- Accredited Online Program
Become a Certified Minister in as Little as 16 Weeks
Flexible. Online. Career-focused. Veteran-friendly. Start your journey in Ministry with Lakewood University today.
- DEAC Accredited Program
- 100% Online
- Veteran-Friendly
- Since 1998
Ready for a Ministry Career Without Years of School?
Many adults are looking for something more meaningful. A path that offers purpose, personal growth, and the opportunity to make a lasting impact in the lives of others. Ministry continues to play a vital role in communities, supporting individuals and families through spiritual guidance, leadership, and service. If you are seeking a practical way to serve others and deepen your faith, this could be your next step.
Traditional college programs can take years to complete and often require significant financial investment before you can begin making a difference. Not everyone has the time, flexibility, or desire to commit to a multi-year degree just to start serving their community. You deserve an option that respects your time and your calling.
Lakewood University’s Ministry Certificate is designed for adults who need flexibility and affordability without sacrificing quality. Our online format allows you to study around your schedule while developing the knowledge and skills to serve in ministry roles, lead programs, and support spiritual growth. It’s a focused, purpose-driven pathway built for real life.
Lakewood University’s Ministry Certificate prepares students for certification and employment in a flexible, online format designed for working adults.
Why Choose Lakewood?
Everything you need to succeed in your new career path.
Career-Ready Training
Practical skills you can use immediately in the field.
Certification Prep
Certain states may require certain licensing and or trainings.
Flexible Online Format
Learn anytime, anywhere that fits your schedule.
Designed for Adults
Support systems built for students balancing life and work.
Veteran Benefits
We proudly accept GI Bill® and other veteran education benefits.
Payment Plans
Affordable options to make your education stress-free.
Minister Career Outlook
The field of ministry is evolving to meet the spiritual and practical needs of communities. With growing societal challenges and a desire for meaningful guidance, the demand for skilled ministry leaders is higher than ever.
Whether you prefer working in a church setting, hospital setting or educational your skills will be in high demand across the nation.
- https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Salaries/Pastor-Salary
Job Growth
2%
2024–2034
Yearly Openings
Varies by state
Median Salary
$60,902
BLS 2024
Settings
Diverse
Churches, hospitals, schools
Program Snapshot
Quick facts you need to know about the program.
Duration
16 Weeks
Format
Online
Tuition
$7,400
Next Start
Monday
Eligibility
High School Diploma or Equivalent
Accreditation
DEAC Accredited
Work Hours
600 Clock Hours
Aid
Financial Options
Get the Ministry Program Guide
Enter your details below and we’ll send everything you need to know about the program.
- Your information is secure and will never be shared.
Gold Standard in Ministry Education
DEAC accreditation signifies that the institution has met established standards for academic quality ethical practices, and student support in distance education through the ongoing evaluation and continuous improvement accreditation helps ensure that programs provide students with relevant knowledge, practical skills, and high quality educational experience.
- Trusted by major employers worldwide
- Commitment to continuous improvement
- Maintains high instructional quality
- Commitment to academic excellence
DEAC Accredited Program
Don’t settle for unaccredited programs. Your career depends on receiving an education that employers recognize and respect.
RECOGNIZED NATIONALLY
Lakewood University was recently featured on CBS for its work in providing accessible, career-driven education to working adults and veterans. National recognition reinforces our commitment to delivering accredited programs designed to prepare students for real-world success.
I am a very proud I was a student of Lakewood University. While being in the Ministry program, it caused me to stay focused and very adamant about reading God's word and staying on top of my studies. And most of all you are not alone, the staff is there to help you with any issue you may come upon, and you get to share your thoughts other students.
Lynell Watts Jr.
Ministry
What You’ll Learn
Our curriculum is built around real-world ministry skills. Each module is designed to move you closer to practical ministry experience and professional competency.
Lakewood University’s Ministry Certificate program prepares students to support spiritual leaders, guide community programs, provide pastoral care, and perform administrative duties within faith-based organizations.
The program emphasizes the communication skills essential for ministry work, including public speaking, counseling conversations, and interpersonal engagement with diverse populations.
Courses focus on the knowledge and accuracy necessary to lead programs, manage community initiatives, and ensure that spiritual guidance is delivered thoughtfully and responsibly.
Students in this program will gain the knowledge and skills needed to qualify for entry-level ministry roles and be prepared to serve effectively in churches, non-profits, and other faith-based organizations.
Program Objectives
- Explain and classify the components of the Bible
- Define fundamental concepts of Christian beliefs (i.e. salvation, redemption, atonement, transformation, baptism)
- State the benefits and responsibilities of Kingdom citizenship
- Describe and demonstrate spiritual authority
- Compare and contrast world economics and kingdom economics
- Exploring Christian ministries as a vocation and identify career opportunities available in various aspects of ministry upon completion of this program
- Name and classify the gifts of the Spirit
- Determine personal spiritual gift through gift assessment
- Identify characteristics of the servant leader model
- Identify scripture commonly used to limit authority of women
- Formulate response to support women’s ministerial authority
- Lead others to a decision for salvation
- Construct written rebuttal to objections to salvation decision
Lesson 1: Understanding the Bible (Old and New Testament)
This lesson gives an overview of the structure and purpose of the Bible in human history. It introduces a historical timeline, contemporary figures, geography, and traces Jesus as the central figure throughout.
Lesson 2: Enlisting in God's Army
This lesson explains the basic tenants upon which the Christian experience is built.
God’s plan of redemption for mankind through repentance, atonement, and salvation will be explored.
Lesson 3: Baptism
The purpose of this lesson is to introduce the purpose of water baptism and the baptism
of the Holy Spirit. This lesson outlines the work of the Holy Spirit and the indicators of his presence.
Lesson 4: Faith
This lesson defines what faith is and teaches the absolute necessity of faith in the life of a believer. Examples of faith in action will help students develop and articulate their level of faith and identify the elements of faith.
Lesson 5: Becoming a Kingdom Citizen
The purpose of this lesson is to outline the benefits and responsibilities of kingdom living. Christian character and behavior are discussed.
Lesson 6: Understanding Spiritual Authority
This lesson teaches the components of spiritual authority as it relates to positional and relational authority. God’s plan to execute authority through mankind will be discussed as well as the key to the demonstration of spiritual authority.
Lesson 7: Kingdom Economics
This lesson illustrates how economic exchange systems operate in the Kingdom economy. The Bible gives much instruction concerning money and how to prosper.
Lesson 8: The Believer and the Church
The focus of this lesson is to define “the church,” “ministry, ”and the believer’s relationship to the church. The believer’s contribution to the church and the world is ministry. This lesson will explore Christian ministry as a passion and a vocation. Various ministry career possibilities will be studied.
Lesson 9: The Five-Fold Ministry
You will learn about the physiologic processes of the endocrine system.
You will also learn about hormones and how they regulate the body.
This lesson will outline the function of the five-fold ministry and its relationship to the church and individual believers. In this lesson, the student will discuss order, protocol, and organization in the church.
Lesson 10: Prayer
One of the most important lessons is Prayer. Prayer is the engine that powers the Christian life. It is communication with God Himself. This lesson will teach the why’s and how’s of prayer for both the individual and the corporate church body. Methods of organizing the prayer life, fasting in conjunction with prayer, and hindrances to prayer will be explored.
Lesson 11: Spiritual Warfare
This lesson will present an overview of warfare in the spiritual realm and why humanity is even involved in supernatural events. The weapons of warfare will be discussed. Students will learn to recognize spiritual attacks and how to have victory in the battle. A sneak peek behind the spiritual curtain will reveal the motives of demonic forces and how every believer can be an overcomer.
Lesson 12: Divine Healing
The Bible says that healing is the children’s bread. (Matthew 15:22) This lesson will present scriptural evidence and illustrations to support the belief that God intends for mankind to be healed, whole, and complete. The lesson will describe how the sick are healed and the hindrances to healing.
Lesson 13: Gifts of the Spirit
This lesson will define and categorize the various gifts given by the Holy Spirit to believers. A gift assessment will reveal your personal gift mix.
Lesson 14: Servant Leadership
This lesson will highlight the concept that to be a great leader you must be a greater servant. Characteristics of a servant leader are examined in this lesson.
Lesson 15: Women in Ministry
This lesson examines the unique obstacles and gender bias that women in ministry often face. Women will discover their worth and explore strategies to overcome adversities.
Lesson 16: Soul Winning
The lesson will help believers develop the confidence to share their faith experience to lead others to faith in Jesus Christ by learning and practicing effective soul-winning techniques.
You’re Not Doing This Alone
We provide the structure and support you need to cross the finish line.
Instructor Support
Expert faculty available for questions and guidance.
Success Coach
Dedicated coaches to help you stay on track and motivated.
Online Student Portal
24/7 access to all course materials and resources.
Career Guidance
Resume building, interview prep, and job search assistance.
Veteran Services
Specialized support for our military and veteran community.
Payment Options
Flexible monthly plans to fit any budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this program accredited?
Yes. Lakewood University is accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC). Accreditation means the program meets nationally recognized standards for quality, curriculum, and student preparation. Choosing an accredited program helps protect your time and investment.
Does this prepare me for certification?
Yes. Although, certain states require certain licensings and or trainings.
Can I use VA benefits?
Eligible students may use approved VA education benefits for this program. Lakewood University is committed to supporting veterans and military families through the enrollment process. Our admissions team can help you determine your eligibility and guide you step by step.
Are payment plans available?
Yes. We offer flexible payment options to make the program more accessible. In addition to approved financing partners, students may choose structured payment plans based on eligibility. Our admissions team can review available options and help you select the best fit for your situation.
How long does it take?
The program can be completed in as little as 16 weeks depending on your pace and schedule. Because the format is online and flexible, many students are able to complete their training while continuing to work or manage other responsibilities.
Will I be able to complete it while working?
The program is delivered in a flexible online format designed to accommodate working adults. While you can complete coursework around your weekly schedule, there are structured weekly deadlines to help you stay on track. All coursework must be completed by your assigned program end date, ensuring steady progress toward graduation and certification readiness.
What happens after graduation?
Upon successful program completion, graduates can move forward to obtain certifications or licensures in their respective state
Our support does not end at graduation. Students receive lifetime access to career services, including resume guidance, job search support, and professional resources to help you continue growing in your career.
Start Your Career in Ministry Today
Join thousands of successful graduates who have transformed their lives with Lakewood University. Your new career is just 16 weeks away!
© 2026 All Rights Reserved, Lakewood University.
GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. VA education benefits eligibility varies by individual and program. Lakewood University does not guarantee benefit approval.