The Advanced Studies Certificate

The Advanced Studies Certificate (ASC) is designed for individuals who desire limited and focused theological training, but who either do not desire graduate credit for their work or who do not meet the prerequisites to receive graduate credit. No formal academic credit is earned in the ASC program. Learning Units (LUs) are awarded. ASC participants make the same choices among available tracks as those offered to Graduate Studies Certificate participants. Participants who wish to pursue this type of program for graduate credit should take the Graduate Studies Certificate option.

Admission Requirements

Participants entering the certificate program are expected to present evidence of Christian faith, character, promise, and maturity. A high school diploma is required; a baccalaureate degree is not required.

Advanced Studies Certificate Requirements

To earn an Advanced Studies Certificate, a participant must complete 18 LUs. Courses are offered through any campus. This provides opportunity for individuals to study and learn while remaining in their home area and ministries. On-campus courses may only be taken by formal institutional approval.

Advanced Studies Certificates are currently offered in four areas: Biblical and Theological Studies, Intercultural/Global Leadership Studies, Pastoral and Church Ministry Studies, and Women's Pastoral Leadership.

Biblical and Theological Studies Concentration (Any Campus)

Participants select eight LUs of course work from any Campus in the areas of BL, BT, CH, CS, and TH studies. Eight LUs may be taken from any online course or from a combination of non-course seminar events, with program advisor’s approval. The final two LUs are granted for successful completion of an integrative project, demonstrating the ability to combine course principles in a practical ministry application.

Intercultural / Global Leadership Studies Concentration (Portland and Online Campus)

Participants select eight LUs of course work from the Portland and Online Campus in the IS and GL area. Eight LUs may be taken from any online course or from a combination of non-course seminar events, with program advisor’s approval. The final two LUs are granted for successful completion of an integrative project, demonstrating the ability to combine course principles in a practical ministry application.

Pastoral and Church Ministry Studies Concentration (Any Campus)

Participants select eight LUs of course work from any campus in the areas of ML, WL, CO or CS studies. Eight LUs may be taken from any online course or from a combination of non-course seminar events, with program advisor’s approval. The final two LUs are granted for successful completion of an integrative project, demonstrating the ability to combine course principles in a practical ministry application.

Pastoral Care to Women Concentration (Portland Campus Intensives)

The ASC in Pastoral Care to Women is an ideal program for expanding one’s experience and expertise in the field of ministering to women. This program increases compassion, understanding, skills and cutting edge ideas for ministry to women. The solid biblical base brings depth and validity to each course.

The ASC provides a balance of pastoral counsel for women, leadership development, biblical teaching, and program planning. The many changes in society and the church challenge us to reevaluate ministry effectiveness. The program prepares participants to serve in church, parachurch or compassion ministries to women. To earn an ASC in the area, the following curriculum is taken. PCW courses may be taken on campus or via online courses.

Unlike the other concentrations, the Pastoral Care to Women concentration has a set curriculum:

Pastoral Care to Women courses: 8 learning units
Select 8 LUs from the courses below:
WL201 Pastoral Understanding of Women 2
WL202 -or- Women in Pain, Part 1 2
WL203 Women in Pain, Part 2 2
WL204 Women in Leadership 2
WL205 Building Relational Ministries for Women 2
WL206 Develop and Deliver Life-Changing Messages 2
Restricted Electives: 8 learning units
Eight LUs may be taken from any other WL or online course, or from a combination of non-course seminar events, with program advisor's prior approval.
Integrative Project: 2 learning units
Two LUs are granted for successful completion of an integrative project, demonstrating the ability to combine course principles in a practical ministry application.