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. A practicum and internship is required. Internship applicants must exhibit the presence of essential ministry skills and dispositions, as well as demonstrate a commitment to growth in Christian virtues.
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.
Requirements for the major are 38 hours, including a core of 34 hours plus 4 hours of electives. The required core of 34 hours includes:
Code | Title | Credits |
---|---|---|
Major Requirements | ||
CFM 115 | Introduction to Christian Formation and Ministry | 4 |
HNGR 114 | Poverty, Justice and Transformation | 4 |
CFM 223 | Human Development and Ministry | 4 |
CFM 224 | Christian Spiritual Practices | 2 |
CFM 251 | Ministry Practicum | 0 |
CFM 335 | Teaching the Bible | 4 |
CFM 339 | Compassion and Crisis Ministry: Responding to Trauma and Suffering | 4 |
CFM 359 | Discipleship | 4 |
CFM 421 | Philosophy of Ministry | 4 |
CFM 494 | Ministry in Culture | 4 |
CFM 496 | Internship | 0 |
Electives | ||
Select four credits | 4 | |
Total Credits | 38 |