If you’re thinking about declaring a Leadership and Ministry major, you’re probably someone who cares about people. You want to grow in your faith, lead well, and make a difference. But maybe you’re still figuring out what questions to ask or how to know if this path is the right one.
That’s completely normal. In fact, asking the right questions now can set you up for a more focused, rewarding college experience later. As someone who works with students every day, I’ve had a lot of these conversations. So, let’s walk through the big questions together. Some of the most important questions don’t come from a course catalog. They come from what’s going on in your heart.
Do I Sense That God Is Calling Me into Leadership and Ministry?
This doesn’t have to be a lightning bolt moment. For many students, the call to ministry starts as a quiet nudge—serving at church, mentoring a younger student, or simply noticing a desire to help others grow. Grace Christian University believes that calling matters. It’s part of why our mission is to graduate courageous ambassadors for Christ who make an eternal impact wherever they go.
If you feel like God might be stirring something in you, that’s worth exploring.
What Gifts Has God Given Me—And Where Do I Want to Grow?
You don’t need to have it all figured out. But it helps to reflect on your strengths. Are you a good listener? Do people come to you for advice or encouragement? Do you enjoy organizing events, leading prayer groups, or sharing Scripture with others? Taking a spiritual gifts assessment can help you discover how God has uniquely equipped you to lead and serve
At Grace, we see leadership as something that grows over time. Our classes and campus experiences are designed to shape your gifts while giving you space to stretch.
Now Ask About the Program
Once you’ve thought through the personal side, it’s time to look at the practical details of the degree itself.
What Kind of Ministry Opportunities Will I Be Prepared For?
A Leadership and Ministry degree from Grace Christian University opens doors to a wide range of ministry and leadership roles—pastoral ministry, missions, worship arts, youth work, nonprofit leadership, and more.
It’s not about fitting into one mold. It’s about being equipped for whatever role God leads you into.
You can learn more about what the program includes on our Leadership and Ministry degree page, which outlines everything from core classes to hands-on experiences.
How Will I Get Real-World Ministry Experience?
Ministry isn’t something you learn only in a classroom—it’s something you live out. At Grace, students gain practical experience through internships, service projects, and campus leadership roles. Many students help lead chapel services, coordinate small groups, or serve in local churches while they study.
We believe the best leaders are formed through both study and service.
Does the Theology Taught Line Up With What I Believe?
This is an important question. Every Christian university teaches from a specific theological perspective. Grace Christian University is grounded in biblical truth and holds to doctrinal distinctives that emphasize Bible-centered teaching, spiritual formation, and service.
Take time to read through what we believe. If you have questions, reach out, we’d love to talk through them with you.
Don’t Forget About Support
College can be a transformative time, but it can also be challenging. It’s good to ask about what support systems are in place.
Will I Have Mentorship and Guidance While I’m in the Program
Absolutely. Our faculty and staff care deeply about your personal, spiritual, and academic growth. Many students at Grace form close relationships with their professors, pastors, and fellow students. You’ll be surrounded by people who want to see you grow, not just in knowledge, but in character and confidence.
And if you’re someone who thrives with encouragement, accountability, and discipleship, you’ll find a caring community here to walk alongside you.
What Are Recent Leadership and Ministry Graduates Doing Now?
This is a great question to bring up during a campus visit or call with Admissions. Many of our grads go into full-time ministry, serve in missions, lead worship, direct nonprofit organizations, or even go on to seminary. They’re actively making an eternal impact.
Hearing real stories can be incredibly helpful, so don’t hesitate to ask us to share some with you.
A Few Questions to Bring to Your Advisor
When you sit down with a faculty member or admissions counselor, here are a few thoughtful questions that can help guide your decision:
- Are there any minors or electives that work well with this major?
- What are the most formative classes in the program, and why?
- How do students balance studies with church involvement or on-campus leadership?
- Are there scholarship opportunities for students preparing for ministry?
Declaring a major in Leadership and Ministry is a big decision, but you don’t have to figure it out alone.
Ask questions. Pray about it. Connect with someone at Grace who can walk you through the process. If God is stirring your heart for ministry, we’d be honored to help you explore that calling and prepare you to lead with humility, wisdom, and biblical truth.
This could be the beginning of something truly transformative.
Would you like help setting up a campus visit or scheduling a chat with a program advisor? Reach out to our Admissions team here—we’d love to hear your story and help you discern your next step.
