Choosing a School for Missions Work

Many schools offer mission programs for future missionaries but not all schools are the same. Research your university or Bible college choice carefully to ensure your school will further your chosen career in the mission field.

1. Ensure that the school you have chosen to attend is certified with the denomination you wish to serve with. Some mission boards accept any religious degree from any school, while others are specific.

2. Verify that the Bible college you are attending is accredited with a college organization such as the Southern Association of Colleges. Many people work in non religious careers in between mission work, so ensuring your degree will be accepted in the civilian world is important.

3. Ask if the college has an internship or practicum programs. On hands training lets a student investigate the field to see if it is the right career choice for them. Some schools offer semester internships or summer missionary options. Also, sometimes mission practicums lead to full time positions.

4. Check for job placement options with the university you are attending. Some schools are small or do not offer job placement. Visit your school's career guidance office.

5. Volunteer at your church or university while in college. Volunteer work in church planting, teaching or community service shows an interest in the field plus provides experience for future jobs in mission work.

6. Take the correct Bible courses. Schools that offer mission course work require specific tracks. Make sure you are taking the right courses for your major area and track or you might be surprised that you have a degree you weren't working for.

Proper research ensures that your degree in Bible studies or Missions will garner a job both in the mission field and in the public sector. Nothing is worse than graduating with a degree and not being able to get a job.