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B.S. in Ministry
Leadership

PROGRAM START DATES

Spring 2024

Classes start on Mar. 13, 2024

Summer 2024

Classes start on May 6 and July 3, 2024

Fall 2024

Classes start on Aug. 28 and Oct. 23, 2024

Format

  • Online

Credit Hours

  • 120 with up to 90 hours in transfer credits possible


Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

Become an Influential Ministry Leader with a B.S. in Ministry Leadership Degree

Share the gospel and your love for Scripture by developing essential ministry leadership capabilities with a Bachelor of Science in ministry leadership degree. If you are called to be a pastor, serve in missions, lead a nonprofit ministry or simply elevate your local church, you can confidently influence churches, ministries, families and communities as a Christ-centered leader.

Cornerstone University’s B.S. in ministry leadership online degree is designed for today’s busy ministry professionals who need flexible, affordable, high-quality academic and theological training. Taught by real-world ministry faculty and theologians, boldly Christ-centered and grounded in Scripture, you can grow in your faith and inspire others to do the same with a respected ministry degree. You will:

  • Develop core theological foundations in Old and New Testament Biblical studies and interpretation, Christian doctrine, and spiritual formation from a Biblical worldview.  
  • Expand your skills in communication, conflict resolution and negotiation skills to help cultivate a beautiful Christian community within your church, ministry or organization.
  • Learn the fundamentals of managing a ministry or nonprofit organization, including marketing, finance, human resources, fundraising and more.
  • Flexible and affordable. 100% online. One of the most affordable per credit hour.


Why Choose an Affordable, HLC Accredited Online Ministry Degree from Cornerstone University?

For over 80 years, Cornerstone University has built an outstanding reputation for educating men and women to spread the gospel as bold, courageous ministry leaders who are pastors, theological scholars, church and nonprofit ministry leaders. The university’s commitment to Biblical scripture is unwavering and central to the curriculum and student experience throughout Cornerstone University, reflected in our foundational statements and doctrinal confession.

A decades-long partner and resource to churches and pastors, Cornerstone University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). Cornerstone offers over 75 in-demand degrees that can enhance your theological training by preparing you for a future master’s or doctorate or fulfilling electives that will help you customize the educational experience you need. Should you choose to continue to graduate school after completing your Bachelor’s in Ministry Leadership, Cornerstone Theological Seminary is accredited by the Association for Theological Schools (ATS), offering relevant, affordable master’s-level theology training online.

Join the Cornerstone community and start your B.S. in ministry leadership online today!

Knowledgeable, passionate advisers are ready to guide you from application to graduation! A high quality professional ministry degree is steps away:

  • Courses are offered 100% online to fit your busy ministry life.
  • Transfer up to 90 credit hours. 
  • Tuition is priced for affordability compared to other private nonprofit universities, ensuring that a degree can fit your budget.
  • Experience one-on-one faculty support from current theologians, pastors and real-world ministry leaders. 
  • Free student support resources are available, including writing, math, spiritual and mental health services, and more to provide holistic support!

Admission Requirements

  • Application
  • Official college and/or military transcripts
  • CLEP and DANTES transcripts (if applicable)
  • Signed CU Confession statement

Apply Now!

90%

Of students work full time while pursuing a degree.

2

Online bachelor’s programs ranked No. 2 in Michigan (U.S. News & World Report, 2021).

100%

Of faculty members are professing believers of Jesus Christ.

Program Courses

In addition to the courses listed here, you may also need additional elective credits to complete the required 120 total credits for your bachelor’s degree. If accepted into a program, your academic adviser can help you figure out how many credits you need and add them into your schedule.

CMI-302 Principles of Self-Management in Ministry

An examination of personal strengths and identification of areas of adjustment that may assist in personal growth, with emphasis on ministry leadership formation. Self-management includes the development of communication and management of individual and professional priorities. Emphasis is also placed on the nurture and development of personal faith, understanding the vocation of ministry leadership, and Christian worldview. Topics include communication processes within groups, goal setting, prioritizing, identifying personal values and time management.

ENG-119 Professional Writing

The study and practice of the various writing styles and skills required in a professional setting with emphasis on clear, concise expression aimed at a specific audience for a specific purpose. The course includes a library and research component, writing of professional letters, compilation of reports and graphs, use of computer technology and the writing of a research paper documented by APA standards. (Satisfies general education English requirement.)

COM-211 Professional Communication

An overview of the communication process in organizations with emphasis on oral presentation skills. (Satisfies general education speech requirement.)

CMI-312 Personal Growth for Effective Leadership

A study and application of the various facets of personal growth necessary for effective leadership. These include the purpose and practice of spiritual disciplines, identifying one’s spiritual gifts and natural abilities, and the importance of establishing relationships for accountability.

REL-228 Principles of Biblical Studies

An introduction to various methods of Bible study. Emphasis is placed upon inductive study with the intent to provide a method by which ministry leaders become independent students of Scripture. The inductive method is applied to various literary genres of both the Old and New Testaments.

REL-237 Interpretive Analysis of New Testament Literature

A study of the basic principles of biblical interpretation. Special emphasis is given to the method of reading Scripture through a range of New Testament texts. Aspects of this method include attention to cultural, historical, grammatical and theological interpretation.

CMI-338 Ministry Ethics and Values

An examination of the principles and values that guide ethical decision-making, ethical relationships and ministry practices in parachurch and local church settings. The course focuses on helping students develop a personal code of ethics within the framework of a thoroughly Christ-centered worldview.

REL-238 Christian Doctrine I

A systematic study of the basic biblical doctrines of Christianity including revelation, God, humanity, Christ and sin. The course reviews relevant Bible passages and emphasizes the practical application of biblical teachings in Christian living.

REL-345 Christian Doctrine II

A systematic study of the basic biblical doctrines of Christianity including the Holy Spirit, the Church, salvation and end times. The course reviews relevant Bible passages and emphasizes the practical application of biblical teachings in Christian living.

CMI-331 Philosophy of Leadership

A study of the biblical concepts of ministry, theological presuppositions, skills, attitudes and values that shape one’s philosophy. Students formulate a ministry philosophy providing the basis for constructing a pattern for program development.

MGT-317 Organizational Behavior and Processes

An examination of organizational behavior, structure and processes. The course focuses on individual and group roles in the organization and the effects of cultural elements on motivation and productivity.

CMI-433 Systems for Cultural Impact

A study of the attitudes of faithfulness, sensitivity and persistence needed to impact one’s culture with the foundational truths of Scripture. Special attention is given to cross-cultural applications and developing a system for integrating evangelism and discipleship in one’s organization.

REL-233 Interpretive Analysis of Old Testament Literature

A study of the basic principles of biblical interpretation. Emphasis is placed upon the cultural, historical, grammatical and theological method of interpretation. The application of these principles is drawn specifically from the Old Testament scriptures. The course is designed to provide ministry leaders with a method to properly interpret the Bible.

MGT-315 Negotiation and Conflict Resolution

A study of the development of communication and management skills necessary for successfully resolving conflict situations.

MGT-316 Managing the Not-for-Profit Organization

An examination of the role of management in the not-for-profit organization. Topics include marketing, legal issues, insurance, finance, fundraising, human resources and technology.

CMI-442 Applications in Organizational Leadership

A capstone module designed to allow students to integrate the various principles of the program with actual vocational environments. Case study analysis provides the basis for connecting ministry leadership objectives to vocational experiences. A special session is conducted on vocational search for leadership positions in ministry, service, or not-for- profit organizations. Completion of previous course work is necessary for successful completion of this course.

Cornerstone Will Help You at Every Step!

An enrollment counselor is ready to help you start your degree journey now. Cornerstone offers:

  • Accelerated admissions to get you started sooner.
  • No SAT or ACT required.
  • Competitive tuition rates—some of the most affordable in the region. 
  • Generous credit transfers—up to 90 hours in transfer credits possible.
  • Financial aid advisers to explore funding opportunities for this valuable life investment.

Start your application for a bold, influential ministry with your B.S. in ministry leadership degree from Cornerstone Theological Seminary!

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My degree helps me understand the human condition and help others find their way. God led me out of darkness, and now I am equipped to help others through the same process.

Alicia Macklin (A.S. ’17, B.S. ’20)

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SAT & SUN: Closed

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