Established in 1959, the Universal Life Church offers a quick ordination, after which you will be able to perform simple duties such as officiate a wedding or conduct a baptism. The ordination process typically takes 72 hours after you submit your application and the process is free of charge. The church supports your goal by offering ministerial training outreach and a minister forum, so that you can stay connected with the church and your peers.
Founded by Pat Robertson in 1978, Regent University is a Christian-led university that offers a full range of religious curriculum online. The university offers a bachelor's degree in Christian Ministry and Biblical and Theological Studies. Through the Regent online system, students can hear lectures about course topics and ask questions about the subject. The university also offers several graduate level degrees in the religious areas. Tuition for the 2010-11 school year was $500 to $600 per credit hour; however, financial aid is available for those who qualify.
Founded in 1971, Liberty University offers a bachelor's degree in religion focusing on the fundamentals of the Bible, Christian theology and the history of the Christian church. If you are already leading a ministry and want to further your knowledge, they also offer nine religious concentrations in their master's programs, as well as a master of divinity degree.
Since 1975, the American Fellowship Church has been ordaining people its ministry. The ordination does require a fee, but the church offers several supporting services to justify the cost. Fees start at $30 for a one-year ordination and I.D. card and go as high as $295 for a full certificate stating your minister status and a lifetime minister license. The American Fellowship Church keeps full records of your ordination in case you ever need to verify it with a third party. They also provide information on each state's laws concerning marriage officiating, so you are never unsure of the steps to take. If you are looking to begin your own church, they also provide a Church Charter Packet, which covers all the documents and steps needed to begin the process.