The School of Ministry Booklet by MidAmericaChristianUniversity

s c h o o l o f m i n i s t r y m i da m e r i c a c h r i s t i a n u n i v e r s i t y

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I still remember the feeling of stepping onto this campus in 2001. Like you, I felt a pull on my heart that I couldn’t quite ignore. It was a sense that God was calling me into something larger than myself. At the time, I didn't realize that my years as a student at Mid-America Christian University would be the most transformative of my life.

As the Chair of the School of Ministry, it is a distinct honor to welcome you as you begin to explore that same calling.

The educational approach here is unique because it balances rigorous biblical scholarship with hands-on, practical experience. Whether studying the Synoptic Gospels, honing skills in Homiletics, or participating in a Pastoral Care practicum at a local hospital, students are mentored by faculty who have spent years in the trenches of local church ministry. The School of Ministry remains committed to the Wesleyan-Arminian tradition and the rich heritage of the Church of God (Anderson, IN), while keeping a primary focus on the global Church.

explore. equip. engage.

our mission

“The mission of the School of Ministry is to spiritually form students by Exploring vocational calling, Equipping in essential skills, and Engaging in ministry practices.”

about

S C H O O L O F M I N I S T R Y

MACU’s School of Ministry stands at the heart of the University’s mission and legacy. As the oldest academic program in the University’s history, the School of Ministry has faithfully prepared generations of students to serve with purpose.

This program emphasizes Christ-centered spiritual formation that empowers the student to deepen their relationship with Jesus Christ, out of which they learn, develop, and perform skills in preparation for ministry. This aligns to the University Conceptual Framework of Head (knowledge), Heart (devotion), and Hands (service).

The student who graduates from the MACU School of Ministry is one who is empowered to sustain their relationship with Jesus Christ, out of which they understand their calling, engage in essential ministry practices, and lead with a shepherd’s heart.

head. heart. hands.

communicating. caring. leading. thinking.

Essential skills

The MACU School of Ministry has identified four essential skills that the ministry graduate should be able to engage in upon graduating and entering ministry: communicating, caring, leading, and thinking. Courses in the program correspond to these skills. These skills are developed in the classroom and through local church involvement, internships, graduate residencies, chapel services, campus life activities, and educational partnerships with local hospitals, non-profit organizations, and businesses.

ministry leadership

B A C H E L O R O F S C I E N C E

The Bachelor of Science in Ministry Leadership equips students with the skills to communicate, lead, and think biblically and theologically for entry-level ministry roles. This degree is offered in a traditional on-campus format with 16-week classes, providing an immersive educational experience.

This degree may be paired with other fields of study as part of a multidisciplinary degree track.

Scan here to explore this degree and available concentration options.

christian ministries

B A C H E L O R O F S C I E N C E

The Bachelor of Science in Christian Ministries program equips students with the knowledge and skills to lead and serve in various ministry contexts. Designed for flexibility, this degree is offered fully online or through accelerated evening classes.

This degree may be paired with other fields of study as part of a multidisciplinary degree track.

Scan here to explore this degree and available concentration options.

christian ministry

M A S T E R O F A R T S

The Master of Arts in Christian Ministry is designed for individuals called to serve in a wide range of Christian ministry roles, from pastoral leadership to faith-based organizational service. Students gain valuable insight into contemporary leadership, discipleship, and apologetics, equipping them to lead with confidence and clarity in both church and community-based ministry. This program is offered 100% online.

Scan here to explore this degree and available emphasis options.

alumnispotlight

VA N C E H O L D E R

My calling to ministry has truly been a God thing. From a young age, I knew I wanted to be part of expanding His Kingdom, even if I didn’t yet know what that would look like. My time at MACU played a huge role in shaping that calling. It pushed me to deepen my relationship with the Lord in ways I didn’t expect. I wasn’t just attending classes, I was growing in my understanding of who God is and learning how to reflect His light to others.

MACU also brought incredible relationships into my life. I found a community of believers who were serious about growing in their walks with Christ. Together we encouraged one another, had fun, and formed friendships that have lasted far beyond our time on campus. The professors at MACU were authentic, approachable, and deeply invested in our spiritual growth. They challenged me to become the best version of myself, one who is fully rooted in Christ. Through MACU, I learned to listen well, to lean on God when I was called to speak, and to love in a way that helps others see Him more clearly.

In 2008, I graduated from MACU with my heart wide open to whatever opportunities God had in store. Working with teenagers wasn’t even on my radar, but God opened a door that completely changed the trajectory of my life. A position at Crossings Christian School allowed me to coach middle and high school students and teach Bible to middle schoolers. Over those ten years, that role shaped me more than I could have imagined. I learned a great deal about who I was, but even more about what it means to care for others, to pour yourself out so that, through your life and leadership, God can be seen and known.

Then another unexpected door opened just across the parking lot. I stepped into the role of student pastor at Crossings Community Church, and for the past eight years, God has led me through a season of incredible growth, learning, and blessing. I’ve had the privilege of walking with students through some of the most formative years of their lives, celebrating their spiritual milestones, sitting with them in moments of struggle, and helping them discover who Jesus is and who He is shaping them to become. My education at MACU equipped me for ministry, and through simple obedience to Him, meaningful relationships have been built and lives have been eternally changed.