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: June 28, 2023 (Online)
Next Start: August 16, 2023 (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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Do I only apply once?

  • No. Students must apply each academic year for the fall semester and submit the necessary documents.

Do I have to take the classes specified in the Associate's Degree tracks as they are listed on the information sheet?

  • No. Students may take any of the courses that are offered in a given term.

Where do I find the textbook listing, and where do I purchase the books?

  • Log in to myBU, and under the "Student" tab, you will find a list of the textbooks required (if any) for each course. Students are responsible for purchasing their own textbooks.

How long is a semester?

  • Our semesters are divided into two 8-week terms.

Is there an orientation?

  • Yes. Students can attend an orientation session that explains how to access courses, how to register for classes, and answers other questions.

Where can I find a course description?

Does the student need to take the SAT or ACT in order to take Dual Enrollment classes?

  • No. If a student decides to study at BU full time, BU is currently test-optional for the 2021-2022 admissions cycle.

Are the classes live? Do students need to log in and participate at certain times?

  • Classes are offered online, so a student can log-on and study at their convenience and their own pace. Students have assignments due each week; you can complete your assignments at any point in time before the deadline.

Does an Early College student need to come to campus for anything?

  • No. However, we would love to have you visit our campus if you are interested in continuing with traditional on-campus study. Students who complete their associate's degree have the option to walk at our commencement ceremony.

Are Early College students able to receive Financial Aid?

  • No. However, Early College courses are very affordable compared to other options. The cost for an online Dual Enrollment course is $100 per credit hour.

How do transferring credits work?

  • Each College or University completes a transcript review in order to decide which courses transfer. Sticking to general education classes generally makes transferring credits simple. All Early College courses at Bluefield University are general education classes that should transfer to another accredited institution.

Is an Early College student considered, and treated, as a transfer student when they become a full-time college student if they have earned enough credits to be a Junior?

  • No. Since they have not graduated from high school, they are considered a first-time college student regardless of how many credits transfer. However, by transferring credits when they enroll as a full-time student, they will have to take fewer classes to receive their bachelor's degree, which shortens the length of time to earn the degree.

Can I speak to someone if I have more questions?

  • Yes. Please contact the Office of Admissions by email or you can call them at 276.326.4231

 

Meet our core Counseling faculty

Dr. Challen Mabry

Assistant Professor of Counseling

Dr. Jenna Fitzgerald

Assistant Professor of Counseling

Dr. Kristen Raymond

Assistant Professor of Counseling

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