Clergy

Clergy members perform spiritual functions and lead worship services according to the beliefs of their faith. Their daily work centers heavily on establishing and maintaining interpersonal relationships, assisting and caring for others, and resolving conflicts. These professionals spend significant time teaching, counseling, and building teams within their congregations. To succeed, they must possess strong skills in speaking, active listening, social perceptiveness, and persuasion.

This role requires extensive knowledge in philosophy and theology, the English language, administration, and therapy. Because their primary interest area is social, clergy must be highly attuned to the needs of others. They rely on key work styles such as empathy, cooperation, dependability, integrity, and humility to guide their communities. On any given day, they might solve complex problems, make decisions for their organization, motivate subordinates, and communicate with various peers and supervisors to keep their religious institution running smoothly.

To enter this career, individuals typically need at least a bachelor's degree. However, because this occupation requires extensive preparation, most professionals in the field go on to earn a graduate degree, such as a master's degree, PhD, MD, or JD. Students preparing for this path often choose college majors in theological and ministerial studies, pastoral counseling and specialized ministries, or mental and social health services and allied professions.

While preparing for this career, individuals may pursue professional certifications. Examples include the Certified Sexuality Educator credential from the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors and Therapists, or Clinical Pastoral Education through The Association for Clinical Pastoral Education, Inc. Additionally, some states list a license for this work, so candidates should check local state guidelines. This career is also known by various titles depending on the denomination, including bishop, campus minister, cantor, catechist, Catholic priest, or chaplain.

In 2025, the median annual pay for clergy was $60,810. This means half of the workers in this field earned more than this amount, and half earned less. The lowest 10% of earners made less than $37,860, while the highest 10% earned more than $98,890.

There were 57,200 people employed in this profession. Between 2025 and 2035, employment is projected to grow by 2.4%, which is as fast as the average for all occupations. Despite this modest growth rate, the field is expected to see 19,200 job openings each year.