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

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
• a degree in any subject for a postgraduate course

You could apply to do Church Minister Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship, if you want to train to be a religious leader within the Christian tradition.

This typically takes around 3 years and you will complete a degree in theology and ministry as part of the apprenticeship.

Entry requirements

Employers will set their own entry requirements.

The process of becoming a religious 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.

You'll need:

• knowledge of philosophy and religion
• sensitivity and understanding
• leadership skills
• the ability to work well with others
• the ability to understand people’s reactions
• patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
• the ability to use your initiative
• excellent verbal communication skills
• to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device

As a religious leader, your day-to-day duties will depend on your faith. You may:

• pray and study your religion
• 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 and work with representatives of other faiths and communities
• fundraise and do admin tasks

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.