Advanced Certificate Program

This is a 10 month program. It is a foundational program providing an introduction to the Bible, Christian doctrine, church history and practical Christian ministry at the undergraduate level. The objectives of the program are as follows:

➢ To prepare students entering vocational Christian ministries that requires a foundation in Biblical Studies
➢ To equip students for greater ministry effectiveness
➢ To provide for spiritual formation of students and the development of a Christian world view

The program is designed for those who require a certain amount of biblical and theological training for effective ministry. The program is also appropriate for individuals who are in full time employment, but wish to enhance their Christian witness in their present vocations as well as enrich their spiritual lives. The course equips the students with the necessary skills, what is required to maintain a healthy relationship with God, and theological understanding required to participate in or co-lead ministry teams in the local church. Students will further develop leadership skills and abilities that are designed to enable them successfully run many ministry settings, including small groups, youth groups, outreach programs, Church pastoral teams and community ministries teams.

First Term (The Leaders)
• Systematic Theology
• Leadership Principles
• New Testament Survey
• Old Testament Survey
• Homiletics
• Pnuematology
• Hermeneutics
• Christian Counseling

Second Term (The Missionary)
• World Religions
• Christian Ethics
• World Missions
• Praise and Worship
• Demonology
• Youth Ministry
• Evangelism and Discipleship

Third Term (The Minister)
• Principles of Prayer and Fasting
• Family and Ministry
• Church Government
• Church Administration and Stewardship
• Networking
• Understanding the Call to Ministry
• Ministerial Ethics
• Creative Arts and Media

Brief Course description
The following section lists the courses available though we are not limited to these course offerings. We are continually expanding our elective course offerings to strive for excellence and to continue to be “anchored to the Rock and geared for our generation.”

Old Testament Survey
The course relates to the background and construction of the Bible, establishing the purpose and thrust of each section and book. A better understanding of the Old Testament will enhance our appreciation for the New Testament as the revelation of its precursor. Each Book of the New Testament is introduced and considered in its theme and content.
 
New Testament Survey
A panoramic view of the New Testament message. Like Old Testament Survey, New Testament Survey takes you through the books of the New Testament after bringing you back to the times in which they were written. A careful history is presented, which will enable the student to hear with the same understanding as the people of that time.

Hermeneutics
This is the study of biblical interpretation and its guidelines. It explains the techniques involved and demonstrates their use. The Bible must be used to interpret itself as Scripture “witnesses” with itself, confirming each and every truth.

Homiletics
The course begins with instruction in public speaking and then directs the student in how to use those techniques in sermon and teaching preparation. Students are then given the opportunity to demonstrate what they have learned, evaluated on an individual basis, and given guidance on their preparations.

Leadership
This is a comprehensive look at the position of the leader both in and out of the local church. A long and serious look is taken at the responsibilities and expectations of the position as the student is challenged to count the cost as well as the benefits of leadership. The emphasis will be on understanding Godly principles of authority and Servant leadership skills.
 
Christian Counseling
Modern psychotherapies from a Christian perspective intensive study. The students learn what causes relationship conflicts and how to resolve them with use of counseling and psychology. The course provides a solid foundation for counseling in the context of pastoral ministry and offers insightful and practical skills. It covers the context and role of counseling in the church, understanding people and their problems, and when to refer to other professionals. This is a great starting point for those wishing to pursue the area of counseling.

Praise and Worship
With the wonderful freedom experienced over the past several years in this area, it is important that we understand the roots of this subject to maintain the ground we have gained. Beginning in the Old Testament, this fascinating course examines the concepts and practices of praise and worship.

Creative Arts and Media
This course utilizes innovative technology and creative media to expand the kingdom of God and communicate the Gospel message more effectively to the next generation. Engage your creativity and become an influencer in worship, evangelism, multimedia, and the creative arts in your local Church and way beyond.

Ministerial Ethics
In this course four categories of ethics pertinent not only to ministry, but to everyday life are addressed.Spiritual, Political, Social and Economic responsibilities are outlined as the student is encouraged to strive for a standard above the norm.

Church Administration & Stewardship
This course provides a comprehensive overview of the day to day operations of the local church. The development of an internal structure will be discussed from the perspectives of the churches in the early stages of growth as well as expanding that structure as the ministry increases. Stewardship is the responsibility of each individual to manage his/her life and property with proper regard to the rights of others. The focus will be stewardship as a lifestyle.

Understanding the Call to Ministry
This course explores the various calling, helps the student get started on their personal ministerial journey, and allows them to begin to develop their spiritual gifts. Students are taught what factors combine to create excellence in ministry, and how to avoid the pitfalls of becoming unbalanced. Students will leave this course with a thorough understanding of what it means to be an excellent minister in whatever capacity they are called.