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Christian Studies (BA) Program Overview

Follow your calling to become a compassionate leader in a church or Christian organization by earning a B.A. in Christian Studies with a concentration in Ministry Leadership from Bluefield University. As a leader, you will learn practical skills in how to serve members of your church community or serve on the mission field. Perhaps, you want to create your own path ministering to the rural poor or populations who need spiritual leadership. The Christian Studies degree prepares you to reach your potential as a Christian leader.

In the Christian Ministry courses, you engage in an in-depth study of the Bible while learning practical skills in ministering to others. Through courses like introduction to the ministry, introduction to preaching, and introduction to missions, you will learn the fundamentals of how to lead congregations and groups. The program includes opportunities for you to practice your skills through internships and local and international mission opportunities.

With your degree, you will be able to work in a variety of positions within religious and nonprofit organizations. Your dream may be to serve on the mission field, serve as a youth minister, or work with people facing traumatic life events. You may already be serving a congregation as a pastor and need formal training in Christian leadership. Achieve your dream as a Christian leader with a Christian Studies degree.

Available Concentrations


Biblical & Theological Studies

This concentration offers an in-depth exploration of biblical texts and theological principles, ideal for those seeking a deep understanding of Christian doctrine and scripture. Students will engage with critical interpretations and historical contexts, preparing for careers in theology, academia, or pastoral roles.

Ministry & Leadership

Focused on practical leadership skills within a ministry context, this concentration prepares students for roles in church administration, pastoral leadership, and community outreach. It combines theological study with real-world ministry training, emphasizing ethical leadership and organizational skills.

Philosophy

This concentration delves into philosophical thought from a Christian perspective, exploring questions of ethics, metaphysics, and the nature of reality. It’s suitable for students interested in critical thinking, apologetics, or pursuing graduate studies in philosophy or theology.

Theology & History

Merging historical insights with theological study, this concentration examines the development of Christian thought and church history. Students will gain a comprehensive understanding of theological concepts over time, preparing them for roles in teaching, research, or historical analysis in religious contexts.

Youth Ministry

Tailored for those who aspire to work with young people in a church setting, this concentration focuses on youth counseling, spiritual guidance, and program development. It equips students with the skills to mentor and lead youth groups effectively, preparing them for careers in youth ministry or religious education.


The Academic Catalog is the student guide to all policies and procedures for Bluefield University.

Tuition: $395 Per Credit Hour
On-Campus Tuition & Fees
Next Start: May 2024 (Online)
Next Start: August 2024 (On-Campus)
Time to Complete: 4 years

Learn how to save on your degree

Bluefield University is a Christ-centered learning and living community with weekly small groups, Bible studies, and chapel services offered.
Grow as a servant leader at Bluefield University.
Opportunities to study abroad and serve on mission trips are available at Bluefield University.

Courses & Requirements

Bachelor's Degree (BA)
General Education (52 Credits)

General Education requirements may be fulfilled in more specific courses for certain majors. Students seeking a BA degree must complete 6 credit hours of intermediate language studies.


  • Bluefield Core (9* Credits)
  • Composition (6 Credits)
  • Christian Studies (3*- 6** Credits)
  • Fine Arts (3 Credits)
  • History (6 Credits)
  • Literature (3 Credits)
  • Macroeconomics (3 Credits)
  • Math (3*- 6** Credits)
  • Science (4 Credits)
  • Social Science (3 Credits)
  • Speech (3 Credits)

* On-Campus   ** Online

Major Requirements (27 Credits)

  • Advanced Bible
  • Introduction to Philosophy
  • Engaging the Bible
  • Introduction to Ministry
  • Spiritual Formation
  • Introduction to Christian Theology
  • World Religions
  • Church History
  • Senior Seminar
Concentration (21 Credits)

Choose your Concentration (2 Available)


  • Concentration – Ministry Leadership (15 Credits)
    • (Choose 5 Courses)
      • Introduction to Preaching
      • Introduction to Missions
      • Ministry Leadership
      • Philosophy of Youth Ministry
      • Youth Ministry Internship
      • Johannine Literature
      • Worship Forms & Practices
      • Congregational Christian Song
      • Introduction to Church Music Administration
      • Internship in Church Music Administration
      • Drama in Ministry
  • Concentration – Biblical & Theological Studies (15 Credits)
    • (Choose 5 Courses)
      • Studies in the Prophets
      • Studies in the Psalms & Wisdom Literature
      • Formation & History of the Hebrew Kingdom
      • Johannine Literature
      • Exilic & Post-Exilic History of Jews
      • The Synoptic Gospels & Acts
      • Pauline Literature
      • History of the Christian Church I OR History of the Christian Church II
      • Philosophy of Religion
      • Anti-Semitism, Christianity, & the Holocaust
      • Christian Ethics
      • Medieval History
      • The Renaissance & Reformation
  • Concentration Electives (6 Credits)
Electives (20 Credits)
Total Credits: 120

Career opportunities available to graduates of this program include:

Youth Minister
Faith Leader
Ministry Director
Missionary
Church Administrator
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