15 Best Online Ministry Courses To Take In 2024
When I first started working for churches as a paid staff, online ministry courses really weren't a thing yet. (Yes, I'm dating myself here, but Facebook had just started picking up steam in those days...) I remember feeling overwhelmed, often:
- I struggled to find practical ways to lead a team effectively.
- I didn’t have a clear path for my own spiritual growth or leadership development.
- I often felt alone, without others to guide me through challenges.
Looking back, I realize these frustrations came from not having structured, ongoing learning opportunities that could keep me sharp and connected.
That’s why I’m excited to share this list of top general ministry online courses. Whether you’re looking to sharpen your leadership, grow spiritually, or simply connect with other pastors, these courses will offer practical tools and guidance to help you lead well.
Best Online Ministry Courses Shortlist
Here's a shortlist of the best online ministry courses I think are worth your time in 2024:
- Christian Leaders (Christian Leaders Institute)
- Undergraduate Online Ministry Certificate (Liberty University)
- Free College Ministry Courses (Christian Leaders Institute)
- Intro to Worship Ministry from a Christian Perspective (Udemy)
- BA in Christian Ministry (Mount Vernon Nazarene University)
- Christian Ministry (Warner University)
- Ministry (Alphacrucis University College)
- Christian Ministry & Training (Christian Ministry & Training)
- Bachelor of Science in Christian Ministries (Mid-America Christian University)
- Worship Ministry Training (Worship Ministry Training)
- Ministry Training Institute (Samford University)
- Christian Ministry Certificate (God's Bible School & College)
- B.S. in Ministry Leadership (Cornerstone University)
- Christian Ministries, BA (San Diego Christian College)
- Online Leadership and Ministry (Asbury University)
Find more details about each course below.
Overview Of The Best Online Ministry Courses
1. Christian Leaders (Christian Leaders Institute)
This course offers ministry training with over 150 courses and mini-courses. The program provides credentials for personal growth and ministry, including options for ordination and college credentials. The courses focus on increasing knowledge of the bible, discipleship, and witnessing to Jesus Christ.
- Who It’s For: Individuals seeking flexible ministry training, and aspiring Christian leaders
- Topics Covered:
- New Testament
- Christian basics
- Evangelism
- Pastoral care
- Christian Philosophy
- Chaplaincy
- Thriving marriage
- Christian Philosophy
- Online, In-Person, or Both? Online
- Exam Required? No
- How Many Hours of Instruction: Self-paced
- Eligibility Requirements: None
- Price: Free
- Take The Course: Christian Leaders Institute
2. Undergraduate Online Ministry Certificate (Liberty University)
Through six foundational courses, students will explore key chapters, persons, places, and events in the Old and New Testaments. The program aims to deepen understanding of theology and biblical doctrine. It is designed for those looking to enhance their knowledge and skills in Christian work.
- Who It’s For: Individuals seeking foundational ministry training
- Topics Covered:
- Church ministries
- Evangelism
- Christian thought
- Youth Ministries
- Online, In-Person, or Both? Online
- Exam Required? No
- Duration: 8-week courses
- How Many Hours Of Instruction: 20 hours
- Eligibility Requirements:
- Submit official high school or GED transcripts
- Official college transcripts (sealed or electronic)
- Non-native English speakers must submit TOEFL scores
- Price: Starts from $250 per hour (visit their page for more info)
- Take The Course: Liberty University
3. Free College Ministry Courses (Christian Leaders Institute)
This training course is designed to enhance your effectiveness as a Christian leader, providing formal college-level rigor without the need for college credentials. If you are pursuing licensed or ordained clergy recognition, a study-based program is also available. These courses support both part-time and career ministry roles with comprehensive, structured learning.
- Who It’s For: Individuals seeking college-level ministry training, and those seeking to advance ministry mission
- Topics Covered:
- Ministry foundations
- Pastoral care
- People smart for ministry
- Peacesmart relationships
- Church and ministry
- Sex education and conversations
- Influence smart
- Anger management
- Online, In-Person, or Both? Online
- Exam Required? No
- Eligibility Requirements: None
- Price: Free
- Take The Course: Christian Leaders Institute
4. Intro to Worship Ministry from a Christian Perspective (Udemy)
This course covers 11 key topics through video lessons, with each section including activities for reflecting on what has been learned. Created with prayer and a commitment to sharing knowledge, it reflects extensive experience in guiding spiritual practices and a dedication to continuous development. The course aims to deepen your relationship with God and enhance your ministry.
- Who It’s For: Aspiring worship leaders, current worship team members, pastors
- Topics Covered:
- Basics of worship
- Key principles of worship
- Identifying calling for worship ministry
- Managing emotions
- Preparation of the heart
- Planning
- Online, In-Person, or Both? Online
- Exam Required? No
- Duration: 1 hour and 14 minutes
- How Many Hours Of Instruction: Self-paced
- Eligibility Requirements:
- Bible or e-bible
- Notebook and pen
- Price: $49.99
- Take The Course: Udemy
5. BA in Christian Ministry (Mount Vernon Nazarene University)
This course equips individuals at any age and stage to become effective, compassionate, and dedicated ministers in a postmodern world. This program offers flexible learning opportunities that enhance leadership and pastoral skills. Graduates will be well-prepared to pursue various roles within ministry and church leadership.
- Who It’s For: Individuals seeking a thorough religious studies degree, new college students, and adults looking to complete a bachelor's degree
- Topics Covered:
- Biblical interpretation
- Mission and evangelism
- Pastoral theology and practice
- History and polity of the church
- Christian heritage
- Online, In-Person, or Both? Online
- Exam Required? No
- Duration: 23 months
- How Many Hours Of Instruction: 37 credit hours
- Eligibility Requirements:
- Complete a minimum of 120 credit hours for the degree, which includes general education, major requirements, and upper-division credit hours
- Students must complete Old Testament history & literature (3 credit hours), and
- New Testament history and literature (3 credit hours), and public speaking (3 credit hours)
- Price: $398 per credit hour
- Take The Course: Mount Vernon Nazarene University
6. Christian Ministry (Warner University)
This program will help you take the first steps in your spiritual journey. You will gain a deep understanding of scripture and learn to apply that knowledge effectively in different contexts. Offered as both an associate's and a bachelor's degree, the program is tailored for working adults and prepares students for roles in local communities, missions, or outreach efforts.
- Who It’s For: Working adults seeking ministry training
- Topics Covered:
- Old Testament
- New Testament
- Theology
- Church Ministry
- Worship
- Counseling
- Online, In-Person, or Both? Online
- Exam Required? No
- Duration: 2 to 4 years
- How Many Hours Of Instruction: 45 credit hours
- Eligibility Requirements: None
- Take The Course: Warner University
7. Ministry (Alphacrucis University College)
This course is designed to help you become an influential leader in various spheres, including church, business, or community settings. You will gain the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate today's complex ministry landscape and inspire others effectively. The goal is to assist you in discovering your unique purpose and integrating your faith with your professional journey.
- Who It’s For: Individuals seeking comprehensive ministry training, and those created to be pastors, leaders, or church workers
- Topics Covered:
- Biblical studies
- Theological framework
- Critical thinking
- Communication skills
- Online, In-Person, or Both? Both
- Exam Required? No
- Eligibility Requirements: Download the latest brochure from their page for important information
- Take The Course: Alphacrucis University College
8. Christian Ministry & Training (Christian Ministry & Training)
This training program, supported by 20 years of experience, emphasizes the Bible as God’s word and the active role of the holy spirit in every believer’s life. Student fees are reinvested to enhance courses and employ expert trainers, ensuring high-quality education. Two courses are available, designed to equip individuals for church roles, with 24/7 access to resources and personalized support.
- Who It’s For: Individuals seeking accredited ministry training and individuals with existing ministry experience
- Topics Covered:
- Christian Ministry
- Theology
- Leadership
- Church planting
- Growth
- Prayer
- Preaching
- Biblical understanding
- Online, In-Person, or Both? Online
- Exam Required? No
- Duration: 18 to 24 months
- How Many Hours Of Instruction: 7 to 12 hours per week
- Eligibility Requirements:
- Be involved in a paid or voluntary ministry position
- Have previously completed studies in Christian ministry or theology
- Price: Starts from $40 to $60 per week (visit their page for more info)
- Take The Course: Christian Ministry & Training
9. Bachelor of Science in Christian Ministries (Mid-America Christian University)
This program equips students with essential knowledge and skills for effective leadership and service in various settings. The curriculum includes a broad range of Christian material and practical ministry courses, all taught from a Wesleyan-Arminian perspective. Graduates are prepared for roles in both faith-based and secular organizations and can use this program as a foundation for further studies in related fields.
- Who It’s For: Individuals seeking a comprehensive ministry degree
- Topics Covered:
- Synoptic gospels
- Romans
- Prophetic books/eschatology
- Foundations of Ministry
- Evangelism and discipleship
- Spiritual and congregational care
- Homiletics
- Online, In-Person, or Both? Online
- Exam Required? No
- Eligibility Requirements: None
- Take The Course: Mid-America Christian University
10. Worship Ministry Training (Worship Ministry Training)
This program provides comprehensive training for ministry pastors, including practical courses and expert mentorship. It offers valuable resources such as templates and team discipleship materials to enhance your leadership skills. With live interviews and a focus on effective communication and participation, it is designed to elevate your worship ministry.
- Who It’s For: Worship leaders seeking formal training
- Topics Covered:
- Set building
- Team building
- Musical excellence
- Theological foundations
- Administration
- Develop healthy teams
- Communicate clearly
- Online, In-Person, or Both? Online
- Exam Required? No
- Duration: 3 months
- Hours of Instruction: Self-paced
- Eligibility Requirements: None
- Price:
- $22 per month
- $579 one-time payment
- Take The Course: Worship Ministry Training
11. Ministry Training Institute (Samford University)
This program offers theological education and practical ministry training through certificates and extension courses across the southeast. It includes workshops and seminars led by experienced instructors, focusing on biblically-based content.
- Who It’s For: Individuals seeking specialized ministry training, lay leaders, and ministers
- Topics Covered:
- Pastoral leadership
- Worship leadership
- Disciple-making
- Women's leadership
- Music fundamentals for worship
- Pastoral counseling
- Preaching
- Online, In-Person, or Both? Online
- Exam Required? No
- Eligibility Requirements: None
- Price: $699 for full certificate
- Take The Course: Samford University
12. Christian Ministry Certificate (God’s Bible School and College)
This course is ideal for preparing lay ministers, enhancing bible study groups, and adding depth to Sunday school classes. Completing all courses with a 70% score earns a certificate in Christian ministry. The courses, based on the respected Shepherd’s global classroom curriculum, can also be applied to other degree programs.
- Who It’s For: Individuals seeking flexible and affordable ministry training, pastors, and church leaders
- Topics Covered:
- Apologetics
- Biblical evangelism
- Christian beliefs
- Christian living
- Holy life
- Eschatology
- Romans
- Communication
- Online, In-Person, or Both? Online
- Exam Required? No
- How Many Hours Of Instruction: Self-paced
- Eligibility Requirements: None
- Price: $60 per course
- Take The Course: God's Bible School and College
13. B.S. in Ministry Leadership (Cornerstone University)
This program equips you with essential skills for impactful direction in various ministry settings, focusing on theological foundations, ministry management, and community-building strategies. It provides in-depth training grounded in a Christ-centered approach and is backed by over 80 years of educational excellence and commitment to the teachings of the bible. Graduates are prepared for impactful roles in churches, missions, and nonprofit organizations.
- Who It’s For: Ministry professionals seeking comprehensive training, serve in missions, non-profit leaders, theologians, and pastors
- Topics Covered:
- Self-management in ministry
- Professional writing
- Communication skills
- Personal growth for effective leadership
- Principles of Biblical studies
- Philosophy of leadership
- Systems for cultural impact
- Christian doctrine 1
- Online, In-Person, or Both? Online
- Exam Required? No
- How Many Hours Of Instruction: 120 credit hours
- Eligibility Requirements: None
- Take The Course: Cornerstone University
14. Christian Ministries, BA (San Diego Christian College)
This program offers the knowledge, skills, and theological insights needed for a successful career in ministry. The curriculum prepares students for impactful roles and fosters well-rounded pastoral management. Apply today to start the admissions process and begin your journey in ministry education.
- Who It’s For: Individuals seeking a comprehensive ministry degree
- Topics Covered:
- Leadership
- Theology
- Worship
- Biblical counseling
- Nature of discipleship
- Spiritual guidance
- Verbal communication
- Creativity and balance
- Online, In-Person, or Both? Online
- Exam Required? No
- Duration: 4 years
- How Many Hours Of Instruction: 123 credit hours
- Eligibility Requirements: None
- Take The Course: San Diego Christian College
15. Online Leadership and Ministry (Asbury University)
This program equips students for ministry and related fields. The curriculum emphasizes personal and professional growth through biblical and ministry studies. Susan Hammond ’21 notes that the program provided confidence, faith development, and flexibility to manage work and travel while studying.
- Who It’s For: Individuals seeking leadership roles in ministry
- Topics Covered:
- Bible study
- Theology
- Organizational strategies in the ministry
- Leadership and service
- Online, In-Person, or Both? Online
- Exam Required? No
- Duration: 8 weeks
- How Many Hours Of Instruction: 124 credit hours
- Eligibility Requirements: None
- Price: $399 per credit hour (financial aid available)
- Take The Course: Asbury University
What’s Next?
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