Schooling

[kevlite2020]

I have a question on theological schooling at the college level and training to get involved in ministry.

Right now, I hold a B.A. in English/Creative Writing. I am really interested in pursuing the Lord in a more active level then I am right now. Studying in the Bible, as well as other pieces of Christian literature, really fills my appetite for both literary analysis and my love for Jesus.

With having a B.A., is a theological degree something I can just apply right into a masters program, or would I have to restart at the undergraduate level? Also, would a theological degree from an online school be respectable/get me anywhere at this point?

Also, what kind of ministry and role in churches could I potentially get into without some kind of theology degree? For instance, could I try to be a youth pastor, or sunday school teacher, or something to that effect, without holding a degree?

Thanks in advance for any input! I'm really looking forward to continue learning about my Lord and Savior!

 

[Irrkunst]

You would not have to start over. The degree you get is a Master of Divinity, MDiv. You can get that degree with just about any undergrad degree.

When looking at programs you want to be sure that they are accredited by the Association of Theological Schools (ATS). A degree from an ATS school of any denomination will be accepted as a credential by most mainline denominations. Of course you will also have to be accepted and endorsed by your denomination or church.

Here is a list of ATS schools listed by denomination:
The Association of Theological Schools

 

[bliz]

Agreed. A MDiv is a masters degree. Any reputable theological school, INHO, is going t want to have some face-to-face time with you before granting you a degree. there are programs in which most of the course work can be done on line, but have some opportunity to do classes on campus where the faculty can really get to know you, in addition to your on-line work.

The jobs one can do in church without an MDiv are many, and i some denominations, all, and volunteers are always needed. These kind of experiences can also help you experience different ministries and learn more about your strengths and weaknesses. Talk to your church to find out their needs, and pray for guidance.

 

[PastorJosh]

This is a fantastic post and a great question!

I agree with what the other two have already posted but I want to add in another thought.

There are hundreds of churches around the U.S. that would hire you right now to work for them as a youth minister or children's minister. While many of these might not necessarily be in the 'mainline' denominations, they are good churches.

Also, have you ever thought about going outside the U.S. to work? There are numerous missions opportunities that might be really interesting. I don't just mean that proverbial lost tribe somewhere in the African subcontinent either. I am a full-time Pastor (hence the name) for a church in Maidstone, Kent in the UK but I was born in America. I am living out mission in my life - most days!

A final thought is that a number of churches might be willing to take you on now as a part-salaried minister and help you with completing your MDiv or some other program. In my opinion, this could be a great option because the practical experience you would gain is immensely important.

Another 'final thought' (can you tell I preach?) is that face-to-face tutoring is incredibly beneficial. Aside from being the model Jesus used, the feedback and the opportunity for dialogue that you would receive at a residential course is also immensely valuable.

That's my £.02...

 

[J Rock]

An education is only as valuable as the direction that God is leading you in. While I appreciate the MDiv degree, the most valuable thing in my education seems to be the Accounting and Business degrees. My minor in Greek is very fun but not real useful in my current Call. Blessings to you in your journey - and oh yeah, get used to Raman noodles. ;-)