Consistent with other pre-professional studies, seminaries and divinity schools encourage a solid, broad liberal arts course of study as the best preparation for success at the graduate level. Students must work closely with the Pre-Ministry advisor, David Saetre, to determine the best course of study for the denomination and seminary of choice.

This course of study will include a major relevant to the kind of ministry a student intends to pursue. For example, a student interested in Outdoor and Camping Ministries should take advantage of the college’s strong program in Outdoor Education combined with general studies in the humanities and in religion. Students interested in parish ministry should select a major in the humanities or the social sciences with additional course work in religion.

Pre-Ministry students must also choose courses that develop critical thinking and communication skills as they prepare for graduate seminary studies. These skills include analytical thinking, clear and concise writing, critical reading, oral communication, independent research, and task management. Students will further enhance their success by developing their knowledge of intellectual history, including religion and philosophy. Finally, students should choose courses that help them grow intellectually and personally—courses that challenge the heart as well as the mind—in order develop the depth of character and the appreciation of others that ministry requires.