Graduate Certificates are offered in the same areas as our Master in Ministry degrees and provide a condensed version of the most critical courses in those emphases. Pastors, leaders in supporting ministries, and lay people looking for additional training, may find these certificates particularly helpful. Courses are offered mostly online with some emphases requiring a short-summer intensive.
DetailsThe graduate certificate involves 12 credits in a specialized area. Each of the classes are designed to provide insightful teaching, meaningful resources, and useful skills for ministry.
Tuition & Fees
A special tuition rate is provided for those in the certificate program that is only 40% of the regular tuition costs! In addition, pastors get special waivers or discounts as follows:
- Southern Union pastors: Pastors may receive a tuition waiver by submitting a signed Conference Authorization form each semester (Summer, Fall, Winter) that they are enrolled for classes. Submit immediately after registration. SOUTHERN UNION AUTHORIZATION FORM
- North American Division pastors: Pastors in Division Conferences outside of the Southern Union may receive tuition assistance by submitting a signed Tuition Assistance form each semester (Summer, Fall, Winter) that they are enrolled for classes. Submit immediately after registration. NAD PASTOR TUITION ASSISTANCE FORM
- International Students: Since these courses are designed to be part-time, the schedule of the classes does not meet student-visa requirements.
Biblical Counseling EmphasisBiblical counseling is a practice of the local church whereby each member is empowered to speak the truth in love, so that the whole congregation grows together toward spiritual maturity. Biblical counseling applies the gospel to everyday life situations, allowing the practical wisdom of Scripture to guide decisions, resolve conflict, heal emotional wounds, build relationships, and empower change.
Biblical counseling is not professional counseling. A student who takes classes in biblical counseling at Southern is not preparing for state licensure or to receive church credentials. The program is designed for those who work in a church setting, who wish to enhance their coaching and counseling skills while gaining a broad-based ministry and theological background. It teaches the counselor how to do “triage” when hurting people come to the church for help and how to effectively refer. The program also prepares students for further studies in biblical counseling.
