Bachelor of Arts in Theological Studies: Christian Education Leadership
Prepare for Christian education leadership and church ministry.
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Lead in Christian Education
The Theological Studies: Christian Education Leadership major at Concordia University Irvine prepares you for ministry roles that form faith across generations, whether you’re called to serve as a Director of Christian Education (DCE), youth group leader, camp director, or missionary.
This program is built for students seeking Christian leadership training that is rooted in Scripture and ready for today’s ministry contexts. You’ll grow through extensive, hands-on fieldwork in local churches, guided by mentors who help you develop practical ministry skills and a strong theological foundation.
Qualifying Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS) students seeking church work certification may be eligible for a generous scholarship
Career Relevant
Gain real-world skills for a life of service and leadership.
Collaborative Classes
Learn in classes with a 15:1 student-to-faculty ratio.
Opportunity Awaits
Access fieldwork opportunities across Orange County and beyond.
“I knew I wanted to enter church work… and I valued the emphasis [Concordia] placed on educating Commissioned ministers who are deeply educated in theology but experienced and well-informed teachers.”
Adam D. ’19
Getting Started
The Christian Education Leadership curriculum blends theological depth with practical preparation for ministry in congregations, schools, and mission settings. You’ll build a strong foundation in Scripture and doctrine while developing skills in leadership, discipleship, and ministry communication.
Students who desire to be a Director of Christian Education (DCE) in the LCMS must also complete the DCE minor and Christ College requirements.
Next Start
January 11, 2027
Curriculum
Complete ALL of the following Courses:
- CED201 – Introduction to Christian Education: Theory and Practice
- CED202 – Church Leadership and Administration
- CED401 – Senior Fieldwork Seminar I
- CED402 – Senior Fieldwork Seminar II
- CED470 – Family Systems
- PSY466 – Principles of Counseling
- REL321 – World Religions
OR REL375 – The American Religious Landscape - THL222 – Christian Witness and Evangelism
- THL304 – History of the Christian Church
- THL311 – Old Testament Book of the Bible
OR THL312 – New Testament Book of the Bible - THL371 – Christian Doctrine and Confessions I
- THL372 – Christian Doctrine and Confessions II
- THL429 – Biblical Theology and Exegesis
- THL430 – Christian Apologetics
AND THL481 – The Mission of Christ’s Church
View the Concordia University Irvine Online Catalog for a full list of courses.
Upon completion of your bachelor’s in Christian Education Leadership, you’ll be able to:
- Express an understanding of the language, contents, history, culture, and themes of the Bible.
- Integrate and articulate biblical doctrine in systematic constructs.
- Accurately describe prominent religions, denominations, and philosophies of the past and present.
- Articulate a personal faith in Christ that is well informed from a biblical perspective.
- Demonstrate the theological aptitude to support the church in the Great Commission and lives of service.
Tuition and Fees
At Concordia, we understand that investing in your education is a significant decision. That’s why we offer a variety of scholarships and financial aid options to help make your academic journey more affordable. In fact, 100% of our students receive some form of financial assistance! View tuition costs and fees for undergraduate programs.
Admission Requirements
View the Concordia University Irvine Online Catalog for full details on application and admission requirements.
Fieldwork
Ministry is learned through practice, not just study. In this program, you’ll connect with local churches to observe and engage with a variety of ministry contexts and experiences. You’ll serve under the supervision of a ministry mentor, practicing and growing in your leadership skills in order to become better prepared for lifelong service in the church.
Career Outcomes
Christian Education Leadership graduates often serve in congregations, schools, camps, and nonprofit ministries, supporting faith formation, education, outreach, and discipleship. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Christian elementary and secondary school teachers report an average annual wage of about $52,240.1
Academic Opportunities
Shape your degree around your ministry goals. Christian Education Leadership majors can extend their studies with a related minor, church work program, or graduate degree:
Extracurricular Activities
Live out what you’re learning through service, leadership, and global experiences. From mission trips and study abroad to academic showcases and honor societies, you’ll grow in faith, community, and callings beyond the classroom.
- abbeywest
- Associated Students of Concordia University Irvine (ASCUI)
- Center for Student Leadership & Development (CSLD)
- President’s Academic Showcase
- Leadership, Education, and Development (LEAD) Program
- Missions
- Study Abroad
- Theta Alpha Kappa
- Worship Ensembles
Life at Concordia
Join a community where you’re free to explore your interests and pursuits, make relationships that last a lifetime, and develop your own relationship with God. What will you explore?
Explore Financial Aid
Reduce your tuition costs with financial aid — with help from a team that wants to make your time at Concordia as affordable as possible.
Meet Our Faculty
-
Cari Chittick
Director of Lutheran Teaching Programs and LCMS Placement, Professor of…
FAQs
What kinds of ministry roles does this major prepare me for?
This is the major for you if you want to serve as a DCE in the Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod. Graduates also go on to serve in Christian education leadership roles such as youth leader, children and family ministry leader, camp ministry leader, and missionary support roles, as well as other church-based education and discipleship positions.
Is a bachelor’s in Christian education leadership worth it?
For students who feel called to serve in Christian education or church leadership, a bachelor’s in Christian education leadership can be a meaningful and practical investment. This degree provides theological depth, Christian leadership training, and hands-on ministry experience that support service in congregations, schools, camps, and faith-based organizations.
Related Programs
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Theology – BA
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Theological Studies: Ministry Leadership
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Christian Education Leadership with DCE Certification
Develop as a faith leader with a degree and Director…
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Children’s Ministry
Learn to minister to children and their families.
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Biblical Languages
Strengthen your study of Scripture through Greek and Hebrew.
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Church Work Programs
Commit to a life devoted to God within the church.
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Director of Christian Education – Program
Serve God and your congregation with DCE certification.
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Biblical Studies
Study the Old and New Testaments to better understand God’s…
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Youth Ministry
Share God’s love and teachings with young people.
Sources
1U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, on the internet, at:
- https://www.bls.gov/oes/2023/may/oes212099.htm (viewed Dec. 20, 2025).
Cited projections may not reflect local and/or short-term economic or job conditions and do not guarantee actual job growth.