The Bachelor of Arts in Church Marketing Strategy is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively promote and grow church communities in alignment with biblical principles. This program combines marketing strategies with an understanding of apostolic teachings, enabling students to engage their congregations and communities in meaningful ways.
Degree Objectives
Graduates of this program will:
1. Understand foundational marketing principles and their application within the church context.
2. Develop strategic communication skills tailored to church ministries.
3. Analyze the role of culture, community, and social media in church marketing.
4. Create effective marketing campaigns that reflect biblical values.
5. Cultivate leadership skills to influence and inspire congregational growth and outreach.
Course Structure
The program consists of 120 credit hours, including 40 courses of three credit hours each. Below is a breakdown of the courses:
BBF 101 Biblical Foundations of Leadership
This course explores the principles of leadership as demonstrated in the New Testament, particularly through the lives of the apostles. Students will examine how these biblical foundations serve as a framework for effective leadership in contemporary church settings. By understanding the characteristics and practices of apostolic leaders, students will be equipped to foster church growth and community engagement while remaining rooted in biblical truth. Book Title: “Spiritual Leadership: Principles of Excellence for Every Believer” by Henry and Richard Blackaby. Publisher: B&H Publishing Group.
AIM 104 Introduction to Church Marketing
This course provides an overview of essential marketing principles with a unique focus on their application within church settings. Students will explore how marketing strategies can be ethically and effectively used to enhance church growth, community engagement, and the overall mission of the church. Grounded in biblical apostolic principles, this course aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to develop and implement effective marketing strategies for their congregations. Textbook: “Marketing for Congregations: Choosing to Serve People more Effectively” by Norman Shawchuck and Philip Kotler. Supplementary Reading: “Church Marketing 101: Preparing Your Church for Greater Growth” by Richard Reising. (3 credit hours)
APCM 106 Principles of Church Marketing
This course will explore how churches can effectively communicate their messages, engage with their communities, and promote growth through strategic marketing initiatives grounded in biblical principles. Textbook: “Faith-Based Marketing: The Guide to Reaching 140 Million Christian Customers” by Bob Hutchins and Greg Stielstra. (3 credit hours)
ADMM 108 Digital Marketing for Churches: Social Media Strategy for Ministry
This course emphasizes the use of social media platforms to connect with and grow church communities. Grounded in biblical apostolic principles, it is designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to effectively utilize social media for ministry purposes. Students will learn how to create engaging content, build online communities, and measure the impact of their social media efforts to further their church’s mission. Textbook: “The Social Media Gospel: Sharing the Good News in New Ways” by Meredith Gould. Supplementary Reading: “The Social Church: A Theology of Digital Communication” by Justin Wise. (3 Credit hours)
BCE 111 Community Engagement and Outreach
This course focuses on the principles and strategies for effectively engaging local communities through outreach initiatives grounded in biblical teachings. Students will explore various methods to connect with individuals and families, fostering relationships that lead to spiritual growth and community service. Emphasizing the mission of the Church as a transformative presence, the course will equip students with the tools necessary for impactful outreach. Textbook: “The Art of Neighboring: Building Genuine Relationships Right Outside Your Door” by Jay Pathak and Dave Runyon. Publisher: Baker Books. (3 credit hours)
ACCC 124 Content Creation and Storytelling for Church Promotion
This course focuses on crafting compelling narratives and content that effectively promote church activities, missions, and values. Grounded in biblical apostolic principles, the course aims to equip students with the skills needed to create engaging and meaningful content that resonates with diverse audiences. Students will learn the art of storytelling, various content creation techniques, and strategies for promoting their content across different platforms. Textbook: “Building a StoryBrand: Clarify Your Message So Customers Will Listen” by Donald Miller. Supplementary Reading: “The Art of Storytelling: Easy Steps to Presenting an Unforgettable Story” by John Walsh. (3 credit hours)
AMRA 140 Marketing Research and Analysis for Church Growth
This course aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively apply marketing research and analysis principles in the context of church growth and outreach. By understanding the importance of data-driven decision-making, students will learn how to strategically market church activities, engage with the community, and foster growth in their congregations. Textbook: “Church Marketing 101: Preparing Your Church for Greater Growth” by Richard L. Reising. (3 credit hours)
ACB 148 Church Branding and Management
This course will explore how churches can establish a strong brand identity, effectively manage their reputation, and foster growth through strategic branding initiatives. Textbook: “Rethink: A Church Marketing Manual for the 21st Century” by Stephen Brewster. (3 credit hours)
BMPB 201 Media Planning and Buying
This course delves into the essential techniques for selecting and purchasing media space, specifically tailored for church marketing. Students will learn how to effectively utilize various media channels to reach their target audiences while aligning with biblical values. Through a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical application, this course aims to equip students with the skills necessary for impactful media planning and execution in a church context. Textbook: “Media Planning: Finding Your Audience” by Jim Surmanek. Publisher: Cengage Learning. (3 credit hours)
ACAP 208 Church Advertising and Promotion
This course will explore how churches can effectively reach out to their communities, communicate their message, and promote engagement and growth through strategic advertising and promotion. Textbook: “The Social Church: A Theology of Digital Communication” by Justin Wise. (3 credit hours)
BCA 211 Church Analytics and Performance Measurement
This course explores the integration of data analytics within church marketing strategies, focusing on how to effectively measure the impact of marketing initiatives on church performance and community engagement. By employing biblical apostolic principles, students will learn to utilize data-driven approaches to enhance their church’s outreach and ministry effectiveness. Textbook:”Church Marketing 101: Preparing Your Church for Increased Attendance” by Richard L. Reising. Publisher: Church Marketing Solutions. ISBN: 978-0979294416. (3 credit hours)
ACR 216 Customer Relationship Management for Churches
This course will explore the importance of building meaningful connections within the church community, fostering engagement, and promoting growth through strategic relationship management. Textbook: “The Connected Church: A Social Media Communication Strategy Guide for Churches, Nonprofits and Individuals in Ministry” by Natchi Lazarus. (3 credit hours)
BSM 222 Church Strategic Marketing Management
This course focuses on the development and implementation of comprehensive marketing strategies tailored for churches. Emphasizing a biblical apostolic perspective, students will learn to align their marketing efforts with the mission of the church while effectively reaching and engaging their communities. Textbook: “Marketing for Churches: A Practical Guide for Building a Thriving Church” by John S. K. Chisholm. Publisher: Church Marketing Solutions. ISBN: 978-0997426355. (3 credit hours)
APRC 232 Public Relations and Crisis Communication
This course explores the principles and practices of public relations and crisis communication within the context of apostolic organizations. Students will learn how to effectively manage public perception, communicate in times of crisis, and uphold the reputation of the church in alignment with biblical and apostolic values. Textbook: “Crisis Communications: A Casebook Approach” by Kathleen Fearn-Banks. (3 credit hours)
AEM 240 Email Marketing and Newsletters in Apostolic Organizations
This course delves into the principles and best practices of email marketing and newsletters within the context of apostolic organizations. Students will learn how to effectively use email communication as a tool for outreach, engagement, and nurturing relationships with members and the community. Textbook: “Email Marketing Rules: Checklists, Frameworks, and 150 Best Practices for Business Success” by Chad White. (3 credit hours)
ACEP 248 Church Event Planning and Promotion
This course is grounded in Biblical principles and the apostolic tradition, aiming to maximize participation and engagement within the church community. Whether you’re planning small gatherings or large-scale conferences, this course will provide you with the tools needed to create impactful and spiritually enriching events. Textbook: “Events That Inspire: A Guide to Creating Memorable and Successful Church Events” by Sarah Johnson. (3 credit hours)
ACS 256 Communications and Public Speaking
This is a course that is designed to help ministry leaders develop effective communication skills grounded in Biblical and apostolic traditions. Communication is a vital component of ministry, impacting how we share the Gospel, inspire our congregations, and engage with our communities. This course will equip you with the necessary skills to communicate clearly, confidently, and compassionately in various ministry contexts.
Textbook: “Communicating for a Change: Seven Keys to Irresistible Communication” by Andy Stanley and Lane Jones. (3 credit hours)
AFDS 272 Fundraising and Development Strategies
This is a course designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to generate support and funding for church initiatives. Rooted in Biblical principles and the apostolic tradition, this course will explore a variety of fundraising methods and development strategies to help sustain and grow church ministries. You will learn how to effectively communicate your church’s mission, engage with potential donors, and build long-term support networks. Textbook: “Fundraising for Churches: 12 Keys to Success Every Church Leader Should Know” by Linda Wise McNay. (3 credit hours)
AELC 281 Ethical and Legal Considerations in Church Marketing
This course is designed to help students navigate the complex ethical and legal issues that arise in the promotion of church activities. Grounded in Biblical principles and the apostolic tradition, this course aims to provide ministry leaders with the knowledge and tools necessary to conduct their marketing efforts with integrity, transparency, and compliance with applicable laws. Textbook: “Church Law & Tax Guide” by Richard R. Hammar (3 Credit hours)
BCB 316 Consumer Behavior for Church Marketing
This course is designed to explore the principles of consumer behavior from a biblical apostolic perspective and apply them to the context of church marketing. Understanding how and why people make decisions is crucial for effectively reaching and engaging both current and potential church members. This course will blend biblical principles with marketing strategies to help students develop a comprehensive approach to church marketing that respects and reflects their faith. Textbook: “Consumer Behavior: Buying, Having, and Being” by Michael R. Solomon. (3 credit hours)
BIM 340 International Church Marketing and Cross-Cultural Engagement in Ministry
This course provides an in-depth exploration of international church marketing and its significance in cross-cultural ministry engagement. With globalization, churches are increasingly required to understand and adapt their marketing strategies to diverse cultural contexts. This course will equip students with the tools to communicate effectively and authentically across cultures, fostering inclusivity and outreach in their ministries. Textbook: “Cross-Cultural Psychology: Research and Applications” by John W. Berry, Ype H. Poortinga, and Janak Pandey. (3 credit hours)
BCR 139 Conflict Resolution
This course aims to provide students with a deep understanding of conflict from a biblical perspective and equip them with practical skills to resolve conflicts effectively. Students will explore the nature and causes of conflict, learn conflict resolution techniques, and understand how to mediate and reconcile differences within a pastoral context. This course integrates biblical teachings with practical strategies to prepare students for effective pastoral counseling and conflict resolution. Textbook: “The Peacemaker: A Biblical Guide to Resolving Personal Conflict”* by Ken Sande. (3 credit hours)
ACS 256 Communications and Public Speaking
This is a course that is designed to help ministry leaders develop effective communication skills grounded in Biblical and apostolic traditions. Communication is a vital component of ministry, impacting how we share the Gospel, inspire our congregations, and engage with our communities. This course will equip you with the necessary skills to communicate clearly, confidently, and compassionately in various ministry contexts. Textbook: “Communicating for a Change: Seven Keys to Irresistible Communication” by Andy Stanley and Lane Jones. (3 credit hours)
AELC 281 Ethical and Legal Considerations in Church Marketing
This course is designed to help students navigate the complex ethical and legal issues that arise in the promotion of church activities. Grounded in Biblical principles and the apostolic tradition, this course aims to provide ministry leaders with the knowledge and tools necessary to conduct their marketing efforts with integrity, transparency, and compliance with applicable laws. Textbook: “Church Law & Tax Guide” by Richard R. Hammar. (3 credit hours)
ALTB 289 Leadership and Team Building in Ministry
This course is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of effective leadership principles and team dynamics within a ministry context. Grounded in Biblical principles and the apostolic tradition, this course aims to equip future ministry leaders with the skills necessary to lead with integrity, inspire their teams, and foster a collaborative and supportive church environment. Textbook: “Spiritual Leadership: Principles of Excellence for Every Believer” by J. Oswald Sanders. (3 credit hours)
ACR 297 Customer Relationship Management for Churches
This course is designed to help students understand and implement strategies for maintaining and nurturing relationships with church members and visitors. Grounded in Biblical principles and the apostolic tradition, this course will equip ministry leaders with the skills and tools necessary to foster strong, supportive, and engaging church communities. You will learn how to use Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems effectively to enhance communication, engagement, and spiritual growth within your congregation. Textbook: “Sticky Church” by Larry Osborne. (3 credit hours)
BCCC 300 Cultural Competency in Church Ministry
This course is designed to help students understand and engage with diverse communities effectively. Grounded in Biblical principles and the apostolic tradition, this course aims to equip ministry leaders with the knowledge and skills necessary to foster inclusive and welcoming church environments. You will learn how to appreciate cultural differences, address cultural barriers, and promote unity within the body of Christ. Textbook: “Many Colors: Cultural Intelligence for a Changing Church” by Soong-Chan Rah. (3 credit hours)
BVP 308 Video Production for Ministry
This course is designed to equip students with the essential skills needed to create and edit video content specifically for church use. In an era where digital media plays a pivotal role in ministry outreach, understanding the basics of video production is crucial. This course will provide both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, enabling students to produce high-quality video content that effectively communicates the Gospel and supports the church’s mission. Textbook: “The Filmmaker’s Handbook: A Comprehensive Guide for the Digital Age” by Steven Ascher and Edward Pincus. (3 credit hours)
BCB 316 Consumer Behavior for Church Marketing
This course is designed to explore the principles of consumer behavior from a biblical apostolic perspective and apply them to the context of church marketing. Understanding how and why people make decisions is crucial for effectively reaching and engaging both current and potential church members. This course will blend biblical principles with marketing strategies to help students develop a comprehensive approach to church marketing that respects and reflects their faith. Textbook: “Consumer Behavior: Buying, Having, and Being” by Michael R. Solomon. (3 credit hours)
BSNT 324 Sales and Negotiation Techniques with Integrity for Church
This course aims to equip students with fundamental sales and negotiation techniques grounded in biblical principles and apostolic integrity. In a world where the marketplace and ministry often intersect, understanding how to communicate effectively and negotiate ethically is crucial for church leaders and marketers. This course will explore strategies that align with Christian values while achieving successful outcomes in church-related initiatives. Textbook: “The Art of Negotiation: How to Improvise Agreement in a Chaotic World” by Michael Wheeler. (3 credit hours)
BEI 332 Entrepreneurship and Church Innovation in a Biblical Framework
This course explores the intersection of entrepreneurship, innovation, and biblical principles within the church context. As modern churches face unique challenges and opportunities, this course will empower students to develop innovative solutions that align with their faith and mission. By examining biblical narratives and contemporary entrepreneurial practices, students will learn to foster creativity and effective ministry strategies in their churches. Textbook: “The Innovator’s Dilemma: When New Technologies Cause Great Firms to Fail” by Clayton M. Christensen.
BIM 340 International Church Marketing and Cross-Cultural Engagement in Ministry
This course provides an in-depth exploration of international church marketing and its significance in cross-cultural ministry engagement. With globalization, churches are increasingly required to understand and adapt their marketing strategies to diverse cultural contexts. This course will equip students with the tools to communicate effectively and authentically across cultures, fostering inclusivity and outreach in their ministries. Textbook: “Cross-Cultural Psychology: Research and Applications” by John W. Berry, Ype H. Poortinga, and Janak Pandey.
BFM 348 Church Financial Management for Christian Marketing Professionals in Ministry
This course provides a comprehensive overview of financial management principles specifically tailored for church marketing professionals. Understanding financial stewardship is crucial for effective ministry, allowing churches to allocate resources wisely, plan marketing initiatives, and ensure sustainability. By integrating biblical principles with practical financial strategies, students will be equipped to make informed decisions that align with their church’s mission and vision. Textbook: “Church Finance: The Five Steps to Financial Health” by Michael E. Batts. 3 credit hours)
BCP 400 Church Planting Strategies
This course focuses on the principles and practices of church planting from a biblical apostolic perspective. Students will explore effective strategies for establishing new congregations, understanding community needs, and fostering growth through outreach and engagement. By examining both historical and contemporary models of church planting, students will be equipped to launch and nurture vibrant church communities. Textbook: “Church Planting Movements: How God Is Redeeming a Lost World” by David Garrison. Publisher: WIGTake Resources. ISBN: 978-0980614615. (3 credit hours)
BMR 405 Discipleship and Member Retention
This course examines the critical relationship between discipleship and member retention within the church. From a biblical apostolic perspective, students will explore effective strategies for fostering spiritual growth and community engagement, ensuring that members not only join but thrive within the church body. The course will emphasize practical applications of discipleship principles to enhance retention and deepen faith. Textbook: “The Purpose Driven Church: Growth Without Compromising Your Message & Mission” by Rick Warren. Publisher: Zondervan. ISBN: 978-0310201062. (3credit hours)
BSW 410 SEO and Church Websites
This course focuses on the principles of Search Engine Optimization (SEO) and its application to church websites. From a biblical apostolic perspective, students will learn how to design and optimize websites to effectively reach and engage their communities. The course will cover strategies for enhancing online visibility and promoting church activities, ultimately supporting the mission of the church. Textbook: “SEO for Churches: How to Get Found Online” by David Kinnaman & Scott D. Kauffman. Publisher: Church Marketing Solutions. ISBN: 978-0996226516. (3 credit hours)
BMDA 420 Ministry in the Digital Age
This course aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively leverage digital tools and platforms to enhance their pastoral care and counseling practices while upholding biblical and Apostolic principles. Textbook: “Digital Church: How Technology Will Transform the Future of the Church” by Jane Smith. (3 credit hours)
BVC 430 Vision Casting Churches and Strategic Planning
This course aims to equip students with the tools and biblical foundations necessary to develop and implement effective marketing strategies that resonate with congregational values and community needs. Textbook: “The Purpose Driven Church: Growth Without Compromising Your Message & Mission” by Rick Warren. (3 credit hours)
BSL 440 Service Learning and Missions
Service learning is a transformative educational approach that combines community service with academic instruction, focusing on critical, reflective thinking. This course will explore the biblical foundations of service and missions, equipping students with the knowledge and skills to engage in effective service learning initiatives. Through hands-on experiences and theological reflection, students will develop a deeper understanding of their role in fulfilling the Great Commission. Textbook: “When Helping Hurts: How to Alleviate Poverty Without Hurting the Poor…and Yourself” by Steve Corbett and Brian Fikkert. (3 credit hours)
BDP 450 Developing Partnerships with Local Organizations and Businesses
This course will explore the biblical foundations and practical strategies for building effective partnerships. This course will equip students with the skills necessary to foster relationships that align with the mission of the church while addressing community needs. Textbook: “The Art of Community: Seven Principles for Belonging” by Charles Vogl.
Additionally courses
BYFM 510 Youth and Family Ministry Marketing
This course will equip students with the tools to connect with these key demographics, fostering community and discipleship through strategic outreach and communication. Textbook: “The Sticky Faith Handbook for Youth Workers: Help Your Teens Build a Lasting Faith” by Kara Powell and Chap Clark. (3 credit hours)
BTM 520 Time Management for Church Ministry Professionals
This course focuses on the principles and practices of time management from a biblical perspective, equipping students with tools to prioritize their tasks, manage their schedules, and lead their ministries effectively. This course will integrate scriptural insights with practical strategies to help students align their time management practices with their ministry goals. Textbook Recommendation: “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People: Powerful Lessons in Personal Change” by Stephen R. Covey. (3 credit hours)
BML 530 Mentorship and Coaching in Church Leadership
This course explores the biblical foundations of mentorship, the role of a coach in spiritual growth, and practical strategies for effectively mentoring others in a church context. By examining scriptural examples and contemporary practices, students will learn how to foster a culture of growth and accountability within their church communities. Textbook: “Mentoring Leaders: How to Help Others Succeed” by Tony Dungy & Nathan Whitaker. Publisher: Tyndale House Publishers, 2010. (3 credit hours)
BVM 540 Church Volunteer Management and Development
This course will explore biblical principles of service and leadership, providing students with the tools to recruit, train, and retain volunteers in a church setting. By examining case studies and practical strategies, students will learn how to foster a culture of volunteerism that aligns with their church’s mission and vision. Textbook: “Volunteers: How to Get Them, Keep Them, and Make Them Feel Good About It” by John D. C. S. Stansfield. Publisher: Jossey-Bass, 2011. (3 credit hours)
BMW 550 The Role of Music and Worship in Marketing
This course examines the intersection of music, worship, and church marketing from a biblical apostolic perspective. Students will explore how music can enhance the worship experience, foster community, and communicate the church’s mission effectively. By analyzing successful case studies and developing strategic initiatives, students will learn to harness the transformative power of music in church marketing. Textbook: “Worship Matters: Leading Others to Encounter the Greatness of God” by Bob Kauflin. Publisher: Crossway, 2008. (3 credit hours)
BAC 560 Art and Creativity in Church Communication
This course explores the role of art and creativity in church communications from a biblical apostolic perspective. Students will learn how to utilize various artistic mediums to convey messages, foster engagement, and enhance the overall worship experience. By examining biblical principles, contemporary practices, and successful case studies, students will develop innovative communication strategies that resonate with their communities. Textbook Recommendation: “The Art of Communication: How to Communicate Effectively in Life and Work” by John C. Maxwell. Publisher: Thomas Nelson, 210. (3 credit hours)
Summary
This Bachelor’s program in Church Marketing Strategy integrates marketing principles with a biblical apostolic perspective, preparing students to engage effectively with their communities. Through a comprehensive curriculum that combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills, students are equipped to lead their churches in innovative and impactful ways.
Conclusion
As the church continues to navigate the complexities of modern society, the need for effective marketing strategies grounded in biblical truths becomes increasingly important. This Bachelor of Arts in Church Marketing Strategy not only prepares students to meet these challenges but also empowers them to fulfill the Great Commission through strategic communication and outreach. Graduates will emerge as influential leaders capable of transforming their churches and communities for Christ.