While there are several pathways to becoming a minister, there are only a few which offer Masters and Doctorate degrees. One being, the Global Ministries University which offers online ministry degrees through a contemporary theological approach to learning. A program which includes critical thinking and offers programs in a variety of different religions, and spiritual traditions.
There are also programs like those found through Global Ministries University which offer Masters and Doctorate level certificates and degrees entirely online. Global Ministries offers students the option of setting up a custom designed program based on belief systems and future goals. Whereas, most traditional programs are set in stone with little room for customization and often focus on only one Faith.
This particular university offers programs which include both specified ministerial certificates and degrees as well as those related to non-denominational platforms. Unlike other programs, specialized study prepares students for ordination into a specific ministry of choice. Each individual must create a custom designed program which includes all coursework to meet the requirements of becoming ordained in a specific religion or spiritual practice.
Starr King in Berkeley, CA caters to more liberal students and Unitarian Universalists; Whereas, colleges, universities and seminaries often have courseware designed to meet a specific goal. Often, students can decide to change from one religion to another after going through different elements of study in each program. Attending a four-five year traditional program can often make this change an easier process.
Whereas, Degrees offered at Global Ministries University and others are often more advanced. For example, Global Ministries offers a Masters of Theology, Doctor of Ministry and Doctor of Theology. Though with a Bachelors and the proper amount of research and self-study, those who qualify are often accepted at the time of application.
The Universal Life Church (ULC) offers yet another pathway to the ministry. Unlike other programs, ULC offers individuals the opportunity to become ordained before completing a degree program. Although, the church does expect ministers to go through training once ordained. With offerings from a Masters through Doctorate to its ordained ministers, it is one of the easiest and fastest methods of both becoming ordained and obtaining a graduate level certificate or degree.
Whether Global Ministries, or a traditional college or university, becoming a minister has been a dream of many students. Obtaining a degree is often the first step towards ordination, and many students prefer to take this route. Although, there are others, especially older students who prefer a shorter pathway to meet this goal. One of these is obtaining different degrees through the Universal Life Church once an individual has been ordained. A process which can easily be completed online at the church website.
Most offerings toward an online degree have both pros and cons. One being that only some certificates and degrees will qualify for specific Faith based positions. Whereas, there are others which are more Universal in form that may qualify at a number of different churches, or other spiritual organizations.
Read more about Online Ministry Degrees Available At Churches, Seminars And Universities.