Program Overview
Missions & Ministry
Using your understanding about the Lord and practical knowledge in ministry work to impact others for the sake of Christ.
Types
- Associate
- Bachelor
- Certificate
- Minor
Location
- On-Campus
- Online
Credits
- 52*
Cost
- $220/credit hour
- $9,875
Overview
If you feel a calling to help others while spreading the word of God, then an online program for an associate or bachelor's degree in missions and ministry might be the right fit for you. As a student in University of the Cumberlands’ online missions and ministry degree program, you’ll gain an understanding of biblical literature, history, theology, and ethics to help you apply the Christian faith to daily life in word and deed. This degree in missionary studies will also help you develop the skills needed to engage in effective Christian missions and ministry in the 21st century.
By the Numbers
- Average Salary: $39,370
- Industry Growth: 5%
- Christian College in KY: #1
- Affordability in KY: #1
Programs & Requirements
General Education Requirements
- Bachelor of Science
- Associate of Science
- Minor
- Worship Ministry Certificate
Bachelor of Science
An bachelor’s degree in missions from University of the Cumberlands is more than classes about Bible interpretation, church history, evangelism, Christian theology, and the various aspects of ministry. Though it includes all those things, professors at Cumberlands are most concerned with something else: your heart. The tough questions raised during class discussions, along with the critical thinking skills and deeper understanding of Scripture you gain throughout this degree program, will help you grow in your relationship with the Lord and reach others for the sake of Christ. At the end of the day, it’s all about being a living example of the Gospel.
By the conclusion of the program, you will have the tools to analyze, interpret, and apply the Bible in the church and the world. You’ll also develop an understanding of other faiths and worldviews while developing skills for effective Christian ministry in the contemporary world and preparing for a lifetime of learning and responsible service and leadership. Let’s face it: The world needs Christ. It’s time to impact other people’s lives for His sake.
Course Requirements
- Required Courses (17 hours)
- MSMN 110 - Introducing Christian Ministry
- MSMN 135 - Exploring the Old Testament
- MSMN 136 - Exploring the New Testament
- MSMN 138 - Understanding Cultures OR MSMN 239 - Exploring World Religions
- MSMN 234 - Interpreting the Bible
- MSMN 236 - Introducing Christian Theology
- MSMN 410 - Transitioning to Christian Ministry
- Required Emphasis Courses (15-24 Credit Hours)
- Students will choose one of the Missions and Ministry - B.A., B.S., B.A.S., Emphasis Requirements listed.
- Christian Studies Emphasis (15 hours)
- MSMN 133 - Introducing Church History
- MSMN 331 - Focusing on the Old Testament
- MSMN 332 - Focusing on the New Testament
- Choose 6 Elective Credit Hours from any MSMN 300/400 level course
- Christian Ministries Emphasis (24 hours)
- MSMN 235 - Developing Our Spiritual Life
- MSMN 334 - Caring for Others
- MSMN 337 - Ministering to Individuals and Families
- MSMN 431 - Communicating Bible Truths
- MSMN 436 - Developing Disciples
- MSMN 493 - Supervised Ministry Experience
- Choose 6 Elective Credit Hours from any MSMN 300/400 level course
- Missions Emphasis (24 hours)
- MSMN 138 - Understanding Cultures OR MSMN 239 - Exploring World Religions
- MSMN 235 - Developing Our Spiritual Life
- MSMN 238 - Introducing Christian Missions
- MSMN 334 - Caring for Others
- MSMN 338 - Developing Mission Strategies
- MSMN 492 - Supervised Missions Experience
- Choose 6 Elective Credit Hours from any MSMN 300/400 level course
- Scripture and Tradition Emphasis (24 Hours)
- MSMN 133 - Introducing Church History
- MSMN 235 - Developing Our Spiritual Life
- MSMN 334 - Caring for Others
- MSMN 331 - Focusing on the Old Testament
- MSMN 332 - Focusing on the New Testament
- MSMN 49_ Supervised Research or Experience
- Choose 6 Elective Credit Hours from any Bible, Theology, Church History, or Biblical Language 300/400 level course
- Youth and Family Ministry Emphasis (24 Hours)
- MSMN 235 - Developing Our Spiritual Life
- MSMN 237 - Examining Marriage and Family
- MSMN 334 - Caring for Others
- MSMN 336 - Ministering to Youth
- MSMN 337 - Ministering to Individuals and Families
- MSMN 493 - Supervised Ministry Experience
- Choose 6 Elective Credit Hours from any MSMN 300/400 level course
Associate of Science
This online associate degree program helps you dig deeper into your faith and the Bible, covering the essentials about scripture, church history, evangelism, and more. If you’ve been looking for an online program centered on the Bible that meets your needs as a student, University of the Cumberlands is here for you. From our founding by an assembly of Baptist ministers in 1888, we’ve been focused on providing the knowledge of biblical and historical studies, theology, ethics, missions, and church planting you can rely on as you answer God’s call.
Courses are designed to give the student a strong view of the applicable areas a missions and ministry online degree can be used. By the conclusion of the program, you will have the tools to analyze, interpret, and apply the Bible in the church and the world. You’ll also develop an understanding of other faiths and worldviews while developing skills for effective Christian ministry in the contemporary world and preparing for a lifetime of learning and responsible service and leadership.
Course Requirements
- Required Courses (18 hours)
- MSMN 239 - Exploring World Religions
- MSMN 133 - Introducing Church History
- MSMN 136 - Exploring the New Testament
- MSMN 234 - Interpreting the Bible
- MSMN 235 - Developing Our Spiritual Life
- MSMN 236 - Introducing Christian Theology
- Required Courses (21 hours)
- MSMN 135 - Exploring the Old Testament
- MSMN 136 - Exploring the New Testament
- Choose 15 Elective Credit Hours from MSMN department
Worship Ministry (12 Hours)
- MSMN 236 - Introducing Christian Theology
- MSMN 333 - Planning and Leading Worship
- MSMN 493 - Supervised Ministry Experience
- At least one of each (3 Credit Hours Total)
- MUAV 013 - Applied Voice
- MUAG 013 - Applied Guitar
- Students may request from the Music Dept Chair to take MUAP 013 - Applied Piano instead.
Mission & Goals
The mission of the University of the Cumberlands Department of Missions and Ministry is to provide students with the best possible training for missions and ministry work.
- Boldly share the Gospel with others.
- Enroll in seminary.
- Teach others about God, scripture, and Biblical doctrine.
- Embody practical Godly living and help create a healthy church culture.
- Pursue God’s call on your life wisely, flexibly, and with unshakeable faith.
Missions & Ministry Careers & Outcomes
All stats from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
- Pastor: $60,180
- Worship Minister: $42,950
- International Missionary: $60,050
- Church Planter: $42,950
- Director of Religious Activities and Education: $46,980 annually
- Religious Studies Professor: $87,100
Common Questions
- What is a missions and ministry degree? A missions and ministry degree is designed to equip students with a deep understanding of biblical literature, theology, and practical skills necessary for effective Christian ministry and missionary work. This program prepares individuals for various roles in church leadership and global mission efforts.
- How long does a missions and ministry degree take? An associate degree in missions and ministry typically takes about two years to complete, while a bachelor's degree generally requires four years of study. The duration can vary based on whether the student is enrolled full-time or part-time and the specific structure of the program.
- Can I get a missions and ministry degree online? Yes, many institutions offer online programs for a missions and ministry degree. These programs include virtual classes and digital coursework, and they may also incorporate practical components like virtual internships or fieldwork.
- Is a missions and ministry degree worth it? The value of a missions and ministry degree depends largely on your personal calling and career aspirations. For those committed to serving in Christian ministry or missions, this degree provides specialized training and can be highly rewarding both personally and spiritually.
- What can I do with a missions and ministry degree? With a missions and ministry degree, you can pursue various careers such as becoming a pastor, leading worship services, working as an international missionary, or establishing new churches. Other roles include directing religious activities and education or teaching religious studies at educational institutions.
- How to get a missions and ministry degree? To obtain a missions and ministry degree, you would need to enroll in an accredited program that offers either an associate or bachelor's degree. Completing the required coursework, which covers biblical texts, theology, and practical ministry training, will prepare you for various roles in ministry and mission work.
- What is the value of studying missions and ministry? Studying missions and ministry provides valuable training for those looking to serve in Christian ministry and missionary roles. It helps individuals develop a strong foundation in biblical and theological knowledge while equipping them with practical skills for effective service in diverse ministry contexts.
Faculty Experts in Ministry
- Dr. Joshua Hutchens Adjunct Professor Missions & Ministries
- Dr. Kirby Clark Adjunct Professor Missions & Ministries
- Dr. Ray Umphrey Adjunct Professor Missions & Ministries Christian Studies
