This degree is normally a two-year program when taken full-time and requires a total of 51 academic credits. If the degree is not completed within four years, the student must petition the faculty for continuance in the degree program.
Courses are available on both campuses in various formats: synchronous, hybrid, intensive, residential, travel, and asynchronous (online). A minimum of 18 credits (six courses) must utilize synchronous learning. Of those18 credits, nine credits (three courses) must utilize physical presence. This is most often done by attending week-long intensives, offered in June, August, October, January and March, or through Travel Seminars.
â€Synchronous Learning: Learning occurs virtually with all participants present and engaged simultaneously, either in the classroom or via Zoom. A total of 18 credits  is required in this format.â€
Residential Learning: Learning is done synchronously while being physically present in the classroom. Minimum 9 credits in this format.â€
Intensive Learning: Learning is done virtually or via physical presence. Pre-reading and post-writing are assigned to fulfill course objectives. This fulfills the residential earning requirement.â€
Travel Seminar: Occasionally the seminary offers a course centered around a trip. These can be within the US or international, usually lasting between one and three weeks. This fulfills the residential learning requirement.â€
Asynchronous Learning (Online): Learning is done with no live class time but through pre-recorded lectures and written interactions with the teacher and other students. There is no requirement to utilize this format.
Hybrid Learning: Learning is done with a combination of synchronous and asynchronous sessions, the specific combination is determined by the faculty member.
This program will prepare you for leadership and service across the church denomination. This degree works in conjunction with the student’s denominational accrediting body. In addition to academic credits, it requires Clinical Pastoral Education, Ministerial Field Work, Ministerial Immersion (Internship), and additional non-credit requirements.
Admission Requirements:
A bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a regionally accredited college or university with a minimum GPAÂ of 2.8.
Evangelical Lutheran Church of America (ELCA)students must have begun the candidacy process with their local synod.
Non-ELCA students must have received verification of their eligibility through their accrediting church body.
