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Christian Ministries Major

Study Christian Ministry at Azusa Pacific University

APU’s Bachelor of Arts in Christian Ministries program equips students for practical ministry. They become equipped for professional ministry tasks and relationships by learning about themselves, their theology, and ministry realities.  Christian Ministries majors develop a theology of ministry for service in transformational Christian communities in local and global communities.

Program at a Glance

The School of Theology at Azusa Pacific University trains students for effective ministry in the church and around the world through practical programs in a supportive Christ-centered community.

Upcoming Events

APU One Day

  • March 8, 2024

Application Deadline

Early Action (Freshmen Only)

  • November 15

Regular Decision

  • March 1 priority application deadline
  • June 1 final deadline
  • August 1 final transfer deadline

Apply Now

Program Units
45

Location

  • Azusa (Main Campus)

 

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Yellow Ribbon and Military Friendly School

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Gain Hands-on Experience

  • Make  a difference in the lives of people both locally and globally.
  • Ensure your ministry practices align with your theological convictions.
  • Cultivate a relationship with God that leads to a greater understanding of God’s purposes in our world and a desire to partner with them more intentionally.

By the Numbers

1 of 126 Best Western Colleges according to Princeton Review's 2023 Best Colleges Guide
10 :1 Student-to-faculty ratio
100 % of incoming students receiving financial aid

Get Started

Charlie smiling

As Charlie Reynolds ’25 pursues a major in Christian Ministries, he is encouraged by studying alongside like minded peers and professors in subjects that interest him.

Program Details

The Christian Ministries major provides students with a broad perspective on the fields of biblical studies, theology, and practical ministry.  Graduates are prepared to make an impact on the world around them and participate in more-specialized graduate study.  They will experience hands-on ministry through an internship in a church or other ministry setting as they interact with their peers, professors, and leaders in these organizations.  Students will engage in multidisciplinary educational and ministry experiences in order to cultivate theological reflection, faith integration, practical ministry skills, and one’s own spiritual formation.  

Browse the tabs below—if you have questions, visit the Student Services Center page, and we’ll make sure you get the info you need.

General Undergraduate Admission Requirements

Select an option below:

Practical Theology Covenant

When students declare one of the majors in the Department of Practical Theology, they commit to participate in a community narrative that begins with the signing of a Community Covenant based on the biblical model of faithfulness and mercy. The covenant includes a commitment to integrity, appropriate conduct, local church ministry, academic and university requirements, a submission of references, and participation in required department activities. The covenant must be submitted to the Department of Practical Theology when the Christian ministries major is declared.

Although a private college education may seem out of reach for many, recent research from Kiplinger reveals that the actual value of some private universities may prove this assumption wrong. In 2010, Kiplinger selected Azusa Pacific University for its Top 100 Best Values in Private Colleges rankings. Read more about APU’s ranking in Kiplinger’s Best Values in Private Colleges.

APU students may take advantage of three types of financial aid: scholarships and grants, education loans, and student employment.

Scholarships and Grants

Scholarships and grants are considered “gift aid” and do not require repayment. They can come from federal, state, or private sources. Scholarships are typically merit-based, meaning they are awarded depending on demonstrated academic ability or other specific talents.

Scholarships are often available from sources outside of APU. You can search for these scholarships through websites such as finaid.org or fastweb.com. The Student Services Center is sometimes notified of scholarships available through APU departments or local organizations, and can provide information about any available scholarships on request.

Education Loans

Education loans are usually repaid after graduation, may be deferred until after graduate school, and often have very low interest rates.

Military Benefits

Military members—and in some cases their spouses and dependents—qualify for financial assistance covering tuition, housing, and books. Azusa Pacific is a Yellow Ribbon University and Military Friendly School, so you can be confident that you’ll receive the benefits and flexibility you need to complete your education.

Student Employment

On-campus student employment is available for students needing additional income to pay for education-related expenses. APU students also find work off campus in the surrounding community.

Net Price Calculator

We’re committed to helping families understand early in the college search process the value of the APU experience and options for affordable financing of a top-tier Christian university education.

Now that you’re familiar with the financial aid opportunities available to APU students, it’s time to estimate what your true cost may be to attend Azusa Pacific. Remember, estimations are only as accurate as the information you provide. Click on the Net Price Calculator button below to begin.


Net Price Calculator
 

To view specific requirements and coursework information, visit the current academic catalog:

Azusa Pacific University is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).

Career Outlooks and Outcomes

Featured Faculty

Matthew Elofson

Matthew Elofson

Vice Provost for Academic Effectiveness, Chair and Professor, Department of Practical Theology

Martin Rodriguez

Martin Rodriguez

Assistant Professor, Department of Practical Theology

Kirsten S. Oh

Kirsten S. Oh

Professor, Department of Practical Theology

Azusa Pacific campus

APU Receives $5 Million Lilly Endowment Grant in Partnership with LPU and LABI

APU received a $5 million grant from the Lilly Endowment in partnership with Life Pacific University and the Latin American Bible Institute that will strengthen pathways for theological education for Hispanic students. 

Note: This information is current for the 2023-24 academic year; however, all stated academic information is subject to change. Refer to the current Academic Catalog for more information.

Related Programs

Biblical Studies Major

  • Azusa

Available Concentrations:

Biblical Archaeology, Biblical Hermeneutics

Theology Major

  • Azusa

Available Concentrations:

Church History, Systematic Theology

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