Do you have a degree in Bible, missions, youth ministry, or Biblical Studies? Are you searching for a job, and would prefer not to work for a church? Have you decided that preaching is not your calling and would like a non-church job? Here are a few career ideas for Bible majors.
Job Idea for Bible / Ministry Majors #1: Hospital or Prison Chaplain
A chaplain serves many roles in hospitals and prisons. They provide counseling, offer spiritual guidance, and lead religious services. They help both patients (or inmates) and their families. It can be a very rewarding, but stressful job. Chaplains are also, of course, needed in the military. Read “The Responsibilities of a Chaplain” for more insight.
Job Idea for Bible / Ministry Majors #2: Parole / Probation Officer
Are you tough, or can at least pretend to be? Do you think you could work with felons, violent offenders, or people who have just been released from prison? A career as a parole officer might be for you. While the requirements vary according to states, most will hire applicants with a Bible degree. (Sociology, social work, and Criminal Justice degrees are preferred, but are not essential.)
For job openings in Texas, visit the TDCJ website here. For other states, just find the website of the agency that handles criminal justice. You might also just google “parole officer jobs.”
Job Idea for Bible / Ministry Majors #3: CPS / DHR Caseworker
Do you have a heart for helping children in need? Do you think you could handle working with abused and/or neglected children? A job as a CPS caseworker might be for you. There are several different types of CPS jobs. Some help parents learn basic parenting skills, others will provide services to youth in foster care. To apply in your state, google “children’s protective services” along with your state to find the name of the agency. In Texas it is called the Department of Protective and Family Services. You can find out about job openings in Texas here.
While it is preferred that caseworkers have a degree in social work or a related field, it is not necessary. In fact, in Texas, there are caseworkers with degrees in business, education, and political science. If this is something you would like to do, it might help to gain some volunteer experience. Consider becoming a CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate). Visit the website here for more information.
Job Idea for Bible / Ministry Majors #4: Life Coach
If a stable salary is not a necessity and you’d like to start your own business, you might consider becoming a life coach. Check out “So You’re Thinking About Becoming a LIfe Coach?’ for tips and insight. It does require some additional schooling.
Job Idea for Bible / Ministry Majors #5: Houseparent
If you’d like to play an active role in a child’s life, this might be the job for you. This is a residential position where you will mentor, discipline, and nurture children who have been abused or neglected. Some group homes require couples, but others welcome singles. (In fact, in some situations, they prefer singles.) To search job opportunities, visit this website here.
Another idea is to apply to be a dorm parent at a private boarding school. There are many boarding schools that hire dorm parents. Visit this website here to find schools, and search on their websites for employment opportunities.
Job Idea for Bible / Ministry Majors #6: Insurance Adjuster
Insurance companies such as Allstate and State Farm have openings for several positions that pay well. These jobs usually only require a bachelor’s degree in any field. While a business degree is preferred, they will hire applicants who have degrees in other fields, including Bible. Visit the websites of insurance companies you would like to work for to learn more about career opportunities.
Job Idea for Bible / Ministry Majors #7: Restaurant Manager
Many restaurants have manager training programs. They welcome applicants with any type of degree, including Bible. One website to start your search for a restaurant manager job is here.
Job Idea for Bible / Ministry Majors #8: Freelance Writer
This one might require an additional part-time job to help supplement your income. If you love to write, a job as a freelance writer might be for you. Read “Freelance Writing Sites for Beginners: Where to Write and Get Paid for It” for suggestions. You might also check out elance.com. Another helpful article to read is “5 Freelance Writer Forums: Find Advice on Freelance Writing Jobs.”
Job Idea for Bible / Ministry Majors #9: Business Owner
If you have lots of determination and motivation, this might be a great time to start your own business. You could buy a franchise such as a coffee shop. (Read “Low Cost Coffee Franchises” for some ideas.) For advice on starting your own business, take a look at “5 Basic Tips for Starting Your Own Business”.
Job Idea for Bible / Ministry Majors #10: English Teacher
Feeling adventurous? Consider teaching English overseas for a few years. Read “Teach English in China: The Ups and Downs” for some insight. You might contact your college’s career center and ask for advice on choosing a program overseas to work for.
These are ten career ideas for people with degrees in Bible, youth ministry, missions or Biblical studies. Good luck as you make decisions for your future!
Reference:
- www.associatedcontent.com/article/2437326/5_basic_tips_for_starting_your_own.html?cat
- www.associatedcontent.com/article/2446288/low_cost_coffee_franchises.html?cat=31
- www.associatedcontent.com/article/2060659/5_freelance_writer_forums_find_advice.html?
