Bachelor of Science: Practical Ministries

Jeff Williamson, Ed.D., Coordinator

In collaboration with the Education Department of The Salvation Army Central Territory, Olivet Nazarene University offers a Bachelor of Science degree in Practical Ministries (BSPM). The program is designed specifically for officers of The Salvation Army. The goal of the program is the preparation of learners at the bachelor's degree level for ministry that confronts society as a whole while focusing on religious, social, and cultural issues, especially as they relate to The Salvation Army.

Learners are involved in concentrated studies during week-long seminars, offered during May and August, with experts in the field of practical ministries. Instructors include faculty from Olivet as well as qualified personnel from The Salvation Army. Work relating to these seminars and various aspects of practical ministries as carried on by The Salvation Army are assigned as work study projects. The purposes of the BSPM program are to:

• Assist learners in the continuing development of the skills of understanding and communicating the Biblical message to everyday circumstances, especially the difficult spiritual, social, and economic circumstances of the needy.
• Help learners develop a personal growth plan — spiritually, socially, and professionally.
• Encourage learners to do competent research and writing in the areas of practical ministry, such as pastoral care and social service, including programs of enrichment for seniors, youth, and ministry management.
• Foster the continued development of those skills necessary for community leaders in the fields of pastoral leadership (both in church and institutional settings), social welfare ministries, community service ministries and development, and public relations responsibilities.

30 hours

Required:

Select 10 of the following 12 courses:

PRM 306 — Principles of Management

310 — Discipling

316 — Worship and Preaching

360 — Youth and Family Ministry

402 — Organizational Behavior

403 — Spiritual Formation and Personal Development

410 — Counseling

417 — Community Relations

421 — Faith in Action Through Social Work

424 — Cross-Cultural Ministry

432 — Chaplaincy for Crisis Response

471 — Family Dynamics and Intervention

Trasfer of Credit Policy

Up to 98 semester hours (or equivalent quarter hours) may be accepted from the College for Officer Training (CFOT) or other accredited colleges and universities. Only courses with a grade of C or above are eligible for transfer consideration.

Time Limit

Coursework for May seminars must be completed and submitted to instructors no later than the end of November (dates to be assigned). Coursework for August seminars must be completed and submitted to instructors no later than the end of February (dates to be assigned).