Pathways to Ordination at Trevecca

Since 1901, Trevecca has been preparing women and men for ministry. We continue supporting that mission by offering multiple pathways to fulfill the education requirements for ordination in the Church of the Nazarene.

Bachelor of Arts in Religion

This traditional undergraduate degree is offered on site at our beautiful campus just minutes from downtown Nashville. Over the course of three to four years, students will engage with their studies in a series of foundational courses and select a concentration from a number of specializations, including pastoral ministry, worship ministry, youth ministry, intercultural studies and more.

Christian Ministry Online (CMO)

This online degree completion program, aimed at those who have some college credit or another degree, can be completed in 18 months and equips pastors with a holistic approach to ministry, integrating a deep knowledge of scripture and doctrine with practical skills in a range of meaningful ministerial contexts. Tuition is free for Nazarene pastors on the Southeast Field.

Non-Degree Course of Study (NCOS)

This online program takes approximately three years and allows pastors to complete all necessary instruction through a flexible video-based curriculum without receiving a degree. The content is taught by a variety of pastors and professors from around the country, giving students a range of perspectives and information to become well-rounded ministers.

Traditional BA in Religion	Christian Ministry Online Program (CMO)	Non-Degree Course of Study (NCOS)
In-Person Format Results in fully accredited degree and ordination training Duration: 3-4 years Concentrations in pastoral ministry, youth ministry, children’s ministry, church and community, intercultural studies, worship ministry Benefit from close relationships with Trevecca faculty at our Nashville campus More info and application	Online Format Results in fully accredited degree and ordination training Duration: Approximately 18 months A degree completion program perfect for those who have previous college credit or a degree in another field Equips you to serve in a variety of ministry roles Tuition for 19 core and ordination courses is free for Nazarene pastors in the Southeast Field An Integrated Mentorship Program helps students discuss coursework with a mentor More info and application	Online Format Results in ordination training Duration: Approximately 3-4 years Video-based curriculum with instruction offered from professors and pastors around the U.S. and Canada Non-degree approach for those who are pursuing ordination but do not want a degree Equips you to serve in a variety of ministry roles Launching January 6, 2026 More info and application

Each of these programs is a validated Course of Study that fulfills all education requirements for ordination in the Church of the Nazarene. If you are pursuing ordination in a denomination outside the Church of the Nazarene, see its educational requirements to ensure these programs meet those requirements.