Adult Learning Programs
A Flexible Pathway to Ministry for Adult Learners
The Adult Learning Program (A.L.P.) is designed for adults aged 25 and older who feel called to serve in professional or volunteer ministry and want a program that respects their life experience. This online Associate of Arts degree blends biblical study, practical ministry training, and leadership development, assuming students bring valuable academic, vocational, or ministry experience to the table. With an emphasis on Scripture, communication skills, and real-world ministry practice, the program equips adults to step confidently into church and community leadership roles.
Students choose from five focused ministry concentrations: Counseling Ministries, Family Life Education, Pastoral Ministry, Worship Ministry, and Youth Ministry. Each concentration provides targeted preparation for leading church programs, interpreting Scripture responsibly, and communicating with clarity in ministry settings. Applicants must be at least 25 years old, meet standard admissions requirements, demonstrate prior vocational or leadership experience, and have a verifiable church background. This program offers a supportive, practical, and academically grounded pathway for adults ready to deepen their ministry impact.
Degree
- Associate of Arts
Location
- On Campus
Graduates completing this degree will be able to:
- Administer church programs appropriate for each program.
- Demonstrate knowledge of the contents and theology of the Bible and reliable approaches to its interpretation.
- Demonstrate essential skills for professional people such as proficiency in oral and written communication.
Our Graduates Possess These Traits:
- Critical Thinking
- Interpersonal Skills
- Kingdom Mission
- Cultural Humility
- Self-Understanding
- Written Communication
average net price per year after financial aid
%
acceptance rate for all student applications
student-to-faculty ratio ensuring personalized attention
%
of students who fill out the FAFSA qualify for financial aid
$19,390
average net price per year after financial aid
100%
acceptance rate for all student applications
10:1
student-to-faculty ratio ensuring personalized attention
90%
of students who fill out the FASFA qualify for financial aid
Coursework
Coursework for Adult Learning Programs Associate of Arts
Course Name
- General Education Core Courses:
- Speech Fundamentals
- Composition 2
- Ancient Western Civilization
- Introduction to Psychology
- Bible & Theology Core Courses:
- Introduction to Biblical Interpretation
- Christian Faith or Scripture & Christian Living
- Jesus of Nazareth
- Biblical Theology
- Restoration History
- New Testament 1 & 2
- Old Testament 1 & 2
- Acts Seminar
- Prophetic Literature Seminar
- Bible & Theology Electives
Requirements for an Associate of Arts
- Adult Learning Core Requirements – 50 hours
- Area of Concentration – 14 hours
- Total Hours – 64 hours
A.L.P. Concentrations
Counseling Ministry
The Counseling Ministry concentration equips adult learners to provide biblically grounded support to individuals and families within church and community settings. Students develop foundational helping skills, learn to approach personal and spiritual struggles with compassion, and gain practical tools for effective, ministry-focused care. Graduates who complete this program will be able to:
- Access and evaluate available community resources that may be helpful (e.g., professional counselors, health practitioners, support groups).
- Provide counseling on a non-professional basis within one’s own church setting.
- Demonstrate skills in selecting and using Scripture in the counseling process.
Family Life Education
The Family Life Education prepares students to minister to parents and their children by offering marriage, parenting, and other classes. Graduates who complete this program will be able to:
- Understand concepts and principles of healthy marriages and families.
- Articulate their own attitudes and values about family issues.
- Develop and implement programs of instruction and guidance that will build and equip healthy families.
Pastoral Ministry
Students in the Pastoral Ministry receive focused training in the biblical, theological, and practical skills essential for effective pastoral leadership. The program helps adult learners understand the responsibilities of shepherding a congregation, preaching and teaching Scripture, and guiding the church with wisdom and integrity. Upon graduation, they will be able to:
- Effectively communicate the Word of God.
- Develop a philosophy of ministry that aligns with Scripture.
- Articulate leadership principles applicable to the local church.
- Articulate a clear and compelling vision for the church.
Worship Ministry
Worship Ministry is designed to equip students in music worship ministry areas for the local church and to provide a foundation for developing skills in planning and leading worship and in working with others in a worship ministry. Students who desire to follow this track should already be highly proficient in either guitar or piano. They should also provide evidence of extensive musical and leadership experience. An interview with the adviser of the Music Ministry Major may be necessary to determine the readiness of the candidate for this track. Graduates who complete this program will be prepared to:
- Plan and lead worship in a local church.
- Display leadership skills in developing musical talent and skills in the lives of others.
Youth Ministry
The Youth Ministry equips adult learners to serve the next generation with biblical depth, practical skill, and genuine pastoral care. Students learn how to understand the unique spiritual, emotional, and developmental needs of children and adolescents, preparing them to lead effectively in both church-based and community ministry settings. The program emphasizes creative communication, age-appropriate discipleship, and the ability to build meaningful relationships that point young people toward Christ. Graduates who complete this program will be able to:
- Develop a theological and pastoral approach to working with children and youth.
- Present Scripture in a relevant manner for children and youth.
- Develop worship and educational programs for children and youth.
- Serve in parachurch ministries related to children and youth, e.g., church camps.