Christian Formation and Ministry Major

Undergraduates in the CFM Department earn a Bachelor of Arts in Christian Formation and Ministry. This is a liberal arts program that emphasizes biblical, theological, historical, and social science foundations integrated with traditional and contemporary philosophies and practices of ministry and spiritual formation. Students are encouraged to mature in their personal walk with Christ and to develop patterns of deep personal integrity and reflection upon their experiences to prepare them for ministry. The department motto centers the educational adventure around the Bible and a call to Christian witness: “Get wisdom; give thanks.” A practicum and internship are required. Internship applicants must exhibit the presence of essential ministry skills and dispositions, as well as demonstrate a commitment to growth in Christian virtues.

We seek to nurture wisdom and compassion in students who are becoming…

Academically grounded in that they:

• Articulate a biblical, theological, historical, and philosophical perspective of formation and ministry.
• Identify a theoretical framework for ministry context analysis.
• Demonstrate an understanding of the educational, spiritual, and ministry practices by which people mature in Christ.

Spiritually maturing in that they:

• Demonstrate a life of discipleship and spiritual growth as the foundation of effective ministry.
• Identify one's gifts and calling, responding to areas of strength and challenge in preparation for serving the needs of the church and the world.
• Respect every person, valuing the diversity of cultures, ethnicities, and traditions within the church.

Practically skilled in that they:

• Minister and teach effectively, integrating theory and scripture into creative practice with integrity, humility, and grace.
• Serve collaboratively and compassionately, balancing the needs of others with adequate self-care.
• Demonstrate the necessary skills of a ministry practitioner/scholar: critical analysis; oral communication; written communication; program evaluation.

The Christian Formation and Ministry major meets the undergraduate requirements for seminary study suggested by the Association of Theological Schools in the United States and Canada (ATS). Students contemplating graduate studies should consult with the institution in which they are interested to be informed of any particular undergraduate courses needed. Students interested in an accelerated curriculum leading to the completion of a master’s along with their bachelor’s degree in only five years should consult with their advisors regarding the prerequisites for the Wheaton graduate program.

Accelerated Degree Option

If interested in an accelerated master’s degree, Wheaton undergraduate students have the option to take graduate courses within the Litfin Divinity School during their junior and senior years as part of their block tuition. These courses cannot count towards both their bachelor’s and master’s degrees. If done wisely, students can complete the M.A. in one additional year. Contact the CFM chair or Graduate Admissions for more information.

Requirements for the Christian Formation and Ministry Major are 38-42 hours, including a core of 34-38 hours plus 4 hours of electives: