The Associate of Arts in Church Marketing Strategy is designed to equip students with the essential tools and knowledge to effectively promote and grow church ministries in today’s digital and dynamic environment. Grounded in biblical apostolic principles, this program blends theological insights with contemporary marketing strategies to help students develop skills in communication, technology, and outreach. Graduates will be prepared to serve in various roles within church organizations, contributing to their growth and impact in the community.
Degree Prerequisites:
– High school diploma or equivalent
– Basic proficiency in computer skills
– A recommendation from a church leader or pastor
– A personal statement outlining the applicant’s faith journey and interest in church marketing
Course Objectives:
– To understand the biblical foundations of evangelism and church growth
– To explore and apply modern marketing strategies in a church context
– To develop skills in digital marketing, social media, and content creation
– To enhance communication and leadership abilities within ministry settings
– To equip students with the knowledge to analyze and respond to community needs effectively
Who Should Apply:
– Church leaders and pastors seeking to enhance their ministry’s outreach
– Aspiring church marketing professionals
– Individuals interested in combining their faith with modern marketing techniques
– Church volunteers and staff looking to expand their skill set
– Recent high school graduates considering a career in church ministry and marketing
Course List:
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 Recommendation:
Title: “Faith-Based Marketing: The Guide to Reaching 140 Million Christian Customers” by Bob Hutchins and Greg Stielstra. (3 credit hours)
AEOD 101 Evangelism and Outreach: Making Disciples for the Kingdom of God
This course aims to equip students with the biblical and practical knowledge necessary for effective evangelism and outreach within their communities. The course will explore the theological foundations of evangelism, the biblical mandate for outreach, and practical strategies for making disciples. Students will learn how to communicate the gospel effectively and disciple new believers in their faith journey, all within the framework of a biblical apostolic perspective. Textbook: “Evangelism: How the Whole Church Speaks of Jesus” by J. Mack Stiles. “The Master Plan of Evangelism” by Robert E. Coleman. (3 credit hours)
ADM 108 Digital Marketing for Churches
This course focuses on techniques and strategies for online outreach and engagement, equipping students with the knowledge and practical skills necessary to effectively use digital platforms to further their church’s mission. Grounded in biblical apostolic principles, the course teaches students how to ethically and strategically leverage digital tools to connect with their congregations and broader communities. Textbook: “The Digital Marketing Handbook: A Step-by-Step Guide to Creating Websites that Sell” by Robert W. Bly. Supplementary Reading:** “The Social Church: A Theology of Digital Communication” by Justin Wise. (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)
AGD 116 Graphic Design for Church Communications
This course focuses on the basics of graphic design tailored specifically for creating church-related materials. Grounded in biblical apostolic principles, the course aims to equip students with the skills to produce visually appealing and effective communication materials that enhance the church’s message and outreach efforts. Students will learn the principles of design, use of design software, and the creation of various church-related graphics. Textbook: “The Non-Designer’s Design Book” by Robin Williams. Supplementary Reading: “Church Graphics Handbook: A Practical Guide to Visual Content Creation for Church Communications” by Alex F. Bautista. (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)
AWD 132 Website Development and Management for Churches
This course focuses on building and maintaining an effective church website, ensuring it serves as a powerful tool for outreach, communication, and engagement. Grounded in biblical apostolic principles, the course aims to equip students with the technical skills and strategic insights necessary to create and manage websites that reflect the mission and values of their church communities. Textbook: “Church Websites 101: The Complete Guide to Building a Website for Your Church” by Chuck Russell. Supplementary Reading: “WordPress for Beginners 2023: A Visual Step-by-Step Guide to Mastering WordPress” by Dr. Andy Williams. (3 credit hour)
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
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)
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) Wireless
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)
APMI 224 Project Management for Church Initiatives
This course will delve into the principles of project management as applied to church initiatives, emphasizing strategic planning, execution, and evaluation. Textbook: “Church Project Management: A Step-by-Step Guide to Managing Your Church Initiatives” by Peter S. Linder. (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)
ACEM 264 Church Event Marketing and Sponsorship in Ministry
This course is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of how to market church events effectively and secure sponsorships to support these events. Grounded in Biblical principles and the apostolic tradition, this course aims to equip ministry leaders with the tools and strategies needed to enhance the impact and reach of their events, fostering greater community engagement and support. Textbook: “Event Marketing: How to Successfully Promote Events, Festivals, Conventions, and Expositions” by Leonard H. Hoyle. (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)
BCP 356 Capstone Project in Church Marketing Strategy
This capstone course offers students the opportunity to apply the concepts and skills they have learned throughout their program in Church Marketing Strategy to a real-world project. Students will work collaboratively to design, implement, and evaluate a comprehensive church marketing strategy that addresses specific needs within a church or community. This hands-on experience will not only solidify their understanding of marketing principles but also equip them to make a meaningful impact in ministry. Textbook: “Marketing for Churches: Tools and Techniques for Effective Ministry” by J. Lee Grady. (3 credit hours)
Summary:
The Associate of Arts in Church Marketing Strategy offers a comprehensive education that integrates biblical principles with contemporary marketing techniques. Through this program, students will develop the necessary skills to enhance church visibility, engagement, and growth. The curriculum is designed to be practical, relevant, and grounded in faith, preparing graduates to make a meaningful impact in their church communities.
**Conclusion:**
In a world where digital presence and effective communication are increasingly crucial, the Associate of Arts in Church Marketing Strategy stands out as a vital educational pathway for those called to serve in church ministries. By combining theological insight with marketing expertise, this degree empowers students to spread the message of the Gospel in innovative and impactful ways. Whether you are a church leader, aspiring marketer, or dedicated volunteer, this program will equip you to lead your ministry into a thriving future.