Program Overview
Rooted in a robust School-of-Theology curriculum, the Ministry Studies major gives you the biblical depth, doctrinal clarity, and hands-on ministry skills needed for pastoral and other church-staff roles—or for seminary. After completing the 42-hour ministry core, you tailor the degree with one of five 18-hour concentrations (Pastoral Ministry, Biblical Studies, Evangelism & Missions, Church Staff Ministry, or Student Ministry) before finishing with a senior integration capstone.
Program at a Glance
Credential: Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Ministry Studies
Total hours: 120 semester credits
Delivery: Residential or fully online (NC-SARA)
Typical length: 4 academic years (15 credits each fall & spring)
Entry terms: August | January | May
Ready?
Apply TodayProgram at a Glance
Credential: Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Ministry Studies
Total hours: 120 semester credits
Delivery: Residential or fully online (NC-SARA)
Typical length: 4 academic years (15 credits each fall & spring)
Entry terms: August | January | May
Ready?
Apply TodayDegree Requirements
FYI 101 Student Success – 3
General-Education Foundation – 33 (includes IT 202 and either Western Civ. or U.S. History pair)
Biblical/Theological Foundation – 12
School of Theology & Ministry Core – 42
BI 205, BI 212, 9 hrs OT/NT Book Studies, PHI 201, TH 301, TH 302, HI 304 or HI 405, TH 403, SBC 101, LA 200, MI 202, PR 220 or CE 301
Choose One 18-hour Concentration
Pastoral Ministry · Biblical Studies · Evangelism & Missions · Church Staff Ministry · Student Ministry (each includes targeted electives + internship + capstone)
General Electives – 12
Career & Ministry Pathways
Lead or associate pastor • Student or missions pastor • Church planter
Chaplaincy, parachurch ministry, or denominational leadership
Seamless entry into BUF’s M.Div., M.A. in Christian Studies, or other graduate programs
Learning Outcomes
Graduates will be able to:
Interpret Scripture accurately and apply sound hermeneutics.
Articulate core Christian doctrine from a Baptist perspective.
Prepare and deliver expository sermons or Bible lessons.
Engage in personal evangelism and disciple-making ministries.
Integrate leadership principles to guide local-church ministries effectively.
Concentrations
Pastoral Ministry – philosophy & practice courses + preaching practicum + ministry electives + PM 490 capstone.
Biblical Studies – Greek or Hebrew sequence + 9 hrs advanced Bible courses + BF 490 capstone.
Evangelism & Missions – EV 302 + 12 hrs EV/MI courses + MI 410 capstone.
Church Staff Ministry – leadership, staff relations, internship + LA 410 capstone.
Student Ministry – STM core, church education elective, internship + LA 410 capstone.
Ready to start your journey?
Let us help you. Fill out a form or contact us at: 800-328-2660 ext. 460 or admissions@buf.edu