Ministerial Studies


Have you felt a calling to become a pastor, preacher, worship leader, youth pastor, children’s pastor, or leader in a church setting?

KMBC has a proven track record in not only preparing and equipping you for the calling, but compared to the national average, our graduates are 220% more likely to remain in the ministry for the long term! That’s a track record of success! Our graduates are literally serving around the world in wide variety of denominational and non-denominational churches.

At KMBC you will learn the leadership and organizational skills necessary to succeed in heading a church. From pastoral counseling to learning how to effectively write sermons, KMBC graduates are well rounded in practice and in their understanding the Bible.

Preparing to be a pastor is far more than an academic exercise though. A pastor is someone who is sold out to Christ and has a heart for people. A pastor must have a rich personal prayer-life and passion for the lost. The atmosphere from dorm life to prayer meetings and chapel services are conducive to helping you develop spiritually.

Preparation for ministry goes far beyond the classroom. At KMBC, you’ll have a number of opportunities for practical outreach experience including prison ministry, nursing home ministry, ministries targeting area youth, dramatic ministry outreaches, as well as opportunities to preach and teach in area churches. By the time you graduate, you’ll be ready and passionate for the ministry into which God has called you!

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Ministerial Concentrations


Baptismal Service with David Speas, Class of 2011

Pastor of Clinton Wesleyan Church, Clinton, Tennessee

The Pastoral Ministries Concentration is committed to the formation of servant-leaders with knowledge, values, and skills which center in loving God and others, and in a commitment to lifelong learning. Students completing the ministerial studies major will posses a strengthened relationship with Jesus Christ that is reflected in spiritual consistency and in a growing Christ-likeness in their character and conduct, a deepening appreciation and knowledge of the Old and New Testament Scriptures, of Wesleyan-Arminian theology, and of church history, as well as experience in the fundamental skills for evangelism, discipleship, preaching, teaching, and pastoral ministry.

The Church Leadership Program is designed for students who feel called to work in church settings, but would like to lead in a non-pastoral capacity. Classes will range from Homiletics to Apologetics and Church Administration.

Youth Service with Alix Hilaire, Class of 2011

Youth Pastor of Lafayette Church of the Nazarene, Lexington, Kentucky

The Youth Ministries Program will develop knowledge, values, and skills as mentioned above, but will add a special focal emphasis on ministry to teens and adolescents.

The Children’s Ministries Program prepares you to serve as a children’s pastor or director of a children’s program in a church setting. It gives you a broad range of pastoral skills as detailed in the ministerial program objectives but allows you to specialize in classes to prepare you to work with children and families.

The Biblical Languages Program includes the ministerial program objectives above with a special emphasis on reading and translating the Greek New Testament and using it in ministry.

The Worship Ministries Program focuses specifically on music and worship in the local church. In the program, you will learn music theory as well as how to apply your musical, leadership, and media skills to benefit the congregation.

The Evangelistic Ministries Program focuses on preparing students to spread the Word in an evangelistic setting. Students will take classes that emphasize preaching skill, multi-media evangelism, and theological understanding.

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What happens after graduation?

After you have been through KMBC’s four year ministerial program, you have a few options. Many of our graduates choose to step right into ministry as a full-time, lead pastor or assistant pastor.

Depending on where you want to pastor, there is a process called ordination. This is where the leaders of a church or denomination license and commission you as a leader and preacher in the church. The steps involved vary depending on the denomination but most include a membership into a local church, additional class in the denomination’s church history and polity, and an interview with church leaders. Many of our graduates take positions in the Church of the Nazarene, the Wesleyan Church, Free Methodist and other Methodist churches, as well numerous independent holiness churches and associations.

One of the great benefits in attending Kentucky Mountain Bible College is that district superintendents and church leaders often come to us first when looking for a quality pastor. We regularly have more pastorate requests to be filled than we have gradates to fill them!

Ordination of Nathan Neihof, Class of 2011

Pastor of Hillside Wesleyan Church, Clyde, Michigan

Some of our graduates choose to continue their education in pursuit of a Master of Arts or Master of Divinity degree (M.Div). Graduates choosing to do so, often remark at how well prepared they were for the academic challenges of seminary. Although our graduates have chosen to attend a variety of seminaries across the country, KMBC recommends Wesley Biblical Seminary in Ridgeland, Mississippi.

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Credit Hours

130 Credit Hours

What classes will I study?

As a student in the ministerial program, you will be focusing on classes to prepare you as a pastor, preacher, and bible scholar. In edition to the general education core, you will be studying a variety of the biblical texts, theology, and homiletics. For a complete list, skim through the list below.

Required for All Programs

Professional Ministerial Studies Core

  • Church Administration


    This course focuses upon the administration in the local church and includes organization, leadership, staff relationship, volunteers, governing boards, short and long term planning, and crisis and time management within the structure of the local church.

  • Pastoral Counseling


    Focuses upon the basic concepts and techniques of Christian counseling. The student will develop broader understanding and a working knowledge of counseling skills in order to help people who have spiritual and life adjustment problems.

  • Introduction to Homiletics


    A general overview of the art and craft of preaching. Attention is given to the preacher, study helps, and sermon development.

  • Advanced Homiletics


    An advanced course in the principles of construction and delivery of sermons.

  • Homiletics Workshop

    The focus of the course is the preparation and delivery of sermons which are delivered in class in order to foster improvement through collegial evaluation.

  • Pastoral Epistles


    A study of the Paul’s letters to Timothy and Titus with emphasis on application to present pastoral ministry.

  • Pastoral Ministries


    This course is a practical study of the spiritual, intellectual, social, and professional life of the Christian ministers in relation to their responsibilities and duties as pastor. Emphasis is placed upon the shepherd as a model for pastoral ministries.

  • Evangelism


    This course provides an introduction to the biblical principles and practices of evangelism and discipleship and their applications to contemporary life.

  • Use of Technology in Bible Study


    In this course, students will learn valuable tools for using computer software in personal Bible study. Software currently utilized is the Logos Bible software.

  • Parliamentary Law


    The development of skills in the standard method of conducting and participating in business meetings is the focus of this course. Robert’s Rules of Order is the guidebook employed.

General Education Core

  • Spiritual-Academic and Worldview Formation


    This course is designed to introduce the student to the spiritual and academic disciplines necessary to begin college life and to become a lifelong learner and Christian disciple. It provides an introduction to prominent contemporary worldviews and lays a foundation for developing a biblical worldview.

  • English Grammar


    A study of the fundamentals of English grammar with a view to proper construction. Emphasis is placed upon conciseness and correct diction.

  • English Composition


    Practice is given in various kinds of writing, including the formal research paper and the informal/formal essay to enable students to write clearly, concisely, logically and creatively.

  • Physical Education


    Promotes practices of good health and the development of Christian character through team play in competitive sports, both in class and through the program of intramural athletics. Students may be exempted from this course upon presentation of a doctor’s certificate requesting exemption from such activities.

  • Introduction to Communications or Introduction to Sociology

    Introduction to Communication

    The course introduces the process of communication as a critical element in human relationship and society, and examines various aspects of communication: information processing, interpersonal communication in dyadic relationships and small groups, organizational communication, and mass communication.

    Introduction to Sociology

    The course introduces the basic concepts of the discipline and major theories of social behavior. Factors underlying the formation and function of society, group life, social institution and processes are studied. Additionally, various current social problems are analyzed from a biblical world view.

  • Basic Public Speaking


    This course provides an introduction to the various types and components of public speeches. Class assignments and activities are designed to develop skills in preparing, refining and delivering public addresses.

  • History of Civilization I & II


    The courses survey the history of civilization from ancient times to the modern period and focus on the religious, political and legal aspects of the ancient, medieval and modern world as seen from the Christian perspective.

  • General Psychology


    Provides an introduction to psychology focusing on its major topics, methods, theories, and applications from a Christian perspective.

  • Music Appreciation


    A course which integrates basic music elements and appreciation for sacred and secular masterworks.

  • Church History


    A survey of the development of the Christian Church from apostolic times to the present with special attention being given to councils of the Church, medieval monasticism, the Protestant Reformation, Wesley and Pietism, and the North American church.

  • College Mathematics


    This course is designed to give the essentials of college algebra. Reasoning ability is developed by stressing application to physical problems. A grasp of algebraic principals and problem solving techniques will enable the student to think analytically, which has widespread application.

  • English Literature


    A critical study of certain chosen literary works from the Middle Ages to the present including some attention to the lives of the authors. Interpretations are sought in the light of historical and social backgrounds.

  • Marriage and Family


    This course considers the dynamics of marriage and family relationships. The emphasis will be upon the development of relationships from dating through courtship and marriage, with a special consideration for enrichment skills such as communication, conflict solving, budgeting, and role concepts.

  • Earth Science


    Taking information and operating principles from the study of various science disciplines, this course is a multi-disciplinary introduction to the earth’s processes and environment. The biblical account of creation is held to be accurate, and a six literal day creation period lays the foundation for this study of the earth.

  • Introduction to Philosophy


    Focuses on the terminology and methodology of philosophy including an emphasis on the classic concepts and thinkers of Western philosophical thought. Students are enabled to think critically and analytically about current philosophical trends from a Christian world view.

Bible Study Core

  • English Bible Survey


    This course is an introduction to the content, theology and history of the Bible with a special emphasis upon the major people, places and events. The various literary genres are studied in order to discover their basic teachings and place in divine revelation. The course is a prerequisite to all other courses in biblical studies.

  • Gospels


    A comprehensive study of the life and ministry of Jesus presented by the four gospel writers.

  • Pentateuch


    An historical and theological study of the first five books of the Old Testament which emphasizes the characters and the covenant. The Pentateuch is examined as the foundation for the remainder of the history of God’s revelation to humanity.

  • Acts


    The history of the origin, rise, and expansion of universal Christianity as presented in the Acts of the Apostles.

  • Prison Epistles

    The four Epistles of Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians and Philemon were written by Paul during his Roman imprisonment. This class will consider the theological truths and practical applications contained in these letters.

  • General Epistles


    An inductive study of the epistles of James, Peter, John and Jude with emphasis on important doctrines and principles relating to Christian living. Attention is given to learning the use of different resource materials and the inductive process.

  • Romans


    A study of the Epistles of Romans which focuses on the theological truths and their application to the Christian life.

  • Hebrews


    A study of the Book of Hebrews which views the Old Testament in the light of the New Testament and informs Christology and Soteriology especially as they pertain to Entire Sanctification and Christian perseverance.

  • Isaiah-Jeremiah


    A study of the books with emphasis on the historical, social, moral and religious background of the prophet and their times. Major elements of the class include historical, eschatalogical, and New Covenant significance along with present-day application.

  • Biblical Studies Electives


    This is where you may customize part of your learning experience here at KMBC. What books are you interested in studying? Perhaps the Minor Prophets, Historical Books, Psalms and Wisdom Literature, the Apocalyptic Books, Galatians and Thessalonians, Romans, Corinthians, or a perhaps an advanced inductive study on a topic that interests you!

Theology Study Core

  • Foundations of Faith


    A foundational course in theology designed to give the student a basic understanding of the doctrines of God, man, and sin, and emphasizes the saving relationship into which God calls all human beings.

  • Doctrines of Holiness


    An intensive study of the doctrine of Christian perfection and entire sanctification as a second work of grace as it comes to expression within Scripture and Wesleyan theology which are integrated with experiential material for the purpose of instructing, clarifying, and establishing students in their personal experience of entire sanctification.

  • Theology Elective


    Choose from several excellent theology classes including the theology of prayer, systematic theology, the theology of John Wesley, cults, or take a survey of holiness literature.

Specific Programs

Pastoral Ministry

  • Systematic Theology


    A comprehensive and systematic study of the major doctrines of the Christian faith in their organic interrelatedness and contemporary relevance which are foundational to Christian thought and life. This course covers the sources and methods of theology, revelation, the inspiration of and canon of Scripture, the doctrine of God, the Trinity, anthropology, sin, Christ, the atonement, as well as Christian ethics, the Holy Spirit, the Church, the means of grace, and eschatology.

  • History of Missions


    An historical overview of the development and progress of Christian missions from its inception to the present. Emphasis is given to the personalities and methodologies which have guided the global advance of the Christian faith into the twenty-first century.

  • Worship


    This course examines the biblical roots, historical development, theological meanings, and contemporary applications of worship. Emphasis is placed on leadership of public worship and the sacraments.

  • Expository Preaching or Persuasive Preaching

    Expository Preaching

    This course studies the craft of the research and development of expository messages and their delivery.

    Persuasive Preaching

    This course introduces the principles of persuasive speech and enables the learner to develop skills for preparing and presenting persuasive messages. The course focuses the application of persuasive speaking principles. 

  • Take your Pick:

    Here you can choose your interest: Introduction to Christian Education, Principles and Methods of Teaching, Apologetics, or Discipleship. You may also select any 2-3 classes from our class list (or transfer in a few credits).

Biblical Languages

  • Greek Language


    Greek Language

  • Systematic Theology


    A comprehensive and systematic study of the major doctrines of the Christian faith in their organic interrelatedness and contemporary relevance which are foundational to Christian thought and life. This course covers the sources and methods of theology, revelation, the inspiration of and canon of Scripture, the doctrine of God, the Trinity, anthropology, sin, Christ, the atonement, as well as Christian ethics, the Holy Spirit, the Church, the means of grace, and eschatology.

  • History of Missions


    An historical overview of the development and progress of Christian missions from its inception to the present. Emphasis is given to the personalities and methodologies which have guided the global advance of the Christian faith into the twenty-first century.

  • Elective

    Choose a class that suites your interests – perhaps a class in Hebrew, choir, or discipleship.

Youth Ministry

  • Discipleship


    A survey of the principles, content, method, and materials for directing the spiritual growth of new converts and preparing them for leadership. Emphasis is given to skill building and to program development within the local church.

  • Youth Discipleship


    This course explores the developmental and spiritual needs of youths and the various theories and methods to help them grow and develop in the Christian faith. Includes an emphasis on discipling youth in various settings.

  • Sunday School and Summer Ministries


    Focuses on the development and implementation of educational ministries such as Sunday School, Vacation Bible School, camping programs and other summer ministries as a part of the total program of Christian education.

  • Media Ministries

    This course examines the application of various media in ministry contexts in a web-centered world. Media examined include video, audio, desktop publishing, graphics, computer presentations, and websites. Emphasis is given to integrating these media with web technologies. The course assumes the student possesses a working knowledge of typing, word processing, internet navigation, and Windows.

  • Worship


    This course examines the biblical roots, historical development, theological meanings, and contemporary applications of worship. Emphasis is placed on leadership of public worship and the sacraments.

  • Dramatic Ministries


    This course enables the student to develop skills for communicative expression through the use of Christian drama. Emphasis is placed upon developing acting skills.

  • Theology Elective


    Choose from several excellent theology classes including the theology of prayer, systematic theology, the theology of John Wesley, cults, or take a survey of holiness literature.

  • Take your Pick


    This course enables the student to develop skills for communicative expression through the use of Christian drama. Emphasis is placed upon developing acting skills.

Worship Pastor

  • Music Theory I

    Extensive study of all scales, intervals, chords, harmonic progression, harmonization, and cadences. Application of learning is made through composition projects and sight singing.


  • Music Theory II


    Elements of harmony studies with emphasis placed upon score analysis of hymns and major works. Activities include advanced sight singing, analyzing projects, and composition projects.

  • Conducting


    An intensive study and drill of congregation and choral techniques. Emphasis on beat patterns and methods of indicating meter, tempo, volume, and style.

  • Worship


    This course examines the biblical roots, historical development, theological meanings, and contemporary applications of worship. Emphasis is placed on leadership of public worship and the sacraments.

  • Survey of Church Music


    An introduction to the historical study, classification and utilization of music intended for Christian worship. The course surveys worship music beginning with the biblical era to the present.

  • Philosophy and Practice of Music Ministry


    An introduction to the organization, administration and leadership of music ministry in the local church giving special attention to the responsibilities of the worship leader, including the philosophical foundations of Christian music.

  • Applied Music


    Applied Voice
    In private culture special attention is given to breath control, placement of tone, articulation and interpretation. Students participate in radio programs and special performances.
    Applied Piano
    Private piano instruction includes emphasis on a thorough technical foundation by the use of standard exercise and classic works. Hymns are also studied from the standpoint of rhythm, pedaling, and pianistic execution.

  • Media Ministries


    This course examines the application of various media in ministry contexts in a web-centered world. Media examined include video, audio,  desktop publishing, graphics, computer presentations, and websites. Emphasis is given to integrating these media with web technologies. The course assumes the student possesses a working knowledge of typing, word processing, internet navigation, and Windows.

  • Take your pick:


    Introduction to Christian Education
    This course emphasizes the biblical foundation of Christian education. Needs of the various age groups, current methods and approaches, curriculum and materials, organization and administration in the local church are practical aspects surveyed.
    Principles and Methods of Teaching
    This course focuses on basic teaching principles and basic instructional methods with the aim of creating an effective lesson plan, and explores and incorporates the teaching methods of Jesus.
    Discipleship
    A survey of the principles, content, method, and materials for directing the spiritual growth of new converts and preparing them for leadership. Emphasis is given to skill building and to program development within the local church.

Church Leadership

  • Systematic Theology


    A comprehensive and systematic study of the major doctrines of the Christian faith in their organic interrelatedness and contemporary relevance which are foundational to Christian thought and life. This course covers the sources and methods of theology, revelation, the inspiration of and canon of Scripture, the doctrine of God, the Trinity, anthropology, sin, Christ, the atonement, as well as Christian ethics, the Holy Spirit, the Church, the means of grace, and eschatology.

  • History of Missions


    An historical overview of the development and progress of Christian missions from its inception to the present. Emphasis is given to the personalities and methodologies which have guided the global advance of the Christian faith into the twenty-first century.

  • Worship


    This course examines the biblical roots, historical development, theological meanings, and contemporary applications of worship. Emphasis is placed on leadership of public worship and the sacraments.

  • Expository Preaching or Persuasive Preaching

    Expository Preaching

    This course studies the craft of the research and development of expository messages and their delivery.

    Persuasive Preaching

    This course introduces the principles of persuasive speech and enables the learner to develop skills for preparing and presenting persuasive messages. The course focuses the application of persuasive speaking principles. 

  • Take your Pick:

    Here you can choose your interest: Introduction to Christian Education, Principles and Methods of Teaching, Apologetics, or Discipleship. You may also select any 2-3 classes from our class list (or transfer in a few credits).

Evangelistic Ministries

  • Dramatic Ministries


    This course enables the student to develop skills for communicative expression through the use of Christian drama. Emphasis placed on developing acting skills.

  • Broadcast Communications


    This course will equip the student to use various forms of communication to advance the Gospel. This includes working closely with the WMTC radio station for hands-on experience.

  • Introduction to Apologetics


    An introduction to terminology, methods, and tools of apologetics.

  • Media Ministries


    This course examines the application of various media in ministry contexts in a web-centered world. Media examined include video, audio, desktop publishing, graphics, computer presentations, and websites. Emphasis is given to integrating these media with web technologies. The course assumes the student possesses a working knowledge of typing, word processing, internet navigation, and Windows.

  • Worship


    This course examines the biblical roots, historical development, theological meanings,
    and contemporary applications of worship. Emphasis is placed on leadership of public
    worship and the sacraments.

  • Practice of Spiritual Disciplines


    This course is a practical application of disciplines learned for personal growth and discipleship.
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Have more questions?
Rev. Tom Lorimer

Rev. Tom Lorimer

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