Religious Studies — Applied Emphasis

The Director of Parish Services program educates dedicated Christians to fill an identified need within the church-at-large. Serving in team ministry with pastors, teachers, and the members of congregations, a Director of Parish Services brings to the church skills in youth and young adult ministry, visitation, outreach, and parish education. To become a Director of Parish Services, you earn the 4-year Bachelor of Arts degree in Religious Studies (Applied Emphasis) with a Religious Studies major and a Parish Services minor. To gain practical experience within a congregational setting, you participate in field work and, after graduation, serve a one-year internship to become certified as a Director of Parish Services.In this specialized program you study the foundations of the Christian faith, learn to think critically about contemporary issues in the world and the church, explore the principles of visitation, outreach, parish education and youth/young adult ministry, and gain an excellent liberal arts education as you prepare for full-time work in the church. Once you become a Director of Parish Services, you play an integral role in service to Christ and the advancement of the Gospel.

Field of study: Religion/Religious Studies