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: 

Major Requirements
CFM 115Introduction to Christian Formation and Ministry4
HNGR 114Poverty, Justice and Transformation4
CFM 223Human Development and Ministry4
CFM 224Christian Spiritual Practices2
CFM 251Ministry Practicum0
CFM 335Teaching the Bible4
CFM 339Compassion and Crisis Ministry: Responding to Trauma and Suffering4
CFM 359Discipleship4
CFM 421Philosophy of Ministry4
CFM 494Ministry in Culture4
CFM 496Internship0
Electives
Select four credits4
Total Credits38