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Ministry Leadership (AML/BML) Program Overview

If you have a calling to serve others through the church, to become a mission-minded servant of Christ, consider the ministry leadership program offered in concert with our church partners. The program combines academic coursework that complements hands-on ministry experience through a local church.

“This program offers students the opportunity to obtain extensive real-ministry training with experienced practitioners,” explains Dr. Shawn White. As part of Bluefield University’s partner program offered through local churches, students have the opportunity for on-site ministry experience while they complete their academic coursework online or on our campus.

A Ministerial Degree Opens Doors

Our program employs nontraditional course delivery and practical experiences to prepare students to serve as a pastor, work with youth, or spread the gospel as a missionary. The coursework provides a greater understanding of topics ranging from preaching to youth ministry. Graduates may continue their education by attending seminary or graduate school.

Do you feel called to ministry leadership? If your church is a Bluefield University partner, we look forward to meeting you. Complete our information request form to discuss how you can increase your knowledge of Christ as you prepare to change the world.


The Academic Catalog is the student’s 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: 2-4 years

Learn how to save on your degree

Courses & Requirements

Associate's Degree (AML)
General Education (27 Credits)

  • Biblical Perspectives
  • Introduction to Writing
  • Argumentative & Analytical Writing
  • Literature & The Life of Faith
  • Personal Wellness
  • Wellness Lab
  • World Civilization I
  • Math of Finance
  • Fundamentals of Speech
  • Fine Art – Music, Theatre or Art Appreciation
  • Intro to Psychology
Core Requirements (21 Credits)

  • Introduction to Ministry
  • Introduction to Preaching
  • Engaging the Bible
  • Theology
  • Ethics
  • Advanced Biblical Studies
Practicum (12 Credits)

  • Ministry Internship (3 Credits per semester – 12 Credits)
Total Credits: 60
Bachelor's Degree (BML)
General Education (49 Credits)

General Education requirements may be fulfilled in more specific courses for certain majors


  • Bluefield Core (9 Credits)
  • Composition (6 Credits)
  • Christian Studies (3 Credits)
  • Fine Arts (3 Credits)
  • History (6 Credits)
  • Literature (3 Credits)
  • Macroeconomics (3 Credits)
  • Math (3 Credits)
  • Science (4 Credits)
  • Social Science (3 Credits)
  • Speech (3 Credits)
Core Requirements (33 Credits)

  • Advanced Bible Course (8 Options)
  • Introduction to Philosophy
  • Engaging the Bible
  • Introduction to Ministry
  • Spiritual Formation
  • Introduction to Christian Theology
  • World Religions
  • Church History
  • Senior Seminar
Ministry Leadership (15 Credit Hours)

  • Introduction to Preaching
  • Pastoral Care
  • Discipleship
  • Introduction to Leadership
  • Advanced Bible (Additional) (7 Options)
Practicum (23 Credits)

  • Ministry Internship (2-3 Credits per semester – 23 Credits)
Total Credits: 120

Career opportunities available to graduates of this program include:

Pastor/Youth Pastor
Intercultural Ministries
Ministerial Leadership
Chaplain
Biblical Counselor
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