Best Online Associate in Ministry Programs

An online Associate degree in Ministry prepares graduates for a career in Christian-based establishments like directing the youth ministry, or pastoring a small church in the United States or other countries if need be.

Students enrolled in this program also get to hone their philanthropic skills which will prove to be useful in religious settings such as local churches and in International relief organizations(secular settings).

Employment for jobs in the ministry according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics was projected to grow from 5% to 8% between the years 2014 -2024 which is an average growth rate.

A very good step towards earning a master’s of divinity, theology; and even becoming a minister is enrollment into an associate program. This degree will also afford the graduate an opportunity to get several entry-level jobs in the same field.

Ministry, Theology, and divinity degree are usually referred to as similar, these programs however are separate/stand-alone programs. This program is specifically designed for individuals who are interested in doing support work in Christian organizations and churches.

This program gives students a solid foundation in ministry, but it does not also prepare them to be ordained as ministers. This article seeks to give insight into the best online associate in ministry programs that are best suited for your needs.

Best Online Associate in Ministry Programs

1. University of Valley Forge

The University of Valley Forge offers an online associate degree in ministry leadership that educates students about church outreach, administration, and ministry, it also strengthens their understanding of the Bible.

Students choose to choose the different tracks available in the program like youth and family studies, children’s studies, or pastoral studies.

The program features 60 credits which include core courses like foundational classes on the teachings of C.S. Lewis, theology, and life formation.

All online courses are offered in an asynchronous format, which enables students to learn mostly at their convenience.

Prospective students are required to submit proof that they have a high school diploma or GED certificate.

2. Crown College

Crown’s online Christian Ministry Associate Program is designed for individuals with little to no postsecondary experience.

The degree prepares students to serve in youth programs, with churches, nonprofits, and para-church ministries. The program also instills in students, the ability to incorporate Christian values into an individual’s daily life. Crown College delivers online courses asynchronously.

core courses cover topics like biblical literature, systematic theology, interpreting the Gospels, and ethical faith-based leadership practices.  All distance learners pay the same tuition rate irrespective of residence.

3. Amridge University

Amridge University delivers an associate in ministry and the Bible program which prepares students for careers in missionary and ministry work. Graduates can also further transition into a bachelor’s program.

Graduates of this associate degree also learn to create a framework to integrate Christian values into their daily activities.

The program features 64 credits, the curriculum covers classes on the establishment of the church, how to study the Bible, ecclesiastical history, and biblical interpretation. Students must maintain a minimum 2.0 GPA to graduate.

Eligible applicants are required to hold a high school diploma or GED certificate, they must also demonstrate a commitment to the Christian faith.

4. South Eastern University

South Eastern University’s online associate degree in ministerial leadership focuses on church operations and administration.

Students are taught to develop a foundational understanding of the Bible, the program also prepares individuals to serve in faith-based nonprofit organizations, ministries, and missions.

The program features 60 credits which are delivered in an asynchronous learning format, this allows students to complete assignments largely at their convenience.

Students take a total of 20 classes on subjects like the theology of salvation, foundations of family ministry, and holistic disciple-making.

Applicants to this associate in ministry program are required to provide their official high school and/or college transcripts, a biographical essay, ACT or SAT scores and a personal reference form.

Tuition is not paid according to residency as both in-state and out-of-state students pay the same rate.

5. City Vision University’s

City Vision University offers an online associate degree in ministry and leadership which prepares students for careers in urban missions, ministry, and nonprofit services.

The program features 60-credit courses which build students’ competencies in biblical interpretation, and theology, overcoming challenges like addiction and mental health issues, and achieving a good work/life balance.

Students are required to complete at least 15 out of the 60 total credits at City Vision with a minimum of 2.0 GPA in order to graduate with an associate in ministry degree.

Prospective students are required to provide a copy of their high school diploma or GED certificate, along with a copy of a government-issued ID card. The tuition rate is the same for both in-state and out-of-state students.

6. Manna University

Manna University offers an online associate in worship ministry degree that features vocal and instrumental training.

The program also hones students’ leadership and communication skills, it also helps them on the other hand to learn to incorporate a biblical worldview into their daily routine.

The program features 60 credits which allow students to take a range of electives based on their interests and ministry goals. The core courses include infused leadership, songwriting, music theory, and mentoring and coaching.

Applicants to this associate in ministry program are required to provide a copy of their high school diploma or GED certificate.

Full-time students typically complete their program in two years. Students may also visit the campuses in Fayetteville, North Carolina; Broussard, Louisiana; Pearl City, Hawaii; or Southern Pines, North Carolina to take in-person courses.

Manna University holds accreditation from the Association of Christian Schools International.

7. Johnson University

Johnson University delivers an associate in ministry leadership which is focused on pastoral leadership, cultural awareness, addressing challenges and opportunities through a biblical worldview, and communication skills.

Students can either complete the program online or at one of the school’s campuses in Tennessee or Florida. All online classes are delivered in an asynchronous structure, and most students typically complete the degree in two years.

Core course topics covered in this program include foundations in exegetical methods, interpersonal and family relationships, spiritual formation, and the New and Old Testaments.

Applicants are required to have a high school diploma or GED certificate.

8. Maranatha Baptist University

Maranatha Baptist University’s online associate degree in Christian Ministry affords students the opportunity to examine their faith and learn how they can use it to help others in nonprofit settings, in the church, mission, and Christian camp.

The program features a balance of biblical studies, liberal arts courses, and Christian ministry. The program also allows graduates to move seamlessly into an online bachelor’s degree at Maranatha Baptist University.

Applicants are required to have a high school diploma or GED certificate and also show a track record of academic success. Applicants must also be active members in a Bible-preaching church and testify to achieving personal salvation in the name of Jesus Christ.  All online courses are delivered in an asynchronous format.

9. Valor Christian College

Valor Christian College offers an online associate degree in ministry that instills remote learners with the ability to apply general and biblical knowledge to a variety of vocational and service opportunities in missionary, nonprofit environments, and churches.

The program features 63 credits, all online coursework is delivered in an asynchronous method.

Prospective students are required to submit their high school and/or college transcripts, a recommendation from the current pastor of their primary church, along with a personal statement.

Applicants should also provide a rundown of volunteer activities, prayer groups, music, mission trip, and leadership activities they have completed in the past.