: biblical studies and theology, ministry skills and personal nurture. Courses in biblical studies and theology center on the authority and primacy of the Bible and the nature and mission of the New Testament church in an urban context. Courses in ministry skills will explore leadership issues and ministry foundations, and involve the student in an internship. Courses in personal nurture will help discern calling and spiritual formation.
  2. A section of ministry electives totaling 17 units. These courses are designed to meet the specific interests and needs of the student by providing a broad range of topics. Note: All students in the major are required to take the necessary general education courses in addition to those outlined in the major.
What can I do with this degree? (Our Graduates): 

The bachelor of arts degree in contemporary Christian ministries prepares students for immediate entry into ministry. Many graduates find employment in the church (youth, children, and worship ministries, etc.), as well as in para-church ministries (Youth for Christ, Young Life, World Impact, missions, camping ministry, etc.). This major also provides a solid basis for further graduate studies in seminary and a wide variety of other fields.

Unique Features - What makes this major different?: 

The contemporary Christian ministries major offers a unique practicum (internship), which allows each student to participate in a practical ministry, integrating theory with real-life application.

It is important for those considering ministry that their character and conduct reflect principles consistent with the life and teachings of Jesus Christ as noted in Scripture, and the lifestyle requirements of the university. Therefore the university reserves the right to refuse acceptance or continuance in the major of those students who do not meet those requirements. To aid in clarifying God's call to ministry and student readiness, this major will include a discernment process to be completed in or by the junior year.The practicum provides an ongoing integration of faith and learning, and of theory and practice.

While this major offers basic training in theology, church history, and biblical literature, most courses focus on ministry skills such as:

  • Christian leadership
  • youth ministry
  • creative teaching
  • pastoral ministries
  • discipleship
  • evangelism

 

Degree Course Listings: 

REQUIRED COURSES (8 COURSES, 24 UNITS)
BIB-428 Biblical Theology (3)
MIN-200 Perspectives on Contemporary Christian Ministries (1)
MIN-357 Christian Leadership and Administration(4) (Not allowed to overlap with focus series.)
MIN-360 The Church in an Urban World (3)
MIN-379 Spiritual Formation (2)
MIN-383 Introduction to Youth Ministries (3)
MIN-396 Ministry Discernment (to be taken spring semester of sophomore or junior year) (1)
MIN-482 Contemporary Ministries Practicum (capstone) (2) (2) (2)

ELECTIVES (17 UNITS)
Select a minimum of 17 units from the following:
BLIT-310-349 Biblical Literature (3-4)
COM-360 Digital Video Production (3)
COM-400 Intercultural Communication (3)
COM-420 Conflict Management and Resolution (3)
COM-430 Group Dynamics and Leadership (3)
DRA-355 Creative Drama (3)
MGT-355 Organizational Behavior (3)
MGT-362 Nonprofit Management (3)
MIN-358 Creative Communication in Ministry (2)
MIN-375 Discipleship and Evangelism (2)
MIN-378 Introduction to Worship Ministries (3)
MIN-386 Youth Ministry Methods (3)
MIN-390 Introduction to Preaching (2)
MIN-470 Pastoral Ministries (3)
MIN-475 Urban Los Angeles Immersion (1)
MUS-400 Music in the Church (3)
PSY-350 Child Development (3)
PSY-355 Adolescent Development (3)
PSY-440 Counseling (4)
REL-418 Culture, Religion and the Church (3)
REL-452 Christianity in the Non-Western World (4)
REL-460 Religions of the World (4)
SOC-350 Marriage and Family (3)
THEO-365 Current Perspectives on Missions (3)
THEO-425 Theological Ethics and the Environment (4)
THEO-430 Contemporary Theologies (4)
THEO-445 Biblical Foundations of Mission (4)
THEO-465 Theological Ethics of Conflict and
Peacemaking (3)

Other courses may be chosen in consultation with the
program director.

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