A master’s degree in ministry prepares students to work in church ministry as worship leaders, youth ministers, or clergy members. It incorporates theological studies and church leadership into a people-oriented career, allowing graduates to hone communication skills and share their talents with the larger community.
In 2023, tuition and fees for a master’s degree in ministry cost an average of $20,513. After graduating, students go on to earn an average median wage of $45,050 as religious workers. If they pursue ordination, they can earn an average pay of $58.920.
How to Choose a Master’s in Ministry Degree Program
Choose your area of study
A Master of Ministry degree, also known as an MMin, is a postgraduate program for students seeking leadership positions in a church setting. Similar to a Master of Divinity (MDiv), it can serve as a step toward becoming ordained in one’s church denomination. Most students who earn master’s degrees in ministry direct their studies toward a career in church leadership or an academic study of Christian theology.
Common master’s degrees in ministry for people who want to become clergy leaders include a Master of Ministry, a Master of Arts in pastoral studies, and a Master of Arts in Christian ministry. These graduates often become ordained pastors or priests in their church community. Students who want to become youth pastors can also earn a Master of Arts in young adult ministry.
For students seeking scholarly careers, a Master of Practical Theology degree offers similar coursework to MMin programs that emphasize academic study. Religious professors or secondary school teachers often earn this degree to enhance their understanding of scripture and Christian theology.
Research schools and programs
When choosing your future ministry school, ensure your list includes accredited institutions and ministry programs. Institutional accreditation agencies, such as the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), give accreditation to schools that meet their rigorous academic standards. Also, faith-related accreditation agencies like the Association for Biblical Higher Education (ABHE) and the Association of Theological Schools (ATS) ensure that colleges adequately prepare students for religious careers.
If you need on-campus housing during your master’s program, consider schools with desirable living situations, such as graduate housing or lower room and board costs. Choose a school in a town you’ll enjoy living in for the next few years. If possible, tour your school to learn more about the ministry degree program and see if it aligns with your religious values.
Prepare for tests and applications
While many Master of Ministry programs don’t require standardized test scores for admission, consider taking the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) to set yourself apart from your fellow applicants.
You’ll find specific application requirements on your school’s website. Additional application materials may include:
- An application letter
- Letters of recommendation from professors or employers
- Sealed transcripts from previous degrees
Compile your application packet well before your program application deadline, which should be on your program’s website. Contact your school’s admissions office or a program representative for more details about early admissions or other requirements.
Select your program
Colleges typically offer ministry degree programs through seminaries, schools of divinity, or schools of Biblical studies. Talk to graduates and professors from your desired program to see if it’s a good fit for you and learn more about the school where you’ll spend most of your time completing coursework. Visit churches where graduates from your school have become pastors or priests, and read works written by professors in your degree program.
Determine how you’ll pay for your degree
Begin researching financial aid with the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Filling out the FAFSA lets you see how much assistance you qualify for, allowing you to decide on school choice and additional sources of assistance. Your school’s financial aid office can help you understand your options, which may include scholarships, grants, and employer tuition assistance, and can answer any other financial questions about the cost of your postgraduate ministry degree program.
Best 50 Accredited Master’s in Ministry Degree Programs
Discover More Options
How we rank schools
We looked at many master’s in ministry degree programs, including Master of Arts (MA) and Master of Divinity (MDiv) degrees. Our list contains online, traditional, and hybrid program options to provide flexibility.
Every program listed is accredited. The two main accrediting bodies we looked for are the Association of Theological Schools (ATS) and the Association for Biblical Higher Education (ABHE).
We evaluated each program on the basis of flexibility, faculty, course strength, cost, and reputation. Then, we calculated the Intelligent Score for each program on a scale from 0 to 100. For a more extensive explanation, check out Our Ranking Methodology.
What Can You Expect From a Master’s in Ministry Degree Program?
A ministry degree program incorporates the fundamentals of a Bible-based education with essential elements of leadership, both inside and outside the church. It may involve research-based projects, cohort discussion groups, and ministry internships to prepare students for pastoral roles in their communities.
Potential courses you’ll take in a ministry degree program
- Practical Theology. Students make theological connections between Christian literature and the present-day community around them. They research the Old and New Testaments and explore historical foundations for modern Christian worship practices.
- Pastoral Ministry. Through the lens of scripture and with the help of Christian mentors, students develop a ministry philosophy. They apply their developing leadership skills and hermeneutical understanding to a pastoral role in their church, college, or greater community.
- Strategic Planning for Ministry. This course combines business skills with church leadership. Students incorporate scripture and secular strategies into their vision of church leadership, including their relationships with other clergy members or pastoral teams.
- Communication and Engagement. A communication and engagement course teaches ministry degree students how to communicate in many different contexts, including public speaking, small group discussions, and one-on-one conversations. It highlights the importance of active listening in the pastoral role.
Ministry Degree Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply to a master's in ministry degree program?
Visit your degree program’s website for its specific application requirements. You’ll find submission deadlines and a list of necessary materials, including test scores or minimum GPA, prerequisites, transcripts, required application packet materials, and instructions for submission.
Contact the school’s admissions office for more information about your ministry degree program’s application requirements. They can guide you through the process and ensure you’ve submitted all essential parts of your application.
How much does a master's in ministry degree cost?
In 2023, the average cost of a master’s degree in ministry was $20,513. That amount covers the tuition and fees of a postgraduate degree but doesn’t include other expenses, such as housing, transportation, and educational materials. When considering applying or accepting admission into a ministry degree program, factor these budget items into your costs.
How long does it take to earn a master's in ministry degree?
Most ministry degree master’s programs require 30 to 60 credit hours. A typical postgraduate course provides students with three to four credit hours, making it possible to complete a master’s degree in ministry in eight to 15 courses, depending on the program.
Taking a schedule of 15 to 30 units (around five to 10 courses) per year, a full-time student can expect to complete their master’s degree in two years. Part-time students often take fewer classes per year—closer to three to seven courses—making their completion take longer. Accelerated programs offer students the chance to earn their master’s degree in less than one year, but the increased coursework may make it challenging to complete their classes in time for graduation.