Bachelor of Science in Ministries

The FOCUS Degree Completion program in ministries allows you to complete your degree in less than two years by attending class one night a week on our St. Paul campus or at satellite locations in the Minneapolis St. Paul area.

A degree in ministries provides a foundation for work in church and parachurch organizations, as well as graduate work in theological or professional areas. Develop knowledge and skill through a three-pronged curriculum that includes biblical studies, theological studies and professional applications such as philosophy of ministry, communication in ministry, counseling and ministerial ethics.

Our graduates have gone on to professional and academic opportunities such as:

• Pastor
• Children's ministry director
• Curriculum writer
• Missions coordinator
• Youth director
• Camp director
• Christian education administrator
• Seminary

Ministries courses may qualify for advanced placement in graduate school

Successful completion (grade "B" or better) of several of the courses offered through the Ministries program may qualify you to receive advanced course placement in the Master of Arts in Theological Studies or Master of Divinity programs offered through the Center for Graduate Studies. If you plan to pursue graduate study in theology, you will want to work with your advisor to select courses that could qualify for advanced placement. Ask your admission counselor for details.

Program details

The Bachelor of Science in Ministries is granted upon completion of 125 semester credits in core curriculum, major, and elective requirements. Many adults fulfill these requirements through a combination of transfer credits and Northwestern credits. A minimum of 30 credits and 50% of the major coursework must be completed at Northwestern.

Courses are offered primarily on site at our St. Paul, Minnesota campus, or at other Twin Cities satellite venues.

For course descriptions and details about this major, download FOCUS Facts.

Some of the roles graduates have attained may require additional education or training.