Sunday, October 5, 2014

Churches And Universities Offering Online Ministry Degrees

By Jocelyn Davidson


One of the easiest ways to become an ordained minister is through the Universal Life Church (ULC) website. Others include attending a traditional four to six year program at a college or university, or obtaining credentials from an online program. Although, obtaining online ministry degrees whether online, or on-campus can often take quite some time depending on the program.

Global Ministries has a strong belief that education can help create World Peace, and promotes communication and networking across religious boundaries. As a non-profit, the University accepts donations from those interested in promoting a more Peaceful existence. With a primary belief that people can come together regardless of difference in beliefs to make a difference, it is one of the most popular programs of its kind.

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.

When looking for a program, those seeking a more liberal learning environment may want to consider schools like Star King in Berkeley, CA. Whereas, those looking to become ordained in the Baptist or other Christian based churches may want to look at various seminaries. Others still, may want to focus on an entirely online based program like those offered through Global Ministries University.

As Global Ministries University offers only advanced level programs, once a student has started a program, it can often be difficult to change course. For example, if one is working towards a Masters of Theology, or Doctorate of Ministry, there are some churches which may or may not accept the study towards ordination. When this is the case, individuals might want to look at becoming ordained in the Universal Life Church (ULC.)

There are also other programs within traditional settings, and those which students can complete after ordination. Several upper level degrees can be obtained from the Universal Life Church (ULC) through self-study once an individual is ordained. A ULC ordination is quite easy in comparison to obtaining a four year degree, followed by a two year intensive to obtain a Masters of Divinity, and if a Doctoral student, one can receive a Doctorate in much less time.

Whether attending Global Life Ministries University, or obtaining a certificate or degree after ordination through the Universal Life Church, there are some important steps to becoming a minister. These include assuring that the program will meet any church or organizational requirements set forth by the Faith, church or organization in which one wants to become ordained. Then, meeting with an academic or spiritual counselor to assure one follows the correct path to meet such goal.

All programs, whether online or off have pros and cons. It is often advised that students working toward a ministry degree meet with counselors early in the process. Students can discuss coursework, which religious study program is best suited based on belief systems, and the requirements within that organization for becoming a minister. Individuals can then determine if obtaining a degree in the ministry is truly the path one wishes to take. After which, the individual can then move forward towards becoming an ordained minister.




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