Pathways
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Bachelor of Arts in Leadership Development - Pastoral Leadership Major

Four Year Degree Program - 120 credit hours

This program equips students to provide leadership in ministry. The role of a pastor is to "equip God's people to do his work" (Eph. 4:11 NLT) not to do all the ministry. There is much more to leading churches to effectiveness for the Kingdom than just knowing your Bible and being able to preach/teach – although those are important aspects. This program equips students with a solid knowledge of the Bible and how to properly understand it as well as develop their understanding and skills in leadership and their spiritual character. In addition, students have the opportunity to gain experience through a one-year practicum and to be mentored by leaders who understand how to develop other leaders and teach them how to live life as a pastor.

Course Requirements

Biblical and Theological Studies (36 credit hours)

Biblical Studies (24 credits)

Theological Studies (6 credits)

Christian Spirituality (6 Credits)

General Arts (36 credit hours)

General Arts Elective (3)

Professional Studies (45 credit hours)

Core Leadership Courses (21 credits)

Pastoral Leadership Specialization (24 credits)

Field Education

Field Education units are an integral part of this program. The student observes and experiences various ministries in the first year and then gets involved in increasing levels of leadership during their second and third years all while being mentored. This real-world experience prepares them for the final year where they will serve in ministry at least half-time for the full year and get a complete experience in pastoral leadership – again with a mentor to guide them through the journey.

Profile of a Graduating Student

A graduating student will:

  • give evidence of suitable character with respect to minstry;
  • give evidence of ministry passion, gifting, calling and relational skills;
  • demonstrate realistic understanding of the personal and professional life of a pastor;
  • acquire evident personal knowledge and skills of leadership;
  • demonstrate a strong grounding in general Bible knowledge and in the historic and cultural backgrounds of the Bible;
  • demonstrate skills in the interpretation, application, and communication of biblical truth;
  • articulate and support a personal understanding and application of Christian doctrine;
  • demonstrate a personal commitment to evangelism.

Career Path Options

Most often, this major is a graduate’s first step towards work in an associate or senior pastor role in a local church setting.

Future Education Possibilities

This degree program provides the student with a foundation for graduate studies in various Christian fields.

We want to share with you our excitement for a new way of learning at Rocky Mountain College.

Pathways is our new “distributed learning” model. It is taking our classroom courses out of the box, and down the road to where you are.

With our focus on discipleship, leadership and social care, Pathways now enables students, professionals, and life-long learners, to take advantage of our programs and courses no matter where they are.

Courses are available to Anyone. Anywhere. Anytime. Often times God speaks to us and we yearn for a richer life. But obstacles appear.

Pathways is about removing obstacles and allowing access to quality learning experiences. We foster changed lives both locally and globally.

It is our hope that we can show you a new pathway to learning, ministry and a richer, more meaningful life. Thank you for exploring RMC’s Pathways program.

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