Religious Leader

Typical Salary

To

Typical Hours

37 to 39 variable

evenings / weekends managing your own hours

How To Become a Religious Leader

You can get into this job through:

a university course
an apprenticeship
applying directly

College / University

You may need a degree or postgraduate award for some leadership positions. Most subjects are accepted though theology and philosophy may be particularly useful.

2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree

a degree in any subject for a postgraduate course

Apprenticeship

You could do a church minister degree apprenticeship, if you want to train to be a religious leader within the Christian tradition.

Routes into this Career

Routes into this Career are not listed for this job.

The process of becoming a leader can take several years, and is often based on your knowledge, experience and position within the religion.

Each religion has a different way of training its leaders, so the training and the length of time it takes will vary. For many religions the process might include:

study at a college or religious training centre
intensive study of your faith's teachings and writings
time alone in contemplation or meditation
experience of working with people in the community
mentoring and supervision from an experienced leader of your religion

In some religions, there are rules on who can become a leader and what duties they can carry out.

If you want to train to become a leader in your faith, the first thing you should do is ask your own religious leader for advice and guidance.

Other Routes

Other Routes are not listed for this job.

Skills And Knowledge

You'll need:

knowledge of philosophy and religion
sensitivity and understanding
customer service skills
leadership skills
the ability to work well with others
patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
the ability to use your initiative
knowledge of teaching and the ability to design courses
to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device

Day To Day Tasks

Your day-to-day duties will depend on your faith. You may:

pray and study your religion
encourage commitment to the faith
lead regular religious services or ceremonies
conduct services and ceremonies for religious festivals, holy days and events such as births, marriages and deaths
explain the meaning of your faith's teachings
educate people who are converting to your faith
support people at difficult times in their lives
represent your faith within the community
be a role model for your followers
meet representatives of other faiths and communities
fundraise and do admin tasks

Working Environment

You could work in an office, from home, in a prison, in a place of worship or in an NHS or private hospital.

Your working environment may be emotionally demanding and you'll travel often.

You may need to wear a uniform.

Career Path & Progression

Every religion or faith is structured differently, and career progression will vary from faith to faith.

You may be recommended for higher positions by senior members of your faith, or you may have to apply for vacant posts.

You may also have opportunities to become involved in teaching, counselling, interfaith relations, writing, or humanitarian and charity work.

There are also opportunities to work as a chaplain in the armed forces. You can find out more from:

Volunteering Opportunities

Volunteering Opportunities are not listed for this job.

Tips & Information

Career tips

Becoming a religious leader is a serious commitment that can be seen as a calling as much as a career.

As well as a strong belief in your faith and its traditions, you should accept that the work will affect all aspects of your life.

Restrictions & Requirements

Restrictions & Requirements are not listed for this job.