Director of Church Ministries Certificate

Dig into the depths of theology

Let’s talk about breaking tradition. Not holiday traditions. Not even worship traditions. We’re talking about education. Maybe you’ve already gone the typical four-year, full-time, on-campus route. Maybe you’ve never attended college. Regardless, now you are passionate about pursuing collegiate-level instruction in theology… but the traditional path isn’t for you. Through this certificate program, you’ll get to learn from some of the best theology faculty in The Lutheran Church--Missouri Synod online!

Credits47

Cost Per Credit^$350

Sample Careers

Director of Ministries
Outreach Coordinator
Family and Youth Director

Program Overview

Explore theological topics that help you gain a deeper understanding of the Christian faith and equip you to better serve in the Church with theological training at ��Ƶ.

The online ministry certification program consists of seventeen courses, all of which taken online. Courses are offered in a cohort format, with a new cohort beginning every Spring. Each course is eight weeks in length, allowing you to take three consecutive courses in a single semester. Please note that your first course and twelfth course are taken in a virtual format allowing you to connect with peers in your cohort.

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What to Expect

Theological training is not a traditional degree, and is just as unique as you. Our hope is to provide you with the basic Christian accelerated education that fits your individual interests and needs.

The Director of Church Ministries (DCM) certificate is especially helpful for the person already working in a congregation, who lacks credentials in the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. For those of you who aren’t interested in a certificate, but just want to learn, you are free to complete as much of this program as you desire.

There are three levels within the program:

Level 1: Foundations for Service, 16 credits
Level 2: Practice in Service, 31 credits
Level 3: Commissioned Minister of Religion - Director of Church Ministries (DCM) , 47 credits

If you have a bachelor’s degree, you will be eligible for certification after completing all levels of the program. If you do not have a bachelor’s degree, you are welcome to take all of these courses, but you will not receive certification. Do you fall into the latter category, but still want to be certified? You can earn your Bachelor’s through our online theological studies major as you complete this certification.

Licensure / Certifications

Students with a B.A. degree who have completed this certificate program and are a current member of The Lutheran Church - Missouri Synod will receive certification. Students may be eligible to receive a called position in a congregation or recognized service organization of the church and may be eligible to be placed on the roster of the synod as a "Commissioned Minister of Religion - Director of Church Ministries (DCM)."

How to Apply

This accelerated program begins new groups in early January and early July of each year. Applications are reviewed until about 2 weeks before the start date.

Steps for program admission:

We help guide you through: You will receive communication from your helpful Admission Counselor about the Theology Department DCM application for Levels 1-2 or for the full Level 3, how to submit supplemental materials, and the necessary references and background check (required for Level 3 only).
Review entrance requirements and submit admissions pieces:
1. Official transcripts
2. Department application
3. Notify references of sent by CUW Admissions
Acceptance! When your application file is complete, it will be reviewed by the department and you will be notified of entrance status.
Schedule Advising Appointment: Once admitted, you may schedule to meet with your Academic & Career Advisor who will review your degree plan, discuss orientation steps and the CUW student portal, and assist with registering for classes.
Since non-degree students are no eligible for federal financial aid, the tuition rate has been reduced, however students should investigate financial assistance through their church and/or LCMS district office.

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Dig into the depths of theology

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