Cedarville University

The only thing that I have certain in my future is that I want to be a pastor. Up until I found this school, I figured that, naturally, a Pastoral Studies major was the way to go. But, once I found this school and its awesome Pre-Seminary program, I began re-evaluating all my previous college choices. I intend on continuing my studies in grad school, probably a seminary, but I definitely want to be able to work some kind of pastoral or church leadership ministry during grad school. Considering both of these factors, which major would suit me best? I'm leaning more towards Pre-Seminary (I love the implemented Greek & Hebrew minor and possible philosophy minor), but I don't want to make a rash decision that is going to have a major impact on the way I serve God for 4+ years. I'm in the extra fun position of being the first college-bound student AND the first to have a relationship with Christ in my family, so I have absolutely no idea what to do and no good source of advice. I hope some of you guys can help.

Hi J,
Sounds like you've checked out the programs pretty closely and I think that the Preseminary program would suit you best. However, you should also know that there are really only 5 courses that are unique to the pastoral minstries major and they are two preaching classes, two classes on counseling and ministry and the internship program. You actually could take the preseminary program as your major and fit some of the pastoral ministries classes in as electives if you'd like. You can even do a shortened version of the internship program if you'd like. The best news is that the programs are similar enough that you'll have plenty of time to decide which one you'd like to pursue after you get here.
Hope this helps,
Chris Miller, Ph.D.
Professor, Bible Department
Cedarville University
Cedarville, OH 45314
937-766-7983