Master's in Urban Ministry Degree

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Overview

Reach Urban and Inner City Communities by Sharing the Gospel

Urban ministry recognizes the need to bring the love of Christ to urban areas and inner city neighborhoods. The Master of Arts in Urban Ministry degree, offered by the Grand Canyon Theological Seminary, is a Christ-centered course of study that can prepare future Christian leaders to serve congregations amid the hectic pace of city life. 

A man leading a sermon with a Bible in a modern urban ministry setting, reflecting the impact of an urban ministry degree.
Why GCU

Benefits of Earning an Urban Ministry Degree From GCU

Grand Canyon University’s urban ministry Master of Arts degree emphasizes the power of the gospel for transformation while also making it accessible and contextually appropriate for an urban, 21st century audience. Examine theological and biblical knowledge while closely exploring the unique problems and needs associated with urban settings. Be taught how to offer pastoral guidance to inner city congregations in a way that addresses their unique challenges.

A student working on a laptop in a café setting, reflecting the collaborative environment of an urban ministry degree program.

Earn an Urban Ministry Degree Completely Online

A modern curriculum demands a modern method of learning, and GCU has risen to the challenge with our flexible online learning platform. Earn your online urban ministry degree while fulfilling your familial and professional obligations. Access your coursework from anywhere, and enjoy engaging discussions with your peers. 

Coursework

Ministry Courses You Can Expect in This Master's Program

Throughout your courses, you will examine some of the pressing matters of today’s congregations, including:

  • Social services, community building and holistic ministry strategies
  • The foundational principles of effective urban ministry, with a look at best practices for cultural transformative urban ministry
  • The ethical implications for decisions made in urban ministerial settings

Additionally, you will be required to complete supervised ministry hours. These field experiences are opportunities for you to demonstrate academic progress in theology and the practical application of biblical principles.

Competencies and Skills Taught in This Ministry Program

During this master’s in urban ministry program, you will be encouraged to examine today’s challenges for the church and of the dynamics of the urban communities you can minister to. Examine strategies for communicating effectively with culturally diverse audiences, and explore how to help others to know and love Christ. Prepare to embrace holistic ministry service that answers God’s call and preserves the fundamentals of evangelism and discipleship.

You will be taught foundational knowledge and skills in biblical interpretation and ministerial ethics. Prepare to review strategies for leading and inspiring others who desire to know the Word of God. Understand at-risk communities, biblical justice, crisis, conflict and change in the urban setting. Explore the value of social services, community-building, urban leadership and holistic ministry strategies within a multicultural setting.

Other core competencies include:

  • Specific contexts for the connections between biblical teaching and ministry
  • Christian character formation, self-care and personal morality for Christian leaders
  • Historical and theological development of Christian doctrine
  • Hermeneutics and the proper interpretation of the Old and New Testaments
A graduate of the urban ministry degree program mentoring a student during a Bible study session.
Careers

Career Paths for Master’s in Urban Ministry Degree Graduates

An academic background in urban ministry enables graduates to pursue meaningful work improving the lives of others in your local communities. 

Bring the love of Christ to urban and inner city neighborhoods by potentially pursuing a ministerial or related position at: 

Urban churches

Suburban churches with an urban outreach component

Nonprofit organizations

Social service programs

Faith-centered educational organizations

Accreditation

GCU Proudly Offers Institutionally Accredited Ministry Programs

While you’re weighing your choice of urban ministry degree programs, it’s important to ensure that the college or university you choose is institutionally accredited. Accreditation is an indication of the quality of a university. GCU is proud to be an institutionally accredited university that offers biblically rooted college education.

Our MA in Urban Ministry degree is accredited by the Commission on Accrediting of the Association of Theological Schools (ATS). The Commission of ATS aims to accredit programs that are designed to further enhance and improve theological education. It focuses on educational quality, accreditation clarity and contextualized flexibility. 

FAQ

Master’s Degree in Urban Ministry FAQs

Before enrolling in an urban ministry degree program, take the time to research your career path choices and related degree options. These frequently asked questions and answers can help guide your research.

A mentor guiding students in an outdoor setting, reflecting the hands-on learning and community aspect of an urban ministry degree.

Start Your Journey Today 

Prepare to serve Christ in urban settings. Apply today for enrollment in GCU’s master’s in urban ministry and fill out the form on this page to learn more.

Apply Now
  1. Renn, A. (2022, July 31). Why Cities Are Important to the Church’s Mission. The Gospel Coalition. Retrieved Sept. 22, 2023. 
  2. Memphis Urban Ministry. (n.d.). Eight Urban Ministry Strategies. Memphis Urban Ministry. Retrieved Sept. 22, 2023. 

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