Are you passionate about ministering to children and helping them develop a strong spiritual foundation? A degree in Children’s Ministry can provide you with the knowledge and skills needed to lead effective and impactful ministry programs. 

Obtaining a degree in Children’s Ministry can be a wise decision for those who are passionate about serving children and their families in a Christian context. This degree program offers a comprehensive curriculum that covers topics such as child development, ministry administration, and Christian education. You will also have the opportunity to engage in practicum, internship, and fieldwork experiences, allowing you to apply your skills and knowledge in real-world settings.

With a degree in Children’s Ministry, you will be equipped to make a positive impact in the lives of children and their families, while fulfilling your calling to serve God in ministry.

What is a Children’s Ministry Degree?

If you’re passionate about working with children and feel called to serve in a Christian ministry context, then a Children’s Ministry Degree Online might be the perfect fit for you. This program provides a unique opportunity to gain a comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices of children’s ministry while allowing you to study at your own pace and on your own schedule.

Through this degree program, you’ll explore a wide range of topics related to children’s ministry, from child development and psychology to ministry administration and leadership. You’ll learn how to create engaging and impactful programs that promote spiritual growth and encourage children to develop a lifelong relationship with God.

The best part? This degree program is offered entirely online, allowing students to balance their studies with other commitments such as work and family. Accredited online universities and seminaries offer this program, making it accessible to students from all over the world.

Admission Requirements

Admission requirements for Children’s Ministry Degree Online vary from one institution to another, but most programs typically require applicants to have a high school diploma or equivalent, and some may also require previous college coursework. In addition, applicants may need to submit official transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement outlining their career goals and reasons for pursuing a degree in children’s ministry.

Many Children’s Ministry Degree Online programs may also require applicants to have previous experience in children’s ministry or related fields, such as teaching or counseling. This experience can be obtained through volunteer work or internships.

It’s important for prospective students to research the admission requirements of the specific program they’re interested in and ensure that they meet all the necessary qualifications. Some programs may also require an interview or additional testing as part of the admission process.

Curriculum for Children’s Ministry Degree Online Programs

Children’s ministry degree online programs offer a comprehensive curriculum designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to effectively minister to children. The curriculum typically includes a combination of the following courses:

General Courses

In this course, students are introduced to a wide range of subjects, including biblical studies, theology, and church history, providing a solid foundation to build upon. From the Old and New Testament to Christian ethics, church leadership, and spiritual formation, these courses offer a comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices of Christian ministry. 

With a focus on both theory and practical applications, students can gain a deeper insight into the teachings of the Bible, equipping them with the knowledge and skills necessary to make a positive impact in their communities.

Specialized Courses

Courses tailored to children’s ministry delve deeper into subjects more directly relevant to this specific area, such as child development, curriculum design, program planning, and teaching methods. These specialized courses equip students with practical skills and knowledge, ensuring they are prepared to develop and execute effective children’s ministry programs. 

Moreover, students will learn about outreach, evangelism, and discipleship, gaining valuable tools to help them minister to both children and their families. With a focus on these specialized topics, graduates of children’s ministry degree programs are well-equipped to succeed in this unique and important area of ministry.

Practicum/Internship/Fieldwork

Hands-on experience is a critical aspect of children’s ministry degree programs. Practicums, internships, and fieldwork opportunities allow students to apply their acquired skills and knowledge in practical situations. 

Through these experiences, students can work alongside professionals in churches or non-profit organizations, gaining valuable experience in designing and implementing children’s ministry programs. They will also have the opportunity to interact with children and their families and collaborate with other ministry leaders, ultimately preparing them for a successful career in children’s ministry.

Capstone Project

With the capstone project, children’s ministry degree program students can put their understanding of children’s ministry principles and practices to the test. This is where they design and execute a children’s ministry program or project, which may incorporate research, program design, and evaluation. 

Typically completed under the mentorship of a faculty member or mentor, the capstone project is a crowning achievement that showcases students’ mastery of children’s ministry.

Children’s Ministry Degree Online

There are several top universities in the USA that offer Children’s Ministry Degree Online programs. Here are some of the top-ranked universities that provide quality online programs in this field:

Children’s Ministry Degree

Lubbock Christian University – Children’s Ministry Degree

Lubbock Christian University offers a Bachelor of Science in Children’s Ministry degree program, which is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to serve in various children’s ministry positions in churches, schools, and community organizations. 

The coursework for the Children’s Ministry degree program covers a range of topics such as Foundations of Children, Youth and Family Ministry, Practice of Children and Family Ministry, Children’s Spiritual Formation, Methods for Children’s Spiritual Formation, and Practicum. These courses provide students with a solid foundation in theology, child development, family systems, leadership, and communication.

In addition to the core courses, students can choose from a variety of electives such as Youth Ministry, Children’s Ministry Programming, and Children’s Literature. They are also required to complete a Practicum, which provides hands-on experience in a real-world ministry setting.

Huntington University – Children’s Ministry Degree

At Huntington University, students can pursue their passion for working with children through a specialized program in Children’s Ministry. The program requires a total of 120 credit hours, which is divided between general education courses and specialized courses in Children’s Ministry. With an emphasis on experiential learning, students will have opportunities to apply their knowledge and skills through internships and practical training.’

Your senior year at Huntington University will be a one-of-a-kind experience, thanks to the Practical Research and Immersion for Ministry Effectiveness (PRIME) program, which takes place during the summer and fall semesters. This immersive internship, tailored to your career aspirations, will provide you with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in family and children’s ministry after graduation.

Certificate in Preschool & Children’s Ministry

Campbell University – Certificate in Preschool & Children’s Ministry

Campbell University Divinity School offers certificate programs to those who are enrolled as non-degree students. To pursue a certificate program, individuals need to complete the non-degree application process and meet the admission guidelines.

Non-degree students must hold a four-year undergraduate degree from an accredited college. The deadline for non-degree applications is two weeks prior to the date of matriculation. Non-degree students are only accepted for specified courses and not for a degree program. If a student enrolls as a non-degree student and later decides to pursue a master-level degree program, they will need to complete the master-level application process.

The certificate programs offered by Campbell University Divinity School require 13 credit hours of coursework. Some of the certificate programs offered include Christian Studies, Pastoral Care and Counseling, and Women’s Leadership. 

M.A. in Children’s Ministry

Dallas Baptist University – M.A. in Children’s Ministry

Dallas Baptist University offers a Master of Arts in Children’s Ministry degree program that is designed for individuals who are passionate about children’s ministry and want to deepen their understanding of the subject. The program is available in both online and on-campus formats and consists of 36 credit hours.

Students in the program take courses that cover topics such as child development, biblical studies, leadership in children’s ministry, family ministry, and ministry administration. The curriculum is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to create effective and engaging ministry programs for children.

One unique feature of the program is the opportunity for students to participate in a practicum experience. During this experience, students work with experienced practitioners in the field of children’s ministry to gain hands-on experience and apply what they have learned in the classroom.

Children’s Ministry concentration within the Christian Ministry major

Southwest Baptist University – Children’s Ministry concentration within the Christian Ministry major

Southwest Baptist University offers a Children’s Ministry concentration within the Christian Ministry major. The program is designed to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively minister to children and their families in a church or ministry setting. Students in this program will take courses in biblical studies, theology, ministry, and leadership, as well as specific courses focused on children’s ministry.

The program requires 128 credit hours for completion and includes general education courses, Christian ministry core courses, and courses specific to the Children’s Ministry concentration. Some of the courses within the concentration include Children’s Ministry Leadership, Children’s Ministry Programming and Evaluation, and Spiritual Formation of Children.

Graduates of the program will be well-prepared to serve in a variety of roles in children’s ministry, including as a children’s pastor, children’s ministry director, or as a leader in a para-church organization focused on children’s ministry. 

Bachelor of Arts in Children and Family Ministry

Moody Bible Institute – Bachelor of Arts in Children and Family Ministry

At Moody Bible Institute, you can earn a Bachelor of Arts in Children and Family Ministry, tailor-made for those passionate about serving families and children. Through this program, you’ll get an excellent blend of ministry training and biblical education, exploring subjects like child development, family dynamics, and effective ministry strategies for kids and their families.

To earn your degree, you’ll complete a total of 126 credit hours, including courses in general education, core ministry, and specialized courses related to children and family ministry. You’ll dive deep into courses like Foundations of Children’s Ministry, Family Ministry in the Local Church, Children’s Curriculum and Methods, and Youth and Family Ministry.

Career Opportunities for Children’s Ministry Graduates

Graduates with a degree in children’s ministry can pursue careers in various organizations, including churches, non-profit organizations, educational institutions, and government and public service. Below are some examples of potential career paths for children’s ministry graduates:

Church-Related Positions

• Children’s pastor
• Youth pastor
• Director of children’s ministry

Graduates in these roles lead and manage children’s ministry programs, recruit and train volunteers, and develop and implement curriculum and outreach programs. Church-related positions provide opportunities for career advancement and personal growth, and allow graduates to make a meaningful impact in the lives of children and their families.

Non-Profit Organizations

• Program coordinator
• Volunteer coordinator
• Development officer

Non-profit organizations rely on graduates to spearhead the development and implementation of their programs, manage volunteers, and secure funding. Graduates in this field may have opportunities to make a significant impact in their communities and society as a whole by working to improve the lives of those in need.

Educational Institutions

• Children’s ministry teacher
• Campus minister
• Chaplain

Educational institution graduates with a degree in children’s ministry can provide students with spiritual guidance and support, design and execute ministry programs, and work collaboratively with the faculty and staff to promote the institution’s mission and values.

Government and Public Service

• Community outreach coordinator
• Youth services specialist
• Program coordinator for a government agency

With their education and experience, graduates in government and public service organizations dedicate themselves to enhancing the quality of life for children and families by developing and implementing community outreach programs, providing vital social services, and being a voice for advocacy.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to pursue a career in children’s ministry or expand your knowledge in this field, then getting a Children’s Ministry Degree Online is a top-notch option. With a curriculum that covers crucial topics such as child development, ministry administration, and ethical and legal issues, graduates will have the skills to design and lead effective children’s ministry programs.

Plus, the beauty of online learning is the flexibility it offers, allowing students to balance their studies with other commitments. Pursuing a Children’s Ministry Degree Online is an accessible option for many and can make a real difference in the lives of children and families, while also contributing to the growth and development of communities.