York University Online launches the Ministry Growth and Development concentration for the Master's in Leadership
York, Nebraska – York University is excited to introduce the Ministry Growth and Development concentration under the Master of Arts in Organizational and Global Leadership degree program. This new concentration is designed for those sensing the call to guide churches and faith-based organizations through seasons of change, renewal, and sustained vitality.
Focused on the real challenges facing ministry today, the concentration equips students to lead with vision, wisdom, and spiritual depth. Through a carefully designed sequence of three courses, students gain essential leadership competencies, practical ministry tools, and theological insight—rooted in a holistic understanding of discipleship and spiritual formation. The program emphasizes developing leaders who can cultivate spiritually mature, mission-driven communities while responding thoughtfully and effectively to the evolving realities of ministry.
All three concentration courses are 100% online and asynchronous, with no additional course fees or materials to purchase, making the program both accessible and flexible for working leaders. The first course, Empowering Spiritual Truths, launches in the Spring 2026 semester on January 12. The three courses are:
MIN 5311 The Learning Congregation - This course explores the concept of the congregation as a dynamic learning-centered community, shaped by ongoing spiritual formation, theological reflection, and organizational development which can be intersected to encourage growth and renewal. Students will examine how congregations adapt to change, cultivate discipleship, goal-set, and engage in lifelong learning.
MIN 6321 Faithful Decision-Making - This course explores the principles and frameworks that shape ethical and strategic decision-making within Christian leadership and ministry settings. Grounded in biblical wisdom and informed by leadership theory, students will examine how faith, scripture, and moral discernment converge to address real-word challenges faced by churches, nonprofit organizations, and broader communities. Key topics include the application of biblical wisdom to leadership decisions, navigating ethical dilemmas in ministry, the role of prayer and spiritual discernment, and the tension between honoring tradition and embracing innovation.
MIN 6331 Empowering Spiritual Truths - This course explores the transformational power and practical application of spiritual truths as foundations for personal growth, discipleship, and effective ministry within the life of the church. Students will examine how spiritual truth shapes identity, guides ethical action, and empowers leadership in church and community settings. Special attention will be given to cultivating spiritual maturity, personal discipleship, congregational edification, discerning gifts, creating a culture of encouragement, and mobilizing a driven ministry.
While students may choose to complete only the three-course concentration, continuing into the full leadership degree expands learning into practical principles for guiding the people and processes of any organization. The degree develops effective leadership skills in such areas as leading teams, managing change and culture, strategic thinking and decision making, communication and conflict resolution, ethics, and organizational behavior.
Graduates of the program will be better prepared for a wide range of ministry and leadership roles, including pastoral ministry, church administration, church planting, eldership, discipleship coordination, Christian education, and service in faith-based organizations. This coursework also equips leaders to conduct meaningful program evaluations, inspire innovation, and cultivate a culture of discipleship that strengthens both mission and community impact.
To learn about this concentration or the Master of Arts in Organizational and Global Leadership contact:
Joe Davis
Director of Online and Graduate Enrollment
York University
1125 E. 8th Street
York, NE 68467
Phone: (402) 363-5709
Email: online@york.edu