Abilene Christian University-Undergraduate Online

What you'll study

Coursework centers on theological foundations and ministry practice with examples of offered classes including:

• Biblical and Theological Foundations for Ministry
• Forming Communities of Faith
• Culture, Context and Community
• Preaching in Contemporary Contexts

Students choose either a focused concentration—Christian Spiritual Formation; Leadership for Missional Renewal; or Preaching for Community Transformation—or design a generalist program tailored to their ministry context and research interests.

Entry requirements

Applicants must hold an M.Div. or equivalent from an ATS-accredited or regionally accredited institution (M.Div. equivalency options exist) and have at least three years of ministry experience after completing their first theological master’s degree. Additional application components include official transcripts with degrees posted, a minimum graduate GPA of 3.2 (4.0 scale), documentation of ministry employment, four recommendations (at least one academic), and a personal self-reflection statement of 5–9 pages which incorporates a 3–5 page reflection on values and growth goals and a 1–2 page description of current ministry context. Application deadlines and start cycles are published by the program; accepted students may begin the summer term or defer one year.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for senior and specialist roles in congregational and para-church settings where advanced theological integration and leadership are required. Common job titles held by alumni include lead pastor, academic professor, doctoral researcher, church administrator, chaplain, and youth minister.

Scholarships & funding angle

Funding availability is not specified on the programme page; prospective applicants should explore university financial aid, graduate scholarships, denominational grants, employer sponsorship from ministry organizations, and external scholarship sources for professional doctoral study.