Academic Catalog and Student Handbook

MISSION
“Central prepares leaders for seeking God, shaping church, and serving humanity and all creation.”
Central is committed to serving the whole community of faith, which includes persons preparing for vocational ministry, as well as those who desire to deepen their understanding of service to Christ in a variety of lay ministries in church and society. As a seminary, we seek to honor diversity of giftedness and callings.

OUR VALUES
We are dedicated to providing an inclusive environment where students from every background can pursue post-secondary seminary education that is accessible, affordable, and effective.

Community
We build authentic relationships and deep connections among students, faculty, staff, alumni, board members, partners, and all friends of Central. We gather to worship and pray. We come together to celebrate our successes and tackle our challenges. We are open and honest. We collaborate and convene, knowing that we can achieve our shared vision by aligning our goals and leveraging our unique strengths.

Empathy
We are compassionate and caring. We listen, learn, and connect. We celebrate differences, seek to understand each other, pursue justice in the world around us, and put our faith into action. We practice humility and kindness, and strive to create spaces that are welcoming, inclusive, and equitable.

Growth
We are lifelong learners who crave growth, strive for excellence, and seek to serve God. We look for opportunities to challenge ourselves, build new skillsets, and expand our ways of thinking. We pursue knowledge through study and experiential learning. We believe all people are made in the image of God and can develop to their full potential with passion, determination, and support.

Tenacity
We lead with courage, faith, and hope in the face of uncertainty. Our adaptability and resourcefulness empower us to be innovative and creative. We dream big and take action to pursue purposeful transformation in ourselves and the world around us.

AFFILIATION
Central is a professional graduate school of theology affiliated with the American Baptist Churches U.S.A. and in full support of the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship. The seminary’s Institutional Support Program (ISP) allows a close and supportive relationship with the American Baptist Churches of the Central Region, as well as neighboring ABC regions.

Churches affiliated with the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship also serve as vital partners in ministry with Central Seminary, providing scholarship support and ministerial placements for some Central students and graduates. In addition, Central Seminary receives support from churches of many other denominations across the United States.

HISTORY
Begun as the dream of Reverend E. B. Meredith, missionary secretary for the then Kansas State Convention, Central Seminary has educated faithful leaders for ministry in the church and the world. Founded in 1901, Central Seminary recognized and responded to the need for a distinctively Baptist school to train leaders for Christian work throughout the world and especially in the Midwestern part of the United States. This fervent conviction of the unique and necessary role the seminary should play in the education of church leadership among Baptists has continued for over 100 years.
Central Seminary stands within the Free Church tradition embracing devotion to the redemptive gospel, the evangelistic mission of the Church, and the spirit of intellectual inquiry which encourages open-mindedness to the best insights of biblical and theological studies. The Central community strives to be ecumenical and evangelical. To these commitments, Central Seminary adds vital concern for the continual application of Christian perspectives to the societal and systemic crises confronting our often chaotic and ever-changing world.

ACCREDITATION
Central Seminary is accredited by the Association of Theological Schools (www.ats.edu) and the Higher Learning Commission’s North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (www.hlcommission.org).

LOCATIONS
The school’s main campus is located at 8620 West 110th Street, Suite 200, Overland Park, KS 66210. The web address is https://www.Central.edu.

Some courses and programs are offered through online/distance education.

The seminary maintains teaching sites in the following locations. For specific information about programs, departments, or courses offered at each location, please visit the CENTRAL website, contact the Site Administrator, or see the degree information in this catalog.
❖Anaheim, CA
❖Lawrenceville, GA
❖Park Ridge, IL
❖Overland Park, KS
❖Austin, TX
❖Carrollton, TX
❖Houston, TX
❖Des Moines, WA

STATE COMPLIANCE STATEMENTS

State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (SARA)
Central Seminary is approved for institutional participation in the SARA initiative. More information can be found at www.nc-sara.org. Unresolved student concerns regarding SARA-authorized programs should be directed to the KS Board of Regents. Click here to access the state complaint form.

Washington
“The Washington Student Achievement Council has determined that Central Seminary qualifies for religious exempt status from the Degree-Granting Institutions Act for the following program: Master of Divinity (MDiv). The Council makes no evaluation of the administration, faculty, business practices, financial condition or quality of the offerings by this institution. Any person desiring information about the requirements of the act or the applicability of those requirements to the institution may contact the Council at P.O. Box 43430, Olympia, WA 98504-3430 or by email at degreeauthorization@wsac.wa.gov.”

California
The current course offering site is 1815 E. Center Street Anaheim, CA 92805.

CENTRAL is a private not-for-profit institution that is approved to operate in California by the Bureau of Private Postsecondary Education and must comply with state standards as set forth in the CEC and 5, CCR.

As of the publication of this catalog, CENTRAL does not have a pending petition in bankruptcy.
Prospective students are encouraged to review this catalog prior to signing an enrollment agreement. You are also encouraged to review the School Performance Fact Sheet on the seminary website, which is available to you prior to signing an enrollment agreement.

Students are expected to acquire physical or digital copies of required reading materials and to access digital resources through the internet related to their course work. Therefore, it is important for students to have access to transportation to attend physical class sessions and access to computing resources that connect to the internet.

Any questions a student may have regarding this catalog that have not been satisfactorily answered by the institution may be directed to the Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education at 2535 Capitol Oaks Drive, Suite 400, Sacramento, CA 95833, www.bppe.ca.gov, (888) 370-7589, fax (916) 263-1897.

A student or any member of the public may file a complaint about this institution with the Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education by calling (888) 370-7589 or by completing a complaint form, which can be obtained on the bureau’s internet web site, www.bppe.ca.gov.

Central Seminary’s site in Anaheim, CA, is a church building with two floors. The classroom is located on the second floor. The classroom seats 15 people, with additional space for discussion or relaxation on the first floor. Office space is provided for the teaching professor and the site director. A gated parking lot is located in front of the building and is free for students to use.

The classroom is equipped with desks and chairs for students and professors, and it has Wi-Fi and a TV screen for distance learning. When appropriate, video conferencing applications are used to connect students with faculty and peers located across the country. Students access learning materials through Populi, Central Seminary’s Learning Management System, and the Digital Theological Library, which students access through their Central student accounts.

The California course location does not have any housing facilities and does not have responsibility for assisting students in searching for renting or purchasing property. There are many residential neighborhoods and rental properties within a minute drive of the location. Students can expect to pay between $1000-$2000 for a studio apartment.

The Office of Student Assistance and Relief is available to support prospective students, current students, or past students of private postsecondary educational institutions in making informed decisions, understanding their rights, and navigating available services and relief options. The office may be reached by calling (888) 370-7589, option #5, or by visiting osar.bppe.ca.gov.

STUDENT TUITION RECOVERY FUND – The State of California established the Student Tuition Recovery Fund (STRF) to relieve or mitigate economic loss suffered by a student in an educational program at a qualifying institution, who is or was a California resident while enrolled, or was enrolled in a residency program, if the student enrolled in the institution, prepaid tuition, and suffered an economic loss. Unless relieved of the obligation to do so, you must pay the state-imposed assessment for the STRF, or it must be paid on your behalf, if you are a student in an educational program, who is a California resident, or are enrolled in a residency program, and prepay all or part of your tuition.

You are not eligible for protection from the STRF, and you are not required to pay the STRF assessment, if you are not a California resident, or are not enrolled in a residency program.
It is important that you keep copies of your enrollment agreement, financial aid documents, receipts, or any other information that documents the amount paid to the school. Questions regarding the STRF may be directed to the Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education, 2535 Capitol Oaks Drive, Suite 400, Sacramento, CA 95833, (916) 431-6959 or (888) 370-7589.

To be eligible for STRF, you must be a California resident or enrolled in a residency program, prepaid tuition, paid or deemed to have paid the STRF assessment, and suffered an economic loss as a result of any of the following:

1. The institution, a location of the institution, or an educational program offered by the institution was closed or discontinued, and you did not choose to participate in a teach-out plan approved by the Bureau or did not complete a chosen teach-out plan approved by the Bureau.
2. You were enrolled at an institution or a location of the institution within the 120-day period before the closure of the institution or location of the institution or were enrolled in an educational program within the 120-day period before the program was discontinued.
3. You were enrolled at an institution or a location of the institution more than 120 days before the closure of the institution or location of the institution, in an educational program offered by the institution as to which the Bureau determined there was a significant decline in the quality or value of the program more than 120 days before closure.
4. The institution has been ordered to pay a refund by the Bureau but has failed to do so.
5. The institution has failed to pay or reimburse loan proceeds under a federal student loan program as required by law or has failed to pay or reimburse proceeds received by the institution in excess of tuition and other costs.
6. You have been awarded restitution, a refund, or other monetary award by an arbitrator or court, based on a violation of this chapter by an institution or representative of an institution, but have been unable to collect the award from the institution.
7. You sought legal counsel that resulted in the cancellation of one or more of your student loans and have an invoice for services rendered and evidence of the cancellation of the student loan or loans.
To qualify for STRF reimbursement, the application must be received within four (4) years from the date of the action or event that made the student eligible for recovery from STRF.
A student whose loan is revived by a loan holder or debt collector after a period of non-collection may, at any time, file a written application for recovery from STRF for the debt that would have otherwise been eligible for recovery. If it has been more than four (4) years since the action or event that made the student eligible, the student must have filed a written application for recovery within the original four (4) year period, unless the period has been extended by another act of law.

However, no claim can be paid to any student without a social security number or a taxpayer identification number.

ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE

Board of Trustees
The Board of Trustees meets twice each academic year (November and May) to oversee the operations of the seminary. The Board is also an important decision-making body for major policy changes, election of the seminary president, and more. Members of the Board of Trustees are appointed by the President and approved by the rest of the Board to serve a voluntary three-year term.

Administration
The Leadership Team consists of: President, Vice President of Academic Affairs, Vice President of Finance and Administration, Senior Director of Brand Advancement, Senior Director of Development, and Senior Director of Enrollment Management. The team meets regularly to plan for the seminary’s future and to discuss critical issues related to the seminary.

Committees
The work of the seminary is organized through various committees including, but not limited to, Faculty Senate, Community Life, Admissions Committee, Academic Team, and more. More detailed descriptions are found in the relevant sections of this handbook.

Faculty
The seminary’s faculty consists of standing faculty and supplemental faculty. While those who teach as supplemental faculty vary, the standing faculty remains stable and focused on their various disciplines (i.e., New Testament, Hebrew Scriptures, Theology, Church History, Homiletics, Worship, Ethics, and Contextual Learning). The seminary employs a well-qualified and knowledgeable supplemental faculty, when necessary, to cover specializations and supplement the full teaching loads of standing faculty.

Site Administrators
The seminary utilizes the expertise of Site Administrators to oversee the operations of course locations outside the Kansas City metropolitan area. Students taking courses at the sites will get to know their Site Administrators and should feel free to direct questions and concerns to them.

Support Staff
An important group of staff take care of the seminary’s daily operations. Students may interact with staff for the purposes of registration, billing, admissions, services and communication. Students should view the seminary staff as important resources for assistance and guidance during their time at the seminary.

OFFICE HOURS
The seminary office at the Overland Park, KS campus is open Monday through Thursday from 8:00am to 12:00pm and 1:00pm to 4:30pm (CST). Offices and the library are closed during chapel and seminary holidays. Seminary holidays include:
❖New Year’s Day
❖Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
❖Good Friday
❖Memorial Day
❖Independence Day
❖Labor Day
❖Thanksgiving (and Friday following)
❖Christmas Eve and Day
❖New Year’s Eve

If the seminary is closed on other days, students will be notified.

INITIATIVES and INSTITUTES

Urban Missional Institute
The Urban Missional Institute seeks to foster opportunities for dialogue, research, and strategic planning among advocates, students, and scholars who seek to make positive economic and spiritual impacts in their communities in the fields of urbanism and social engagement. More information about UMI and upcoming events can be found on the CENTRAL website or by contacting the director, Dr. Wallace Hartsfield.

Buttry Center for Peace and Nonviolence
Named for Dan and Sharon Buttry, Global Peace Consultants for International Ministries of the American Baptist Churches, USA, the center seeks to equip students and faith communities to work for a more just, peaceful, and flourishing world. This involves biblical, theological, and theoretical education, along with practical skill-building. It expresses Central’s educational commitment to enabling learners to serve humanity through compassionate and empathic action that leads to progressive, purposeful change. More information can be found on the CENTRAL website or by contacting the director, Dr. Ruth Rosell.

PREPARATION FOR SEMINARY STUDY
The best preparation for a master’s level theological education is a baccalaureate degree that
includes a liberal arts background. Incoming students will find a variety of courses in the
humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences to be helpful for seminary preparation, including
courses that are reading and writing intensive and cover a variety of cultures around the world.

As an integral part of their undergraduate education, students must have proficiency in reading,
writing, oral presentation, and critical thinking. If the seminary discovers that a student lacks
sufficient preparation, skills, or understanding in any area, it reserves the right to require
additional work before or after admission.

Students should be mentally and emotionally healthy. If assessment of mental or emotional health is
deemed necessary by the seminary, applicants may be required to undergo further assessment as
directed by the seminary.

REQUIREMENTS FOR ADMISSION
Certificate Level

The seminary offers several options for certificate non-credit programs, including Judson
Communities (Burmese/Karen), Ola Hanson (Burmese/Kachin), and Fundanciones (Spanish speaking).

Admission to a FOUNDATIONS (certificate) program requires the completion of an application. For
more details, please contact the director of the program.

Diploma Level

Admission to the Diploma program does not require an earned baccalaureate degree, but, in general,
applicants should be age 30 or older. Applicants must submit the following:

• Completed and signed online application form
• Application Fee ($50)
• 2 Recommendations (no family members)
• Admission essay
• Verification of educational record (should include one of the following):
• Secondary education information
• Copy of transcript for any associate’s or bachelor’s degree or coursework
  Master’s Level

Prospective students seeking a graduate degree need to have earned a baccalaureate degree or its
equivalent from an institution that is accredited by an agency recognized by the US Department of
Education. A grade point average of 2.3 (C+) or higher on a 4.0 scale is required and some programs
may require higher GPA. A limited number of students meeting specific criteria may be admitted to
the Master of Divinity, the Master of Arts (Theological Studies), Master of Arts in Ministry, the
Master of Arts in Missional Church Studies, and the Master of Christian Care and Counseling degree
programs without an earned baccalaureate degree or its equivalent. Applicants must submit the
following:

• All Master’s Programs
  • Completed and signed online application form
  • Application Fee ($50)
  • 2 Recommendations (no family members)
  • Admission Essay
  • Official transcript of a baccalaureate degree from an institution of higher education that is
    accredited by an agency recognized by the US Department of Education, or approved by a Canadian provincial quality assurance agency, or the demonstrated educational equivalent of an accredited or approved North American baccalaureate degree
  • Additional Documentation for the MACO Program
  • A Counselor Disposition Survey is required of all MACO applicants.
  • A third recommendation is required of all MACO applicants.
  • Another admissions statement is required of all MACO applicants.

Doctoral Level

Prospective DMin students must meet the following criteria to apply:

• Possess the Master of Divinity degree from an ATS accredited institution with a minimum grade
  point average of 3.00 on a four-point scale during graduate study (some exceptions possible
  regarding provisional admission).
  • Students without an accredited Master of Divinity degree may be admitted, if providing the school documentation that addresses the following six areas:
    • the ability to thoughtfully interpret scripture and the theological tradition of one’s
      ministry context
    • the capacity to understand and adapt one’s ministry to the cultural context
    • a basic self-understanding of one’s ministerial identity and vocational calling
    • a readiness to engage in ongoing personal and spiritual formation for one’s ministry
    • an accredited master’s degree (or its educational equivalent) in an area related to one’s ministry setting or vocational calling
    • and significant ministerial experience that enables the applicant to engage as a ministry peer with other students in this advanced professional doctorate.
  • Educational equivalency of applicants is determined by the admission committee of the Doctor of Ministry program once the applicant submits all admission documents, including his or her transcripts. Upon review of the transcripts, full equivalency will be determined. Should the applicant lack a class or two or even more, he or she will be required to do leveling work either before the applicant starts the course work or concurrently taking DMin classes during the first year. He or she should complete the leveling work by the end of the first year of the DMin program.
  • A minimum of three years of significant ministry experience at the time of acceptance. Exceptions may be made for qualified students with other ministry experience.

A completed DMin application consists of:

• � Application form (to be completed online)
• Application Fee – $50 (non-refundable
• � Four letters of recommendation attesting to the individual’s fitness for the program
• � Official transcripts (undergraduate and graduate)
• � A written essay reflecting the applicant’s background, theological perspective, values and goals for growth in the DMin program
• � A formal interview with the CENTRAL DMin Committee
• � Copy of Ordination Certificate/Ministry License (if applicable)
• � An English language proficiency requirement for students [in the English language DMin program]
  for whom English is not their first language. At a minimum, this will include an acceptable TOEFL
  score and evidence of ability to use English—both orally and written—in a theological setting.
• Myanmar students applying for the DMin program must have either an MDiv degree from Myanmar Institute of Theology (MIT) or an MDiv from a theological school accredited by ATESEA or Serampore Senate.

Applicants to the Myanmar program must meet the following requirements:

• Application form
• � Demonstrate English proficiency to the satisfaction of the MIT Faculty and the DMin
  Committee
• � Letters of reference from their church and from their association or conference in which they
  work
• � Letter containing a statement of financial support
• � Official transcripts (undergraduate andgraduate)
• � A personal statement reflecting the applicant’s background, theological perspective, values, and goals for growth in the DMin program

The MIT DMin Admission Committee serves as a subcommittee of Central Seminary’s DMin Committee.

This committee shall be composed of the Principal, the Vice Principal, the Academic Dean, the MIT
DMin Coordinator, the Director of the DMin Program, Chairperson of the DMin Committee, and other
faculty as needed.

DMin applicants may be admitted under provisional status and/or be required to take classes for
leveling of coursework. See the DMin handbook for more information.

Non-Native Korean Language Speakers

Any non-native Korean language person that wish to study in one of the Korean programs must meet
the minimum language testing requirements during the admission process. Applicants can submit their scores for either of the following as proof of Korean language proficiency:

1. Avant STAMP assessment (https://avantassessment.com/stamp)
• Diploma – minimum of Level 6 (intermediate high)
• Master’s – minimum of Level 7 (advanced low)
• Doctoral – minimum of Level 8 (advanced mid)
2. Test of Proficiency in Korean-TOPIK (https://www.topik.go.kr)
• Diploma – minimum of Level 5
• Master’s – minimum of Level 6
• Doctoral – minimum of Level 6

International Students

In addition to the application requirements of the program they are applying to, international
students (F-1 visa students) must also submit the following as part of their application process:

• � Financial Support Documents
• Affidavit of Financial Support – self-support and/or sponsor
• Bank information for each financial support person verifying available funds to cover first year
  expenses can include one of the following:
  ▪ Bank Statement – showing name of account holder, date of issue (must be within 3 months of
  application), and amount of funds available in the account
  ▪ Letter from Bank – on bank letterhead signed by a bank employee displaying name of account
  holder, date of issue (within 3 months of application), and amount of funds available in the
  account
• Copy of Passport (for applicant and each dependent)
• Copy of Visa for applicant and each dependent (if a visa student is already in the
  US)
• Copy of the latest I-94 for applicant and each dependent (if a visa student is already in the
  US)
• Copy of current I-20 for applicant and each dependent (if visa student is already in the
  US)
• Copy of Dependents form
• Test of English as a Foreign Language (for students studying in English whose first language is
  not English). If an International Student’s language skills are not adequate, the student may be
  required to successfully complete an English Language Learner course (ELL) or some similar training at another institution. (The seminary does not have English language learning programs.)

If admitted to the seminary, international students arriving on an F-1 visa are expected to be
familiar with all regulations related to their visa status. F-1 students are allowed to work no
more than 20 hours per week on campus, and campus employment is not guaranteed. It is expected that support to pay for school and living expenses must come from personal funds or sponsors.

Please note: the seminary does not have full tuition scholarships or campus housing for international
students. Housing, transportation, and medical insurance will need to be arranged prior to coming
to the United States.

Central will only issue an I-20 form when an international student has been admitted, met all
financial conditions, and made all arrangements. The seminary does not provide visa application
services. Mailing fees may apply for documentation that must be sent express and/or overseas. See
the financial information section for specific charges.

An international student who is unable to meet his/her financial obligations to the seminary may be
denied matriculation. During his/her first and second semester, an international student’s course
load may be limited to the full-time threshold, at the discretion of the Dean.

PROVISIONAL ADMISSION

Provisional Admission may be granted to applicants for whom certain admissions requirements must
still be verified, i.e., upon finishing a baccalaureate degree, upon completing leveling
coursework, etc. Provisional Admission should only be granted for up to one term and converts to
full admission once all admission requirements are satisfactorily met. Applicants seeking to study
on an F-1 visa are not eligible for provisional admission.

PROBATIONAL ADMISSION

The Admission Committee may admit students on probationary status. The Dean may remove probationary status after the student achieves goals outlined by the Admission Committee. Students on probation are not eligible for seminary scholarships.

Normally, an undergraduate cumulative grade point below 2.3 (4.0 scale) or 1.8 (3.0 scale) requires
admission on academic probation for 21 credit hours. During those 21 credit hours, the student must
achieve at least a 2.0 grade point in all graduate level courses. If the student demonstrates
marked competency at the graduate level by accruing a grade point average of 3.3 or better, the
Dean may remove the probation after 9 credit hours.

A limited number of students from undergraduate institutions not accredited by an accrediting
organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education may be granted admission on academic probation for 21 credit hours. If the student demonstrates marked competency at the graduate level accruing a grade point average of 3.3 or better, the Dean may remove probation after 9 credit hours.

Applicants seeking to study on an F-1 visa are not eligible for probational admission.

MATRICULATION

Students must fulfill all requirements for registration and arrange for payment of fees and other
financial obligations before matriculation. Students must acknowledge their acceptance of admission
by signing the New Student Enrollment Agreement and any other required forms for the term which was sent before registration is possible. All students will be required to be at $0 balance no later
than the completion of their semester/term. Students will not be allowed to enroll in the next
semester/term until their account balance is $0. The Business Office will place a financial lock on
the student’s account until payment is made, or a revised payment plan is agreed to.

Admitted students who fail to matriculate within two years of admission must re-apply.

SPECIAL STUDENTS

A special student at Central Seminary is one who has completed a baccalaureate degree, is
non-degree seeking, and wishes to take courses for graduate level academic credit. A complete
application for special student status includes:

• Special student online application form
• Official transcripts of undergraduate and graduate work
• � Personal statement outlining the reason(s) for requesting special student status
• � Other information as requested by the Admission Committee

Special students may apply up to 21 credit hours toward a degree program at Central. Admission as a special student does not guarantee admission to an academic degree program at Central. Students
must re-apply to enter a degree program. Those admitted on special student status are not eligible for seminary scholarships.

TRANSFER STUDENTS

Students transferring from other theological schools accredited by the Association of Theological
Schools (ATS) must meet regular admission requirements.

Graduate courses completed with a grade of C or higher can be considered for transfer credit. To
transfer courses, the prospective or current student must provide an extensive course description
or syllabus to the Registrar’s Office. A nonrefundable fee of $25 will be assessed to a prospective or current student to evaluate their transfer credit evaluation request. Approved transfer credits will be placed on a student’s transcript after 9 credit hours of satisfactory work have been completed at Central Seminary.

A transfer credit evaluation does not guarantee admission. Students from other ATS-accredited
theological schools applying to a graduate degree must meet regular admission requirements.
Students are advised to request the transfer credit evaluation before executing an enrollment
agreement with Central.

Students transferring into the following degree programs must complete the following number of
credits at Central to earn a degree from Central:

• DMin – 24 credits (exceptions must be approved by the DMin Committee)
• MDiv – 25 credits
• MA(TS) – 18 credits
• MAMCS – 18 credits
• MACO – 30 credits
• Diploma – 24 credits

Only courses offered at a degree granting site of Central count toward the requirement for credits
taken at CENTRAL. Exceptions to this policy must have approval from the faculty.

VETERANS
Central Seminary is approved by the Kansas Commission on Veterans Affairs and cooperates fully with the Veterans Administration. Veterans must apply to the Veterans Administration for approval of
benefits under this program. To receive benefits, veterans or eligible spouses/dependents must
submit their proof of eligibility to the Registrar’s office. With proof of eligibility and registration, the School Certifying Official will submit enrollment certifications to the Veterans Administration. All veterans using educational benefits will not face any penalty due to delayed VA payment disbursements, including late fees, additional borrowing, and denial of access to courses
or resources.

• GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More
information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government Web
site at https://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill.
• Post-9/11 GI Bill® students who receive Monthly Housing Allowance (MHA) and/or kicker payments
are required to electronically verify monthly their enrollment to continue receiving their
payments.

COMMUNITY LIFE
Students, faculty, and administrators work together on tasks groups that devise and carry out seminary activities. Student representatives attend board meetings. Campus activities provide opportunities to share experiences and concerns, offer support, and enhance community life.

SPIRITUAL LIFE
Spiritual formation is the continuing work of God’s Spirit in the life of a believer in the context of Christian community. As Christ is formed within, each Christian is equipped and empowered to fulfill God’s call to ministry (diakonia), to worship (leitourgia), and to participate in community (koinonia) which builds up the whole Body of Christ. Spiritual formation is also the task of each Christian and involves a continuing discipleship expressed in those disciplines that encourage personal growth and wholeness, leading to maturity in Christ. Theological education encourages personal transformation.

Because of its importance to the ministry, spiritual formation is the central goal of the seminary community. Added to the daily disciplines of individual study and prayer, worship, table fellowship, and ministry experiences are built into the curriculum and extracurricular activities through which people are formed for ministry.

CHAPEL
Chapels and other times of worship and prayer are scheduled regularly during the academic year. These gatherings provide the seminary community with a forum for expressing itself in a variety of worship styles that reflect the rich ecumenical diversity of the student body, faculty, and staff.

STATEMENT ON INCLUSIVITY and NON-DISCRIMINATION
Central’s Board of Trustees and our leadership are committed to creating a healthy place for learning and growth. Discriminatory attitudes and behaviors, whether intentional or unintentional, are not acceptable within our community. Any employee or student who exhibits or participates in deliberate or unwitting behaviors that are offensive or discriminatory to individuals with reference to their age, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race/color, religion, sexual orientation or veteran status will be subject to disciplinary action that may result in suspension or dismissal from the institution.

STUDENT COVENANT AND CODE OF ETHICS
As a student of Central Seminary actively examining God’s call, I covenant with God and this community to serve Christ in the ministries to which I am called with God’s help, to deepen my obedience to the two Great Commandments: to love the Lord our God and to love my neighbor.

In affirmation of this commitment, I will abide by the Covenant and Code of Ethics, the Academic Integrity Commitment, and the Standards of Conduct of the students of Central Seminary. I will faithfully support its purposes and ideals. As further affirmation of my commitment, I covenant with my colleagues in the ministry that we will hold one another accountable for fulfillment of all public actions set forth in our Code of Ethics.

I will show my personal love for God as revealed in Jesus Christ in my life and ministry. I will strive with others to preserve dignity, maintain discipline, and promote the integrity of the vocation to which

I have been called.

I will display academic integrity. I will encourage others to study, discuss, work, and pray together. All work, both written and oral, submitted for a grade shall be my own original work.

I will respect the faculty and administration. In matters of academic evaluation, I will utilize proper channels for airing grievances.

I will develop and maintain a lifestyle that reflects God as the center of my life in thought, speech, and action. I will respect the diversity in Christian heritage, traditions, and beliefs held by others.

I will personally and publicly support my colleagues who experience discrimination on the basis of gender, gender identity, race, age, marital status, sexual orientation, national origin, physical impairment, or disability. I will exercise discretion in confidential matters.

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY
The Central Seminary community covenants to act with integrity in all areas of life, including academic work. As stated in the Student Covenant and Code of Ethics, “All work, both written and oral, submitted for a grade shall be my own original work.” Work considered “not original” includes content created by other students, unattributed content found during the research process, or unattributed content generated by computer applications.

Plagiarism is the use in writing of wording or ideas produced by others without crediting the author and/or source from which the material was taken.

Plagiarism injures the community by inhibiting the recognition and cultivation of gifts imparted by the Spirit. Clearly unattributed use of the words and/or ideas of others fails to give appreciative recognition of their gifts. But this illegitimate appropriation of the gifts of others also blocks the recognition and cultivation of the actual gifts of the person engaged in plagiarism.

Plagiarism creates an atmosphere of falsehood in the community’s discernment and cultivation of gifts, both within the Christian community and in God’s larger creation. Since freedom comes only by way of truth, such falsehood can only result in captivity and therefore has no place in the Christian community.

On this basis, Central Seminary adheres to the following general requirements for the acknowledgement of sources of academic work. These requirements apply to both print and electronic media.

1. Quotations. Any sentence or phrase that a student uses from another source must be placed in quotation marks or, in the case of longer quotations, clearly indented beyond the regular margin. Any quotation must be accompanied (either within the text or in a note) by a precise indication of the source.
2. Paraphrasing. Any material that is paraphrased or summarized must also be specifically acknowledged in a note or in the text.
3. Ideas. Specific ideas that are borrowed should be acknowledged in a note or in the text, even if the idea has been further elaborated by the student.
4. Bibliography. All the sources consulted in the preparation of an essay or report should be listed in a bibliography.

In addition to plagiarism, the following related practices are also unacceptable compromises of the truth requisite to a free community:

1. Multiple submission. Failure to obtain prior written permission of the relevant instructors to submit work which has been submitted in identical or similar form in fulfillment of any other academic requirement at any institution.
2. False citation. The deliberate attribution to, or citation of, a source from which the material in question was not, in fact, obtained.
3. Submission of work done by someone else, either with or without that person’s knowledge. Neither ignorance of the regulations concerning academic violations nor personal extenuating circumstances are an adequate defense against charges of plagiarism.

[The italicized statements above are adapted and used by permission of The Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia and Princeton University, Princeton, New Jersey, based upon a document adapted by LTSP, with permission, from “Princeton University Rights, Rules and Responsibilities,” 1990 Edition. Princeton University, Princeton, New Jersey.]

STANDARDS OF CONDUCT
Students and employees are expected and required to report to class and work on time and in appropriate mental and physical condition. It is the seminary’s intent and obligation to provide a drug-free, healthy, safe, and secure environment.

Smoking
Smoking is prohibited inside all seminary buildings.

Drug and Alcohol Prevention Policy
The unlawful possession, use, manufacture, or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol by students or employees on the property of Central Seminary, or as part of any campus‐based activities of the Seminary, is strictly prohibited. Central Seminary is committed to the prevention of alcohol abuse and the illegal use of drugs. Any student or employee of the Seminary found to be abusing alcohol/drugs, using, possessing, manufacturing, or distributing controlled substances (on Seminary property or at Seminary sponsored events) is in violation of the law and shall be subject to disciplinary action.
Students needing assistance and referrals may contact the Counselor/Student Assessment Director. A good resource for information on Drug and Alcohol Prevention and a list of referral organizations can be found on the internet at the following website: https://www.samhsa.gov/.

Offensive Language and Explicit Material
The use of foul and offensive language at Central Seminary is prohibited. Additionally, the possession and use of materials (i.e. CDs, videos, websites and publications) that contain explicit language and images is prohibited. Central Seminary is committed to the use of language and images that respect human beings. Students and employees found using offensive language, or possessing, viewing, or distributing explicit materials (on Seminary property or at Seminary sponsored events) may be in violation of the law and shall be subject to disciplinary action.

Sexual Misconduct
Central Seminary seeks to provide a work and learning environment free from harassment and sexual misconduct. The full policy and procedure document outlines the definitions and processes for handling issues of harassment and misconduct and can be found on the CENTRAL website.

GRIEVANCE POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
The following grievance procedure is intended to effect reconciliation in matters of interpersonal conflict and is to be carried out pastorally and compassionately rather than punitively.

Biblical Resolution
In accordance with our biblical heritage (Matthew 18:15-17), students are encouraged to resolved grievances as follows:

1)The aggrieved student will go directly to the person(s) concerned and attempt to reach an acceptable resolution. If a resolution cannot be reached, the aggrieved student should proceed to step 2.
2)The aggrieved student will go to the Academic Dean with the grievance in writing. The Dean will function as a liaison between the aggrieved student and the party or parties against whom the grievance is directed, arranging and attending a conference between them to seek a resolution. Should resolution not be reached, the student should proceed to step 3.
3)The aggrieved student will request, in writing, that the Dean report the grievance resolution process (with any recommendation) to the Seminary President.
4)The President will appoint a Grievance Committee, consisting of the aggrieved student, the Dean, two neutral members (faculty, staff, or administration) and two neutral students.
5)The Grievance Committee will review the grievance procedure and recommend a resolution. If the solution is acceptable to the parties concerned, the grievance process is completed. If resolution is not reached, the Grievance Committee shall report, in writing, its recommendation to the President of the Seminary.
6)The President of the Seminary (or President’s representative, in case of the President’s absence) will make a final determination and report in writing to the parties involved and the Grievance Committee. The decision of the President is final and binding on all parties.

No more than one week (7 days) shall lapse between any of the grievance procedure steps, after step 2 is initiated. If more than one week (7 days) passes and there is no further initiative from the aggrieved, the grievance procedure will be considered closed. No more than one week (7 days) shall pass after the Grievance Committee has made their recommendation to the President until the final determination is announced by the President.

This policy does not apply in cases of academic or non-academic probation.

Guidelines for Written Student Grievances
Written student grievances are to detail specific events or issues of offense; to state factually who was involved and what is desired in terms of apology, reparation, or reconciliation. Written grievances are to deal with fact rather than feeling. The goal of a written grievance is to effect understanding and reconciliation. To frame written grievances, the aggrieved should consider:

a)A factual report of the conflict and its origin
b)The avoidance of inflammatory language
c)The avoidance of impugning or second-guessing motives of others
d)The avoidance of exaggeration
e)The avoidance of impugning the personal integrity of another

Written grievances should state the nature of the conflict, failure to effect reconciliation on a one‐to-one basis, and a statement of what the aggrieved believes to be proper resolution. Written grievances are to be limited to 500 words or less, dated, signed, and personally delivered to the Dean.

In a seminary setting, the submission of a written grievance implies that all channels of grace have been exhausted, and that law must reign where grace cannot.

STUDENT DISCIPLINE POLICY and PROCEDURES
The relationships and conduct of those who study at Central Seminary (also known as CENTRAL) shall be consistent with the purpose and mission of the school as stated in this catalog. On occasion, questions can arise about whether certain actions on the campus are compatible with the nature and purpose of the institution. Questions of this nature should be taken to the Academic Dean.

Committee on Student Discipline
The Committee, convening on an as needed basis, shall consist of the Academic Dean (chair), the Associate Dean, one faculty member, and two students. The President appoints all members. The membership of the committee will reflect the ethnic and gender diversity of the community.

Procedure
Specific cases shall be brought in writing to the chair of the committee by any student or employee in the Central community. The committee will review the allegation and decide whether it merits further attention. When a charge has been accepted by the committee, it may pursue any of the following procedures:

1)Counsel with the person of concern by selected members of the committee, or by other people designated by and reporting back to the committee.
2)Should the committee decide that formal inquiry seems necessary, it shall notify in writing the person(s) concerned in the allegation and the basis for it. The person(s) of concern will appear before the committee to respond to the allegation. Whenever such a hearing takes place, the person(s) of concern may be accompanied by another party to act as counsel.
3)The committee will decide if disciplinary action is needed and what disciplinary action will be recommended. Recommendations require approval by the majority. The recommendation shall be made to the President who shall have the final decision regarding the matter.

The committee has the authority to recommend reconciliation, restoration, censure, probation, leave of absence, or dismissal.

Before the President acts on any recommendation, he/she shall discuss it with the faculty in executive session for the purpose of the faculty’s advice and consent. The President shall confirm and convey the final decision.

A student can be removed from disciplinary status by the following procedure:

1)The student must submit a letter to the President requesting removal from disciplinary status.
2)The President forwards the request to the Committee on Student Discipline who acts on the recommendation and then sends their recommendation to the President.
3)The President reviews the recommendation of the Student Discipline Committee and discusses it with the faculty in executive session for the advice and consent of the faculty.
4)The President shall confirm and convey the final decision.

Privacy
All data and deliberations of the committee shall be confidential. Its work shall be thought of primarily as compassionate and pastoral, serving so far as possible to protect the reputation and the rights of all parties involved as well as the integrity of Central Seminary.

Procedure for Non-Academic Suspension
Central Seminary has two classes of suspension for students from one (or more) of the courses in which the student is enrolled.

Class I Suspension: A student will be immediately suspended from all classes following any physical violence or threat of physical violence directed toward any seminary employee or another student. A report will be filed with the local Police Department, which may result in charges filed against the offender. The employee or professor is responsible for documenting the incident(s), including the date of occurrence and any other pertinent information. This information will be relayed to the Academic Dean for review, confirmation, and appropriate action.

Class II Suspension: A student may be suspended from a course for any behavior that disrupts the orderly process of the classroom. Examples of such behavior are abusive language, indignities, ridicule and/or sarcasm directed toward a classroom professor and/or students. Suspension for a CLASS II offense may occur according to the following procedure:

1)A professor must meet once in private with the student to explain what he/she believes is appropriate.
2)The professor shall make a record of the specific incident including the date(s) of occurrence, and any other pertinent information.
3)The professor shall also make a report on the meeting with the student. The written report of the incident and the private meeting shall be completed within five working days of that private meeting.
4)A copy of the report shall be filed in the office of the Academic Dean.
5)A copy of the report shall be given to the student.

If the problem persists, the Dean will arrange a conference with the student, the faculty member, and the Dean. If any person fulfills more than one of these roles, the Dean will appoint another faculty member to attend the conference. The student may bring to the conference a person of his/her choosing who was present during the classroom incident. Within five working days of the conference, a written report of the meeting made by the Dean will be forwarded to the student, the professor, and the faculty advisor. The Dean will retain a copy.

If the problem persists, the professor will complete a class suspension form. Copies of the form and all relevant documentation will be forwarded to the Dean and the President. After review, the Dean may suspend a student from class.

DISMISSAL
In extreme cases of academic or moral concern, the Faculty Senate may vote to dismiss a student from the seminary. In such cases, the student will be notified prior to the vote and be given a chance to address the issue(s) that have led to the vote. Students will be notified via letter of the faculty decision and if they are able to seek re‐admission at a future date.

RE-ADMISSION
Students who can seek re‐admission must wait for the period indicated in their dismissal letter. Readmission will require a new application to an academic program along with a letter indicating their academic or moral progress since the dismissal and any other documentation required by the faculty. Re‐admission will be a vote of the Faculty Senate.

CENTRAL LIBRARY

General Information
The Shumaker Library is the primary information resource for members of the CENTRAL community, including students, faculty, and staff. The mission of the library is to prepare and strengthen members of the community by sharing the witness of the Christian tradition through quality collections and services. The library is guided by a vision of being an active and essential collaborator in a vital community of theological inquiry.

Location and Contact Information
Most library collections and services have moved online and are accessible at https://libguides.Central.edu/home.
Phone: 913-667-5725
Fax: 913-371-8110
Email: library@cbts.edu
Website: http://libguides.Central.edu/home

Hours of Operation
All online collections are available 24/7.

Contact the librarian at https://libguides.Central.edu/home/contactus for further information about access to print reference and research materials.

Library Partnerships
The Shumaker Library is a member of the American Theological Library Association (a membership association that produces research tools for religion and theology and supports scholarship in these fields), and the Digital Theological Library (a co-owned collection of digital academic resources).
Collections

The goal of the library collections is to provide information resources to meet the educational and professional development needs of the students, faculty, staff, and of local, practicing clergy. In addition to the collections listed below, the library is in the process of developing special collections focused on congregational health and global Christianity.

Reference
The library provides a small browsing collection of print reference volumes, including several biblical commentary series. Reference volumes are available for use on campus. Print items are organized according to the Dewey Decimal Classification system commonly used in school and public libraries.

Reserves
The library has resources placed on reserve shelves. Items include required (and some recommended) textbooks for seminary classes, as well as books written by faculty and staff associated with Central Seminary.

Electronic Databases
The library has access to over 180 research databases that are accessible 24/7. The databases include the ATLA Religion Database with ATLASerials PLUS, the premier research database for theological scholarship that includes over 600 full-text journals. Cumulatively, the databases provide access to over 130,000,000 full-text articles, essays, and reviews. Additional electronic resources include access to over 1,200,000 eBooks. Access to these databases is available to all current CENTRAL students through their myCENTRAL (OneLogin) account. Please contact the librarian if you need assistance with accessing these resources.

Services and Programs
The library strives to be a user-focused agency through the provision of various services and programs designed to meet the information needs of members of the CENTRAL community. If you have special information needs not met by the offerings listed, please contact the librarian. The library is always interested in exploring new alternatives for providing information services and programming.

24/7 Live Chat
Professional online reference service is available 24/7 at https://libguides.Central.edu/home,
except for major holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Library Orientation programs
Orientations are offered by the librarian in online sessions available to all newly enrolled students.

Information Literacy Instruction
In-person or online instruction related to a specific assignment is available for individuals and/or classes.

Interlibrary Loans (ILL)
In the event an item is not available in the CENTRAL collections, the library may attempt to obtain desired resources through the Digital Theological Library. Please request materials one to two weeks before the item is needed.

Patron Conduct
To ensure the library is a hospitable, safe, and productive environment for all its patrons, the following rules of conduct should be followed.

General Conduct
The library does not permit the following:

• Disruptive or disorderly behavior
• Unsupervised children under the age of 14
• Intentional damage to or unauthorized removal of library property
• Use of library property or equipment for inappropriate or illegal purposes
• Weapons except by on-duty law enforcement officers
• Alcohol or tobacco use

Food and Beverage
Food and drink are permitted in the library on a limited basis. Beverages should be contained in a hard-sided, spill-proof container (e.g., a sport bottle or a travel mug with lid). Food is restricted to light snacks (e.g., chips and candy). In all circumstances, food and beverages should not be consumed in proximity to or while handling the library resources, including computers.

Cell Phones
Cell phones are permitted in the library but should be silent (e.g., set to vibrate). Phone conversations should be kept brief and at a low volume, so they don’t disturb other library patrons. Longer conversations should be held outside of the library.

Other Information

Intellectual Freedom
It is the position of the Shumaker Library to support the intellectual freedom of its patrons. This includes:

1.the right of patrons to equitable access to information and services regardless of origin, age, background, or views;
2.the right of patrons to read and view material from a diversity of opinions, positions, and expressions
3.the freedom of patrons from any attempt at coercion or obstruction related to material representing a particular opinion, position, or expression; and
4.the right of the library to resist attempts to reduce or deny access to public information.

Reconsideration of Materials
The Shumaker Library supports the principles stated in the American Library Association’s Library Bill of Rights (available at http://www.ala.org/advocacy/intfreedom/librarybill). As such, the library collections are intentionally ecumenical, and every attempt is made to be as equitable as possible to represent opposing viewpoints.

PERSONAL ASSESSMENT
To help form Christian leaders who are spiritually healthy and humanly sensitive, Central Seminary requires vocational assessment for all MDiv students. Assessment normally includes evaluative instruments coordinated through specific courses in programs. Additional fees may apply.
An assessment report of a student may be requested by the Dean, who may provide the assessment report to the student’s faculty advisor and any other faculty member with a legitimate educational interest.

Central Seminary may require a student to complete additional assessment(s) or follow-up to clarify and initiate educational and spiritual development. Students are responsible for costs associated with assessments.

SECURITY
For security reasons, the front doors of the Overland Park, KS campus are locked at 4:30pm each weekday (unless there is a special event).

If a student must leave a vehicle overnight, the Facilities and Operations Director must be informed. If security concerns arise, they should be reported to the Business Office between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. on weekdays.

Safety and security data related to Central Seminary can be requested through the Business Office.

Reporting Emergencies
In the case of an immediate emergency or threatening situations, students should contact the police or fire department by dialing 911.

ENROLLMENT MANAGEMENT DEPARTMENT
The Enrollment Management Department is committed to helping students achieve their educational goals. The office includes admission and student services personnel. Starting with the prospective student process all the way through to graduation, students need faithful guides and technical assistance to navigate the journey to be a successful graduate. While student success incorporates the broad efforts of the entire learning community to encourage and challenge students during their program of study, the designated personnel of the Enrollment Management Department are available to serve the needs of the students, including admission, student success advising, and technology assistance.

SUPPLY PREACHING/MINISTRY EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES
Central Seminary maintains a list of available internships, ministry opportunities, and supply preaching opportunities through the Career Opportunities page of the CENTRAL website. For assistance with internships and placements related to required courses, students should consult with their program director.

TECHNOLOGY ACCOUNTS AND SUPPORT

Technology Requirement
Central Seminary recognizes the importance of information technology and its impact on
teaching/learning and seeks to provide access to technology critical to a successful education. Central’s technology (virtual and physical) resources are provided for academic purposes and may not be used for commercial endeavors or illegal activities.

To participate in the seminary’s academic life, each student is expected to have and maintain basic word processing skills and access to a high-speed internet connection. A student’s computer should meet the following general hardware and software requirements:

• Network: High Speed Internet – minimum 20MB downstream
• Computer or Laptop
  • Operating System: Windows or Mac latest operating system
  • RAM: 16 GB
• Accessories:
  • Conferencing headset with microphone
  • External Webcam (if computer does not have internal webcam)
• Software:
  • Browser: Chrome, Firefox, MS Edge, Safari (updated to the latest version)
  • Zoom: free web conferencing program (updated to the latest version)
  • Office productivity suite: Microsoft Office recommended – Degree and diploma students receive access to Office365 with their CENTRAL account
  • PDF Reader: Adobe PDF Reader (recommended)

myCBTS
Students can access their technology accounts through the myCBTS portal. The portal uses Microsoft’s MyApps as a single sign-on service to access all accounts (email, Office365, Populi, etc.) after initial set up. Student email accounts are connected to myCBTS automatically and serve as their main login credentials. After successful log-in, students can enter their username and password for other student accounts in myCBTS to utilize the single sign-on feature.

Student Email Accounts
Every student taking courses for credit receives a CENTRAL email account. Before their first term, students receive information to access that account. It is an important communication tool between the student and the school. It is critical that all students check their CENTRAL webmail account regularly since important seminary and course information will be sent there. The seminary uses Office365 to provide email accounts, so students also will have access to online versions of MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint and more. For assistance with CENTRAL webmail/Office365, visit the myCBTS support page of the CENTRAL website. Students can submit help requests through the website support page and the myCBTS portal.

Populi
Populi is the student information system and the learning management system for classes. Students can track their academic progress, view grades, print unofficial transcripts, print enrollment verifications, retrieve textbook lists and syllabi, and register for classes. Students can expect their courses to post content, activities, and grades in the Populi system. Students are provided with access to Populi during the admission process and will need to link Populi to their CENTRAL account. For assistance with your Populi account, visit the Technology Services page on the CENTRAL website and submit a help request or email support@cbts.edu.

Zoom
Zoom is the collaboration tool used for live online class meetings. It allows students to join in live class sessions and collaborate with other students and faculty, as is done in a traditional classroom setting. Each course has a unique Zoom link for students to join live class meetings. The link is posted in the course content in the learning management system and may be listed in the course syllabus. For assistance with Zoom, visit the Zoom support pages.

Signing up for a Zoom account at https://zoom.us is free, but students are not required to create their own Zoom account. Live course meetings will be accessible even if students do not have a Zoom account.

TEXTBOOK SERVICES
There is no campus bookstore at Central. Students are encouraged to acquire their textbooks in whatever way they wish. Students often use online retailers. Students may also want to check used Christian bookstores or order through their local bookstore. Digital copies of books may be available through the Digital Theological Library. Students can find out their required books by either checking the course’s Info tab in Populi, consulting the course syllabus, or checking in with the professor.

FEES AND EXPENSES
Central Seminary reserves the right to adjust tuition and fees as necessary.

Application and Registration Fees

• Application Fee $50.00
• Term Fee- NON-REFUNDABLE (per term; Graduate Certificate, Masters,
  Diploma, or DMin students, and Special Students) $250.00
• Course Registration Fee – NON-REFUNDABLE ($25 each when registering for CP401, CP402, PJ401, and PJ402 for Professional Certificate Programs) $50.00

Tuition

• Doctoral
  • All programs (per credit hour) $530.00
• Masters
  • All programs (per credit hour) $410.00
• Diploma
  • Diploma in Christian Formation (per credit hour) $185.00
  • Diploma in Kachin: Christian Formation (per term) $500.00
• Graduate Certificates
  • All programs (per credit hour) $410.00
• Professional Certificates
  • Professional Certificate in Chaplaincy Program (per credit hour) $200.00
  • Professional Certificate in Peace and Justice Ministry (full program) $1,000.00
• Special Student (per credit hour) $410.0
• Lifelong Learning (auditing; per credit hour) $100.00

Additional Fees

• Application to Graduate Fee (Pay every time submitting the Application to Graduate Form) NON-REFUNDABLE
• Certificate/Diploma/Masters/Doctoral level $100.00
• Diploma in Kachin: Christian Formation $50.00
• Bound Dissertation Books Fee $70.00
• Directed Study/Independent Study Fee (per course) $100.00
• Diploma Replacement Fee $100.00
• DMin Dissertation Fee (Creative Leadership)
  • For courses: C-DM611/C-DM612/C-DM613 $316.00*
  • For course: C-DM615 $1376.002**
• DMin Dissertation Fee (Missional Church)
  • For courses: DM612/DM613 $474.00*
  • For course: DM615 $2,064.00**
• Express Mailing Fee $50.00
• Incomplete Fee for all programs (per course) $100.00
• International Shipping of Regalia $100.00
• Late Registration Fee (after online registration ends) $100.00
• MA(TS) Capstone/Thesis Extension (charged at each thesis extension approval) $250.00
• Official Transcripts (former student – per transcript) $10.00
• OPT Processing Fee $100.00
• Overseas Mailing Fee $100.00
• Regalia Order Fee
• Diploma/Master’s level $100.00
• Doctoral level $150.00
• Sustaining Fee (per term/semester) $125.00***
• Transcript Express Mailing Fee (current student) $50.00
• Transcript Express Mailing Fee (former student) $60.00
• Transfer Credit Evaluation Request Fee $25.00
• U.S. Shipping of Regalia $20.00

*Includes DMin advisor fee.
**Includes DMin advisor fee and dissertation extension fee.
***For students finishing their work at another seminary and requesting graduation from Central.

Program Tuition Cost
The total tuition costs are estimates based on 2025-26 rates. It only includes tuition. Fees vary based on program, length of study, participation in graduation and other enrollment factors. The amounts do include financial aid.

• Doctor of Ministry $15.900
• Master of Divinity (72 credits) $29,520
• Master of Divinity (75 credits) $30,750
• Master of Arts in Missional Church Studies $14,760
• Master of Arts in Counseling $24,600
• Master of Arts (Theological Studies) $14,760
• Master of Arts in Ministry $14,760
• Master of Christian Care and Counseling $14,760
• Diploma: Christian Formation $17,760
• Diploma: Kachin Christian Formation $4,500

Refund Policy
When a student drops or withdraws from a course after the allotted add/drop period (see Course Registration), refunds are calculated by the Registrar based on the portion of the course that has been completed. Refund schedules are calculated from the date of receipt of the Change of Registration form. The refund or adjustment will be made to the student’s account.

Students who properly drop or withdraw before the first day of the term are not charged tuition. Course withdrawals occurring after 50% of the term has passed are not eligible for refunds or adjustments (please see the refund schedule with percentages below). Pursuant to refund requirements by the State of California, students who are registered for course sections offered at the Anaheim, CA site, and who cancel an enrollment agreement or withdraw from a course having completed 60 percent or less of the period of attendance shall receive a pro-rata refund.

Refund Schedule with Percentages

• Refunds are not calculated based on the class meeting schedule; only how many weeks have passed since the official start of the course.
• Calculations are not based on contact hours, only percentages assigned to weeks that have passed since the course started.
• Weeks are based on Monday through Sunday.

Students are refunded 100% of the amount paid for institutional charges, less the non-refundable registration fee ($250), if notice of cancellation is made in writing before participating in the class, or the seventh day after the term begins, whichever is later. For online or hybrid classes, class “participation” is defined as completing a test or quiz, submitting an assignment, assessment, or online post, or by accessing an asynchronous or synchronous class session. Logging into the course and viewing the syllabus and other passive course materials does not qualify as “participation” in the course.

Seminary scholarships are based on course enrollment, and some require enrollment in a specific number of credit hours. When a student drops below the course load that the scholarship specifies, the scholarship is removed and then fee adjustments are calculated. Students are responsible for knowing the stipulations of the terms of their scholarship. (For seminary scholarships see below).

Term fees are non-refundable.

FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE

Scholarships
Central Seminary is committed to providing scholarship assistance so that people called to ministry may graduate from seminary with as little educational debt as possible. To that end, the seminary provides financial aid and works with students to assist them in securing other sources of financial aid.

Students must re-apply every year for seminary scholarships. Application deadlines are June 1.
Scholarships are based on the student’s enrollment in courses. Dropping to less than full-time may impact some scholarships. If a student withdraws from all classes, the scholarship will be removed entirely. Students may incur tuition and fee charges when the scholarship is removed.
Support for American Baptist Students

American Baptist students may receive funds through the American Baptist Churches, USA. If a student seeking a first theological master’s degree has been a member of an American Baptist church for the previous year and enrolls in at least two classes per semester, she or he is eligible to receive up to $500 in matching funds per semester through the American Baptist Seminarian Support Program.

If an MDiv or MA degree student has been a member of a church in the American Baptist Churches of the Central Region for the previous year and enrolls in at least two classes per semester, he or she is eligible for a $1000 scholarship each semester.

Students may receive ABC Seminarian Support for one degree only. To receive this support, a student must submit an ABC Seminarian Support pledge/remittance form.

Note: Students enrolled in the trimester system (Ordinary, Lent, Easter) are only eligible to receive this award during the Ordinary and Lent terms.

Cooperative Baptist Fellowship Scholarship
Students in the Master of Divinity program who are members of a Cooperative Baptist Fellowship church and maintain full-time enrollment may be eligible to receive the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship Leadership Scholarship. The scholarship is an award of $2000 per fall and spring term. Annually, there are only a few scholarships available. Application forms to the CBF Leadership Scholarship are sent to students in early spring.

Burmese Diaspora Scholarship
The Burmese Diaspora Scholarship is available to all persons who have come to the U.S. from Myanmar/Burma. Students should complete and submit the seminary scholarship form every year to declare eligibility and request funds.

Married Students
Married couples, when individually enrolled in a degree or diploma program, are eligible for a tuition discount. The spouse carrying the greater number of credits is charged full tuition, and the other spouse receives a 50% tuition discount.

Spouses of degree or diploma students may audit courses for continuing education at no cost.

Legacy Scholarship
Children or grandchildren of alumni/ae who have received a degree from Central are eligible for a 50% legacy discount. Students must complete the seminary scholarship application each year to claim the award.

Green Scholarship
The Green Scholarship is available to students in the Korean Program and awarded based on financial need, GPA, church involvement, and service to others. Students must apply each semester.

The full Green Scholarship is awarded per credit hour at the following rates; however scholarship amounts may be reduced based on GPA or other scholarship requirements:

• Masters – – – – – $220/credit hour
• DMin – – – – – $1,700/semester

If a student drops a course(s), the Green Scholarship will be removed for those credit hours in which the student drops or withdraws.

Loans
Central Seminary does not participate in the Federal Direct Stafford Student Loan program, therefore federal loans are not available to students. The seminary does not participate in any state financial aid programs. The seminary does have options for private loans available for students. Contact the Business Office for more information on the private loan options. Students seeking deferment of previous educational loans may not be eligible for an in-school deferment. Students should discuss all deferment and forbearance options with their lenders.

If a student obtains a loan to pay for an educational program, the student will have the responsibility to repay the full amount of the loan plus interest, less the amount of any refund. Central Seminary does not participate in federal student financial aid programs.

Form 1098/1098T
Form 1098/1098T are forms for Title IV student federal aid programs. Central does not provide 1098T forms because we do not participate in a Title IV student federal aid program. The “Aid Payment” listed in a students’ Populi account is a discount/scholarship from Central Seminary and does not fall under the Title IV student federal aid program. Students can access information about invoices and payments on their account under the Financial tab in their Populi profile.

ACCOUNT PAYMENT
In accordance with our mission statement, we are committed to the education and development of men and women called by God to be leaders for the Church of Jesus Christ. Part of that mission includes being responsible for timely payments of student balances owed to Central Seminary. We appreciate the efforts of all our students to take care of their financial obligations. Please be assured we will work to resolve problems with any student who informs us in advance of his/her inability to meet the financial deadlines.

Students will receive an invoice after registering for classes.

All financial obligations must be met before Central Seminary will issue grades, confer degrees, and release transcripts. Note: Due to California state law, California residents may request official copies of their transcripts even if a balance is owed to the school.

Before registering for future terms, students must meet all financial obligations for past and current terms. If tuition payment is to be made by a third party, such as a church or employer, payment must be received before the end of the current term. If a student plans to pay tuition with a private loan, students must begin any necessary paperwork well in advance, so the loan funds arrive before the end of the term.

Students may make payments toward their account balance during the current term. The balance must be paid in full before registering for the next term.

The Business Office will notify the Registrar of any student with an overdue balance and lock the student’s Populi record. The student will not receive grades, will not be able to request an official transcript, and will not be allowed to register for the next term’s classes until the balance is paid in full or a payment plan is agreed to.

POLICIES AND PROCEDURES

Academic Year
Central’s academic year corresponds to its fiscal year, beginning August 1 and concluding July 31. Courses are offered in varied formats according to degree programs. Questions about program calendars and course scheduling should be sent to the Registrar’s Office.

New Student Orientation
Central Seminary offers learning and workshop opportunities for new students to orient them to academic policies and procedures. In certain programs, an orientation course is a required part of the curriculum. New students are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the processes of being a student and ask staff for help as questions arise. Topics new students should explore are academic policies, plagiarism, library resources, theological writing, and research.

Student Status
The following data chart will be used to determine the status of a student:
(credits are calculated on a per-term basis)

*Doctoral students registered in the project dissertation phase are considered full-time students.
**Master’s students registered in the Capstone, Thesis, and Thesis Continuation courses are considered full-time students.

Student Records
Central Seminary maintains various records concerning students to document their academic progress. To preserve students’ rights to privacy, as well as to conform to federal law, the seminary has established certain policies and procedures to govern the handling of student records.
Central Seminary permanently retains a transcript and maintains the pertinent student records for a period of 5 years from the student’s date of completion or withdrawal.
Educational records of students are maintained in accordance with the provisions of the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974, Public Law 93¬380, as amended (also known as FERPA or the Buckley Amendment).

Location of Records
Student academic records and directory information are maintained by the Registrar’s Office and stored in hardcopy files and in a Student Information System database (Populi).

Privacy and Release of Records
Student academic records are confidential. A student has the right to access their educational records. Only those faculty, administrators, and employees of Central Seminary having legitimate educational interest in the student’s records or personnel from accrediting organizations and government- authorized entities are permitted access. Except for the above-mentioned people, confidential educational records will not be released without the written consent of the student involved.

A student may inspect their educational record and may challenge the accuracy of the record or the need for its retention. Students may waive their right to review in the case of letters of recommendation. The character reference waiver policy offers students an opportunity to waive their right of inspection but does not require any student to do so. Character references of admitted students may be destroyed.

Directory Information
“Directory information is…information contained in an educational record of a student which would not generally be considered harmful or an invasion of privacy if disclosed.” (FERPA Regulations, Code of Federal Regulations, Title 34, Part 99.3)

Central Seminary considers the following to be directory information: student’s name, address, telephone number, CENTRAL issued e-mail address, spouse’s name, previous schools attended, photograph, degree plan, dates of attendance, part-time or full-time status, degree received, dates degree was awarded, academic awards and honors, and denomination.

Request for Privacy of Directory Information
Students can request that directory information be kept confidential by notifying the Registrar’s Office by email or making one’s student profile private in Populi. By marking one’s profile as private, a student hides the profile from other students and indicates that all information (directory and academic) should be kept confidential by the school. When a student’s profile is marked private, no information about the student will be released without the written consent of the student.
Academic and Student Success Advising

All degree and diploma students will be assigned a faculty advisor and a Student Success Advisor. Students are encouraged to interact regularly with their faculty advisors to plan their academic program and reflect on academic and vocational development. Students under Special Status will be advised by the Registrar’s Office.

Course Registration

Policies
Registration is the act of submitting, via paper form or online, the list of courses a student intends to take in each term. The seminary Business Office bills tuition and fees according to the completed registration.

The official date of registration is defined as the date the Registrar receives the registration form, or the date registration is completed through the online student information system (Populi). The official date of any change to the initial registration is defined as the date the Registrar receives the change of registration form or the date the change of registration is completed through the online student information system.

It is the student’s responsibility to verify that the Registrar has received the student’s registration and any changes to the registration. Students may contact the Registrar or view the online student information system (Populi) to verify registration.

As part of the registration process each term, students are required to complete the Current Student Enrollment Agreement which is generated automatically in the student information system (Populi). If a student who registers through Populi and fails to complete the enrollment agreement, the registration will cancel automatically.

Students who register using the paper or online form will be emailed a link to digitally sign the Current Student Enrollment Agreement. In this case students have 48 hours from the receipt of this agreement to digitally sign the form. After 48 hours, if the student has not contacted the Registrar’s Office about their enrollment agreement, it will be assumed that the student has consented to the information outlined in the agreement.

New students may register after all application requirements have been met, admission has been approved by the Admission Committee, and the student has completed the required New Student

Enrollment Agreement.
The registration process includes the completion of financial arrangements with the Business Office.
Students with an outstanding tuition bill from previous terms will not be allowed to register (except for students receiving VA benefits).

Procedure
Open registration dates are listed in the Academic Catalog and available on the CENTRAL website. Courses offerings are available on the CENTRAL website and in the Student Information System (Populi). Please note that in certain degree programs registration may close before the start of the term, at which point the Add/Drop period begins. Consult the Academic Calendar for registration and change of registration dates for each program.

When registration opens students can self-register in the Populi system by using the Registration tab. Courses available for the student to register are listed in Populi. A full list of courses offered is available on the registration page of the CENTRAL website. Students register by selecting the plus sign under the “enroll” column and then saving the course selection.

Change of Registration: Add/Drop
Students may add or drop classes in Populi up until each term’s online registration closes (online registration closing dates are listed in the academic calendar). Once the online registration period ends, students who have registered and want to make changes must use a Change of Registration form located on the Links tab in Populi. The form must be completed entirely, including the student’s signature. The change of registration is then processed by the Registrar’s Office and the Business Office and adjustments to the student’s account balance are made according to the tuition costs. Term fees are applied at the time of initial registration and are non-refundable. If students miss the online registration deadline and want to register for the upcoming term, they can register with the Change of Registration form but must pay a late registration fee.

Late Registration
Students who miss the online registration deadline may use a change of registration form and will be charged a late registration fee.

Change of Registration: Course Withdrawal
Students may withdraw from registered classes anytime beyond the drop period until the last day of the class. The last day of the class is defined as the last day on which the course meets synchronously or the last day for which the course is scheduled in the case of asynchronous, online courses. Withdrawals do not affect GPA but do appear on a student’s academic record as a “W”.

The Business Office will pro-rate tuition owed to the school based on the contact hour calculation tabulated by the Registrar’s Office, as outlined in the Refund Policy. Any class withdrawal occurring after 50 percent of the term has passed or after 50 percent of the intensive course has passed will not be eligible for any refunds or adjustments.

Registering for Classes at Other Schools
Courses taken at other schools while still enrolled at Central will go through the transfer credit evaluation process if the student would like the course to transfer into their academic program. This does not apply to Korean language Diploma, Kachin Christian Formation Diploma, Graduate Certificate in Peace and Justice Ministry, and Professional Certificate programs. Students are encouraged to have such classes evaluated prior to taking the class.

Students taking courses at other schools in the following degree programs must complete the following number of credits at Central to earn a degree from Central:

• DMin – 24 credits (exceptions must be approved by the DMin Committee)
• MDiv – 25 credits
• MAM – 18 credits
• MA(TS) – 18 credits
• MAMCS – 18 credits
• MACO – 45 credits (Practicum and Internship courses must be completed at Central)
• MCCC – 18 credits
• Diploma – 24 credits
• Graduate Certificate in Chaplaincy – 12 credits (Christian Ethics and Caring Ministries are eligible to be transferred)

Students will need to contact the other school to learn about admission and registration requirements.

Cross Registration
Central cooperates with three other local seminaries to offer cross registration courses. Students can register to take a course at Nazarene Theological Seminary, Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, or Saint Paul School of Theology for credit at CENTRAL. Students are responsible for obtaining course schedules from other institutions. Contact the Registrar’s Office at CENTRAL to obtain the form needed for cross registration.

Changing Credit Status for Courses
Changing from non-credit to credit status or from credit to non‐credit must be done through the Registrar’s office before the second meeting of the class. To change from non‐credit to credit status for a course, students must already be admitted to a degree program at the time of the change.

Directed/Independent Studies
Directed and independent studies are privileges extended by the seminary to master’s students with special interests or under extenuating circumstances. Directed Studies are for courses listed in the academic catalog and Independent Studies are for courses not listed in the catalog. Students who maintain a “B” average may request as many as 9 semester hours of directed study and/or independent study. Additional fees apply (see Tuition and Fees section).

Students will need to complete the Directed Study/Independent Study Request Form (can be obtained from the Registrar) and submit the form to the Registrar’s Office along with the course syllabus for approval from the Dean’s Office.

The Directed study option should be requested only after all other possible avenues for attending the course have been exhausted. Even then, there is no guarantee that the request will be granted. Doing so is at the discretion of the faculty and is dependent on their willingness and availability to take on this significant and additional teaching responsibility.

Independent studies provide opportunities for highly motivated students interested in pursuing a specific area of learning. The direction of the study is to be developed by the student in consultation with a faculty member who agrees to take on this responsibility. The number of credit hours (one to three) will be assigned to the independent study by the professor. Like directed studies, independent studies are granted at the discretion of the Dean’s Office.

Class Attendance and Participation Requirements
Students are expected to attend all classes. Class attendance/participation is an integral part of academic success at Central and a part of course grading.

A student may not miss more than 20% of a course’s total contact hours and expect to pass. A student who must miss a class should contact the professor prior to the class meeting. However, a student who is absent frequently cannot expect to earn the highest grades.

Normally, classes will not meet during special services, such as convocation. Any other dismissal will be at the discretion of the professor. Attendance at lectureships is often incorporated into class requirements.

Student Identification Verification Policy
Students who enroll at Central agree with the following:
“By enrolling in Central Seminary and registering for courses, I certify under penalty of perjury that I will be studying the course materials, producing required written assignments, and taking any exams without any outside help not authorized by the instructor. I acknowledge that Central Seminary has the right to monitor my participation and cancel my enrollment if responsible instructors and administrators have just cause to believe someone other than me, the enrolled student, has been participating in courses under my identity and with my knowledge. This will be adjudicated through the seminary’s written “Student Discipline Policy/Procedure” found in the latest edition of the Academic Catalog and Student Handbook. I understand that if found culpable I will not be eligible for a refund and might receive other disciplinary punishment including censure, probation, or dismissal from the seminary.”

In a for-credit online course, a student may be added to the course in the learning management system only by the CENTRAL Registrar, course professor, or program director based on an official roster of students provided by the registrar. The student must use his/her username and password whenever she/he logs into a course in CENTRAL’s virtual classroom environment.

Participation in Internet-Based Courses
Participation in synchronous class meetings, discussion boards, group projects, and other required online group activities is necessary to pass any internet-based course.

Central Seminary has attendance requirements for all classes, including those offered through the internet. In a face-to‐face class, a student who misses more than 20% of a course’s contact hours fails the class. The same principle is true for internet-based courses. Our online classroom environment automatically monitors when you participate, how much you participate, and whether you have participated at all in an activity. Deciding not to participate in such exercises is not an option.

While it is possible to occasionally miss a group participation activity and still pass the course, failing to participate in more than 20% will result in automatic failure. This means that students must participate and must do so on a regular basis.

International Students
While studying in the U.S., international students must maintain student status by taking a full course of study and attending all classes. No more than one online course can be counted toward a full-time course load per term. Active attendance in the online course is required to maintain status.

Additionally, F-1 students must physically attend their other courses to maintain status as well. More information can be found on the Study in the States webpage, the International Students page of the CENTRAL website, or by contacting the International Student Officer.

Leave of Absence and Withdraw

Leave of Absence
Students should notify the school of a Leave of Absence from the seminary for a term by completing the Withdraw/Leave of Absence form which can be obtained from the Registrar’s Office or from the office of the student’s program of study. Students who notify the school of their Leave of Absence within 2 weeks of the start of the term in which they will be absent will maintain access to their student technology accounts for the duration of the Leave of Absence (one term).

International Students (F-1 visa) can only request a Leave of Absence in conjunction with a Request for Reduced Course Load. A Leave of Absence will be granted for only one term at a time.

Exceptions to this will only be accepted for medical reasons, with acceptable medical documentation, and for F-1 students granted 1 academic year of Reduced Course Load.

At the conclusion of the term of absence, students that plan to return to school but cannot do so in the subsequent term should complete another Leave of Absence form for the next term. If the student fails to enroll for classes in the term in which they indicated they would return, their technology accounts will be closed. Students who do not request a Leave of Absence and are not enrolled at the start of the term will not have access to their technology accounts.

Leave of Absence and Reinstatement – Doctor of Ministry
There are specific requirements and restrictions regarding a leave of absence and reinstatement for Doctor of Ministry students. For more information, please contact the DMin office and consult the DMin Handbook.

Interrupted Status
Students who matriculate but then interrupt their studies for five or more consecutive years must reapply to the seminary. Students whose programs are interrupted by an absence of two years or more will incur the obligation of meeting the requirements printed in the current catalog at the time they reenter, including changes in degree requirements.

Uninterrupted Status
Students whose program of study continues more than five years may be required to meet the degree requirements printed in the current catalog on the fifth anniversary of their entrance to the seminary, which includes any changes in degree requirements.

Withdraw from School
A student cannot presume to be withdrawn from school simply by not attending. To withdraw from school, students should submit the Withdraw/Leave of Absence form and indicate on the form that they will not be returning to Central. Students who stop attending courses and do not complete an official withdrawal will receive a grade on their transcript, which may be a failing grade due to attendance calculations or missing assignments. Additionally, students who do not enroll in courses in the current term will be considered withdrawn and the myCBTS and associated accounts will be turned off (for F-1 students this also means the I-20 will be terminated).

Students are strongly encouraged to talk with course professors and their advisors prior to withdrawal.

Withdrawal from all classes at Central Seminary is processed through the Registrar and Dean’s office.

The Registrar’s Office may enact an administrative withdraw in extreme cases, such as death or incapacitation.

The student’s professors and advisors will be notified of the withdrawal. Policies regarding grades and payment/refunds for dropped courses will apply.

Transferring from CENTRAL to Another Institution
Students wishing to transfer to another institution should consult with their Academic Advisor and the
Registrar’s Office and complete the Withdrawal form (see above). The school does not charge any fee for transferring to another school. If choosing to withdraw from Central before the end of the term, students should consult the policies and processes related to dropping courses and/or withdraw from school to determine the financial impact. Additionally, students transferring to another school should consult with the other institution regarding transfer of credits. The awarding of transfer credits at another institution is at the discretion of that institution.

International Students (studying on an F-1 visa) must provide an admission letter and transfer form from the other institution to the International Student Office to complete the I-20 transfer process.

NOTICE OF TRANSFERABILITY OF CREDITS AND CREDENTIALS EARNED
The transferability of credits earned at Central Seminary is at the complete discretion of an institution to which you may seek to transfer. Acceptance of the degree or diploma you earn in the educational program is also at the complete discretion of the institution to which you may seek to transfer. If the degree or diploma that you earn at this institution is not accepted at the institution to which you seek to transfer, you may be required to repeat some or all your coursework at that institution. For this reason, you should make certain that your attendance at this institution will meet your educational goals. This may include contacting an institution to which you may seek to transfer after attending Central Seminary to determine if your credits or degree or diploma will transfer.

Central Seminary does not have an articulation agreement with another institution that guarantees the transfer of credits.

Grades

System of Calculating GPA
Central Seminary operates on a 4.0 grade point scale:
(A) 4.0 grade points
(A‐) 3.7 grade points
(B+) 3.3 grade points
(B) 3.0 grade points
(B‐) 2.7 grade points
(C+) 2.3 grade points
(C) 2.0 grade points
(C‐) 1.7 grade points
(D+) 1.3 grade points
(D) 1.0 grade points
(D‐) 0.7 grade points
(F) 0.0 grade point

A student’s grade point average (GPA) is calculated as follows: Total Grade points divided by Total Credits Earned (not including courses graded Pass/Fail).

Other items concerning grading at Central are as follows:

• Classes that are graded “P” (Pass) or “F” (Fail) do not count toward a student’s GPA (Students should consult their individual curriculum to learn which classes are Pass/Fail).
• Cross‐registration courses will receive a letter grade and count toward a student’s grade point average. Cross‐registration classes with a grade lower than a “C” will not count toward degree completion.
• Grades for transfer credits are not recorded on Central’s transcripts and are not figured in the grade point average. Only Central courses and cross‐registration courses are calculated into the cumulative GPA.
• When a student’s transcript is sent from Central Seminary during a term in which the student is involved in course work, an “IP” (in progress) notation will be recorded next to all courses in which the term is not yet completed.
• A student may retake a course to make a better grade. The improved grade will replace the lower grade in GPA calculation. The lower grade will remain on the transcript, but it will not figure into the GPA. Normal tuition and fees apply.

Incompletes
All course work should be completed during the term in which the student is to receive credit. Under
extenuating circumstances, a student may request an “Incomplete.” Students should communicate with their instructor regarding the request for an Incomplete by the last day of the term. The Incomplete allows for an extension of time, not to exceed six weeks, during which the student must complete the regular requirements for the course. When the work has been completed within the six-week extension, the instructor will record the grade. If work is not completed within the six weeks, the professor will determine the grade and record it at that time. If this is not done the Registrar’s office is authorized to assign the grade of “F” to the student. With a written request from the professor, a grade can be changed after an “F” has been assigned. Incompletes are not guaranteed, and each instructor has the right to deny the incomplete request.

An incomplete (shown as “I” on the transcript) may be assigned only when a student has been in attendance and has done satisfactory work for at least 75% of the course and has furnished proof satisfactory to the instructor that the work cannot be completed because of illness or other circumstances beyond the student’s control.

In no case may an Incomplete be converted into a passing grade after a lapse of twelve 12 months or more from the date the original grade was due to be submitted to the Registrar’s Office.
Students enrolled in Thesis, Capstone, and Dissertation projects may not request an Incomplete for those courses.

Extensions
Extensions can be granted for Thesis, Capstone, and Dissertation projects to provide an additional term for students to complete their project. To apply for an extension at the diploma or master’s level, students must request the Extension Form from the Registrar’s Office. The Extension request must be approved by the student’s thesis/capstone advisor. If approved, students must register for the extension course for the term in which the extension has been granted. See tuition and fees section of the catalog for costs related to extensions.

Students must apply for an extension each term after the term in which they were originally enrolled in Thesis/Capstone.

Doctor of Ministry students needing an extension for their Dissertation Project must receive approval from the Doctor of Ministry Committee to extend the dissertation project beyond one academic year. Approval of Dissertation Extension is good for up to one year (3 terms/2 semesters) and students can register for their extension course in Populi. Doctor of Ministry students should consult the Doctor of Ministry Handbook for more information and find the dissertation extension form.

Receiving Grades
Students receive their grades through Populi, Central’s web‐based academic records system. In Populi, students can print grade reports, unofficial transcripts, and review their academic progress.
Grades are due two weeks after the end of term. Students who do not receive their grades at that time should contact the professor and notify the Registrar’s Office.

Change of Grades
Changes of original grades must be made within 1 year of the assignment of the original grade. In this case, a decision to change a grade can only be made by the professor (except in cases of Incompletes – see Incomplete policy) and must be communicated to the Registrar’s Office in writing.

Academic Discipline

Probation
Students whose grade point average falls below 2.0 for Master’s and Diploma or 3.0 for Doctoral will be placed on academic probation. Additionally, students who have not met the attendance requirements may receive academic probation. Students on probation will have the equivalent of one full-time term credit hours in their program to lift their GPA to that level. If they fail to do so, they may be denied matriculation or dismissed from the seminary. If dismissed from the seminary, the students will be notified by letter indicating if they are able to seek re‐admission at a future date.

Dismissal
Students who are placed on academic probation and do not lift their GPA above 2.0 (Master’s and Diploma) or 3.0 (Doctoral), may be denied matriculation or dismissed from the seminary. If dismissed from the seminary, the student will be notified by letter from the Dean’s Office indicating if they are able to seek re‐admission at a future date.
In extreme cases of academic or moral concern, the Faculty Senate or a disciplinary committee may vote to dismiss a student from the seminary. In such cases, the student will be notified prior to the vote and be given a chance to address the issue(s) that led to the vote. Students will be notified via letter of the faculty decision and if they are able to seek re‐admission at a future date.

Re-Admission
Students who can seek re-admission must wait for the period indicated in their dismissal letter. Readmission will require a new application to an academic program along with a letter indicating their academic or moral progress since the dismissal and any other documentation required by the faculty. Re‐admission requires a vote of the Faculty Senate.

Registrar’s Office

Student Records
For information about FERPA policies and regulations and the location, duration, and release of records, see Student Records section of this catalog.

Verification of Enrollment
Students can access a Verification of Enrollment through Populi (Student tab, then Print Enrollment Verification). Occasionally, for purposes of loan deferment, visa status, or other reasons, students need a letter from CENTRAL to verify enrollment. In these cases, a letter can be requested through the CENTRAL website (International Student page or Registration page). Please specify in the request if the letter is to be mailed or emailed. For students seeking letters for loan deferment, please provide the exact information the loan service provider requires in the letter.

Transcript Requests
Students can access an unofficial transcript through Populi (Student tab). For official transcript requests, complete the online Transcript Request form found on the CENTRAL website. There is no fee for current students. There is a $10 fee (per transcript) for alumni and former students. Payment can be made through the online Transcript Request form.

Please note that these transcripts are sent using USPS regular mail services. Students in need of an express transcript delivery have the option to pay $50 if you are a current student or $60 if you are a former student to have the transcript sent USPS Express mail in which case it will arrive the next day.

Account Locks
The Business Office may place a Financial Lock on a student’s account when the student has a balance due after a certain point in the term. This lock prohibits the student from registering for the next term, accessing grades, and receiving transcripts (except students receiving VA benefits).
The Business Office may place a permanent Financial Lock on a student’s account when the student has a balance that has been determined unpayable by Central Seminary. This lock prohibits the student from receiving official and unofficial transcripts (except students receiving VA benefits or residing in California and Illinois).

The Registrar’s Office may place a Registration Lock or a Grades/Transcript Lock on a student’s account when proper forms or information are needed by the Registrar from the student.

Completion of Degree Work
Students are encouraged to complete their work according to the following schedule:

• Doctor of Ministry – 4 years
• Master of Divinity – 4 years
• Master of Arts in Counseling – 3 years
• Master of Arts in Ministry – 2 years
• Master of Arts (Theological Studies) – 2 years
• Master of Arts in Missional Church Studies – 2 years
• Master of Christian Care and Counseling – 2 years
• Diploma (Theological Studies) – 3 years
• Diploma (Christian Formation) – 4 years
• Diploma (Kachin Christian Formation) – 3 years
• Graduate/Professional Certificate in Chaplaincy – 1 year
• Graduate/Professional Certificate in Peace and Justice Ministry – 1 year

All master’s degree, diploma, and certificate work at Central Seminary should not exceed eight years. Any extension beyond this time requires faculty approval. Doctoral work beyond six years requires the approval of the DMin Committee.

Earning a Second Degree/Dual Degree
Students who wish to complete two programs concurrently must be admitted to each program separately.

Students who complete a degree program and wish to pursue a subsequent degree program must submit a separate application for the second program. Up to 50% of the first master’s degree may be used to meet curricular requirements of the second degree, if the second degree is started within seven years of completing the first. When seeking a subsequent degree, course scheduling may not allow for full time enrollment every term.

Students completing dual or subsequent degrees must complete all current curricular requirements for both programs as well as the minimum number of credits listed below.

• MDiv and MA(TS) – 93 credits
• MDiv and MCCC – 102 credits

Most master’s degrees may be combined with one or more certificates.

• MDiv and Graduate Certificate in Chaplaincy and Graduate Certificate in Peace & Justice Ministry – 84 credits*
• MDiv and Graduate Certificate in Chaplaincy – 84 credits*
• MDiv and Graduate Certificate in Peace & Justice Ministry – 75 credits*
• MACO and Graduate Certificate in Chaplaincy – 75 credits
• MA(TS) and Graduate Certificate in Chaplaincy – 36 credits
• MA(TS) and Graduate Certificate in Peace & Justice Ministry – 36 credits**

*Students pursuing both the MDiv and Graduate Certificate(s) may substitute CP511 Practicum, PJ501 Formation for Peace and Justice Ministry, and/or PJ502 Peace and Justice Ministry Praxis for the required Contextualized Learning courses.
**Students pursuing both the MA(TS) and Graduate Certificate in Peace and Justice should take the electives: PJ501 Formation for Peace and Justice Ministry (4 credits), PJ502 Peace and Justice Ministry Praxis (4 credits), and two of the following: P-CR501 Creativity in Public Ministries (2 credits), P-CM501 Media for Ministry Development (2 credits), or P-CM502 Interpersonal Skills (2 credits).

The DMin program cannot be completed as part of a dual degree program. It is sufficiently different in purpose and curriculum that all requirements must be completed separately from other programs.

Changing Degree Program
Students who wish to change to another degree program must apply and be admitted to the new degree program. Students in the English language Diploma program wishing to apply credits in that program to an MDiv degree requirements must apply to the MDiv program and petition the faculty for transfer of Diploma credits to the MDiv. For more information, please contact the Registrar’s Office.

Changing Campus Location
To change the primary campus location, students must complete a form available through the Registrar’s Office.

For international students, the campus location listed on the I-20 will be determined by the campus location where the student is taking most credits in that term. International students may not take courses on a program level different from the one to which the student has been admitted.

Alternative Study Opportunities

Global Studies
Living and studying outside the United States allows Central Seminary students an opportunity to broaden their cultural and educational backgrounds. Students interested in a study abroad program must begin the application process at least six months prior to departure.

Typically, a student must have satisfactorily completed, with an average grade of B+ or better, half of the MDiv degree to be eligible for overseas study programs.

The study program is usually to be done in one semester. Students will pay Central’s tuition and fee rates. Central students will work with their faculty advisor and Dean. Exchange students coming to Central will work with a faculty advisor. Other particulars concerning study abroad programs are available from the Office of Student Success.

Internships
Internships can be a valuable learning experience for students. An internship is an approved, supervised, in- service, in-depth experience and may vary in length. The MDiv, MAMCS, MACO, MCCC, and Diploma programs specifically provide internship opportunities in the curriculum. Students in other programs who desire internship experience should consult with the Director of Contextualized Learning or their program director. Students should also consult the Director of Contextualized Learning or their program director to discuss applying chaplaincy experiences to their program.

Clinical Pastoral Education
Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) is a chaplaincy training program conducted at an authorized center. CPE units are completed in hospitals, hospice centers, and other institutions, and vary in length and schedules. Students should consult the Association of Clinical Pastoral Education website for authorized training centers.

The following policies apply:
1.CPE course work will be treated as transfer credit when completed prior to CENTRAL matriculation and as CENTRAL coursework when registered through the school.
2.As transfer credit hours, CPE hours are subject to rules applying to all transfer credit, including total maximum hours allowable and requisite transcript or letter on institutional letterhead from the CPE program director indicating successful completion of a unit of training.
3.As transfer credit hours from another accredited seminary, CPE hours are not tuition billable.
4.If completed under course registration at CENTRAL, tuition for CPE is billed as any other course.
5.Students must register for CPE during the term in which they are completing their CPE or JME program.
6.CPE course credit will be considered from programs accredited by the Association for Clinical Pastoral Education (ACPE). Any other accredited or nonaccredited CPE program would be considered for transfer credit only if accepted as such already by another accredited seminary, or else by petition to the Dean and Registrar, and in consultation with Pastoral Theology faculty.
7.CPE participation is coordinated through the Contextualized Learning Office. Consult the Contextual Learning Handbook for more information.

Extended Education Opportunities

Lifelong Learner
Lifelong learners, also called auditors, take classes for no credit. A limited number of Lifelong Learners may be admitted to specific classes with instructor permission. Each Lifelong Learner must apply to the Registrar’s Office. Lifelong Learners are expected to attend all class sessions, read all assigned materials, and participate in class discussions. They will not be expected to complete papers or tests. Since lifelong learners will not be assigned a CENTRAL account, they will be expected to use their personal email address for class communications. If a Lifelong Learner decides, after the completion of the class, to retake the class for credit toward a degree, the student will need to apply for admission into a degree program. Once admitted and enrolled in the same class, the payment as a Lifelong Learning student will be credited toward tuition. If the instructor approves, the spouse of a degree student may take a course as a Lifelong Learner at no cost on a space-available basis. The Lifelong Learner must complete a registration form through the Registrar’s Office. Central Seminary graduates may enroll in Lifelong Learning courses through the Registrar. They will be charged the regular fee for Lifelong Learning courses. Current volunteers and seminary employees may take one course per semester as Lifelong Learners at no charge. They must complete a registration form through the Registrar’s Office and be approved for entrance into the class.

Continuing Education
Central Seminary often sponsors major lectureships during the academic year. Lectureships are significant opportunities to learn from noted scholars of a particular academic discipline. Churches, clergy, and the public are invited to participate. Continuing Education Unit certificates may be available. Contact the Registrar’s Office for more information. Registration costs vary. Some courses may require attendance at these educational opportunities.

Graduation
Students who expect to complete their course of study in the current academic year must complete an Application to Graduate form (due October 31 for December graduates and January 31 for May graduates). When students complete an Application to Graduate form, the Registrar’s Office reviews and approves the students’ graduation eligibility then follows the faculty and board approval process. Students approved to graduate in December or in May are invited to participate in Central’s only Commencement ceremony in May of that academic year. Only students who submit the Application to Graduate form will receive further communication about graduation requirements and commencement activities.

The Commencement Attendance form is due February 15. Students are responsible for the Application to Graduate fee regardless of participation in the ceremony.

In special circumstances, students may request to participate in the May Commencement ceremony while completing final coursework in the Summer term. To make this request, students must state so on the Commencement Attendance form to the Registrar’s Office by February 15 and date of the term in which they successfully complete their coursework and will receive their diploma at that time.

Curriculum Delivery

Sites
The school has educational centers around the United States. Educational centers, or sites, are physical spaces in which the school offers a variety of programming. Students can check the school website for a list of sites. Sites may offer full degrees/diplomas, courses that can be applied toward a degree/diploma, or certificate level programs only. Some sites may only offer programs taught in a language other than English.

Synchronous (Live) Classes
Class sessions in which the professor and students meet live are called synchronous classes. This means that students must be present on campus or through video conference at the assigned dates and times.

Missing Synchronous Meetings
Students must meet the attendance requirements communicated in the class syllabus. If a student must miss a synchronous class meeting, the student should notify the instructor as soon as possible. Students are responsible for the content delivered during synchronous class meetings. Instructors are not obligated to provide missed content to students who miss synchronous class meetings. Alternative delivery of the synchronous meeting content may or may not be available at the discretion of the instructor.

Additional Requirements for F1 Visa Students
F1 visa students enrolled in in-person classes are required to attend all scheduled class meetings in-person. Attendance requirements for I-20 status supersede any less stringent attendance requirements. Missing in-person class meetings will jeopardize a student’s I-20.

In rare cases, an absence may qualify as an “excused absence” with appropriate documentation (e.g., a student missing class because of illness must provide a doctor’s note that indicates the student cannot attend the in-person class meeting). Excused absences are approved by the instructor or program administrator, who notifies the Registrar. Absences due to transportation issues, other appointments, etc., do not qualify as excused absences.

Instructors are not obligated to accommodate students who miss in-person class meetings with additional meeting time or class content. In the case of an excused absence only, the student may ask the instructor to schedule alternative in-person class time. Depending on the course, alternative in-person class time may not be possible. In any case, missed in-person class time must be made up in-person. In some cases, alternative in-person class time may incur a fee.

Intensive Classes
Classes that meet over consecutive days are called intensive classes. They can be on campus or through video conferencing. Intensive classes may require a lot of preparation before the first-class session and completion of assignments after the intensive session.

Distance Education
Central Seminary strives to provide timely feedback on student assignments. Typically, students can expect a response, including grading and instructor feedback, within 7 to 10 business days from the date of submission. However, response times may vary depending on the nature of the assignment, instructor workload, and seminary policies. Students are encouraged to check their course syllabus or contact their instructor for specific details.

Foundations (Certificate Program)

Purpose
Foundations programs are non-credit bearing certificate programs offering introductory knowledge in the areas of Bible, theology, and ministry. Earning the certificate requires completion of 10-14 courses, which are usually 1-3 seminars. Foundations programs have been taught in different languages at various locations around the United States and online.

Language(s): Kachin, Karen, Burmese, Spanish

Graduation Requirements
To receive a Certificate in Ministry Studies, students must:
1)Complete all curriculum requirements for the Certificate program, including attendance in required classes or seminars and submission of any homework assignments.
2)Pay all financial obligations, including library fines.

Professional Certificate in Chaplaincy
Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) – 21-2011
Purpose
The Professional Certificate in Chaplaincy is a non-degree, not-for-credit program designed to provide a basic theological and biblical foundation for pastors, church leaders and prospective students who desire to develop chaplaincy skills. The Professional Certificate in Chaplaincy is a free-standing certificate.

Learning Outcomes
The student who successfully completes the Professional Certificate in Chaplaincy will be able to understand and perform the basic pastoral, caregiver, and spiritual support roles of a chaplain in a church or organization.

Location
This program is offered through the Live Online Classroom.
CENTRAL is not approved to offer online/distance education to students in Guam, American Samoa, or N. Marianas Islands.

Language(s): English

Duration
The Professional Certificate in Chaplaincy is a 9-month program or 3 terms for full-time students.
Graduation Requirements
To receive the Professional Certificate in Chaplaincy, students must:
1)Complete all curriculum requirements for the Certificate program, including attendance in required classes or seminars and submission of any homework assignments.
2)Pay all financial obligations, including library fines.

Course Requirements

COURSE CREDITS
CP401 Introduction to Chaplaincy 3
CO402 The Helping Relationship 3
CP402 Chaplaincy in Hospice and Elder Care 3
TH5213 Christian Ethics 3
MN5512 Caring Ministries 3
MN5813 Contextual Learning: Care and Compassion 3
Or CPE
TOTAL 18

Graduate Certificate in Chaplaincy

Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) – 21-2011

Purpose
The Graduate Certificate in Chaplaincy is a non-degree, for-credit program designed to provide a basic theological and biblical foundation for pastors, church leaders and prospective students who desire to the opportunity to develop chaplaincy skills. The Graduate Certificate provides a free-standing credential.

Learning Outcomes
The student who successfully completes the Graduate Certificate in Chaplaincy will be able to understand and perform the basic pastoral, caregiver, and spiritual support roles of a chaplain in a church or organization.

Location
This program is offered through the Live Online Classroom.
CENTRAL is not approved to offer online/distance education to students in Guam, American Samoa, or N. Marianas Islands.

Language(s): English

Duration
The Graduate Certificate in Chaplaincy is a 9-month program or 3 terms for full-time students. The completion of the program requires 18 credit hours.

Graduation Requirements
To receive the Graduate Certificate in Chaplaincy, students must:
1)Complete all curriculum requirements for the Certificate program, including attendance in required classes or seminars and submission of any homework assignments.
2)Pay all financial obligations, including library fines.

Course Requirements

COURSE CREDITS
CP501 Introduction to Chaplaincy 3
CO502 The Helping Relationship 3
CP502 Chaplaincy in Hospice and Elder Care 3
TH5213 Christian Ethics 3
MN5512 Caring Ministries 3
MN5813 Contextual Learning: Care and Compassion 3
Or CPE
TOTAL 18

The Graduate Certificate in Chaplaincy program can be done with the MDiv or MAM programs.
Students wishing to complete the Graduate Certificate in Chaplaincy with the MDiv degree could use CPE for one MDiv Contextual Learning course. All required courses for the certificate and a degree must be completed to earn the degree and the certificate and the overall GPA for the student’s Graduate Certificate in Chaplaincy will be calculated by grades in all required courses for Chaplaincy certificate program.

Professional Certificate in Peace and Justice Ministry

Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) – 21-2099

Purpose
The Professional Certificate in Peace and Justice Ministry, offered in collaboration with the Buttry Center for Peace and Nonviolence, is a non-degree, not-for-credit certificate program designed to develop and strengthen competencies for serving in ministries of social change for peace and justice.
This program is designed for faith leaders, community leaders, or activists who are interested in formation, exploration, and application of theological and biblical understandings of peace and justice to ministries, organizations, or programs in which they are involved or wish to begin. Prospective students include those without an undergraduate degree as well as those with undergraduate or graduate level education who wish to develop competencies in the areas of peace and justice ministries.

Learning Outcomes
The student who successfully completes the certificate will be able to:
1)Integrate spiritual practices with ministries of peace and justice.
2)Describe theological and biblical claims for ministries of peace and justice.
3)Explain theories and tactics of nonviolent social change.

Location
This program is offered through the Live Online Classroom.
CENTRAL is not approved to offer online/distance education to students in Guam, American Samoa, or N. Marianas Islands.

Language(s): English

Duration
The Professional Certificate in Peace and Justice Ministry can be completed in 2 terms.
Graduation Requirements
To receive the Professional Certificate in Peace and Justice Ministry, students must:
1)Successful completion of 2 courses composed of 10 units each.
-Formation for Peace and Justice Ministry
-Peace and Justice Ministry Praxis
2)Participation in 120 hours of supervised ministry experience over the course of the program (or average of 5 hours/week in both terms).
3)Completion of a final integrative project.

Course Requirements

COURSE CREDITS
PJ401 Formation for Peace and Justice Ministry 3
PJ402 Peace and Justice Ministry Praxis 3
TOTAL 6

Graduate Certificate in Peace and Justice Ministry

Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) – 21-2099

Purpose
The Graduate Certificate in Peace and Justice Ministry is a non-degree, graduate credit program designed to develop and strengthen competencies of faith leaders, community leaders, and activists to serve ministries of social change for peace and justice.

Learning Outcomes
The student who successfully completes the certificate will be able to:
1)Integrate spiritual practices with ministries of peace and justice.
2)Describe and construct theological and biblical claims for ministries of peace and justice.
3)Interpret, apply, and develop theories and tactics of nonviolent social change.
4)Demonstrate appropriate communication skills (public and/or interpersonal) to lead ministries of peace and justice.

Location
This program is offered through the Live Online Classroom.
CENTRAL is not approved to offer online/distance education to students in Guam, American Samoa, or N. Marianas Islands.

Language(s): English

Duration
The Graduate Certificate in Peace and Justice Ministry can be completed in 2-3 terms.
Graduation Requirements
To receive the Graduate Certificate in Peace and Justice Ministry, students must:
1)Complete all curriculum requirements for the certificate program, including attendance in required classes or seminars and submission of any homework assignments.
2)Pay all financial obligations, including library fines.

Course Requirements

COURSE CREDITS
PJ501 Formation for Peace and Justice Ministry 3
PJ502 Peace and Justice Ministry Praxis 3
Any 2 of the following courses:
P-CR501 Creativity in Public Ministries 2
P-CM502 Interpersonal Skills 2
P-CM501 Media for Ministry Development 2
TOTAL 12

The Graduate Certificate in Peace and Justice Ministry program can be done with the MDiv or the MAM degrees.

Students wishing to complete the Graduate Certificate in Peace and Justice Ministry with the MDiv degree could use the two Peace and Justice in Ministry courses, PJ501 Formation for Peace and Justice Ministry and PJ502 Peace and Justice Ministry Praxis for the MDiv Contextual Learning Courses. All required courses for the certificate and a degree must be completed to earn the degree and the certificate and the overall GPA for the student’s Graduate Certificate in Peace and Justice Ministry will be calculated by grades in PJ501, PJ502 and other required courses.

Diploma in Theological Studies (Ministerial Leadership)
NOTE: This program is in Teach-Out. Starting in Fall 2025, the school is no longer admitting students to this program.

Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) – 21-2021, 21-2099

Purpose
The Diploma in Theological Studies (Ministerial Leadership) offers a basic diploma program (not an accredited degree) in theological studies for mature persons who have not completed a formal undergraduate degree.

Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of the Diploma in Theological Studies (Ministerial Leadership) program, the student will be able to:

• Demonstrate consciousness of the particularities that shape faith and practice in a given contextual setting.
• Demonstrate spiritual growth and self-awareness through the application of ministry knowledge and skills, religious commitment, and professional integrity.
• Demonstrate basic skills for discovering understanding and meaning from within the ambiguity and complexity of human experience and knowledge.
• Harmonize interpretation, contextualization, and formation pillar competencies with performance skills, techniques, and arts to improve ministry and leadership practices.
• Harmonize competencies gained via interpretation, contextualization, performance, and formation pillars in order to expand and perfect public practices of ministry and leadership.

Location
This program is offered through the Live Online Classroom and the Overland Park, KS campus.
CENTRAL is not approved to offer online/distance education to students in Guam, American Samoa, or N. Marianas Islands.

Language(s): English

Duration
This program is a total of 48 credit hours. At full-time status, this program takes 3 years to complete.
Graduation Requirements
1)Complete all curriculum requirements for the diploma program as outlined in this catalog under degree requirements.
2)Maintain a cumulative grade point average of 2.0 (C) or higher.
3)Pay all financial obligations, including graduation fees and library fines.
4)Complete any other requirements or assessments designated by the Administration, Faculty, or Board.

Course Requirements

COURSE CREDITS
F-FM401 Foundations of Seminary Studies 2
I-IN401 Biblical Interpretation 3
P-CR401 Creativity for Public Ministries 2
C-CH401 Christian Heritage I 3
C-CH402 Christian Heritage II 3
P-CM401 Media for Ministry Development 2
P-CM402 Interpersonal Skills 2
F-TH411Theological Foundations I 3
F-TH412Theological Foundations II 3
I-HB411Hebrew Bible I 3
I-HB412Hebrew Bible II 3
I-NT421 New Testament I 3
I-NT422 New Testament II 3
F-ET421Christian Ethics 3
F-CC431Caring Ministries 3
P-CM411 Homiletics 3
X-CL401Contextual Learning: Formation 3
X-CP431Capstone 1
TOTAL 48

Diploma in Theological Studies (Christian Formation)

Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) – 21-2021, 21-2099

Purpose
The Diploma in Theological Studies (Christian Formation) offers a basic diploma program (not an accredited degree) in Christian formation for mature persons who have not completed a formal undergraduate degree.

Learning Outcomes

• To increase the student’s knowledge of the Christian faith, including its biblical sources, theological articulation, and historical expression.
• To enhance the student’s ability to communicate ideas and feelings to others.
• Students who successfully complete the Christian Formation track of the Diploma in Theological Studies will be able to:
  • Grow as Christians by learning basic Christian faith and spirituality.
  • Learn and apply the essence of basic biblical, theological, and cultural knowledge in order for them to live out their life not only in churches but also in their ordinary lives.
  • Participate in the ministry of Christian communities in worship, education, missions, and service.

Location

This program is offered at the following locations:

• Anaheim, California
• Lawrenceville, Georgia
• Austin, Texas
• Carrollton, Texas
• Des Moines, Washington
• Houston, Texas
• Park Ridge, Illinois
• Overland Park, Kansas

Language(s): Korean

Duration
This program has 96 credits and takes four years to complete at full-time status.
Graduation Requirements
1)Complete all curriculum requirements for the diploma program as outlined in this catalog under degree requirements.
2)Maintain a cumulative grade point average of 2.0 (C) or higher.
3)Lead the seminary community or current ministry context in worship at least once during their final year.
4)Pay all financial obligations, including graduation fees and library fines.
5)Complete any other requirements or assessments designated by the Administration, Faculty, or Board.

Degree Requirements

COURSE CREDITS
BT401 The Story of the Old Testament 3
BT402 Exploring the Old Testament 3
BT403 Encountering the Old Testament 3
BT411 The Story of the New Testament 3
BT412 Exploring the New Testament 3
BT413 Encountering the New Testament 3
BT421 The Story of Church History 3
BT431 The Story of Systematic Theology 3
PA401 Church Music and Worship 4
PA403 Christian Media 4
PA412 Intergenerational Communication 4
PA413 Work and God’s Calling 4
PA422 History of Mission 4
PA423 Marriage and Family 4
PA433 Christian Leadership 4
FO401 Healing and Growth 4
FO402 Elements of Spiritual Formation 4
FO403 Christian Living 4
FO405 Reading Christian Classics 4
GS401 History and Culture 4
GS411 Logic and Thinking 4
GS421 Writing Skills 4
GS431 Speech and Debate 4
PA434 Social Service Ministry 4
MCF401 Mentored Christian Formation* 1
TOTAL 96

*MCF401 is taken every term (8 times)

Diploma: Kachin Christian Formation

Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) – 21-2021, 21-2099

Purpose
The Diploma in Christian Formation offers a basic diploma program in Christian formation for Kachin language persons, who want to learn the basic concepts of the Bible, spirituality, church, culture, and Christian faith. This program is a three-year program (72 credits) and is composed of Bible, Theology, Ministry, and Mission.

Learning Outcomes
It is expected that all students completing the Diploma in Christian Formation will:

• Gain basic biblical, theological, and historical knowledge of the Christian faith.
• Grow as Christians by learning basic Christian faith and spirituality.
• Enhance their ability to communicate ideas and feelings to others.
• Learn and apply the essence of basic biblical, theological, and cultural knowledge in order to live out their faith not only in churches but also everywhere.
• Participate in the ministry of Christian communities in worship, education, missions, and service.

Location
This program is offered through 100% remote learning.
CENTRAL is not approved to offer online/distance education to students in Guam, American Samoa, or N. Marianas Islands.

Language(s): Kachin

Duration
This program is a total of 72 credit hours. At full-time status, this program takes 3 years to complete.
Graduation Requirements
1)Complete all curriculum requirements for the diploma program as outlined in this catalog under degree requirements.
2)Maintain a cumulative grade point average of 2.0 (C) or higher.
3)Pay all financial obligations, including graduation fees and library fines.
4)Complete any other requirements or assessments designated by the Administration, Faculty, or Board.

Degree Requirements

COURSE CREDITS
KCF401 Old Testament Survey 4
KCF402 Holy Land Studies and Tour 4
KCF403 New Testament Survey 4
KCF404 The Gospels/Pauline Letters 4
KCF405 Theological Research 4
KCF406 Karai Kasang: A Kachin Concept of God 4
KCF407 A Biblical Theology of the Holy Spirit 4
KCF408 A Biblical Theology for Morality 4
KCF409 Introduction to World Religion 4
KCF410 The Art of Preaching 4
KCF411 Church Leadership and Administration 4
KCF412 Theology of Worship 4
KCF413 Coaching and Mentoring Ministry 4
KCF414 Pastoral Care and Counseling 4
KCF415 A Missional Church 4
KCF416 Church-based Discipleship Evangelism 4
KCF417 Ola Hanson and his Legacy: Life, Theology, and Works 4
KCF418 Diaspora Kachin: History, Migration, and Identity 4
TOTAL 72

Master of Divinity (Korean Programs)

Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) – 21-2011

Purpose
The Master of Divinity is a vocational ministry training degree that unites classical studies oriented toward theological and spiritual formation with development of applied ministry skills.
NOTE: New students are not being admitted to this curriculum.

Learning Outcomes

• Demonstrate masters-level skills for discovering understanding and meaning from within the ambiguity and complexity of human experience and knowledge.
• Demonstrate spiritual growth and self-awareness through the application of ministry knowledge and skills, religious commitment, and professional integrity.
• Demonstrate competencies needed for managing the ongoing vitality and relevance of faith traditions amid varied settings.
• Perform ministry skills, techniques, and arts gained via the interpretation, contextualization, and formation pillars in order to expand and perfect public practices of ministry and leadership.

Location
Master of Divinity courses are offered at the following locations:

• Anaheim, California
• Lawrenceville, Georgia
• Austin, Texas
• Carrollton, Texas
• Des Moines, Washington
• Houston, Texas
• Park Ridge, Illinois
• Overland Park, Kansas

Language(s): Korean

Duration
The MDiv is a 75-credit hour program which takes four years as a full-time student.
Graduation Requirements
1)Complete all curriculum requirements for the degree program as outlined in this catalog under degree requirements.
2)Maintain a cumulative grade point average of 2.0 (C) or higher.
3)Complete required residency hours.
4)MDiv students lead the seminary community or current ministry context in worship at least once during their final year (usually in coordination with PR503).
5)Pay all financial obligations, including graduation fees and library fines.
6)Complete any other requirements or assessments designated by the Administration, Faculty, or Board.

Curriculum Requirements
NOTE: This curriculum is in Teach-Out. New students are not admitted to this curriculum. All new students who started in Fall 2021 or after began in the revised curriculum below.

COURSE CREDITS
HB501 Hebrew Bible I 3
HB502 Hebrew Bible II 3
NT501 New Testament I 3
NT502 New Testament II 3
CH501 Christian Heritage I 3
CH502 Christian Heritage II 3
TH501 Constructive Theology I 3
TH502 Constructive Theology II 3
ET501 Christian Ethics 3
ET502 Ministry Ethics 3
CS501 Formation for Christian Ministry 3
CS502 Spiritual Formation and Adult Human Development 3
PR501 Homiletics 3
PR502 The Practice of Preaching 3
PR503 The Worshiping Church 3
PR504 Biblical Exegesis and Hermeneutics 3
PT501 Caring Ministries of the Church 3
PT502 Counseling Ministries of the Church 3
MP501 Basics of Contemporary Christian Witness 3
MP502 Church’s Worship and Rituals 3
MP503 Ministry Dynamics1 3
ELECTIVES2 12
TOTAL 75

1Students may complete Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) as a substitute for MP503 Ministry Dynamics. Up to six credits hours may be granted for one unit of CPE. Three credit hours substitute for MP503, and three credit hours granted as elective credit.
2Baptist students are strongly encouraged to take CH503 Baptist Denominational Studies, which meets the expectations for ordination in the American Baptist Churches USA and the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship.

Curriculum Requirements
NOTE: All Korean program students who began their program in Fall 2021 or after are in the following curriculum.

COURSE CREDITS
KI-IN511 Foundations for the Bible: History, Geography, and Culture 3
KI-HB511 Hebrew Bible I 3
KI-HB512 Hebrew Bible II 3
KI-NT521 New Testament I 3
KI-NT522 New Testament II 3
KI-IN501 Biblical Interpretation 3
KF-FM501 Foundations for Seminary Studies 3
KF-TH511 Theological Foundations I 3
KF-TH512 Theological Foundations II 3
KF-ET501 Christian Ethics and Work Theology 3
KC-CH501 Christian Heritage I 3
KC-CH502 Christian Heritage II 3
KC-MS501 Missional Church 3
KC-LD501 Ministry Leadership and Innovation 3
KC-JP501 Justice and Peace for All 3
KI-CE501 Contextual Engagement: Christian Education 3
KF-CE511 Contextual Engagement: Caring and Counseling Ministry 3
KC-CE521 Contextual Engagement: Community Care and Outreach 3
KP-CE531 Capstone 3
ELECTIVES 9
Students select either the Pastoral Leader Track or Social Leader Track

Pastoral Leader Track
KP-PL511 Homiletics 3
KP-PL512 The Practice of Preaching 3
KP-PL521 Worship Design 3

Social Leader Track
KP-SL511 Foundations for Social Ministry 3
KP-SL512 The Practice of Social Ministry 3
KP-SL521 Ministry Design 3
TOTAL 75

Master of Divinity (English Program)

Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) – 21-2011

Purpose
The Master of Divinity is a vocational ministry training degree that unites classical studies oriented towards theological and spiritual formation with development of applied ministry skills.

Learning Outcomes

• Demonstrate competencies needed for managing the ongoing vitality and relevance of faith traditions amid varied settings.
• Demonstrate spiritual growth and self-awareness through the application of ministry knowledge and skills, religious commitment, and professional integrity.
• Demonstrate master-level skills for discovering understanding and meaning from within the ambiguity and complexity of human experience and knowledge.
• Harmonize interpretation, contextualization, and formation pillars competencies with performance skills, techniques, and arts to improve ministry and leadership practices.
• Harmonize competencies gained via interpretation, contextualization, performance, and formation pillars in order to expand and perfect public practices of ministry and leadership.

Location
This MDiv curriculum completed fully at each of the following locations:

• Overland Park, KS
• Online – live class meetings

CENTRAL is not approved to offer online/distance education to students in Guam, American Samoa, or N. Marianas Islands.

Language(s): English

Duration
The MDiv is a four-year program for full-time students. To finish in four years, students generally complete 18-20 credits per academic year. Courses are offered in the 12-week term system.

Graduation Requirements
Complete all curriculum requirements for the degree program as outlined in this catalog under degree requirements:
1)Maintain a cumulative grade point average of 2.0 I or higher.
2)Complete any required residency hours.
3)Pay all financial obligations, including graduation fees and library fines.
4)Complete any other requirements or assessments designated by the Administration, Faculty, or Board.

Curriculum Requirements
NOTE: This curriculum is in Teach-Out. New students are not admitted to this curriculum. All new students who starting in Fall 2025 will begin the revised curriculum below.

COURSE CREDITS
F-FM501 Foundations of Seminary Studies 2
F-TH511 Theological Foundations I 3
F-TH512 Theological Foundations II 3
F-CC531 Caring Ministries 3
F-ET521 Christian Ethics 3
C-CH501 Christian Heritage I 3
C-CH502 Christian Heritage II 3
C-MS511 Missional Imagination 3
C-RP511 Ministry in a Pluralistic World 3
C-LD521 Foundations of Ministry Leadership and Innovation 3
C-LD522 Practice of Ministry Leadership and Innovation 3
P-CR501 Creativity for Public Ministries 2
P-CM501 Media for Ministry Development 2
P-CM502 Interpersonal Skills 2
P-CM511 Homiletics 3
P-WP521 The Art of Worship Leadership 3
I-IN501 Biblical Interpretation 3
I-HB511 Hebrew Bible I 3
I-HB512 Hebrew Bible II 3
I-NT521 New Testament I 3
I-NT522 New Testament II 3
X-CL501 Contextual Learning: Formation 4
X-CL511 Contextual Learning: Cross-Cultural 4
X-CL521 Contextual Learning: Public Practice 4
X-CP531 Capstone 4
TOTAL 75

Curriculum Requirements
NOTE: All program students beginning their program in Fall 2025 or after are in the following curriculum.

COURSE CREDITS
BB5003 Biblical Interpretation 2
BB5113 Hebrew Bible 3
BB5213 New Testament 3
CM5001 Forming Spiritual Community 1
CM5011 Forming Spiritual Community 7*
CM5113 Global Conversations I 3
CM5123 Global Conversations II 2
CM5002 Interpersonal Skills 2
HS5113 Christian Heritage 3
LD5013 Ministry Leadership and Innovation 3
MN5512 Caring Ministries 3
MN5333 Ministry in a Pluralistic World 3
MN5123 Technology Tools for Ministry 3
MN5112 Homiletics 2
MN5343 Missional Imagination 3
MN5122 Art of Worship Leadership 2
Choose two of the following:

• MN5813 Contextual Learning: Care and Compassion 3**
• MN5823 Contextual Learning: Cross-Cultural 3**
• MN5833 Contextual Learning: Public Practice 3**

MN5943 Capstone 3
TH5003 Thinking Theologically 3
TH5112 Theological Foundations I 2
TH5122 Theological Foundations II 2
TH5213 Christian Ethics 3
Electives 9
TOTAL 72

*Students take this one credit course 7 times during the program.
**Students choose 2 of 3 Contextual Learning courses and may substitute CPE for one of the two required Contextual Learning courses.

Students wishing to complete the Graduate Certificate in Chaplaincy and/or Graduate Certificate in Peace and Justice Ministry with the MDiv degree could use CPE for one MDiv Contextual Learning Course and one of two Peace and Justice in Ministry courses, PJ501 Formation for Peace and Justice Ministry or PJ502 Peace and Justice Ministry Praxis for the other MDiv Contextual Learning course. All required courses for the certificates and MDiv degrees must be completed to earn the degree and the certificate(s).

Master of Arts in Ministry

Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) – 21-2011

Purpose
The Master of Arts in Ministry is a two-year professional program designed for students in ministry or preparing for ministry both inside and outside the ecclesial setting. Students can choose from various study tracks or tailor a track to their ministry goals.

Learning Outcomes

Demonstrate interpretive skills appropriate for effective ministry leadership (biblical interpretation, theological interpretation, and historical interpretation).
Demonstrate spiritual growth and self-awareness appropriate for effective ministry leadership.
Demonstrate the ability to integrate program knowledge, skills, and character in the student’s chosen ministry or leadership setting.
Demonstrate empathy within a diverse community setting.

Location
The MAM degree can be obtained fully at each of the following:

• Overland Park, KS campus
• Online – live class meetings

CENTRAL is not approved to offer online/distance education to students in Guam, American Samoa, or N. Marianas Islands.

Language(s): English

Duration
The MAM program is a total of 36 credit hours. The length of study for full-time students (6 credits per term) in the MAM program is two years. Part-time students can expect their program to last 4 years.

Graduation Requirements
Complete all curriculum requirements for the degree program as outlined in this catalog under degree requirements:
1)Maintain a cumulative grade point average of 2.0 (C) or higher.
2)Pay all financial obligations, including graduation fees and library fines.
3)Complete any other requirements or assessments designated by the Administration, Faculty, or Board.

Curriculum Requirements
COURSE  CREDITS
BB5003 Biblical Interpretation 2
BB5113 Hebrew Bible 3
BB5213 New Testament 3
CM5001 Forming Spiritual Community 1
CM5011 Forming Spiritual Community 3*
CM5113 Global Conversations I 3
HS5113 Christian Heritage 3
TH5003 Thinking Theologically 3
TH5213 Christian Ethics 3
Personalized Study Track 12
TOTAL 36

**Students take this one credit course 3 times during the program.
Students wishing to complete the MAM degree and a Graduate Certificate must be admitted to each program and complete all curricular requirements for each program.

Personalized Study Tracks

Biblical and Theological Studies
COURSE   CREDITS
Bible/Theology Elective 3
MN5813 Contextualized Learning: Care and Compassion (or CPE) 3
TH5112 Theological Foundations I 2
TH5122 Theological Foundations II 2
CM5123 Global Conversations II 2
TOTAL 12

Chaplaincy
COURSE   CREDITS
CP501 Introduction to Chaplaincy 3
CP502 Chaplaincy in Hospice and Elder Care 3
MN5512 Caring Ministries 3
MN5813 Contextualized Learning: Care and Compassion (or CPE) 3
TOTAL 12

Counseling
COURSE   CREDITS
TH5112 Theological Foundations I 2
TH5122 Theological Foundations II 2
CM5123 Global Conversations II 2
CO510 Counseling Theories 3
Choose 1:
CO502 The Helping Relationship 3
CO505 Life Span Development 3
CO513 Marriage and Family 3
CO512 Multicultural Counseling 3
TOTAL 12

Ministry Leadership
COURSE   CREDITS
MN5343 Missional Imagination 3
MN5833 Contextualized Learning: Public Practice 3
CM5002 Interpersonal Skills 2
MN5112 Homiletics 2
LD5013 Ministry Leadership and Innovation 2
TOTAL 12

Multi-Cultural Ministry
COURSE   CREDITS
CM5002 Interpersonal Skills 2
CM5123 Global Conversations II 2
LD5013 Ministry Leadership and Innovation 2
MN5823 Contextualized Learning: Cross-Cultural 3
Choose one:
MN5333 Ministry in a Pluralistic World 3
CO512 Multicultural Counseling 3
TOTAL 12

Pastoral Ministry
COURSE   CREDITS
CO502 The Helping Relationship 3
MN5833 Contextualized Learning: Public Practice 3
MN5112 Homiletics 2
MN5122 Art of Worship Leadership 2
LD5013 Ministry Leadership and Innovation 2
TOTAL 12

Peace and Justice
COURSE   CREDITS
PJ501 Formation for Peace and Justice Ministry 3
PJ502 Peace and Justice Ministry Praxis 3
LD5013 Ministry Leadership and Innovation 2
CM5002 Interpersonal Skills 2
CM5123 Global Conversations II 2
TOTAL 12

Master of Arts (Theological Studies)

Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) – 21-2021, 21-2099

Purpose
The MA(TS) degree is a two-year focused on knowledge in general theological studies and development of professional research and communication skills.

Learning Outcomes

❖
Demonstrate interpretive skills appropriate for vocation in the theological academy (biblical interpretation, theological interpretation, and historical interpretation).
❖
Demonstrate spiritual growth and self-awareness appropriate for vocation in the theological academy.
❖
Demonstrate the ability to integrate program knowledge, skills, and character in a culminating master’s thesis.
❖
Demonstrate empathy within a diverse community setting.

Location
The MA(TS) degree can be obtained fully at each of the following:

• Overland Park, KS
• Online – live class meetings

CENTRAL is not approved to offer online/distance education to students in Guam, American Samoa, or N. Marianas Islands.

Language(s): English

Duration
The MA(TS) program is a total of 36 credit hours. The normal length of study for full-time students (6 credits per term) in the MA(TS) program is two years. Part-time students can expect their program to last 4 years.

Graduation Requirements
Complete all curriculum requirements for the degree program as outlined in this catalog under degree requirements:

1)Maintain a cumulative grade point average of 2.0 (C) or higher.
2)Pay all financial obligations, including graduation fees and library fines.
3)Complete any other requirements or assessments designated by the Administration, Faculty, or Board.

Curriculum Requirements
NOTE: This program is in Teach-Out. New students are not admitted to this curriculum. All new students who started in Fall 2025 or after began in the revised curriculum below.

COURSE CREDITS
MA-FM501 Foundations of Seminary Studies 1
MA505 Dynamics of Theological Thinking 2
MA-CH501 Christian Heritage 3
MA-IN501 Biblical Interpretation 3
MA-HB511 Hebrew Bible I 3
MA-NT521 New Testament I 3
MA-TH511 Theological Foundations I 3
MA-ET521 Christian Ethics 3
MA521 Research Skills 3
MA506/507 Capstone/Thesis 3
Electives 9
TOTAL 36

Curriculum Requirements
NOTE: All new students who started in Fall 2025 or after began in this curriculum.

COURSE CREDITS
CM5001 Forming Spiritual Community 1
CM5011 Forming Spiritual Community 3*
CM5113 Global Conversations I 3
HS5113 Christian Heritage 3
TH5003 Thinking Theologically 3
TH5112 Theological Foundations I 2
TH5122 Theological Foundations II 2
TH5213 Christian Ethics 3
BB5003 Biblical Interpretation 2
BB5113 Hebrew Bible 3
BB5213 New Testament 3
AC5012 Academic Writing 2
AC5013 Research Skills 3
AC5923 Thesis 3
TOTAL 36

**Students take this one credit course 3 times during the program.

The MA(TS) cannot be combined with Graduate Certificates. Students wishing to complete the MA(TS) degree and a Graduate Certificate must be admitted to each program and complete all curricular requirements for each program.

Master of Arts in Missional Church Studies

Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) – 21-2021, 21-2099

Purpose
This program explores carefully selected components of Christian ministry to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed for leading/serving ministry-related organizations in contemporary changing contexts. This degree is designed to address ministerial principles and skills applicable to both vocational and lay ministry.

Learning Outcomes

• The student will be able to articulate appropriate theological, contextual, and practical understandings of Christian ministries.
• The student will be able to analyze ministry contexts utilizing methodologies in various disciplines.
• The student will acquire the skills needed to develop ministries that are sensitive to the views and needs of diverse groups in urban/immigrant contexts.
• The student will be able to demonstrate commitment to continuing growth in personal and spiritual maturity.
• The student will gain practical ministry experience through placement in local churches and/or ministry- related organizations.

Location
The MAMCS degree is only offered at the Overland Park, KS campus.

Language(s): Korean

Duration
The MAMCS program is a total of 36 credit hours. The normal length of study for full-time students (9 credits per fall and spring terms) is two years. Part-time students can expect their program to last 3 or more years.

Curriculum Requirements

COURSE CREDITS
MCM501 Foundations of Christian Ministry 4
MCM502 Understanding Contexts in Ministry 4
MCM503 Missional Leadership 4
MCM504 Coaching for Effective Ministry 4
MCM505 World Religions and Missions 4
MCM506 Issues in Educational Ministry 4
MCM507 Issues in Counseling Ministry 4
MCM508 Ministry Design: How to Create Ministry for Your Context 4
MCM509 Mentored Ministry Praxis* 1
TOTAL 36

*MCM509 is taken each semester (four times).

Master of Christian Care and Counseling

Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) – 21-2099

Purpose
To prepare, train, and nurture competent Christian caregivers and counselors by providing effective helping theories and skills necessary for diverse contexts.

Learning Outcomes
As students complete the degree, they will be able to:

• Articulate appropriate theological, contextual, and practical understandings of Christian ministries.
• Demonstrate knowledge of helping theories and skills fundamental for a variety of ministry settings.
• Demonstrate the ability to integrate theological tenets with helping ministry skills in giving care and counseling.
• Demonstrate the ability to engage in competent care for those seeking guidance and healing.
• Demonstrate commitment to continuing growth in personal and spiritual maturity.

Location
In addition to online courses, the MCCC degree is offered at the following locations:

• Lawrenceville, Georgia
• Austin, Texas
• Carrollton, Texas
• Houston, Texas
• Overland Park, KS

Language(s): Korean

Duration
The MCCC program has a total of 36 credit hours. The normal length of study for full-time students (9 credits per fall and spring terms) is two years. Part-time students can expect their program to last 3 or more years.

Curriculum Requirements
The following course lists reflect the required course of study. Please note that MCCC-Care Track is for F-1 students and MCCC-Counseling Track is for non-F-1 students. Course requirements may only be adjusted with faculty approval.

Care Track for F-1 Students

COURSE CREDITS
MCC501 Foundations of Christian Ministry in Multicultural Contexts 4
MCC502 Incarnational Theology and Helping Ministry 4
MCC503 Helping Relationship: Identity, Ethics, and Process 4
MCC504 Supervision and Self-Care for Caregivers 4
MCC511 Theories and Skills for Coaching 4
MCC512 Theories and Skills for Counseling 4
MCC513 Theories and Skills for Spiritual Direction 4
MCC514 Theories and Skills for Chaplaincy 4
MCC509* Supervised Practice in Helping Ministry I, II, III, and IV 4
TOTAL 36

Counseling Track for Non-F-1 Students

COURSE CREDITS
MCC5011 Care and Counseling in Multicultural Contexts 3
MCC5021 Theology and Helping Ministry 3
MCC5031 Helping Relationship: Identity, Ethics, and Process 3
MCC521 Development Across the Life Span 3
MCC522 Personality Theories and Psychotherapy 3
MCC523 Marriage and Family Counseling 3
MCC5241 Special Topics in Counseling Theories* 3
MCC5242 Special Topics: Group Counseling Theory and Practice* 3
MCC5243 Special Topics: Research Methods* 3
MCC5111 Theories and Skills for Coaching 3
MCC5121 Counseling Skills and Techniques 3
MCC5141 Theories and Skills for Chaplaincy 3
MCC531 Supervised internship I** 3
MCC532 Supervised Internship II** 3
TOTAL 36

*Take one of the following: MCC5241, MCC5242, or MCC5243
**6 credits of MCC509 or MCC5091 may meet MCC531 and MCC532.

Master of Arts in Counseling

Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) – 21-1014

Purpose
The MA in Counseling degree equips students to serve both faith communities and general populations as Licensed Professional Counselors. Upon completion of the program students have a holistic understanding of wellness and the knowledge, ethics, values, skills, and personal dispositions to provide mental health services to a multicultural population. Through a faculty of scholar-practitioners, a rigorous curriculum, and experiential learning, students are well-prepared for a future in the counseling vocation.

In addition, the MA in Counseling aims to meet Kansas, Missouri, and other state educational requirements for licensure. It is important for every student to understand the requirements of their state. In addition, the MA in Counseling program is designed to meet the educational requirements for licensure in Kansas, Missouri, and potentially other states. However, licensure requirements vary by state and can change over time. It is the responsibility of each student to thoroughly understand and regularly review the specific licensure requirements of the state in which they intend to practice. Students are encouraged to regularly review the expectations of their state licensing boards and consult with their licensing boards to ensure that all educational and clinical requirements are met.

Learning Outcomes

• Demonstrate the ability to provide mental health services to individuals in a diverse multicultural society and in varied clinical settings.
• Demonstrate professional counselor identity in conjunction with appropriate application of counseling theories and engagement in research and professional skills enhancement.
• Demonstrate professional counseling practice by selecting appropriate evidence-based treatments informed by diagnoses.
• Demonstrate the counselor skills and sensibilities for human spirituality needed to establish and
  maintain rapport and facilitate the treatment process.

Professional Competencies:
Through engagement with appropriate readings, faculty instruction, peer collaboration, and supervised practicums and internship experiences, graduates will develop professionalism in the following areas:

• Scholarship: Students will learn the knowledge and skills needed to critically evaluate and communicate requisite knowledge about professional counseling.
• Professional Attitude and Behavior: Students will learn the knowledge and skills needed to conduct themselves professionally as defined by the American Counseling Association (ACA) ethical standards for professional counselors.
• Cultural Competence: Students will learn the knowledge and skills needed to appropriately factor a client’s unique cultural characteristics into decision making related to diagnoses, treatment models, counseling methods and techniques, and expected outcomes.
• Professional Practice: Students will learn the knowledge and skills needed to provide “standard of care” to clients from an integrated mind, body, soul, and spirit model therapy and model of treatment.

Formation Goals:

• The student will value the integration of spirituality among the complex of mental, physical, and emotional components that constitute human personhood and health.
• The student will prepare to serve individuals and communities of varied or no religious traditions and affiliations.
• The student will explore and grow in awareness of his/her own religious assumptions and convictions and develop insight into how this influences his/her work as a counselor.

Location
The Master of Arts in Counseling degree can be earned online (through synchronous courses) and at the Overland Park, KS campus. Students taking classes online will need to consider the licensing requirements of their state.

CENTRAL is not approved to offer online/distance education to students in Guam, American Samoa, or N. Marianas Islands.

Language(s): English

Duration
The Master of Arts in Counseling is a three-year program at full-time student status. Courses are scheduled so that students may take additional courses in each term to complete the degree in two years. Courses are offered on a trimester system of three 12-week terms each academic year.

Graduation Requirements
Complete all curriculum requirements for the degree program as outlined in this catalog under degree requirements:

1.Maintain a cumulative grade point average of 2.0 (C) or higher.
2.Complete any required residency hours.
3.Pay all financial obligations, including graduation fees and library fines.
4.Complete any other requirements or assessments designated by the Administration, Faculty, or Board.

Curriculum Requirements (60 credits):

COURSE CREDITS
CO501 Professional Orientation and Ethics 3
CO502 The Helping Relationship 3
CO503 Abnormal Psychology 3
CO504 Biological Basis for Behavior 3
CO505 Lifespan Development 3
CO506 Career Development 3
CO507 Psychopharmacology 3
CO510 Counseling Theories 3
CO511 Theory and Methods for Group Counseling 3
CO512 Multicultural Counseling 3
CO513 Marriage and Family Counseling 3
CO520 Diagnosis and Treatment of Childhood and Adolescent Disorders3
CO521 Diagnosis and Treatment of PTSD 3
CO522 Diagnosis and Treatment of Substance Use Disorders 3
CO523 Differential Diagnosis and Treatment Planning 3
CO530 Statistics and Research Methods 3
CO531 Psychological Tests and Measurements 3
CO540 Supervised Counseling Practicum 3
CO541 Internship I 2
CO542 Internship II 2
CO543 Internship III 2
TOTAL 60

Doctor of Ministry

Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) – 21-2011

Purpose
The purpose of the Doctor of Ministry degree (DMin) is to provide advanced, practical theological education for experienced ministers, chaplains and other faith leaders who hold the Master of Divinity degree. The DMin program of Central Seminary emphasizes the integration of theological reflection and practice, coaching, servant leadership, and scholarship to deepen spiritual and missional formation in both the practice of ministry and in the minister.

Learning Outcomes

Missional Church Track and MIT Track

• Use social-scientific research methods to analyze appropriately ministry situations and develop practices conducive to congregational health.
• Use best-practice methodologies employed by the classical theological disciplines to critique ideas, beliefs, and practices in terms of their implications for congregational health.
• Demonstrate high proficiency in the art of ministry praxis and leadership that contributes either to healthy faith communities that are missional in nature or to pastoral care that holistically develops healthy individuals and families.
• Demonstrate commitment to continuing growth in personal, spiritual, and professional maturity.
• Acquire essential skills for mentoring new generations of leaders and equipping them for healthy practices of ministry.

Creative Leadership Track

• The learner will develop a theological construct from which a vision for personal and organizational spirituality and ministry might be developed.
• The learner will gain and improve the necessary skills for successfully guiding ministry innovation and entrepreneurship and for developing vision for effective and sustainable change.
• Through personal assessment and designed learning engagement with others, the learner will enhance his/her abilities to empathize.
• The learner will gain and develop skills for building teams and assessing organizational systems.
• The learner will acquire design thinking skills and utilize them to innovate in an organizational setting.
• The learner will enhance skills for creating and managing budgets, raising funds, and developing ministry resources.

Location
The Missional Church Track is available through the main campus in Overland Park, KS, Calvin University in South Korea, and fully online. The Creative Leadership Track is available only through Overland Park, KS.

Language(s): English and Korean

Duration
The DMin program requires two years of coursework and one year for the project dissertation for a total of 30 credit hours. Students may request an extension to complete the project dissertation. Consult the DMin Handbook for further details.

Curriculum
The following course lists reflect a typical course of study, but courses and credits may be adjusted per cohort.

Missional Church Studies
(F-1 visa students taking 6 credit hours per semester are considered full-time, and Doctoral students registered in the project dissertation phase are considered full-time.)

COURSES CREDITS
DM601 Orientation to the DMin Program 0
MC614 The Missional Church Theory and Practice 3
MC602 Mentoring,Coaching & Learning Comm. for Missional Ministries 3
DM602 Missional Leadership: Theology and Practice 3
DM609 Incarnational Theology 3
MC608 Community Analysis and Engagement 3
MC606 Congregational Development of New Faith Communities 3
MC609 Entrepreneurial Ministry 3
DM610 Research Method and Project Design 3
DM612 Project Dissertation I 3
DM613 Project Dissertation II 3
DM614, DM615 Dissertation Research and Writing 0
TOTAL 30

Congregational Health
(for Myanmar students only)

COURSE CREDITS
DM601 Orientation to the DMin Program 0
DM1031 How to Lead and Teach: Leadership for Myanmar Churches 1
DM1014 How to Lead and Teach: Christian Education in Myanmar Today 1
DM603 Systems Thinking I 2
DM610 Research Method and Project Design 3
DM611 Project Dissertation 6
Electives (see list below) 17
TOTALS 30

Possible Electives: Credits
DM609 Incarnational Theology 3
MC605 Creating Mission-Minded Congregations 3
DM1011 Bible and Ministry in Contemporary Setting 2
DM1012 Theological Reflections on Major Doctrines 2
DM1013 New Ways of Being Church 2
DM1021 Role of Minister in Multi-Cultural Context 1
DM1022 Ministerial Ethics 1
DM1024 Mission Minded Faith Communities 2
DM1032 Church in a Pluralistic Religious Context 1
DM1033 Ecumenism for the Twenty-First Century 2
DM1034 Pastoral Care and Counseling in the Global Context 2
DM1041 Transforming Society and Conflict in Ministry 2
DM1044 Research Seminar 2

Creative Leadership
(English speaking program only. F-1 visa students taking 4 credit hours per term or registered in the project dissertation phase are considered as full-time.)

COURSE CREDITS
V-DM611 Shaping a Theology for Leadership and Spirituality 4
V-DM613 Engaging the Power of Change 4
S-DM622 Embracing Design Thinking 4
S-DM623 Managing Ministry Resources 4
L-DM612 Understanding Yourself and Others 4
L-DM621 Leading People and Organizations 4
C-DM611 Capstone Design, Development, and Execution 2
C-DM612 Dissertation Research and Writing 2
C-DM613 Dissertation Research and Writing 2
C-DM614, C-DM615 Dissertation Research and Writing 0
TOTAL 30

Foundations: Judson Communities

Christian Heritage: A Brief Overview
Christian Heritage: A Brief Overview offers a very basic introduction to the history of Christianity from its origins to the present. This course provides the learner with an essential map to guide him or her on the first voyage through the study of Christianity’s history.

Church Administration
Church Administration guides the student in reflecting upon some of the basic leadership skills needed for leading a church. Topics include the dynamics of interpersonal relationships, administrative approaches, budget preparation, planning, problem solving, leading meetings, and educational programming.

Ministry Contextualization
Ministry Contextualization (Ministry in the Local Congregation) employs an interactive approach in which several presenters address a variety of topics important to good ministry. Topics include ministerial leadership, the pastor and worship, managing conflict, and other timely matters of importance to congregational health. The intent is to provide relevant information and reflection on issues related to ministry leadership that are transferable from one ministry context to another.

Ministry Ethics
Ministry Ethics guides students in confronting some of the major ethical issues commonly faced in ministry. Among the topics touched upon are professional boundaries, responsible sexuality, plagiarism and preaching, pastoral care in bioethical situations, financial accountability, and ministerial self-care.

Missional Church
Missional Church offers a basic introduction to the complex dynamics of the church in relation to today’s culture. The study introduces the concept of missional paradigms (models for understanding the church’s mission or purpose), challenges of contemporary contextualization (understanding the church’s purpose in relation to the world in which it is situated), and important elements of an “emerging church” paradigm (new ways for understating the church in relation to the needs of today’s society).

New Testament: A Brief Overview
New Testament: A Brief Overview introduces students to the background and development of the New Testament. Major New Testament books are introduced in the context of the developing theological traditions of early Christianity.

Old Testament: A Brief Overview
Old Testament: A Brief Overview, presents an overview of the Old Testament, focused on biblical Israel’s story. Major books of the Old Testament are introduced from the context of the theological development within ancient Israel’s faith tradition.

Pastoral Arts
Pastoral Arts offers a very basic introduction to a wide variety of ministry arts that are essential for an effective pastor. Topics will include such activities as hospital visitation, weddings, funerals, home visitation, congregational nurture, pastoral counseling, and spiritual formation of new believers.

Proclamation
Proclamation introduces the student to some of the basics of the art of preaching. Focus is given to the purpose of preaching, how the Bible is responsibly used in preaching, and basic points of good preaching delivery and style.

My Faith Heritage
This course will introduce the student to the basic doctrinal distinctive, history, and practices of her or his denominational tradition. The study will vary according to the denominational affiliation of the student.

Foundations: Ola Hanson Bible Institute

CE130 – How the Bible Came to Us I
A brief survey study of how the Christian Bible, the Old and the New Testament, came into being from the Hebrew, Aramaic and Greek oral states to the translated texts stage in the Kachinic languages in Burma. The course will be offered in two parts. Part I will cover a brief history of the English Bible translation and the translation of the Bible in Burmese and Kachinic languages in the context of the American Baptist Foreign Mission work in Myanmar.

CE131 – Introduction to the Old Testament
To grasp the bird’s view of whole Old Testament from Genesis to Malachi, this course presents an overview of the Old Testament, focused on biblical Israel’s story. Major books of the Old Testament are introduced from the context of the theological development within ancient Israel’s faith tradition.

CE132 – Introduction to the New Testament
This course is an introduction to the background, content, careful examination of the development and interpretation of the New Testament text. Major New Testament books are introduced in the context of the developing theological traditions of early Christianity while thinking about what the New Testament has to say about life application today.

CE133 – Baptist Heritage
Baptist Heritage offers a basic introduction to Baptist history from its origins to the present. This course will explore the history and heritage of Kachin Baptist Churches in Myanmar as well as in America. This course will also introduce the student to the basic Baptist mission, doctrinal distinctive, history, and practices.

CE134 – Foundation of Christian Theology
The course is to provide an integrated survey of some fundamental beliefs of the Christian faith which every Christian or follower of Jesus must know. The survey covers a wide range of basic Christian teachings on the Bible, God, trinity, creation, sin, Jesus Christ, the atonement, resurrection, justification, sanctification, heaven, the church in mission, Second Coming of Christ, the Final Judgment, and more. An emphasis will be placed on the eternal purpose and plan of God’s salvation and on the church in mission.

CE135 – Christian Education and Church School
This course is intended to encourage each person to become the fullest development of God’s people, both as individual believers and as productive members of the Body of Christ through a practical, in-depth Christian Educational Ministry. Its primary focus is on the church school in the cross-cultural and inter-generational settings of our Kachin speaking churches in America. It will strengthen all participants’ faith and ministry, as well as deepen the vitality of Christ’s work everywhere. This course will also look at some of the characteristics of Kachin American hybridity and then look at hybrid ways to teach the Kachin American generations.

CE136 – Church and Mission
This course examines theological, biblical, and historical foundations for Christian mission. Practices and models of mission, both historical and contemporary, are analyzed and critiqued. Students will develop and articulate a theology of mission appropriate for local congregations.

CE137 – The Church and Evangelism Explosion
The course helps students to comprehend the importance of the local church, its role in God’s eternal plan, and the responsibility of a local church in implementing the Great Commission of Jesus Christ. Through lectures and on-the-job training, students are equipped to effectively communicate the grace and man portions of the gospel presentation.

CE138 – Assurance of Salvation and Eternal Life
The course is to present the basic principle and fundamental of the Christian teaching on the promises of God concerning the assurance of salvation and eternal life. This course covers the love and grace of God, the life of sinful man before encouraging personally with Christ, the atoning work of Christ on the cross, and the destiny of both believers in Christ and non-believers. Finally, this course rests on the Christian traditions which embrace “Sola Fide,” justification by faith alone.

CE139 – True Discipleship
True Discipleship of Jesus Christ has the goal of helping learners to understand the deep meaning of the disciples of Christ and move toward growth and maturity and hoping to become the true discipleship of Jesus Christ. This class will deeply explore the meaning and understanding of the discipleship and examine the responsibilities of the true disciples and then integrate to the next step of becoming a true disciple of Jesus Christ.

CE140 – Christian Life and Ethics
Intensive study and research of selected and specific moral issues which are of immediate concern to the church, society, and Christian ethicists. Sometimes we are faced with situations that may not be directly addressed in the Bible, but we are still called to live faithfully as followers of Jesus. This class will engage some of those topics and help the class think and live as children of the Light.

CE141 – Spiritual Leadership
This course focuses on how to develop and teach the principles of spiritual leadership. Topics include the Leader’s challenge, role, preparation, vision, character, goal, influence, decisions, schedules, pitfalls, and rewards. Students will create visual projects and an action plan to apply biblical principles and requirements for leadership in ministry and complete a self-evaluation of their current roles and leadership styles to use in making disciples, leadership development, and church planting. In this course, we will seek to articulate spiritual leadership and its passionate practice. Effective Christian leaders require spiritual resources and practices that will cultivate, guide, and empower the personal, corporate, and missional dimensions of their leadership.

CE142 – How to Conduct Church Business Meetings and Parliamentary Procedure
Churches hold many business meetings. It is an important part of local churches. This course provides students with a broad understanding of the nature of church meetings and practice parliamentary procedures. Students will learn about organizing meetings, order of meetings, types of motions, voting systems, duties of chairperson, and the duties of participants and the church council.

CE143- Biblical Worship I
These courses are designed to provide biblical principles related to corporate worship. Special attention will begiven to assessing and understanding the biblical and theological knowledge of worship necessary for the local church.

CE200 – How the Bible Came to Us, Part II
A brief survey study of how the Christian Bible, the Old and the New Testaments, came into being from the Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek oral states to the translated texts stage in the Kachinic languages in Burma. Part II will cover a brief description of the writing of the Old and the New Testaments and the history of canonization.

CE201 – The Torah
This course provides an analysis of the first five books of the Old Testament, including an examination of the books’ authorship, date, unity, and canonical status. Emphasis is also placed upon the unifying motif of the Pentateuch, the creation account, the flood, the origin of the nation of Israel, its religious institution, and the unfolding of its history under Moses.

CE202 – The Life and Teachings of the Old Testament Prophets
This course explores the phenomenon of prophecy in the ancient world, with special attention to the life and teachings of the prophets in the Hebrew Bible (Old Testament). We approach this topic from a modern academic perspective including history, comparative religion, anthropology, social theory, political science, and literary studies. We begin by asking what “prophecy” means to us today and what it may have meant to the ancients. We then turn to the biblical world, starting with ancient Near Easter prophecies outside of the Bible and then focusing on Israelites prophecy in its historical and literary contexts. We conclude with a look at how prophecy was received and changed in ancient Judaism and early Christianity.

CE203 – The Parables of Jesus
This seminar will focus on a close study of the parables of Jesus in the gospels in their cultural literary contexts. Thus, we will examine the parables as parts of these gospel texts, as well as their life as parabolic stories both before and after the writing of the gospels. Most importantly, we will consider their theological and practical implications in our own contexts as students and interpreters of the parables.

CE204 – The Pauline Letters
This seminar will focus on a close study of the Pauline letters in their cultural and literary contexts. Attention will be given to close reading of the Pauline letters and their impact on the formation of Christian beliefs and practices in history. Most importantly, we will consider their theological and practical implications in our own contexts as students and interpreters of the Pauline letters.

CE205 – Systematic Theology
This course provides an integrated but brief survey of some of the fundamental teachings of the Christian faith on the triune God, Christ, the Holy Spirit, and redemption. An emphasis will be placed on the eternal plan and mission of God’s universal salvation, as well as on God of mission.

CE206 – Christian Churches and Contemporary Trends
Those who want to understand what God’s Word teaches on today’s important topics can find helpful information in a wide variety of contemporary theological materials. However, the Bible itself does not change. It is the standard of truth for the believer, both now and forever (2 Timothy 3:16-17). Students are encouraged to draw from the course content to relate and communicate better to their post-modern world.

In this course students examine current trends in contemporary theology and how these trends arose. The course focuses on the theologies that were prevalent in the 1960’s such as Liberalism, Modernism, Socialist Theologies, Radical Theologies, Catholic Theology, Conservative Theology, Liberation Theology, Feminist Theology, Process Theology, New Age Theology, and the Charismatic Movement.

CE207 – Discipleship and Leadership Development
This class will deeply explore how to develop a program to encourage spiritual formation among the church congregation and seeks to adopt the Spirit-led mentoring and coaching, and disciple-making parent practices through small groups.

CE208 – Christian Denominational Studies: Worship and Practices
This course is to introduce students to the various Christian denominations, such as Orthodox, Roman Catholic, Lutheran, Anglican, Methodist, Presbyterian, Lutheran, Pentecostal churches, Salvation Army, Seventh Day, Adventist, Jehovah’s Witness, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, Amish Mennonite church, existing in the United States. The history, polity, and theology, especially worship and practices of each denominational family, will be studied.

CE209 – Christian Home and Family
Student will explore basic questions of Christian faith in familial relationships. Questions include: Who is a Christian? What is a Christian home and family? What does the bible say about Christian home and family? What are the essential facts and concerns of a Christian home and family? How do we identify and understand crisis and problems in a Christian home and family? Why do we have children? What is the relationship between parents and children? How should we raise, train, and disciple children in today’s digital world?

CE210 – Introduction to Preaching
This course is an introduction to theories and practices of preaching. Students will study how to move from a biblical text to a sermon, the various dynamics of preaching, and their relation to the regular practice of preaching.

CE211 – Church Administration and Management
This course is designed to help students understand administration and management principles, procedures, theory, and practices. This course will focus on management functions: planning, organizing, leading, and controlling. It will also examine the biblical concepts administrative leadership. The course will also cover practical aspects of church ministry, such as decision making, financial concerns, office management, and human resource management. Students will have an opportunity to evaluate critically the management system in their place of ministry.

CE212 – Biblical Worship II
These courses are designed to provide biblical principles related to corporate worship. Special attention will begiven to assessing and understanding the biblical and theological knowledge of worship necessary for the local church.

CE213 – Pastoral Care and Counseling This class provide basic preparation for the complex task of pastoral care and counseling. The student will develop an understanding of the key principles of pastoral care and acquire basic skills required for providing Christian care and follow-up. Also, the students will be encouraged to develop their own pastoral presence in offering spiritual care and they will find themselves in the role of a counselor whether they feel competent or not.

CE214 – Biblical Theology Holy Spirit The purpose of this class is to enhance the student’s relationship with the Holy Spirit and increase the student’s knowledge and understanding of the Doctrine of the Holy Spirit. Biblical history, culture, theology, and spiritual principles will be discussed.
Diploma

Contextualization
C-CH401 – Christian Heritage I (3 credits)
This course is the first part of a two-semester course designed to equip the student with skills for recognizing, analyzing, interpreting, and adapting to the changing contexts in which ministry should be rendered. This segment of the course surveys the first 1,200 years of Christian history, exploring horizons of Christian thought, conviction, practice, institutional life, and leadership to determine how contextual factors challenged and influenced Christian decision-making and the effects these had on the subsequent development of Christianity as we know it.

C-CH402 – Christian Heritage II (3 credits)
This course is the second part of a two-term course designed to equip the student with skills for recognizing, analyzing, interpreting, and adapting to the changing contexts in which ministry might be rendered. This segment of the course surveys Christian history since about 1200 C.E., exploring the expanding horizons of Christian thought, conviction, practice, institutional life, and leadership to determine how contextual factors challenged and influenced Christian decision-making and the effects these had on the subsequent development of Christianity as we know it.

Contextual Learning

X-CL401 – Contextual Learning: Formation (3 credits)
This is a ministry praxis course in which the expectation is that students will be serving/leading in a ministry context. The formation praxis challenges learners to apply pastoral care/compassion skills to a context to analyze one’s experience within that context.

X-CP431 – Diploma Capstone (1 credit)
The Capstone is meant to serve as the culmination of a student’s theological education. Its intent is to help bridge the gap between education and a student’s prospects. This course will emphasize the importance of spiritual formation, pastoral care/compassion, leadership skills, and theological reflection as essential tools for ministry success in a variety of settings. Each student will be involved in a ministry placement that provides a context in which the student may develop those skills and use those tools.

Formation

F-FM401 – Foundations for Seminary Studies (2 credits)
This first-term course is designed to orient the student to seminary studies by introducing him/her to the curriculum, program structure, goals, outcomes, methods, outcome assessments, and resources. This course includes team (learning community) orientation and assessment instruments.

F-TH411 – Theological Foundations I (3 credits)
This course guides the learner in attaining basic competencies for constructing a deliberative theology adequate to sustain a lifetime of theological discovery, growth, and vocational development. Emphasis is given to comprehending the significance of theological formation and practice in the world and church and to exploration of the doctrines of Revelation and the Triune God.

F-TH412 – Theological Foundations II (3 credits)
This course guides the learner in expanding and refining competencies for constructing a deliberative theology
adequate to sustain a lifetime of theological discovery, growth, and vocational development. Emphasis is given to learner growth in nurturing theological formation and practice in the world and church and to exploring the doctrines of Creation, Humanity, Christ, Spirit, Church/Salvation, and Consummation.

F-ET421/CP403 – Christian Ethics (3 credits)
Christian Ethics guides the learner in reflecting upon and reaching decisions regarding the moral life of Christians engaged in ministry, placing particular focus upon philosophical, theological, and biblical perspectives. Attention is given both to theoretical and applied ethics in the personal, professional, and social dimensions. Learners will delineate and debate relevant moral issues as part of the process of moral formation for ministry.

F-CC431/CP404 – Caring Ministries (3 credits)
This course prepares learners to provide care and to nurture faith communities in their ministries of care. This is accomplished by introducing students to the fundamental concepts of care given within the context of ministry and other communities and engaging in some of the most often encountered situations where care is needed.
Interpretation

I-IN401 – Biblical Interpretation (3 credits)
This course focuses upon the art and science of biblical interpretation. It explores the various methods and presuppositions utilized for understanding and communicating the Bible, with special focus on the postmodern context. Students will gain the skills needed for interpreting the Bible in a rapidly changing and technologically complex world – competencies required in the Hebrew Bible and New Testament courses.

I‐HB411 – Hebrew Bible I (3 credits)
Hebrew Bible I offers the student both a general introduction to the literature, cultural/historical backgrounds, and basic narrative structure of the Hebrew Bible and experience in applying to these texts the interpretation skills previously gained through the Biblical Interpretation course. The historical literature of the Hebrew Bible is the basis for the content of this course.

I‐HB412 – Hebrew Bible II (3 credits)
Hebrew Bible II continues the introduction begun in Hebrew Bible I, with a primary focus on the prophetic role and literature of ancient Israelite society. The student will gain additional interpretation experience through applying to these texts hermeneutical skills previously gained through the Biblical Interpretation course and Hebrew Bible I. The prophetic literature, as well as corresponding historical texts, is the basis for the content of this course.

I‐NT421 – New Testament I (3 credits)
This course provides students with an introduction to the world of the New Testament with specific attention given to the Synoptic Gospels. It also augments the tools, methods, and resources gained through the Biblical Interpretation course to enhance the student’s skills in interpreting the Synoptic Gospels for spiritual formation, teaching, and proclamation.

I‐NT422 – New Testament II (3 credits)
This course provides students with a survey of the Johannine writings (Gospel of John, 1, 2, 3 John, and Revelation) and the Pauline writings. It also augments the tools, methods, and resources gained through the Biblical Interpretation course to enhance the student’s skills in interpreting these writings for spiritual formation, teaching, and proclamation.

Performance

P‐CR401 – Creativity in Public Ministries (2 credits)
This course equips learners with the basic knowledge, skills, and evaluative tools needed for improving public performance dimensions of ministry. These tools are essential to the learner for perfecting the art of ministry performance, which will be further developed in subsequent courses and ultimately exercised in vocation.

P‐CM401 – Media for Ministry Development (2 credits)
The appropriate use of communication media always has been a critical skill in sharing the Christian message. Christians have used a myriad of communication methodologies through the centuries. This course will examine the role of media in ministry development and the role of the minister in deploying effective media strategies for missional engagement.

P‐CM402 – Interpersonal Skills (2 credits)
This course equips and develops in learners the interpersonal skills needed to carry out the broad sweep of ministry. Focus is given to the self‐development of the learner in addition to development of techniques for relating to others.

P‐CM411- Homiletics (3 credits)
This course prepares the learner to conceive, research, plan, and publicly present sermons that are persuasive, theologically and hermeneutically sound, and that nurture holistically (e.g., spiritually, intellectually, socially, and physically) the life of hearers.

Diploma: Christian Formation

Bible and Theology

BT401 – The Story of the Old Testament (3 credits)
A survey of Old Testament people, places, and events, this course highlights the basic message and themes of the Old Testament books, their contribution to the mission of God, and their significance for Christian thought and practice.

BT402 – Exploring the Old Testament (3 credits)
This course is designed to provide an introductory survey of the major divisions of the Old Testament such as the Pentateuch, History, Poetry, and Prophets. This course examines proper backgrounds, theology, and messages of the books, introducing students to the foundational knowledge and tools needed for a lifetime of independent study of the Word of God.

BT403 – Encountering the Old Testament (3 credits)
This course is designed to provide students with the content and teaching of a specific book of the Old Testament such as Genesis, Psalm, Judges, and Daniel. This course acquaints students with deeper understanding and insights through studying a book in the OT in detail.

BT411 – The Story of the New Testament (3 credits)
A survey of New Testament people, places, and events, this course highlights the basic message and themes of the New Testament books, their contribution to the mission of God, and their significance for Christian thought and practice.

BT412 – Exploring the New Testament (3 credits)
This course is designed to provide an introductory survey of the major divisions of the New Testament such as the Gospels, Paul’s Epistles, and general Epistles. This course examines proper backgrounds, theology, and messages of the books, introducing students to the foundational knowledge and tools needed for a lifetime of independent study of the Word of God.

BT413 – Encountering the New Testament (3 credits)
This course is designed to provide students with the content and teaching of a specific book of the New Testament such as Mark, Acts, Romans, and the Revelation. This course acquaints students with deeper knowledge and insights through studying a book in the NT in detail.

BT421 – The Story of Church History (3 credits)
This course introduces a survey of church history from early church to modern church history. Emphasis is given to major issues, events, and persons in church history.

BT431 – The Story of Systematic Theology (3 credits)
This course introduces a survey of the doctrines of Revelation, the Triune God, Creation, Humanity/Sin, Christ, Spirit, Church/Salvation, and Consummation. The purpose of the course is for the learner to become biblically and theologically knowledgeable about the faith by which he or she lives with consideration for the breadth of Christian tradition.

BT441 – Holy Land Israel Study Tour (3 credits)
This course aims to enhance our understanding of the bible by exploring geographical, historical, and archaeological sites of Israel. We will visit biblical sties in nearly every corner of Israel and examine the biblical texts related to the sites. This course will help us develop the foundational knowledge needed for studying the Word of God and integrate contextual biblical study with theological and spiritual reflection. NOTE: This class requires additional fees.

General Skills

GS401 – History and Culture (4 credits)
This course is an introductory class that understands the value, identity, characteristics, and formation of a country by exploring history and examines the various cultural areas and phenomena formed in that country and society. A series of courses designed to understand history and culture will help students develop a historical and cultural perspective that provides a broader and deeper understanding of a country, society, or nation.

GS411 – Logic and Thinking (4 credits)
In the age of overwhelming information, logical analysis, critical evaluation, rational alternatives, and problem- solving skills are the fundamental elements of critical and thinking competence. This class focuses on how to promote logical analytical skills and critical thinking skills, which are the core competencies in information society and to apply them to rational problem-solving capability.

GS421 – Writing Skills (4 credits)
This course is designed to give basic training in the fundamentals of writing. The main emphasis is on giving students practice in organizing ideas into coherently structured and effective essays, using as a focal point their own unique experiences.

GS431 – Speech and Debate (4 credits)
This course provides theory and practice to deal with public speech and debate. Practice includes self-introduction in front of people, presenting thoughts that organize themselves, and persuasion and debate. This course is designed to help students understand the principles and objectives of debate and experience practical debate in small and large groups.

Formation

FO401 – Healing and Growth (4 credits)
This course seeks to provide a relational engagement to understand the complexity of mutual healing and spiritual growth. Through the course each student, as a Christian, will examine how to externalize and embrace pain and struggle. Further, it will provide the opportunity to empower narratives of healing and growth for transforming the community.

FO402 – Elements of Spiritual Formation (4 credits)
This course provides the introduction of personal and spiritual formation for Christian life and ministry. This course also involves the study of biblical understandings of spirituality, elements of spiritual formation, and the practice of disciplines conducive to mature Christian discipleship.

FO403 – Christian Living (4 credits)
An exploration of how Christians can make and enact good, wise, and faithful ethical choices and develop moral character and community amid a complex world. This basic introduction to ethics aims to develop a systematic way of thinking about Christian morality, bringing biblically based convictions to bear on important moral problems.
FO405 – Reading Christian Classics (4 credits)
This course helps students discover a Christian worldview and the wisdom of Christian life and apply them to daily life by studying Christian classics written by seniors of faith who have lived a devoted life before God.

Practice

PA401 – Church Music and Worship (4 credits)
This course introduces the history of music and worship in Christian history. Emphasis is given to the history of secular and church music, the relationship between music and worship, and the history of worship in the Bible and Christianity examining important factors that have created changes in Christian worship.

PA403 – Christian Media (4 credits)
This course is designed to provide students with appropriate theory and practice to acquire the proper attitude and basic skills to rightly and effectively use the media as Christians. Also, emphasis is on giving students practice in communicating their thoughts and stories efficiently and creatively.

PA412 – Intergenerational Communication (4 credits)
This course will develop the students’ understanding and skills for intergenerational communication. It focuses on some of the major components that shape a person’s world view and culture, so the student learns and practices how to communicate effectively with different generations in immigrant contexts.

PA413 – Work and God’s Calling (4 credits)
Workplaces and everyday life are the field that we are called and sent by God. This course helps students to research and understand the various meanings and practice of work and everyday life from biblical, theological, and missional perspectives.

PA422 – History of Mission (4 credits)
This course provides a survey of the historical progress of Christian mission from its inception to the present, from historical and missiological perspectives, exploring the ministry and life of key missionaries in Christian mission history.

PA423 – Marriage and Family (4 credits)
This course deals with biblical foundations for marriage and family, communication dynamics, conflict resolution, sexuality, parenting, and the cultivation of wholeness in marriage and family life. Also, consideration of the church’s role in enhancing healthy marriage and family relationships will be given throughout the course.

PA433 – Christian Leadership (4 credits)
This course provides Christian leadership theory and practice from biblical perspectives, focusing on lay leadership. It also explores the practice of leadership with a focus on giftedness, personality, and styles of leadership.

PA434 – Social Service Ministry (4 credits)
This course explores the impacts of urbanization, economic deprivation, and racism on the theory and practice of ministry in urban settings. Consideration is given to social engagement and the development of the ministry of the local churches and organizations. Also, emphasis is on giving students practical, hands-on experience by visiting urban ministries, such as homeless ministries.
Mentored Christian Formation

MCF401 – Mentored Christian Formation (1 credit)
The purpose of the Diploma in Christian Formation program is not only learning in knowledge and practice, but also formation of Christian spirituality through service and participation. The purpose of

MCF401 is to foster spiritual formation of students through participation in local churches, Central chapel services, and small groups and service in local churches and organizations. MCF401 is a required course in the CF diploma program and students should take the course every semester during their study in the program. MC401 will be utilized to assess the CF Diploma program.
Diploma in Kachin: Christian Formation

Bible

KCF401 – Old Testament Survey (4 credits)
This course is a survey of the Old Testament from Genesis to Malachi. The focus is on understanding the major contents of each book, with attention to literary structure, historical backgrounds, geographical settings, and parallel passages. The study aims to enhance comprehension and application to issues and concerns of life today in the will of God.

KCF402 – Holy Land Studies and Tour (4 credits) This course is a field-based study of the Holy Land’s geography, history, and archaeology, stressing the correlation between classroom instructions and tours. Preparatory map study and class previews provide the background before each trip. Regions studied and visited include Jerusalem, Mt. Carmel, Jezreel Valleys, Galilee, Golan Heights, Nazareth, Samaria, the Dead Sea, etc.

KCF403 – New Testament Survey (4 credits)
This course is an introduction to the background, content, careful examination of the development and interpretation of the New Testament text. Major New Testament books are introduced in the context of the developing theological traditions of early Christianity while thinking about what the New Testament has to say about life application today.

KCF404 – The Gospels/Pauline Letters (4 credits) This course focuses on a close study of the Pauline letters in their cultural and literary contexts. Attention will be given to close reading of the Pauline letters and their impact on the formation of Christian beliefs and practices in history. Most importantly, we will consider their theological and practical implications in our own contexts as students and interpreters of the Pauline letters.

Theology

KCF405 – Theological Research (4 credits)
This course provides an opportunity for students to develop necessary theological and biblical information research skills through study of, and practice with, research design, acquisition of resources within a technological environment, resource evaluation, and preparation of resources for the writing of research projects. In doing so, the literature of biblical studies, theology, church history, and pastoral studies is introduced along with the research and writing process; locating, evaluating, and using information; genres of theological writing; citation and bibliographic formats; and ethical aspects.

KCF406 – Karai Kasang: A Kachin Concept of God (4 credits)
The course is an introductory exploration of Kachin’s Concept of God and attributions from a contemporary understanding of Kachin Christian beliefs, particularly Christianity. There are to explore two concepts of God, the Kachin people wrestling with. First, it is to conceptualize defining ideas about or of God by distinctions for us that are tied to the core of cultural, social, political, and religious lives in realities during the entire past eras—when Christianity was yet to exist in our domains. Most importantly, this course will render much attention to the Concept of God, convinced by missionaries like Ola Hanson, a pragmatic way for the Kachins to consider deeper. This course will also shape a new Kachin Christian belief and theological identity to the interplay with cultural, social, and political issues and differences.

KCF407 – A Biblical Theology of the Holy Spirit (4 credits)
The purpose of this class is to enhance the student’s relationship with the Holy Spirit and increase the student’s knowledge and understanding of the Doctrine of the Holy Spirit. Biblical history, culture, theology, and spiritual principles will be discussed.

KCF408 – A Biblical Theology for Morality (4 credits) Intensive study and research of selected and specific moral issues which are of immediate concern to the Church and society. Sometimes we are faced with situations that are often may not be directly addressed in the Bible, we are still called to live faithfully as followers of Jesus. This class will engage some of those topics and help the class think and live as children of The Light.

KCF409 – Introduction to World Religion (4 credits) Individuals and communities in different parts of the world have different approaches to their lives and environments in unique ways. This course is intended to give students an overview of other religions. Rather than covering all religions, this course will mainly major religions such as Hinduism, Buddhism, Islam, Judaism, and some other traditional religions.

Ministry

KCF410 – The Art of Preaching (4 credits) The art of preaching is the skillful and intentional practice of conveying messages to specific audiences in various contexts, such as local congregations, groups, or even online through social media. In this course, students will learn the three persuasive principles such as logos (logical reasoning), ethos (credibility and character), and pathos (emotional appeal) to effectively communicate using scriptures, logical illustrations, personal testimonies, and emotional connections that resonate with the intended audience. Mastering these techniques will help the students engage, inspire, and connect with their listeners in meaningful ways.

KCF411 – Church Leadership and Administration (4 credits) This course is designed to help students understand the principles and skills necessary for effective leadership and administration in Church. Topics covered in this course include the role of the Church leadership, organization structure, administration, communication, and conflict resolution strategies. It will also examine the biblical perspective of leadership and administration. The course will cover several areas related to leadership and administration within the church. Students will be empowered with the confidence, practice, skills, and knowledge needed to lead and manage the church.

KCF412 – Theology of Worship (4 credits) This course is to provide a deeper understanding of Christian worship and music that is biblically rooted and Christ-centered by carefully studying both Old and New Testaments as well as Christian worship practices throughout the generations.

KCF413 – Coaching and Mentoring Ministry (4 credits) In this course, the student will discover and reflect on personal abilities and characteristics and how to leverage those attributes for self-leadership and the leadership of others. This will be done in an environment that encourages intentional growth, mutual support, and spiritual discernment. This class is filled with practical ministry ideas, leadership guidance, and strategic exercises to make the learners’ coaching and mentoring ministry successful. The learner will gain and improve the necessary skills for successfully guiding, coaching, and mentoring ministry to produce effective leaders in their communities, organizations, teams, and services.

KCF414 – Pastoral Care and Counseling (4 credits)
This class provides basic preparation for the complex task of pastoral care and counseling. The student will develop an understanding of the key principles of pastoral care and acquire basic skills required for providing Christian care and follow-up. Students will be encouraged to develop their own pastoral presence when offering spiritual care and will practice the role of a counselor.

Mission

KCF415 – A Missional Church (4 credits) This course provides students with the mission of God as the reason for carrying the church’s mission as summoned to lead, equip, and release the people of God. As a missional church identified by its congregation, the biblical norm is the participatory ground in understanding the purpose and nature of the mission. The course will deal with the theological understandings, attitudes, and skills missional in the kingdom of God and how our congregations can develop our ability to model, minister, and mentor effectively in our contexts and beyond. Ministerial services and leadership here prioritize the missional character, care, and competence of leading local congregations in needful ministries.

KCF416 – Church-based Discipleship Evangelism (4 credits) The Discipleship course is programmed to help students understand the foundations for developing the disciple of Christ, lay the groundwork for the student’s entry into Christian ministry, equip the students with the Word of God, and lead others to Christ with divine love. The discipleship course is a short but comprehensive program. It lays a strong foundation in Christian theology, basic biblical principles, and standards for following Jesus Christ. It will also lead the students toward confidence in the word of God and deepen students’ relationship with Christ.

KCF417 – Ola Hanson and his Legacy: Life, Theology, and Works (4 credits) The name of this Bible institute is given in honor of our missionary, Dr. Ola Hanson, who sacrificed a lot for our Kachin people. He served the Kachin people for 39 years. During his ministry as a missionary and linguist among the Kachin for 39 years, he devised the Kachin literature based on the Roman alphabet. Dr. Ola Hanson also devised a Kachin Grammar Book, a Kachin Handbook, and a Kachin Dictionary for the Kachin people. His legacy among the Kachin people is unforgettable. Therefore, this course is essential for the Diploma in Kachin Christian Formation degree. This course introduces students to the background history of the Kachin people before the missionaries came to Kachin and the history and the work of the American Baptist missionaries to the Kachin people. Among the missionaries, this course mainly focuses on and highlights the legacy of Dr. Ola Hanson, his life, and his works among the Kachin people. The students also will learn his theology. This class is filled with searching deeply into the life of Ola Hanson, critical thinking in the legacy of Dr. Ola Hanson, and digging into the works of Ola Hanson. The structure of the course is chronological, but we will examine major themes across time and space, which may include the development of Kachin literature out of and in response to Kachin culture.

KCF418 – Diaspora Kachin: History, Migration, and Identity (4 credits) Who are you? Where are you from? The dynamics of migration have shaped identity throughout the history of the Kachin people of Myanmar. Migrations have changed how the Kachins consider themselves, view others, and think about their positions in the world. Their identities have transformed through time and space, becoming trajectories. Diaspora has played and continues to play an important role in different nation-building projects of the Kachin people. This course offers a survey of political, socioeconomic, and cultural developments in the history of Diaspora Kachins. How do changing notions of ethnicity, race, religion, and gender, as well as geographical place, define the Kachin family and community and shape their understandings of belonging, nation, and home? This course will engage these questions from multidisciplinary perspectives and explore hybridity, immigration, diaspora, national culture; patriotism and multiculturalism; Kachin identities and gender; conversion, assimilation, and acculturation.

Master’s Degrees

Academic

AC5012 Academic Writing (2 credits)
This course equips students to develop writing skills necessary to communicate clearly in an academic or professional environment. Topics of study include types of writing, improving organization and clarity, revising and editing, and common grammatical issues. Active learning opportunities include practicing library research skills, developing well-supported arguments, and demonstrating the ability to create and use citations.

AC5013 Research Skills (3 credits)
This course focuses on developing a well-formed thesis project. Topics include project formulation and prospectus, locating and evaluating relevant information resources, strategies for reading, citing sources, and avoiding plagiarism. Students will develop an annotated bibliography with evidence of notetaking to support the project. By the conclusion of the course, students will have identified and secured a Thesis Supervisor. This course is taken the term before MA506 (Capstone Project) or

AC5923 Thesis (3 credits)
The focus of this course is a research-intensive writing project in the student’s specified area of study. The thesis will be completed under the direction of a faculty supervisor. The scope, direction, content, and timeline of the thesis are determined in AC5013 Research Skills, with input from the student, instructor, and faculty supervisor. The course should be taken after successful completion of AC5013, and in the student’s final term of study.

Bible

BB5003 Biblical Interpretation (2 credits)
This course focuses upon the art and science of biblical interpretation. It explores various methods and presuppositions utilized for understanding and communicating the Bible, with special focus on the students’ current contexts. Students will gain skills needed for interpreting the Bible in a rapidly changing and technologically complex world – competencies required in the Hebrew Bible and New Testament courses.

BB5113 Hebrew Bible (3 credits)
This course is a general introduction to the literature and cultural/historical backgrounds of the three primary divisions of the Hebrew Bible: Torah (Genesis – Deuteronomy), Nevi’im (Historical Books and Prophets), and the Kethuvim (Writings). Interpretation skills introduced in BB5003 Biblical Interpretation will be developed and practiced, with emphasis on application to students’ personal and communal contexts.

BB5213 New Testament (3 credits)
This course is a general introduction to the literature and cultural/historical backgrounds of the New Testament. Interpretation skills introduced in BB 5002 Biblical Interpretation will be developed and practiced, with emphasis on application to students’ personal and communal contexts.
Biblical Languages (GK or HW)
Biblical languages are not requirements for any degree program but can serve as electives. They are not scheduled every year but maybe offered occasionally based on student interest.

GK501 Biblical Greek I (3 credits)
This course is an introduction to New Testament (Koine) Greek and is intended to provide foundational language skills for reading, translation, and exegesis on the Greek New Testament. The course is designed to introduce students to basic vocabulary, principles of grammar, and tools of exegesis. GK501 is the prerequisite for Biblical Greek II, GK502.

GK501 Biblical Greek II (3 credits)
Biblical Greek II is the second course in the study of New Testament Greek and focuses upon the skills to read, translate, and exegete the Greek New Testament. The course reviews GK501 and then practices selected translation, the study of basic exegetical principles, and the utilization of specialized resources for the study of the Greek New Testament.

HW501/HW502 Elementary Hebrew I and II (3 credits)
These courses are an introduction to the grammar, syntax, and vocabulary of the Hebrew language for purposes of translation and exegetical study, including guided reading in the Hebrew Bible. (Must be taken in sequence.)
Christian Heritage

CH503 – Baptist Denominational Studies (3 credits)
Christian Heritage 503 is a three credit, one semester course intended to offer a brief and general survey of Baptist history, thought, and polity as they have developed from Baptists’ sixteenth century backgrounds to the contemporary period. In this study effort is also made to familiarize the learner with the global family of Baptists and their evolving identities. Special attention is given to major ideological and political challenges, significant institutional developments, important documents and deliberative bodies, milestones in the evolution of Baptist thought and practice, and key events and personalities. Lectures, readings, class discussions, Internet resources, and audio visuals are used to present the most significant persons, events, problems, and theological developments. Through these means an effort will be made to determine why things happened as they did, their effect on the subsequent development of the Baptist family of churches, and their significance for the future of Baptist thought and practice.

CH504 – Denominational Studies (3 credits)
As a general study of Christian denominational and church organizational development from the sixteenth century to the present, this course gives opportunity for each student to focus on his or her own ecclesiastical or denominational tradition. Approved history and polity courses offered by a student’s denomination might be substituted for this course.

Christian Spirituality

CS501 – Formation for Christian Ministry (3 credits)
This is a beginning seminary course in which spiritual, personal, and professional formation for ministry are introduced. Interdisciplinary in nature, it includes peer group experience and assessment instruments.

CS502 – Spiritual Formation and Adult Human Development (3 credits)
In this course, attention will be given to the multifaceted areas of each stage of adult life. Faith, spiritual growth and formation, sexuality, vocation, life tasks, and relational issues will be explored. Consideration will be given to church development so that the church can be ready to offer adequate ministry to persons in each stage of adult life development.

Community

CM5001 – Forming Spiritual Community (1 credit)
Ministry is a communal endeavor and by its very nature should draw people together for conversations and spiritual growth. This course is designed to orient new students to the seminary while generating connection and collegiality between seminarians during the journey of personal and professional development. The course relies heavily on self-reflection and corporate dialogue and is designed to coincide with the curricular journey, drawing from learnings and development throughout the program of study. CM5001 must be completed in the students’ first term. Students beginning their program in the summer should complete CM5001 in the fall term.

CM5011 – Forming Spiritual Community (1 credit)
Ministry is a communal endeavor and by its very nature should draw people together for conversations and spiritual growth. This course is designed to generate connection and collegiality between seminarians during the journey of personal and professional development. The course relies heavily on self-reflection and corporate dialogue and is designed to coincide with the curricular journey, drawing from learnings and development throughout the program of study. CM5001 is a prerequisite for CM5011. After completing CM5001, CM5011 is repeated during the fall and spring terms.

CM5002 – Interpersonal Skills (2 credits)
This course develops interpersonal skills essential to service and ministry by emphasizing the self‐development of the learner and the development of techniques for relating to others. Course topics include identifying and analyzing communication styles, developing healthy strategies for navigating conflict and conflict resolution, and communicating effectively in diverse environments.

CM5113 – Global Conversations I (3 credits)
This course develops skills for productive conversation and engagement between people from varied geographic locations, theological perspectives, and cultural backgrounds. Focused on listening and empathetic communication, this course cultivates skills essential to ministry in a global context. This course will be taught by instructors representing the diversity of the seminary student body.

CM5123 – Global Conversations II (2 credits)
Using listening and empathetic communication skills developed in Global Conversation I, this course increases global awareness and ethical action by addressing select topics of justice, which may include humanitarian or environmental crises, conflict resolution, patterns of cultural misunderstanding or appropriation, or current events relevant to students in the class. This course will be taught by instructors representing the diversity of the seminary student body.

Contextualization

C-CH501 – Christian Heritage I (3 credits) C-CH501 is the first part of a two-semester course designed to equip the student with skills for recognizing, analyzing, interpreting, and adapting to the changing contexts in which ministry should be rendered. This segment of the course surveys the first 1,200 years of Christian history, exploring horizons of Christian thought, conviction, practice, institutional life, and leadership to determine how contextual factors challenged and influenced Christian decision-making and the effects these had on the subsequent development of Christianity as we know it.

C-CH502 – Christian Heritage II (3 credits)
Christian Heritage II is the second part of a two-term course designed to equip the student with skills for recognizing, analyzing, interpreting, and adapting to the changing contexts in which ministry might be rendered. This segment of the course surveys Christian history since about 1200 C.E., exploring the expanding horizons of Christian thought, conviction, practice, institutional life, and leadership to determine how contextual factors challenged and influenced Christian decision-making and the effects these had on the subsequent development of Christianity as we know it.

C-RP511 – Ministry in a Pluralistic World (3 credits)
This course prepares the student to exercise Christian ministry in contexts and among populations that include many lived religions, including persons claiming no religion.

C-MS511 – Missional Imagination (3 credits)
This course prepares learners to think, imagine, innovate, and lead in ways that foster ministry startups and nurture established ministries that are missional in nature.

C-LD521 – Foundations for Ministry Leadership and Innovation (3 credits)
This course facilitates learners in exploring the fundamentals on thought, problem-solving, creativity, and self- development typically associated with business entrepreneurs and other organizational leaders. Special emphasis is given to discovering appropriate applications of these concepts and skills to ministry development and renewal.

C-LD522 – Practice of Ministry Leadership and Innovation (3 credits)
In this course, learners will exercise modes, patterns, and practices of thinking, problem-solving, creativity, and personal development typically associated with business entrepreneurs and other organizational leaders. Special emphasis is given to applying these concepts and skills for a ministry startup, for maintaining the vitality of a healthy faith community, and/or for renewing vitality in an unhealthy or failing faith organization.

CH501/KC-CH501 – Christian Heritage I (3 credits)
Christian Heritage is designed to survey the history and theology of Christianity from its beginning to the twentieth century. It is the first of the two-semester course of Christian Heritage with a focus on the period from the first to the eve of Protestant Reformations around the fifteenth century. The course explores the origins, causalities, developments, and interpretation of Christian movements, personalities, doctrines, theologies, and ecclesiastical institutions which brought significant changes in the history of Christianity with a broader contextual understanding of society and culture.

CH502/KC-CH502 – Christian Heritage II (3 credits)
Christianity birthed in the first century has grown into the largest religious group in the world’s history, accounting for one-third of the world population. This course is the second part of the bipartite series of the global history of Christianity covering from the sixteenth century and the Protestant Reformations to the Pentecostal Movement and the emergence of the Neo-Orthodox theology in the twentieth century. It will address key theologies, personalities, Christian reform movements of the modern and contemporary centuries. Through the use of lectures, readings, class discussions, written papers, and audiovisuals, this course will investigate the causalities and intersections of theologies and piety of the Church, the Gospel and culture, institutions, and contexts.

KC-MS501 – Missional Church (3 credits)
This course examines the identity and role of the church, focusing on the concept of God’s mission. To this end, while exploring the meaning and concept of “missional”, we will examine the background and process of the missionary church discussion, what it means, and how it flows through biblical, theological, and historical examinations. In addition, this course helps students understand and articulate what the identity and role of the church is from the perspective of missional ecclesiology through a variety of learning activities. It also prepares students to think and imagine so that they can develop their present or future ministry “missionally” based on what they have learned.

KC-LD501 – Ministry Leadership and Innovation (3 credits)
This course focuses on understanding, analysis, and evaluation of the concepts and skills of leadership essential to all institutions, including the church, for innovative and effective ministry. Students will explore theoretical and practical approaches to leadership, management, problem-solving, self-development, and community development. In addition, students will learn the important elements of leadership necessary to make a difference in the local community as well as the ministry of the faith community.

KC-JP501 – Justice and Peace for Humanity and All Creation (3 credits)
The course aims to examine critical concepts, methods, and challenges in helping individuals, society and creation that hope for bringing peace and justice into a violent and oppressed world. We will learn the analysis and transformation of human conflict using moral and social theory in conjunction with biblical models and case method. The nonviolent biblical processes enable a society to restructure itself and help communities to believe that they can find their way to real and lasting change. Attention will be given to personal conflicts, conflicts within the church, and conflicts in society at large.

Contextualized Learning

X-CL501 – Contextual Learning: Formation (4 credits)
Contextual Learning: Formation is the first of three praxis courses. The expectation is that students will be serving/leading in a ministry context. The formation praxis challenges learners to apply pastoral care/compassion skills to a context and to analyze one’s experience within that context.

X-CL511 – Contextual Learning: Cross-Cultural (4 credits)
Contextual Learning: Cross‐Cultural is the second of three praxis courses. The expectation is that students will be serving/leading in a ministry context. The cross‐cultural praxis exposes the Christian leader to a cultural context varied from the one to which she/he is accustomed; this includes ethnographic knowledge, sensitivity to diversity, and appropriate cultural engagement.

X-CL521 – Contextual Learning: Public Practice (4 credits)
Contextual Learning: Public Practice is the last of three praxis courses. The expectation is that students will be serving/leading in a ministry context. The public practice praxis prepares the Christian leader to apply communicative skills to a wide variety of contexts within the world of nonprofit administration, ministry, social justice, and advocacy.

X-CP531 – MDiv Capstone (4 credits)
The Capstone is meant to serve as the culmination of a student’s theological education. Its intent is to help bridge the gap between education and a student’s future prospects. The student works with the Director of Contextual Education in crafting an experience to assist the student in completing the MDiv with an eye towards future aspirations, goals, prospects, etc. The student will prepare a Capstone Project Summary that will include extensive analysis of their project using the five pillars of the MDiv; 1. Interpretation (biblical analysis); 2. Formation 36 | Page (pastoral/theological analysis); 3. Contextualization (missional/social justice analysis); 4. Performance (professional/communicative analysis); 5. Contextual Learning (experiential analysis).

Prior Contextual Learning units offer the opportunity for learners to gain experience in a ministry‐related context which could further equip persons for maximum efficacy in a current pastoral assignment or prepare others for future ministerial leadership opportunities in a wide variety of venues. The course is designed to accommodate the different vocational statuses of leaders in training. Students will acquire practical knowledge and experiences in an aspect of administration that they, in consultation with their Site Supervisor and co‐Instructors, believe will aid them in future leadership assignment(s). This program component seeks to assist the student in identifying and securing a supportive environment to demonstrate critical ministry leadership skills.

This course will emphasize the importance of spiritual formation, pastoral care/compassion, leadership skills, and theological reflection as essential tools for ministry success in a variety of settings. Each student will be involved in a ministry placement that provides a context in which the student may develop those skills and utilize those tools.

KI-CE501 – Contextual Engagement: Christian Education (3 credits)
In this course, attention will be given to holistically analyze the educational fields of Christian education, such as the church, NGO, Christian schools, schools, workplaces, etc., to apply the theories and practices of Christian education to them, and to execute Christian educational plans.

KF-CE511 – Contextual Engagement: Caring and Counseling Ministry (3 credits)
Contextual Engagement: Formation is the second of three praxis courses. The expectation is that students will be serving/leading in a ministry context. The formation praxis challenges learners to apply pastoral care/compassion skills to a context and to analyze one’s experience within that context. This course prepares learners to provide care and to nurture faith communities in their ministries of care. This is accomplished by introducing students to the fundamental concepts of caregiving within the context of ministry and other communities and engaging in some of the most often encountered situations where care is needed.

KC-CE521 – Contextual Engagement: Community Care and Outreach (3 credits)
This is a course for ministry practice related to community care and outreach ministry. Through this hands-on course, students should have the opportunity to serve and lead in the given ministry field. The participatory practice process in each context challenges participants to apply the cultural competencies necessary to promote relationship formation, decision-making processes, problem-solving methods, and effective and appropriate communication.

KP-CE531 – Capstone (3 credits)
The Capstone is meant to serve as the culmination of a student’s theological education. Its intent is to help bridge the gap between education and a student’s prospects. The student works with the faculty advisor in crafting experiences to assist the student in completing the MDiv with an eye towards future aspirations, goals, prospects, etc. The student will prepare a Capstone Project Summary that will include extensive analysis of their project using the four pillars of the MDiv; 1. Interpretation (biblical analysis); 2. Formation (pastoral/theological analysis); 3. Contextualization (missional/social justice analysis); 4. Performance (professional/communicative analysis).
The course is designed to accommodate the different vocational statuses of leaders in training. Students will acquire practical knowledge and experiences in an aspect of administration that they, in consultation with their Site Supervisor and co‐Instructors, believe will aid them in future leadership assignment(s). This program seeks to assist the student in identifying and securing a supportive environment to demonstrate critical ministry leadership skills.

This course will emphasize the importance of spiritual formation, pastoral care/compassion, leadership skills, and theological reflection as essential tools for ministry success in a variety of settings. Each student will be involved in a ministry placement that provides a context in which the student may develop those skills and utilize those tools.

Chaplaincy
(400 level indicates professional certificate / 500 level indicates graduate certificate)

CP401/501 – Introduction to Chaplaincy (3 credits)
This course provides an overview of the nature and history of chaplaincy, including the chaplain’s identity and purpose. This course includes examination of the biblical and theological foundations of a ministry of presence, which often comprises the core of chaplaincy ministry. This course also provides a reflection on the role of the chaplain and methods suitable to the contexts in which chaplains characteristically serve including prisons, acute care hospitals, schools, hospices, psychiatric facilities, fire and police departments and the military.

CP402/502 – Chaplaincy in Hospice and Elder Care (3 credits)
This course explores the ministry of hospice and elder care, particularly the role of the hospice chaplain. Special topics are considered especially religiosity and spirituality, cultural differences in relationship to death and the dying process, indicators of spiritual suffering and pain, and anticipatory and complicated grief. Theological and biblical questions will be explored in relationship to ministerial case studies.

CP403/CP504 – Christian Ethics (3 credits)
Christian Ethics guides the learner in reflecting upon and reaching decisions regarding the moral life of Christians engaged in ministry, placing particular focus upon philosophical, theological, and biblical perspectives. Attention is given both to theoretical and applied ethics in the personal, professional, and social dimensions. Learners will delineate and debate relevant moral issues as part of the process of moral formation for ministry.

These classes are taken in conjunction with F-ET521.

CP404/CP504 – Caring Ministries (3 credits)
This course prepares learners to provide care and to nurture faith communities in their ministries of care. This is accomplished by introducing students to the fundamental concepts of caregiving within the context of ministry and other communities and engaging in some of the most often encountered situations where care is needed.

These classes are taken in conjunction with F-CC531.

CP411/511– Chaplaincy Practicum (3 credits)
Chaplaincy Practicum is one of the following: CPE, Contextual learning courses in the MDiv, or Practicum in the Counseling program.

Counseling

CO501 – Professional Orientation and Ethics (3 credits)
This course introduces the counseling student to counselor identity and to concepts regarding professional ethics that guide the functioning of a licensed professional counselor. This course includes history, roles, professional organizations, standards, and credentialing important for the practicing clinician. In addition, the student learns the importance of self-care and the means for caring for self.

CO402/502 – The Helping Relationship (3 credits)
This course equips the counseling student with the theoretical constructions and practical skills for conducting a therapy session. Included in this course are the development of a protocol for conducting a treatment session and behaviors that facilitate the treatment process. This course requires student-to-student role play. (CO402 is for Professional Certificate in Chaplaincy students.)

CO503 – Abnormal Psychology (3 credits)
This course provides the counseling student with an in-depth understanding of Abnormal Psychology. Focus is given to the study of psychological dysfunction associated with distress or impaired functioning that departs from typical or expected behavior based on cultural and societal norms. This course is organized in accordance with the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). The course employs an integrative approach toward the study of abnormal psychology that includes the interaction of biological, developmental, and social factors. Diagnosing case studies and treatment planning provides practical application of material learned.

CO504 – Biological Basis for Behavior (3 credits)
This course provides the counseling student with information regarding the neuroanatomy of the human system related to mental disorders. Primary consideration is given to Central Nervous System, especially brain structures involved with mental disorders. The anatomy and physiology of the neuron and neuronal transmission is considered in depth and the role medications have upon neuronal functioning.

CO505 – Lifespan Development (3 credits)
This course provides the counseling student with a comprehensive understanding of human development across the lifespan from birth to death. This course relies heavily on Erik Erikson’s theory of human development and is augmented by the work of Barbara and Philip Newman. The focus is to understand a client’s present pathology influenced by developmental issues. This view aids in understanding the etiology of a present disorder and provides guidance for treatment of the disorder.

CO506 – Career Development (3 credits)
This course is designed to help the counseling student understand theories of career development, learn to utilize career assessments, access career information, and examine the impact of career on the lives of individuals with whom they will be counseling. At the conclusion of this course, students will be able to articulate their developing theory of how career development occurs, be knowledgeable of career program development procedures and will also be aware of the professional, legal, and ethical considerations associated with career counseling. In addition, students will accumulate resources to help them in career counseling with clients.

CO507 – Psychopharmacology (3 credits)
This course provides the counseling student with information regarding the uses and the effects of psychotropic medications along with the professional counselor’s legal responsibility as a non-prescriber in monitoring a client’s response to medications. Included in this course is the anatomy and neurophysiology of the human nervous system. Commonly prescribed medications and the therapeutic and side effects of medications are identified along with the pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics of medications.

CO510 – Counseling Theories (3 credits)
This course introduces the counseling student to conceptual and theoretical perspectives and practices commonly associated with professional counseling. Students explore the common counseling theories that guide treatment, including but not limited to Psychoanalytic, Adlerian, Existential, Person-centered, Gestalt, Behavioral, Cognitive Behavioral, and Reality Therapy. Interacting in clinical groups, students collaborate to conceptualize client issues, formulate diagnoses, identify and select theoretical approaches that best match client issues, and formulate evidence-based treatment plans.

CO511 – Theory and Methods for Group Counseling (3 credits)
This course provides the counseling student with an understanding of the theory and practice of group counseling. Students learn different theoretical approaches to group counseling. Included in the course are basic group counseling skills to include establishing, leading, and evaluating various types of counseling groups. Also included are ethical, legal, and professional issues. Students gain practical experience by being a member and facilitator of a simulated counseling group.

CO512 – Multicultural Counseling (3 credits)
This course increases the counseling student’s knowledge and awareness of working with diverse populations. The method for achieving this is through the examination of various models of multicultural counseling that develop an understanding of how diverse values and mores, interaction patterns, social conditions, and trends related to cultural and ethnic diversity affect counseling. The emphasis is on developing knowledge, skills, and attitudes to effectively counsel with persons different from the counselor regarding characteristics such as culture, race, gender, sexual orientation, physical disability, and religious preference. In addition, attention is given to the student developing an awareness of his or her own values, attitudes, and beliefs as they relate to counseling in a diverse society.

CO513 – Marriage and Family Counseling (3 credits)
This course introduces the counseling student to the major theoretical approaches to family counseling. A significant factor is the selection and application of theoretical approaches to cases to develop practical counseling skills. During this class students will role play the family member, therapist, and clinical observer. Additionally, students will have the opportunity to take a close look at their family of origin dynamics. System Theory is given emphasis.

CO520 – Diagnosis and Treatment of Childhood and Adolescent Disorders (3 credits)
This course provides the counseling student with the most recent and relevant counseling theories and interventions that apply to the treatment of childhood and adolescent disorders and reviews the issues and diagnoses unique to children and adolescents. The focus is on clinical practice, diagnostic skills, treatment planning, play and art therapy, family systems interventions, and cognitive behavioral interventions.

CO521 – Diagnosis and Treatment of PTSD and Other Related Trauma Disorders (3 credits)
This course provides the counseling student with a comprehensive understanding of trauma. The focus of the course is on what composes post-traumatic stress, its assessment, diagnosis, and therapeutic intervention. The course covers various theoretical etiologies for post-traumatic stress and introduces the counseling student to different evidence-based treatments.

CO522 – Diagnosis and Treatment of Substance Use Disorders (3 credits)
This course provides the counseling student with the capacity to identify, assess, diagnose, and treat substance and process use disorders as identified in the DSM V. Prevailing theories of addiction, evidence-based treatment modalities commonly utilized for treatment, the etiology of addiction, and co-occurring disorders are considered.

CO523 – Differential Diagnosis and Treatment Planning (3 credits)
This course introduces the counseling student to the process of clinical assessment and diagnosis based upon the DSM V that focuses upon the development of skills necessary for the practitioner to make accurate assessments and diagnoses. In addition, the student learns to use diagnoses to inform the development of evidence-based treatment plans and how to write appropriate clinical notes.

CO530 – Statistics and Research Methods (3 credits)
This course provides the counseling student with an understanding of the basic research designs used in counseling, behavioral research, and program evaluation. This knowledge prepares future mental health professionals with the skill to evaluate professional research to inform their clinical practice. In addition, students learn to design research in practice settings by completing a Research Study/Project Design by working collaboratively in-class to write a formal research proposal.

CO531 – Psychological Tests and Measurements (3 credits)
This course introduces the student to concepts, theories, and methods regarding psychological testing and measurement. The focus is on areas such as psychometric principles (e.g., validity and reliability), test and item analysis, test construction, and applications of psychological testing in the clinical setting. The primary objectives are to provide a fundamental understanding of the core issues in psychological testing and measurement, to understand the key techniques undergirding the analysis of tests and measurement, to be able to interpret and report psychometric properties of tests, and to distinguish between tests that assess personality vs. ability vs. interests. In addition, the student will construct a survey, engage in data collection, and analyze/report the findings.

CO540 – Supervised Counseling Practicum (3 credits)
This course provides the counseling student with the opportunity to practice professional counselor skills in a role-playing classroom setting in preparation for Internships I, II, and III. This course reviews professional activities to include intakes, diagnosing, evidence-based treatment planning, case note writing, and motivational interviewing, along with counseling techniques that establish a therapeutic relationship and facilitate treatment. This is a skill building exercise through role-play.

CO541 – Internship 1 (2 credits)
Students in Internship engage in an off-campus field placement in which mental health services are delivered under the supervision of a licensed mental health professional and a Central Seminary Counseling professor. The Internship courses total 1,000 clock-hours of field placement over three trimesters comprising one academic year. Professional experiences include conducting individual, couple, family, and/or group therapy. The course provides an opportunity to engage in professional case presentation, to include diagnosis, treatment planning, case note writing, and discussion. Graded: Pass/Fail.

CO542 – Internship II (2 credits)
Students in Internship engage in an off-campus field placement in which mental health services are delivered under the supervision of a licensed mental health professional and a Central Seminary Counseling professor. The Internship courses total 1,000 clock-hours of field placement over three trimesters comprising one academic year. Professional experiences include conducting individual, couple, family, and/or group therapy. The course provides an opportunity to engage in professional case presentation, to include diagnosis, treatment planning, case note writing, and discussion. Graded: Pass/Fail.

CO543 – Internship III (2 credits)
Students in Internship engage in an off-campus field placement in which mental health services are delivered under the supervision of a licensed mental health professional and a Central Seminary Counseling professor. The Internship courses total 1,000 clock-hours of field placement over three trimesters comprising one academic year. Professional experiences include conducting individual, couple, family, and/or group therapy. The course provides an opportunity to engage in professional case presentation, to include diagnosis, treatment planning, case note writing, and discussion. Graded: Pass/Fail.

CO550 – Telepsychology (2 credits) A study of the process, application and implementation of technology assisted counseling/therapy that meets state academic requirements for the distance delivery of clinical services. Areas of study will include the integration of ethical and social responsibility, current standards of practice for distance delivery and appropriateness of services with diverse individuals, relationships, and families.

Ethics

ET501 – Christian Ethics (3 credits)
This course is an introduction to the philosophical, biblical, and theological bases for Christian personal and social ethics. This introduction gives attention to both theoretical and applied ethics. The purpose of this course is to enable Christian ministers to engage better the sorts of moral-ethical activities in which all are engaged daily. This course introduces various styles of ethical reflection, analysis, and action, aiming also to enable more discerning and prophetic ministries in our increasingly complex world.

ET502 – Ministry Ethics (3 credits)
This course is designed for enhancing knowledge of ethics for the purpose of intentional reflection and dialogue concerning ethical issues commonly faced in ministry. Learners are encouraged to apply rigorously ethical theories to practical situations. Pertinent topics to be addressed include professional boundary issues, responsible sexuality, plagiarism and preaching, pastoral care in bioethical dilemma situations, financial accountability, and ministerial self-care. Learners will study codes of ministerial ethics and consider various sources of moral authority. All are given opportunities to experience personal and professional moral development in the process of academic studies. (ET501 is recommended.)

Formation

F-FM501 – Foundations for Seminary Studies (2 credits)
Foundations for Seminary Studies is a first‐term course designed to orient the student to Master of Divinity studies by introducing him/her to the curriculum, program structure, goals, outcomes, methods, outcome assessments, and resources. This course includes team (learning community) orientation and assessment instruments.

F-MA501 – Foundations for Seminary Studies (1 credit)
Foundations for Seminary Studies is a first‐term course designed to orient the student to Master of Arts (Theological Studies) program by introducing him/her to the curriculum, program structure, goals, outcomes, methods, outcome assessments, and resources. This course includes team (learning community) orientation and assessment instruments.

F-TH511 – Theological Foundations I (3 credits)
This course guides the learner in attaining basic competencies for constructing a deliberative theology adequate to sustain a lifetime of theological discovery, growth, and vocational development. Emphasis is given to comprehending the significance of theological formation and practice in the world and church and to exploration of the doctrines of Revelation and the Triune God.

F-TH512 – Theological Foundations II (3 credits)
This course guides the learner in expanding and refining competencies for constructing a deliberative theology adequate to sustain a lifetime of theological discovery, growth, and vocational development. Emphasis is given to learner growth in nurturing theological formation and practice in the world and church and to exploring the doctrines of Creation, Humanity, Christ, Spirit, Church/Salvation, and Consummation.

F-ET521 – Christian Ethics (3 credits)
Christian Ethics guides the learner in reflecting upon and reaching decisions regarding the moral life of Christians engaged in ministry, placing particular focus upon philosophical, theological, and biblical perspectives. Attention is given both to theoretical and applied ethics in the personal, professional, and social dimensions. Learners will delineate and debate relevant moral issues as part of the process of moral formation for ministry.

F-CC531 – Caring Ministries (3 credits)
This course prepares learners to provide care and to nurture faith communities in their ministries of care. This is accomplished by introducing students to the fundamental concepts of care giving within the context of ministry and other communities and engaging in some of the most often encountered situations where care is needed.

KF-FM501 – Foundations for Seminary Studies (3 credits) This course is a first-semester course designed to orient the student to studies at Central through detailed introduction to the curriculum and electronic platforms used throughout. This course includes learning community orientation and assessment instruments, as we will an exploration of the student’s personality and the development of a narrative that explores how past professional and life experiences have prepared the student for innovative opportunities to participate in and serve faith communities.

KF-TH511 – Theological Foundation I (3 credits)
The first course in Constructive Theology introduces the learner to the discipline of theological reflection, its sources and methodology, to the doctrines of Revelation and the Triune God creation. The purpose of the course is for the learner to become theologically articulate about the faith by which he or she lives considering the breadth of Christian tradition. The course will stress the significance of theological formation and practice in the world and the church, for theology is ever concerned with life and ministry.

KF-TH512 – Theological Foundation II (3 credits)
The second course in Constructive Theology not only focuses on the doctrines of Humanity/Sin, Christ, Spirit, Church/Salvation, and Consummation, but also learn how they are interrelated. Theology must be understood within the coherent narrative of “creation”, “fall”, “redemption”, and “completion,” rather than fragmentary view of theology, that constitutes the practice of Christian faith and life. The course will stress the significance of theological formation and practice in the world and the church, for theology is ever concerned with life and ministry.

KF-ET501 – Christian Ethics and Work Theology (3 credits)
This course will cover the theological and pastoral implications of the daily life and Christian professions under the rapidly changing world. The kingdom of God established by Jesus Christ extends to all areas of Christian life. The place of life for those who are called as God’s children and disciples of Christ is the place of God’s mission (Missio Dei). Therefore, Christian ethics of work and life must be the realization of God’s reign over the His creation. This course interprets how we should live and testify of the truth of the gospel in the contemporary culture and situation we are in.

Hebrew Bible

HB501 – Hebrew Bible I (3 credits)
HB501 is a course designed to serve as an orientation to a critical study of the Hebrew Bible (HB). This orientation revolves around two cluster issues: (1) the content of the HB and (2) the interpretation of the HB. The study of content includes such matters as canon formation, textual history and transmission, socio‐literary composition, and rhetorical structure of the HB. Whereas the matter of interpretation focuses on the interpretive history, analysis of methodological approaches employed by past and present interpreters, and an exploration of problems (i.e. race, class, sex, gender, age, sexual orientation, etc.) and hermeneutical methods involved in contemporary readings of the Hebrew Bible (HB). These foci are intended to introduce the HB for the purposes of religious education and Christian theology.

HB502 – Hebrew Bible II (3 credits)
HB502 builds on the content and skills learned in HB501, providing further opportunities for developing proficiency in Hebrew Bible exegesis. The initial focus of the course will concentrate on past and present interpretations of the Hebrew Bible. Beginning with early Judaism and chronicling the interpretive history of the Hebrew Bible through Postmodernism, a variety of methodological approaches will be surveyed and reviewed to understand the assumptions, practices and questions undergirding each interpretation. The remaining foci of the course will interpretate and examine the problems (i.e. race, class, sex, gender, age, sexual orientation, etc.) and hermeneutical methods involved in contemporary readings of the Hebrew Bible (HB). These foci are intended to inform exegesis of the Hebrew Bible for the purposes of religious education and Christian theology. (Prerequisite: HB501)

HB506 – Women in the Bible (3 credits)
The course will lead students through an examination of the various women in the Hebrew scriptures and New Testament. In studying the women in the biblical accounts, it is important to note the theoretical models of biblical hermeneutics and their implications for the feminist cultural paradigm, to view their role in the tension of feminist historical reconstruction. Since historical knowledge is inferential, we must construct some frame of reference within which to discuss the available historical evidence, to study the text not only for what it says but also for what it implies, for the meaning in the silences and gaps.

History

HS5113 Christian Heritage (3 credits)
Christian Heritage provides students with a foundational understanding of the history of Christianity and the significant factors that shaped its development throughout time and place. By exploring diverse expressions of Christian thought, practice, institutions, and lived experiences in their historical contexts, this course equips students with skills for analyzing and interpreting the past as well as connecting and applying insights from Christian history to their present ministry setting.

Interpretation

I-IN501 – Biblical Interpretation (3 credits)
This course focuses upon the art and science of biblical interpretation. It explores the various methods and presuppositions utilized for understanding and communicating the Bible, with special focus on the postmodern context. Students will gain the skills needed for interpreting the Bible in a rapidly changing and technologically complex world ‐‐ competencies required in the Hebrew Bible and New Testament courses.

I-HB511 – Hebrew Bible I (3 credits)
Hebrew Bible I offers the student both a general introduction to the literature, cultural/historical backgrounds, and basic narrative structure of the Hebrew Bible and experience in applying to these texts the interpretation skills previously gained through the Biblical Interpretation course. The historical literature of the Hebrew Bible is the basis for the content of this course.

I-HB512 – Hebrew Bible II (3 credits)
Hebrew Bible II continues the introduction begun in Hebrew Bible I, with a primary focus on the prophetic role and literature of ancient Israelite society. The student will gain additional interpretation experience through applying to these texts hermeneutical skills previously gained through the Biblical Interpretation course and Hebrew Bible I. The prophetic literature, as well as corresponding historical texts, is the basis for the content of this course.

I-NT521 – New Testament I (3 credits)
This course provides students with an introduction to the world of the New Testament with specific attention given to the Synoptic Gospels. It also augments the tools, methods, and resources gained through the Biblical Interpretation course to enhance the students’ skills in interpreting the Synoptic Gospels for spiritual formation, teaching, and proclamation.

I-NT522 – New Testament II (3 credits)
This course provides students with a survey of the Johannine writings (Gospel of John, 1, 2, 3 John, and Revelation) and the Pauline writings. It also augments the tools, methods, and resources gained through the Biblical Interpretation course to enhance the student’s skills in interpreting these writings for spiritual formation, teaching, and proclamation.

KI-IN511 – Foundations for the Bible: History, Geography, and Culture (3 credits)
The purpose of this course is to provide a preliminary introduction to major geographical and cultural features of the Bible. The stories in the Bible took place or came to exist not in a vacuum but in the physical world and among real people in antiquity. Many stories and poetry contain those aspects and have been developed from their specific historical/geography contexts. Therefore, understanding the geopolitical situations and history and cultures of ancient Israel is quintessential to having a better understanding of the Christian Scriptures. This course is designed to help this process by offering a wide view of the contexts of ancient Israel, the second Temple period, and the first century of the Bible. Through this course, students will learn physical geographical features of the land of the Bible and its history so that they can relate biblical stories with their geographical and historical contexts. They will also learn ancient Israelite cultures and their neighbors so that they can have a better contextual understanding of certain stories.

HB501/KI-HB511 – Hebrew Bible I (3 credits)
KI-HB511 is a course designed to serve as an introduction to a critical study of the Hebrew Bible. To understand the Hebrew Bible, this course introduces briefly each book’s background, text, and content so as to understand it with a big picture of the Hebrew Bible as a whole and to understand how each book relates to the major divisions (e.g. the Pentateuch, Historical Books, Prophetic Books, and Poetic/Wisdom Books). This course also helps students to have necessary knowledge for not only courses of the hermeneutic history and methodologies, but also actual interpretation of the Hebrew Bible.

KI-HB512 – Hebrew Bible II (3 credits)
KI-HB512 builds on KI-HB511 and further develops deeper discussions of the biblical texts and theological issues to gain proficiency in Hebrew Bible exegesis. The initial focus of the course is to deal with general hermeneutic history of the biblical texts and their current scholarship. Students will not only become familiar with certain biblical texts but also be exposed to various interpretational methodologies. Through these studies, this course intends for students to develop skills for critical engagement of the biblical texts and abilities for creative exegesis of the Hebrew Bible for the purposes of religious education and Christian theology.

KI-NT521 – New Testament I (3 credits)
This course is designed to introduce backgrounds and methodologies of biblical texts of New Testament. The course examines important theological issues of Four Gospels and Acts. However, the focus will be on Synoptic Gospels.

KI-NT522 – New Testament II (3 credits)
This course is to survey Pauline epistles, General epistles, and the book of Revelation. It examines social, cultural, literary, and theological aspects as well as important academic issues. The course focuses on the location of epistles in context of church and the world.

KI-IN501 – Biblical Interpretation (3 credits)
This course focuses on art and science of biblical interpretation. It delves into various methodologies and assumptions in hermeneutics as well as develop skills in interpreting the biblical texts. It also helps students develop the specific skills needed for interpreting the Bible. The course can be taught by team teaching (OT and NT professors). Prerequisite: 1 OT, 1 NT course.

Leadership

LD5013 Ministry Leadership and Innovation (2 credits)
This course invites students to engage in critical self-reflection around leadership and innovation and how these two concepts impact and influence the church in the 21st century. Course topics include problem-solving, creativity, and personal development typically associated with organizational leaders. Topics of study may be applied to ministry startups, maintaining healthy faith communities, and/or renewing vitality in an unhealthy or failing faith organization.

Master of Arts

MA505 – Dynamics of Theological Thinking (2 credits)
This course lays the foundation for engaging in thoughtful reflection on theological discourse. It introduces students to the terms, concepts, methods, and tools of deliberative theology. It provides students with a preliminary opportunity to use these tools to assess and develop their own theological point of view in dialogue with the theology and faith system of others.

MA521 – Research Skills (3 credits)
This course introduces information literacy skills for students to succeed in the creation of either a Capstone Project or a Thesis. The course covers foundational competences for research and writing processes. Topics include Thesis and Capstone project formulation and proposal, locating relevant information resources, resource evaluation, strategies for reading, citing sources, and plagiarism. Participants will also develop a supporting bibliography. This course is taken the term before either MA506 (Capstone Project) or MA507 (Thesis).

MA506 – Capstone Project (3 credits)
This course is taken in the students’ last term. The scope, direction, and content of the project are determined in consultation between the student, the Director of Master Arts (Theological Studies), and a faculty supervisor. The student begins development of the project during the Research Skills course (MA521), which is taken the term before MA506.

MA507 – Thesis Project (3 credits)
This course, taken in the last term, requires intensive research and writing in the student’s specified area of study. The scope, direction, and content of the thesis are determined in consultation between the student, the Director of Master Arts (Theological Studies), and a faculty supervisor. The thesis will be completed under the direction of a faculty supervisor. The student begins the development of the thesis during the Research Skills course (MA521), which is taken the term before MA507.

Ministry

MN5112 Homiletics (2 credits)
This course prepares learners to conceive, research, plan, and publicly present sermons that are persuasive and theologically and hermeneutically sound, and that nurture holistically (e.g., spiritually, intellectually, socially, and physically) the life of hearers.

MN5122 The Art of Worship Leadership (2 credits)
This course challenges learners to craft and deliver public experiences of worship that are contextually appropriate and reflect theological insight. Learners will demonstrate knowledge of worship practices, skills for working in teams to accomplish goals, and ability to lead a worship experience. Professional constructive critique is an expected part of course activities.

MN5123 Technology Tools for Ministry (3 credits)
The constant development of technologies and their potential uses for assisting in ministry and mission will be explored. Past, present and future innovations will be discussed to understand how technological evolution impacts methods and mission. The course also will address ethical and theological issues surrounding adoption and use of technologies.

MN5333 Ministry in a Pluralistic World (3 credits)
This course prepares the student to exercise Christian ministry in contexts and among populations that include many lived religions, including persons claiming no religion.

MN5343 Missional Imagination (3 credits)
This course prepares learners to think, imagine, innovate, and lead in ways that foster ministry startups and nurture established ministries that are missional in nature.

MN5512 Caring Ministries (3 credits)
This course prepares learners to provide care and to nurture faith communities in their ministries of care. This is accomplished by introducing students to the fundamental concepts of care giving within the context of ministry and other communities and engaging in some of the most often encountered situations where care is needed.

MN5813 Contextualized Learning – Care and Compassion (3 credits)
This praxis challenges learners to apply pastoral care/compassion skills to a context and to analyze one’s experience within that context. The expectation is that students will be serving/leading in a ministry context.

MN5823 Contextualized Learning – Cross-Cultural (3 credits)
The cross‐cultural praxis exposes the Christian leader to a cultural context varied from the one to which she/he is accustomed; this includes ethnographic knowledge, sensitivity to diversity, and appropriate cultural engagement. The expectation is that students will be serving/leading in a ministry context.

MN5833 Contextualized Learning – Public Practice (3 credits)
The public practice praxis prepares the Christian leader to apply communicative skills to a wide variety of contexts within the world of nonprofit administration, ministry, social justice, and advocacy. The expectation is that students will be serving/leading in a ministry context.

MN5843 Contextualized Learning – Clinical Pastoral Education (3 credits)
Clinical Pastoral Education provides students with an opportunity to practice pastoral ministry in an institutional, clinical, or congregational setting. Students minister under supervision to groups of people. Verbatim accounts of critical incidents in ministry are presented for theological reflection and peer review. Critical reflection both on pastoral self-¬identity and on interpersonal relational skills is a major focus of supervision.

One unit of CPE requires at least 400 hours of direct involvement in a supervised ministry setting. Academic credit for CPE may be granted upon verification of successful completion of an approved CPE program. Photocopies of the CPE supervisor’s evaluation certifying satisfactory completion must be forwarded to the seminary Registrar and the Office of the Academic Dean.
A maximum of 9 credit hours (3 CPE units) may be taken for academic credit toward the MDiv degree, and a maximum of 6 credit hours may be taken for credit in the MA degree. Admission to an approved CPE program requires: (a) completion of a CPE application; (b) an interview with the CPE supervisor; (c) acceptance into the program; and (d) payment of CPE program fees (which, if required by the CPE program, are unrelated to requisite seminary tuition).

MN5943 Capstone (3 credits)
The Capstone Project serves as the culmination of the student’s Master of Divinity educational experience. With guidance from the instructor, the student will craft and execute a ministry project connected to the student’s vocational goals. While the full project may be larger, the defined Capstone Project should be achievable in a 12-week timeline. The project will apply biblical, theological, and historical interpretive skills. Those interpretations will be integrated into the development and implementation of the Capstone Project.

Ministry Christian Formation

MCF502 – Holy Land Israel Study Tour
This course aims to enhance our understanding of the bible by exploring geographical, historical, and archaeological sites of Israel. We will visit biblical sties in nearly every corner of Israel and examine the biblical texts related to the sites. This course will help us develop the foundational knowledge needed for studying the Word of God and integrate contextual biblical study with theological and spiritual reflection. NOTE: This class requires additional fees.
Ministry Praxis

MP501 – Basics of Contemporary Witness (3 credits)
This course is a brief overview of the most significant aspects of soteriological and ecclesiological understanding as they impact missional ministries. It also includes a survey of missional paradigms, the challenges of contextualization, the specific challenges confronting the postmodern church, and important elements of an “emerging church” paradigm.

 MP502 – Church’s Worship and Rituals (3 credits)
This practicum course is integrative especially of pastoral care, homiletics, and worship with biblical and theological studies. Emphasis falls on the ritual practices of ministry and competencies needed for leading the Church in worship. Case study method will be a primary teaching-learning approach. (Prerequisites: PR501, PR503, and completion of 24 core hours)

MP503 – Ministry Dynamics (3 credits)
This practicum course is integrative of other disciplines of study and practice, with a particular focus on developing competencies in ministry leadership. Family systems theory will be presented as one means for understanding and leading congregations more effectively. Case study method will be a primary teaching-learning approach. Enrollment in and successful completion of an approved program of Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) may serve as a core course substitute for MP503.

MP504 – Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE)
Clinical Pastoral Education provides students with an opportunity to practice pastoral ministry in an institutional, clinical, or congregational setting. Students minister under supervision to groups of people. Verbatim accounts of critical incidents in ministry are presented for theological reflection and peer review. Critical reflection both on pastoral self-¬identity and on interpersonal relational skills is a major focus of supervision.

One unit (six semester hours) of CPE requires at least 400 hours of direct involvement in a supervised ministry setting. Academic credit for CPE may be granted upon verification of successful completion of an approved CPE program. Photocopies of the CPE supervisor’s evaluation certifying satisfactory completion must be forwarded to the seminary Registrar and the Office of the Academic Dean.

A maximum of 12 credit hours (2 CPE units) may be taken for academic credit toward the MDiv degree, and a maximum of 6 credit hours may be taken for credit in the MA degree. Admission to an approved CPE program requires: (a) completion of a CPE application; (b) an interview with the CPE supervisor; (c) acceptance into the program; and (d) payment of CPE program fees (which, if required by the CPE program, are unrelated to requisite seminary tuition).

Missional Church Studies

MCM501 Foundations of Christian Ministry (4 credits)
This course is intended to give students a broad exposure to essentials of practice for success in Christian ministry. Special attention will be given to the areas of spiritual discipline, communication, team building, conflict management, basic planning and goal setting, healthy lifestyles, and other related topics.

MCM502/MC511 Understanding Contexts in Ministry (4 credits)
The course explores missiological principles with an emphasis on the social, cultural, and religious context, and the development of cultural sensitivity for ministry. Also, this course helps students to understand the relationship among culture, the gospel, and the church.

MCM503 Missional Leadership (4 credits)
The course explores how to approach missional leadership for movement while seeking personal, congregational/organizational, and social (neighborhood/community) transformation. The ultimate purpose of the course is to help students imagine and innovate new practices, models, and structures for pioneering and missional leadership.

MCM504 Coaching for Effective Ministry (4 credits)
Learners will acquire and learn to put into practice conceptual frameworks for equipping missional leaders (laity and vocational) through mentoring, coaching, and developing learning communities for competency, accountability, and support. Topics will include mentoring practices, coaching principles, and group processes for learners to practice their ministerial vocations and to raise missional leaders through guided missional engagement, personal awareness and intentional planning and practices, and peer-group reflection.

MCM505 World Religions and Missions (4 credits)
This course surveys the history, teachings, and practices of the major world religions, including Hinduism, Buddhism, and Islam. Emphasis is also given to methods of effectively practicing Christian ministry in a world of religious pluralism.

MCM506 Issues in Educational Ministry (4 credits)
This course provides a broad overview of the critical issues concerning the educational ministry of the church and ministry-based organizations, including youth and children’s education.

MCM507 Issues in Counseling Ministry (4 credits)
This course provides a broad overview of the critical issues concerning the counseling ministry of the church and ministry-based organizations.

MCM508 Ministry Design: How to Create Ministry for Your Context (4 credits)
This course helps students to 1) articulate a theological vision for their ministry, 2) research the context (neighborhood/community) where the student plans to do ministry, 3) develop a helpful research-based profile of it, think out the ministry implications of her or his ministry profile, and 5) complete a set of ministry design documents that will drive future ministry expressions and programming.

MCM509 Mentored Ministry Praxis (1 credit x 4 sem.)
This course helps students to gain ministry experiences in a local church or agency, receive evaluations, and gain insight into ministry practice from relationship with mentor for their ministry.

New Testament

NT501 – New Testament I (3 credits)
The first course in New Testament studies is designed to introduce students to the background study of the New Testament and to methodologies for the interpretation of the biblical text. This course will also illustrate background studies and methods of interpretation with a focus on the Synoptic Gospels.

NT502 – New Testament II (3 credits)
This course surveys the Johannine and Pauline writings in the New Testament. It explores the social, cultural, literary and theological aspects of these writings along with major scholarly issues associated with New Testament books. This course also focuses on placing the Johannine and Pauline writings within the context of the church and world. (Recommended: NT501)

Pastoral Theology

PT501 – Caring Ministries of the Church (3 credits)
This course is an introduction to the fundamental concepts of pastoral care. Its focus is on preparing learners for the ministry of pastoral care and for nurturing the faith community in its many ministries of care. It will cover some of the most frequently encountered situations where care is needed.

PT502 – Counseling Ministries of the Church (3 credits)
This course will focus on learning the basic skills and theory needed to do pastoral counseling within the congregational setting. It will cover counseling approaches most appropriate to this context and will focus on those types of counseling needs commonly encountered by parish pastors. (Prerequisites: PT501)

PT507 – Spiritual Direction (3 credits) The class “spiritual direction” prioritizes a healthy understanding of spirituality. Through spiritual discernment, we will look back on the tradition of complete spirituality. To reestablish the relationship with Christian counseling, the main understanding of spiritual direction is theological interpretation, that is, the interpretation of God. The love of God who created the world develops awakening that it is an inclusive and progressive personality. In other words, Christian spiritual direction is positive through active and constructive understanding of God’s history of the world, and it will seek to understand the active community, namely human, environment, and the process of God making a community by interpreting the time created by God forward. Especially, since God is the deepest abyss and background in all areas of life, all areas of life are subject to spiritual direction. Thus, the students who participated in the study try to create a feeling through meditation every day and add the width and depth of spiritual direction by knowing God beyond what they know through textbooks. The purpose of this subject is to pay attention to the existence and activities of God in life, and to experience the examples of spiritual direction in a special way of discernment by Saint Ignatius, and to experience the prayers of Theresa and John.

PT508 – Issues in Counseling Ministry (3 credits) This course will focus on learning a basic counseling theory and skills necessary for a caring conversation in various ministry contexts. Through this course, we will train ourselves to lead a counseling conversation by learning and practicing a short-term solution-focused counseling method, which is a brief but useful tool for a needed caring situation.

Performance

P-CR501 – Creativity in Public Ministries (2 credits)
This course equips learners with the basic knowledge, skills, and evaluative tools needed for improving public performance dimensions of ministry. These tools are essential to the learner for perfecting the art of ministry performance, which will be further developed in subsequent MDiv courses and ultimately exercised in vocation.

P-CM501 – Media for Ministry Development (2 credits)
The appropriate use of communication media always has been a critical skill in sharing the Christian message. Christians have utilized a myriad of communication methodologies through the centuries. This course will examine the role of media in ministry development and the role of the minister in deploying effective media strategies for missional engagement.

P-CM502 – Interpersonal Skills (2 credits)
This course equips and develops in learners the interpersonal skills needed to carry out the broad sweep of ministry. Focus is given to the self‐development of the learner in addition to development of techniques for relating to others.

P-CM511 – Homiletics (3 credits)
This course prepares the learner to conceive, research, plan, and publicly present sermons that are persuasive, theologically and hermeneutically sound, and that nurture holistically (e.g., spiritually, intellectually, socially, and physically) the life of hearers.

P-WP521 – The Art of Worship Leadership (3 credits)
The Art of Worship Leadership will challenge learners to craft and deliver public experiences of worship that are contextually appropriate and reflect theological insight. Learners will demonstrate knowledge of worship practices, skills for working in teams to accomplish goals, and lead a worship experience. Professional critique is an expected part of course activities.

KP-PL511 – Homiletics (3 credits)
Introduction to Homiletics is a course designed to serve as an orientation for the Student-Preacher to a general but critical understanding of the complicated task of preaching. This orientation focuses on four major areas of study that are intimately related to the conceptualization and performance of preaching. These areas include: (1) an examination of the interpretive history of preaching; (2) an investigation of preaching as a theological discipline; (3) an analysis of the major approaches to sermon preparation and delivery; (4) an exploration of the issues and problems in contemporary studies of preaching; and (5) basic understanding of liturgical sermons. The goal of such a study is to better understand the practice of preaching.

KP-PL512 – The Practice of Preaching (3 credits)
The Practice of Preaching is designed to build upon the skills student-preachers developed in Introduction to Homiletics. Moving beyond a cursory knowledge of the theoretical and practical aspects of sermon development, student-preachers will continue to critically reflect upon the praxis of contemporary preaching by concentrating on specific areas of sermon design and development. These areas include: (1) a study of the practical implications of the discipline of rhetoric for the doing of homiletics; (2) hermeneutical approaches involved in the practice of preaching; (3) homiletical strategies for preaching and (4) contemporary issues and problems in the study of preaching. The goal of such a study is to better understand the practice of preaching.

KP-PL521 – Worship Design (3 credits)
The Art of Worship Leadership will challenge learners to craft public experiences of worship that are contextually appropriate and reflect theological insight. Learners will demonstrate knowledge of worship practices and skills for working in teams to accomplish goals. Professional critique is an expected part of course activities.

KP-SL511 – Foundations for Social Ministry (3 credits)
This course explores in-depth the basic concepts of social ministry that can be broadly unfolded in society. To this end, while examining the various problems of the contemporary society, questions will be asked in which areas scattered Christians should participate in and practice “standing in the gap”. In addition, this course helps students not only discover their area of interest but also develop a theological vision by looking at a wide variety of examples of social ministry.

KP-SL512 – The Practice of Social Ministry (3 credits)
This course covers more specific and practical areas of social ministry based on the foundations of social ministry. It is a process in which students can learn and experience social ministry through in-depth examples through social leaders who are working hard in the field. This course deals with various social ministries for the socially disadvantaged and marginalized such as the elderly, women, immigrants, refugees, poor people, adoptions, etc. through related non-profit organizations and ministries. In addition, students will learn about the practical processes for participating/cooperating with non-profit organizations for social ministry or establishing it. Also, storytelling using media for social ministry is also covered.

KP-SL521 – Ministry Design (3 credits)
This course helps students who have learned the theory and practice of social ministry to design their own ministry as an initial result of social leader track. To this end, students 1) establish the theological vision they want to pursue through ministry, 2) analyze the socio-cultural situation and context related to their area of interest, and 3) learn and implement practical research methods for ministry. In addition, students 4) will design social ministries based on the results of their own research.

Proclamation

PR501 – Homiletics (3 credits)
Introduction to Homiletics is a course designed to serve as an orientation for the Student-Preacher to a general but critical understanding of the complicated task of preaching. This orientation focuses on four major areas of study that are intimately related to the conceptualization and performance of preaching. These areas include: (1) an examination of the interpretive history of preaching; (2) an investigation of preaching as a theological discipline; (3) an analysis of the major approaches to sermon preparation and delivery; and (4) an exploration of the issues and problems in contemporary studies of preaching. The goal of such a study is to better understand the practice of preaching. (Prerequisites: HB501, NT501, PR504)

PR502 – The Practice of Preaching (3 credits)
The Practice of Preaching (PR502) is designed to build upon the skills student-preachers developed in Introduction to Homiletics (PR501). Moving beyond a cursory knowledge of the theoretical and practical aspects of sermon development, student-preachers will continue to critically reflect upon the praxis of contemporary preaching by concentrating on specific areas of sermon design and development. These areas include: (1) a study of the practical implications of the discipline of rhetoric for the doing of homiletics; (2) hermeneutical approaches involved in the practice of preaching; (3) homiletical strategies for preaching and (3) contemporary issues and problems in the study of preaching. The goal of such a study is to better understand the practice of preaching. (Prerequisite: PR501)

PR503 – The Worshiping Church (3 credits)
As a theoretical and practical examination of Christian worship, the course considers the history, theology, and practice of various worshiping traditions, especially within the free church tradition. Interfaith and cross-cultural perspectives on worship are explored. The course is designed so that students might be better equipped to plan and lead worship. (Prerequisites: HB501, NT501, PR504, TH501, and CH501 or CH502 – Should be taken during final third of MDiv program.)

PR504 – Biblical Exegesis and Hermeneutics (3 credits)
This course focuses on the art and science of biblical interpretation. It explores the various methods and presuppositions utilized for understanding and communicating the Bible. It also helps students develop the specific skills needed for interpreting the Bible. The professors of New Testament and Hebrew Bible often team teach this course. (Prerequisites: One HB and one NT course).

Theology

TH501 – Constructive Theology I (3 credits)
The first course in Constructive Theology introduces the learner to the discipline of theological reflection, its sources and methodology, and to the doctrines of Revelation and the Triune God. The purpose of the course is for the learner to become theologically articulate about the faith by which he or she lives considering the breadth of Christian tradition. The course will stress the significance of theological formation and practice in the world and the church, for theology is ever concerned with life and ministry. (Prerequisites: 1 HB or NT and 1 CH)

TH502 – Constructive Theology II (3 credits)
The second course in Constructive Theology focuses on the doctrines of Creation, Humanity/Sin, Christ, Spirit, Church/Salvation, and Consummation. The purpose of the course is for the learner to become theologically articulate about the faith by which he or she lives considering the breadth of Christian tradition. The course will stress the significance of theological formation and practice in the world and the church, for theology is ever concerned with life and ministry. (Prerequisites: 1 HB or NT, 1 CH and TH501)

TH5003 Thinking Theologically (3 credits)
This course lays the foundation for reflecting upon and engaging in theological discourse. It introduces students to the terms, concepts, methods, and tools of deliberative theology. This course provides opportunities for students to develop their own theological framework. It also provides students with a preliminary opportunity to use these tools to assess and develop their own theological point of view in dialogue with the theology and faith system of others.

TH5112 Theological Foundations I (2 credits)
This course guides the learner in expanding and refining basic competencies for constructing a deliberative theology adequate to sustain a lifetime of theological discovery, growth, and vocational development. Emphasis is given to articulating the significance of theological formation and practice in the church and world and to exploration of the doctrines of Revelation, God, Creation, and Humanity.

TH5122 Theological Foundations II (2 credits)
This course guides the learner in expanding and refining competencies for constructing a deliberative theology adequate to sustain a lifetime of theological discovery, growth, and vocational development. Emphasis is given to learner growth in nurturing theological formation and practice in the church and world and to exploring the doctrines of Christ, Spirit, Church, Salvation, and Consummation.

TH5213 Christian Ethics (3 credits)
Christian Ethics guides the learner in reflecting upon and reaching decisions regarding the moral life of Christians engaged in ministry, placing particular focus upon philosophical, theological, and biblical perspectives. Attention is given both to theoretical and applied ethics in the personal, professional, and social dimensions. Learners will delineate and debate relevant moral issues as part of the process of moral formation for ministry.

Peace and Justice Ministry
(400 level is for the professional certificate / 500 level is for the graduate certificate)

PJ401/PJ501 – Formation for Peace and Justice Ministry (4 credits)
This course introduces theological, biblical, sociological, and historical foundations for peace and justice work. These foundations are integrated with spiritual formation and discernment practices. The course includes supervised field education within a context oriented towards peace and justice in a faith-based or social justice-based setting (120 hours at the graduate level; 60 hours at the professional level). Students should complete the term having laid the foundation for their personal theory of change related to an issue or injustice.

PJ402/PJ502 – Peace and Justice Ministry Praxis (4 credits)
This course focuses on the application of theological, biblical, sociological and historical foundations and theories of peace and justice work. Students examine peace and justice efforts locally and globally and are trained to facilitate change using a praxis model (action-reflection-action). The course includes supervised field education within a context oriented towards peace and justice in a faith-based or social justice-based setting (120 hours at the graduate level; 60 hours at the professional level). Students should complete the term with a well-developed model for change related to an issue or injustice.

MA510 – Training for Conflict Transformation Trainers (3 credits) The Training of Conflict Transformation Trainers (TCTT) will focus on the following topics: conflict analysis, conflict resolution, personal conflict styles, dealing with diversity in conflict, power issues, nonviolent struggle, strategizing for campaigns, trauma and trauma healing, reconciliation, practical issues for peacemaking over the long-haul, and experiential education principles, methodologies, and practices. The training will have a specifically Christian focus, utilizing Bible studies for many of the topics. The participants will also engage in community spiritual practices during the training period. All the training will be done in an experiential education mode.
Christian Care and Counseling

MCC501 – Foundations of Christian Ministry Multicultural Contexts (4 credits)
MCC5011 – Care and Counseling in Multicultural Contexts (3 credits) The rapidly changing multicultural environment that the church faces require a different approach from traditional ministry. The purpose of this course is to help students rediscover the identity and role of the Christian community in the changing multicultural environment. To this end, first, this course helps students understand and establish the biblical and theological foundations of Christian ministry in a multicultural society from a missional perspective, so that they can conduct theological analysis of various cultural situations. Also, examining various models of multicultural counseling, the emphasis is on developing knowledge, skills, and attitudes to effectively counsel with persons different from the counselor regarding characteristics such as culture, race, gender, sexual orientation, physical disability, and religious preference. In addition, attention is given to the student developing an awareness of one’s own values, attitudes, and beliefs as they relate to counseling in a diverse society.

MCC502 – Incarnational Theology and Helping Ministry (4 credits)
MCC5021 – Theology and Helping Ministry (3 credits) This course focuses on the application of the theology of Trinitarian God, Missio Dei, and incarnation to the principle or methodology of Christian counselling. For the purpose, students shall deal with the concept of Perichoresis, ontological and economic Trinity, God’s self- deprecation in Creation and incarnation, humanity and divinity of Christ, corporeality of resurrection, sin and “Han, etc.” As a result, students will not only understand theological principles of Christian care and counselling but only develop an ability to find practical understandings and applications to counseling situations.

MCC503 (4 credits)/MCC5031 (3 credits) – Helping Relationship: Identity, Ethics, and Process
In this course, we will deal with identities and ethics of pastoral counseling that are often encountered in Christian counseling processes. Students will be encouraged to form their own pastoral identities in counseling relationships throughout the counseling process and learn how to resolve ethical problems they face in counseling along with case studies. By doing so, students will be prepared as leaders who can articulate their pastoral identities and demonstrate commitment to continuing growth as ethical Christian counselors.

MCC504 – Supervision and Self-Care for Caregivers (3 credits This course focuses on the principles and methods of balancing caring for a client and caring for oneself as a caregiver and relates the balance to the importance of supervision. Students will learn about practicing holistic self-care to provide a healthy, vigorous, sustainable, long-term service for care-seekers. To do so, the course will explore a biblical theological ground for self-care, holistic health care, stress and burnout management studies, resilience studies, and meditation methods.

MCC509 (1 credit)/MCC5091 (2 credits) – Supervised Practice in Helping Ministry I
This course helps students to gain ministry experiences in local church or agency, receive evaluations, and gain insights into ministry practice through supervision/mentoring. Students must participate in the ministry praxis for a minimum of 40 hours per semester, approved by the ministry mentor and the professor in charge.

MCC511 (4 credits)/MCCC5111(3 credits) – Theories and Skills for Coaching (3 credits) In this course, students will learn the theory and practice of helping people grow and shaping churches through principles of coaching, one of the effective practices for people and community development. Learners will equip themselves with theories and practices of coaching by understanding various coaching models, developing appropriate coaching strategies in helping situations, and putting into practice a motivational coaching interview.

MCC512 (4 credits)/MCC5121 (3 credits) – Theories and Skills for Counseling (3 credits) This course will focus on learning basic counseling theory and skills necessary for a caring conversation in various ministry contexts. Through this course, we will train ourselves to lead a counseling conversation by learning and practicing a short-term solution-focused counseling method, which is a brief but useful tool for a needed caring situation.

MCC513 – Theories and Skills for Spiritual Direction (3 credits) This course examines biblical texts, historical and theological traditions, and modern approaches to the art of spiritual direction and its place in today’s ministries. Also, the course introduces learners to the practice of spiritual direction and some of its major tools unique from counseling or mentoring.

MCC514 (4 credits)/MCC5141 (3 credits) – Theories and Skills for Chaplaincy This course explores the historical, theoretical, biblical, and theological perspectives of chaplaincy and how it works in practice. This course will assess the general areas of chaplaincy and emphasize how to apply the various elements which are death, the history of hospice, spiritual care, how to communicate in the multi-culture, emotional support, and spiritualization with resources.

MCC521 – Development Across the Life Span (3 credits) In this course, attention will be given to the multifaceted areas of each stage of the life span. Faith, spiritual growth and formation, any characteristic issues of each development, vocation, life tasks, and relational issues will be explored. Consideration will be given to church development so that the church can be ready to offer adequate ministry to persons in each stage of human life development.

MCC522 – Personality Theories and Psychotherapy (3 credits) Personality refers to individual differences in characteristic patterns of thinking, feeling and behaving in various life situations. Personality reflects an individual’s uniqueness or individual differences that can distinguish people. Observing and understanding personality can be a positive factor for solving problems in personal relationships and improving life function. Thus, the purpose of this course is to introduce students to the major theories of personality and help students apply those theories to their psychotherapy. Several perspectives on personality will be introduced and critical evaluation of these perspectives will be encouraged. From each of these different perspectives, we will address questions such as: What is personality? How do individuals differ and in what ways are they the same? What influences personality development? What are the implications and consequences of our theories of personality? In addition, positive psychology and the Enneagram will be introduced. As a result, students are expected to broaden their understanding of not only their own personalities as Christian counselors, but also the personality characteristics and behaviors of people they will meet during counseling and in real life.

MCC523 – Marriage and Family Counseling (3 credits) This course provides an overview of marriage and family counseling therapies that often occur in the parish and clinical setting. Students will learn how to analyze clients’ presenting problems from a systems perspective and identify and apply appropriate therapies to marriage and family counseling situations. Each class session will include attention to theology, theory, and practice of marriage and family counseling. Through this, students will develop their abilities as Christian counselors by paying attention to a healthy and happy marriage and family systems in a variety of cultural contexts.

MCC524 – Counseling Theories (3 credits) The purpose of this course is to examine the main principles of selected counseling theories and develop competencies that can be applied to actual counseling. A theory to be dealt with in depth will be selected among various counseling theories. The course will examine how the selected theories will be applied in actual counseling. The application of group counseling as well as individual counseling will be dealt with.

MCC5241 – Special Topics in Counseling Theories (3 credits)
The purpose of this course is to examine the main principles of selected counseling theories and to develop competencies that can be applied to actual counseling. Out of several counseling theories, a theory will be selected and studied. The course will examine how the theory is applied to counseling.

MCC5242 – Special Topics: Group Counseling Theory and Practice (3 credits)
The purpose of this course is to provide students with an understanding of the theory and practice of group counseling. Students will explore various theoretical approaches to group counseling, learn principles of group dynamics (e.g., leadership styles, group developmental stages, and member roles), and develop group counseling skills. Ethical, legal, and professional issues will also be discussed.

MCC5243 – Special Topics: Research Methods (3 credits)
This course provides the counseling student with an understanding of the basic research designs used in counseling, behavioral research, and program evaluation. This knowledge prepares future counselors with the ability to evaluate professional research that informs their clinical practice. In addition, students will learn to design research in practice settings by working in-class to write a formal research proposal.

MCC531 – Supervised Internship I (3 credits) /MCC532 – Supervised Internship II (3 credits)
This course provides students with the opportunity to practice Christian counseling under supervision in the real field. Students should check with the professor in charge to find the field where they will conduct counseling practice. Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) may be substituted for this course (3cr per one unit of CPE, 2 units of CPE may meet the internships).

Doctor of Ministry

Creative Leadership

V-DM611 – Shaping a Theology for Leadership and Spirituality (4 credits)
The learner will develop a theological construct from which a vision for personal and organizational spirituality and ministry might be developed. The construct will be informed by Trinitarian and missional theologies. This course utilizes the thread of building upon a missional theology.

V-DM613 – Engaging the Power of Change (4 credits)
The learner will gain and improve the necessary skills for successfully guiding ministry innovation and entrepreneurship and for developing vision for effective and sustainable change. This course utilizes the threads of building upon a missional theology and facilitating connectivity for intentional outcomes.

L-DM612 – Understanding Yourself and Others (4 credits)
Through personal assessments, practicing spiritual discernment, and designed learning engagement with others, the learner will enhance his/her abilities to empathize (i.e., observe, engage, and watch/listen) as well as encourage the development of others using mentoring and coaching. This course utilizes the thread of promoting inclusion and coaching.

L-DM621 – Leading People and Organizations (4 credits)
The learner will discover and develop skills for building teams, assessing organizational systems, and leading corporate spiritual discernment. This course utilizes the threads of promoting inclusion and equality and facilitating connectivity for intentional outcomes.

S-DM622 – Embracing Design Thinking (4 credits)
The learner will acquire design thinking skills and utilize them to provide innovative solutions in an organizational setting. This course utilizes the thread of facilitating connectivity for intentional outcomes.

S-DM623 – Managing Ministry Resources (4 credits)
The learner will acquire and/or enhance skills for creating and managing budgets, raising funds, and developing ministry resources. The basics of grant-writing will be introduced and developed. This course utilizes the threads of building upon a missional theology and promoting inclusion and equality.

C-DM631 – Capstone Design, Development, and Execution (2 credit hours)
The capstone project will demonstrate integration of all the goals and outcomes through planning, executing, and evaluating an approved ministry project.

C-DM611 – Capstone Design, Development, and Execution (2 credits)
The capstone project will demonstrate integration of all the goals and outcomes through planning, executing, and evaluating an approved ministry project.

C-DM612 and C-DM613 – Dissertation Research and Writing (2 credits each)

C-DM614 and C-DM615 – Dissertation Research and Writing (0 credit)

C-DM612, C-DM613, C-DM614 and C-DM615 are for continuous enrollment for dissertation extension.

Missional Church

DM601 – Orientation to the DMin Program (0 credits)
The purpose of this seminar is to introduce the beginning DMin student to the Doctor of Ministry program of study. An effort will be made to acquaint the student with facilities on campus which support his or her study while at Central Baptist Seminary. Also, the student will be made familiar with the requirements for the DMin degree as outlined in the Handbook. The student will be expected to write a paper regarding his/her concept of where he or she is in fulfilling God’s call-in ministry, and to express insight into his or her personality and leadership practices.
Finally, the student will be instructed as to the requirements of the project and the project report (dissertation).

DM602 – Missional Leadership: Theology and Practice (3 credits)
This course provides core a theology of leadership and explores the practice of leadership in ministry. It also examines some of the basic leadership questions associated with building a missional church in the

Korean immigrant contexts. Also studied are the biblical mandate of cross-cultural competency, understanding of the current mission trends, and mission strategies in line with the understandings of these missions’ trends which will prepare students as missional church leaders in both domestic and cross-cultural contexts.

DM603 – Systems Thinking I (3 credits)
The systems theory of Murray Bowen and other psychologists has been adapted for ministry in ways deemed useful for congregational analysis and for pastoral care and counseling. This course will provide a foundation for thinking systemically, while Systems Thinking II will build on that foundation to enable theory to become practice in missional action with congregations and/or the care of congregants and their families.

DM609 – Incarnational Theology (3 credits)
This seminar prepares learners for developing the theological section of their project dissertation (DM611). Students explore topics such as life mapping, personality, leadership style, spiritual giftedness, and discipleship to guide them in extensive self-reflection and evaluation of their pastoral identity regarding their ministry and experience for the purpose of enhancing leadership effectiveness. Participants develop skills for theological reflection in relation to the practice of ministry and for integrating previous theological training with ongoing learning and experience.

DM610 – Research Methods and Project Design (3 credits)
In this seminar students will present to the class members a draft copy of their prospectus for the project dissertation. The intent of this seminar is to provide participants with assistance in the implementation of their project dissertation design, as well as assistance in engaging in the writing of the prospectus.

DM612 – Project Dissertation I (3 credits)

DM613 – Project Dissertation II (3 credits)

DM614 and DM615 – Dissertation Research and Writing (0 credit)

DM612, DM613, DM614, and DM615 are for continuous enrollment for dissertation extension.

MC602 – Mentoring and Cohort Groups in Missional Church Ministries (3 credits)
This seminar integrates an understanding of a theology of ministry praxis and spiritual formation with an understanding of research and best practice of discipleship training and vocational development. Learners will acquire conceptual frameworks for equipping missional church leaders (laity and vocational) through modeling, mentoring, teaching, and developing learning communities for competency, accountability, and support. Topics will include coaching practices, social networking, and equipping learners to practice their ministerial vocations through guided missional engagement.

MC604 – Special Topic in Missional Church (3 credits)
This seminar is structured as a travel course that allows the student to spend concentrated time with a congregation that is seeking to be a missional church. Participants will identify and develop a supportive and informative network of missional leaders and resources. Normally students will spend a week on-site with the congregation in addition to completing relevant readings and written assignments.

MC605 – Creating Mission-Minded Congregations (3 credits)
This seminar employs insights from the fields of missional church engagement, transformation, and church effectiveness to guide students in the developing of their understanding of the church in relation both to the triune God and to all creation. Theological resources from ecclesiology, soteriology, and missiology are utilized to help students formulate a working theology of the missional church within their congregation and ministry context.

MC606 – Congregational Development of New Faith Communities (3 credits)
This seminar seeks to help prepare students for launching new missional faith communities and innovating new missional initiatives that are organically related to the existing congregation. Topics include theological foundations for multiplying mission by multiplying missional faith communities, designing effective strategies to carry out this type of ministry, and examination of successful contemporary approaches. Learners will research the dynamics of mission team formation and design in order to initiate a mission team within the context of their ministry.

MC607 – Transformational Ministry and Adaptive Change (3 credits)
It is a basic assumption of this seminar that in the rapidly changing contexts of the twenty-first century, no institution, the church included, is exempt from the need for intentional transformation. This seminar seeks to help students to develop a theological framework for leading a congregation through a missional process of vitalization that mutually impacts the church and its host-community. Students will investigate models of transformation based on incremental change and emerging models of transformation in response to rapid and discontinuous contextual change. Major topics to be covered include the effect of both incremental and discontinuous change on organizational revitalization, strategic planning, and organizational development. Students will use their own ministry contexts to develop skills in recognizing an organization’s readiness for change, its adaptability to rapid change, analyzing a congregation’s context, formulating an organization’s values, purpose, and vision, setting missional priorities, and developing an infrastructure that is responsive to issues of rapid contextual change and conflict.

MC608 – Community Analysis and Engagement (3 credits)
This seminar guides students in developing skills as leader/sociology researchers in the context of congregational and community ministry for the purpose of missional transformation. The seminar then aims to help the student lead his/her faith-community into a better understanding of the congregation’s make-up, the activity of the Triune God at work in their host-community as well as in the broader world. Participants will receive tools designed to help congregations measure/assess and respond to the contextual changes in progress for missional ministry purposes. Topics will include the missional dynamics of church and cultural diversity, religious and philosophical pluralism, social class and economic status, and generational perspectives. Learners will conduct a comparative demographic analysis of their congregation and community and propose a strategy for a missional response.

MC609 – Entrepreneurial Ministry (3 credits)
This seminar guides students in developing an understanding of the nature of enterprise and entrepreneurship as key elements of contemporary economic systems and explores the roles of innovation, technology, and their own efficient management to initiate and sustain faith communities capable of resourcing their mission amid these forces. The seminar provides concepts and tools needed by students to improve the missional effectiveness of their venture or organization. Students also learn about and apply principles and strategies to achieve higher levels of innovation. Major topics to be covered include working beyond the limitations of budget and personnel, the subject- object relationship of mission and service, asset mapping, partnership, and collaboration, finding resources in the field, increasing support and engagement in the mission of the church, as well as the dynamics of “tent-making” mission support.

MC610 – Conflict Transformation and Peace Building (3 credits)
Based on a model of peacebuilding developed in South Africa, this seminar introduces key concepts, methods, and skills of conflict transformation while providing an overview of the mediation process. The intent is to equip individuals to deal constructively with conflict in their own lives and relationships, institutions, churches, and communities. Attention also will be given to methods in which these perspectives-skills can be taught to people within one’s community. There will be opportunity for both personal and group reflection-exploration of conflicts the participants are experiencing.

MC611 – Worship and Preaching in Missional Congregations (3 credits)
This seminar focuses on the theology and practice of communal worship, which celebrates the transcendent and immanent nature of God. Learners will investigate the influence of the mission of God on the form and practice of worship. On a graduate level, special attention will be given to contextualized shaping of worship gatherings, historically rooted spiritual practices and disciplines, and homiletics that exegetes scripture, the contextual setting, and the human condition considering the faith community’s missional engagement.

MC614 – The Missional Church Theory and Practice (3 credits)
This class will examine the background and process of the missional church discussion, and explore what the missional church means through historical, theological, and pastoral reflections. Also, this course will help students articulate what the missional church means through lectures, assignments, small groups, and discussion. In addition, this class will help students lay the foundation for preliminary precedent literature review of the missional church conversation that is important to write a DMin project.

Myanmar Studies

DM1011 – Bible and Ministry in Contemporary Setting
In this course the student will develop the skills needed to interpret and apply biblical teachings in contemporary ministry settings. The student will build upon master’s level hermeneutical foundations to advance interpretative and application skills capable of empowering ministry applications in new and complex situations and that are conducive to the healthy development of individuals and congregations.

DM1012 – Theological Reflections on Major Doctrines
This course will review the historical development of major Christian doctrines such as the doctrines of God, Christ, the Holy Spirit, the Trinity, salvation, and sin, with a focus on contextual theological reflection. The student will investigate the contextual nature of Christian doctrine as it has developed out of historical situations always with the intent of solving standing issues. The student also will discover the tentative nature of theological doctrine, functioning not as a finished product but continuing to need reinterpretation and theological reflection throughout the course of history as contexts change. Finally, the student will learn to apply the insights of this reflection in contemporary ministry situations where new knowledge and human experiences generate new issues that demand fresh theological reflection.

DM1013 – New Ways of Being Church
This course will explore methods of ministry, practice, and organization that will help people to experience church as a loving community of women and men. Students will discover and reflect upon the impact of changes in the church’s structure, forms of ministry and worship, and gender roles since the first century C.E. They also will analyze the dynamics of shifting power structures in the church, including ecclesiastical hierarchy and patriarchy, and consider how traditional structures have served to marginalize women, youth, children, people with disabilities, and the poor. Students will explore ways in which the structures and practices of worship, spirituality, and Bible study contribute to the modern church’s sense of loss of mission resulting in lack of vitality and loss of authority in society.

DM1014 – How to Lead and Teach: Christian Education in Myanmar Today
This course is designed to formulate a guideline for a comprehensive and contextualized Christian education for Myanmar churches that will contribute to the formation of healthier congregations. The student will examine the meaning and practice of Christian education among Myanmar’s churches by reconsidering the definition and goals of what is meant by Christian education, evaluating the approaches utilized, and exploring the challenges to Christian education presented by the Myanmar context. Based on these insights the student also will consider issues surrounding Christian education and leadership formation in Myanmar. Finally, the student will evaluate the practices of Christian education and leader formation in her or his own ministry context considering their implications for congregational health.

DM1021 – Role of Minister in Multi-Cultural Context
This course will train students for the ministries of worship, preaching, pastoral care, and spiritual formation in Myanmar’s multi-cultural context. The student will explore ways in which global issues are impacting Myanmar society, together with the ministry demands that emerge as a result. The student also will evaluate the multiple roles ministers assume in these settings and learn how to develop healthy ministries capable of meeting the challenges of this increasingly complex society.

DM1022 – Ministerial Ethics
In this course the student will explore the ethical dimensions of attitude, behavior, and accountability in relation to the exercise of leadership within a variety of ministry contexts. Topical applications of theological ethics to ministry practices and situations will guide students in discovering how congregational health is related integrally to these qualities in a ministerial leader.

DM1024 – Mission in the Twenty-First Century
This course will evaluate new mission methods and strategies to determine their usefulness for the Myanmar context. The student will read recent books, magazines, and other literature to encounter and assess new missiological methods and strategies. The student then will develop skills for determining the value of an emerging method of mission and evangelism for a variety of Myanmar ministry situations. Finally, the student will explore the missiological methods employed in her or his own ministry context and consider which new methods and strategies might have value for enhancing that ministry.

DM1031 – How to Lead and Teach: Leadership and Administration for Myanmar Churches
This course will explore relevant leadership and administrative styles for the churches of Myanmar in the twenty- first century. Students first will investigate the concept of leadership and then will study a variety of leadership styles modeled by selected outstanding world leaders, both secular and religious. Finally, students will observe and critique the leadership and administrative practices employed in a variety of Myanmar organizations.

DM1032 – Church in a Pluralistic Religious Context
This course will explore the problems and challenges of religious pluralism that are encountered by the churches and Christian mission programs in Asia. Special focus is given to Myanmar.

DM1033 – Ecumenism for the Twenty-First Century
The course is designed to impart the student with a wider perspective on ecumenism. The student will learn the pilgrimage of ecumenism through its many conceptual and structural changes and transitions during the twentieth century and analyze the causes of these transitions. The student also will examine the contribution of both ecclesiastical and secular ecumenism to the churches, humanity, and the whole universe, at large. Finally, the student will consider ecumenical values and practices that hold potential for enhancing ministry in his or her own context.

DM1034 – Pastoral Care and Counseling in the Global Context
In this course the student will develop the basic resources necessary for the ministry of pastoral care and the development of pastoral counseling skills. Students will know the meaning, principles, and techniques in counseling and will develop skills for their practical applications in the ministry of the church and its related community. Students will consider the complex interactions of biblical principles, human psychology, and other social science disciplines on the counseling tasks of the minister. Applications of these principles and skills will be focused upon the need of persons for help in the situations of death, dying, aging, depression, divorce, and job stress.

DM1041 – Transforming Society and Conflict in Ministry
This course will both introduce the student to the elements of relationship between social systems and power dynamics in corrupting a society and to discerning the sources of difficulty in his or her own behavior and how to improve them. The student will explore the issues of social justice and spirituality in social transformation that goes beyond the political processes of change. The students also will learn the processes that enable a society to restructure itself and that help communities to believe that they can find their way to change. Also, as part of the course the student will prepare and present case study materials and engage in interdisciplinary reflection and analysis that focuses on characteristics of his or her own “theory in practice” and how to improve it. The student will demonstrate the ability to receive and act on critiques of his or her own behavior within the classroom setting while learning to have some sense of theological viewpoints implicit in varied theories of action.

DM1044 – Research Seminar
The course will equip students with the basic knowledge of social research and related methods used. The student will discover the essential role of quality research in building a better world.

PC608 – Self Care and Stress Management for Ministers
This seminar will focus on principles and strategies of holistic self-care that empower clergy and other caregivers for healthy, vigorous, sustainable, long-term service. The process will be to apply converging themes from holistic health studies, stress management and burnout management research, meditation methods, and biblical theology. Participants will learn techniques of reducing and adapting to stress through relaxation, physical exercise, meditation, the development of spiritual practices/disciplines, particularly fitting their calling. Special attention will be given to the benefits of regular physical exercise and of the spiritual practice of humor.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Gail Ashby
Rollin Van Bik
James R. Cook
Dawn Hallman
Jennifer Hawks
Dr. Gregg L. J. Hemmen
Jan Hockensmith
Day Lane
Angela Lowe
Helen Moore-Montgomery
Shinwon Park
John C. Pauls
Kevin W. Pranoto
Franklin M. Ruff
Jacquline L. Saxon
Rakmi Shaiza
Tom Wiles

LEADERSHIP
Pamela R. Durso – President
PhD, Baylor University
MDiv, Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary
BA, Baylor University

Kathy Maxwell – Vice President of Academics Affairs, Dean of the Faculty, and Professor of Biblical Studies
PhD, Baylor University
MDiv, Hardin-Simmons University
BA, Hardin-Simmons University

Scott Wedel – Chief Financial and Administrative Officer
MBA (Finance), University of Missouri – Kansas City
BA, Bethany College

Craig Stephen Doty – Senior Director of Brand Advancement
MPA, University of Missouri – Kansas City
BS, Kansas State University

Nathan Huguley – Senior Director of Enrollment Management
DMin & MDiv, Central Seminary
BS, Belmont University

Tamara Chestnut – Senior Director of Development

FACULTY
Seung Ho Bang – Director of Contextualized Learning and Assistant Professor of Hebrew Bible
PhD, Baylor University
ThM and MDiv, Emory University
BTh, Methodist Theological University

Lindsay Bonebrake – Director of the Master of Arts in Counseling and Associate Professor of Counseling
DCoun, Midwestern College
MACO, Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary
MACE, Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary
BA, The King’s College

F. Michael Grubbs – Assistant Professor of Counseling
DCoun, Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary
MS, Cairn University
BEd, Oral Roberts University

Wallace S. Hartsfield II – Fred Young Chair and Associate Professor of Hebrew Bible
PhD, Emory University
MDiv, Interdenominational Theological Center
BA, University of Missouri – Kansas City

Julie J. Kilmer – Director of Chaplaincy Studies and Supplemental Associate Professor of Theology and Ethics
PhD, Chicago Theological Seminary
MDiv, Methodist Theological School in Ohio
MA, Marshall University
BS, University of Wisconsin – Oshkosh

John S. Park – Director of DMin Program, Des Peres Chair of Congregational Health and Associate Professor of Leadership and Congregational Health
PhD, Dallas Baptist University
ThM, Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary
MDiv, Asian Center for Theological Studies and Mission
BA, Kyungsung University

Samuel Park – Director of Korean Missional Church Programs and Associate Professor of Practical Theology and Contextual Ministry Education
PhD, Brite Divinity School
STM, Boston University
MDiv, Korea Theological Seminary
BA, Hanyang University

Toya Richards – Director of Peace and Justice Ministry Certificate
DMin, McCormick Theological Seminary
MDiv, Louisville Presbyterian Theological Seminary
BA, Western Kentucky University

Tarris Rosell – Professor of Pastoral Theology—Ethics and Ministry Praxis
PhD, Vanderbilt University
DMin, Colgate Rochester Divinity School
MDiv, Gordon Conwell Theological Seminary
BA, Bethel College

Kwangsup Shin – Assistant Director of DMin Program and Associate Professor of Missional Church Studies
PhD, Trinity Evangelical Divinity School
ThM, Calvin Theological Seminary
MDiv, Chongshin Theological Seminary
BA, Dankook University

Anna Wells – Visiting Fellow
PhD, MA, and BA, Baylor University

STAFF
Sophie Chae – Executive Assistant to the President and Development Operations Manager
Jenna Chon – Assistant to the Director of Korean Programs
Steve Guinn – Associate Dean for Research and Innovation
Ju Yeon Kim – Student Success Advisor
Christine King – Business Office Manager
Jeeyoon Lee – Admissions Advisor
Ruth Rosell – Director of Buttry Center
Hana You – Registrar and International Student Officer

OFFICE DIRECTORY
The Overland Park, KS campus phone number is 913-667-5700. Use the following extensions for information:

• Admissions for English Programs (ext. 111)
• Admissions for Korean Programs (ext. 120)
• Business Office (ext. 110)
• Donations (ext. 141)
• Library – circulation desk (ext. 129)
• MACO Program Office (ext. 134)
• Office of Alumni Relations (ext. 103)
• Office of the President (ext. 121)
• Registrar and International Student Office (ext. 107)
• Student Billing (ext. 110)