Diploma in Christian Studies

Equipping Church Ministry Leaders with Foundational Theological Training
Equip believers with a solid foundation in essential Christian theology, deepen their understanding of the faith and spiritual life, and prepare them to serve more effectively in churches and Christian ministries while continuing to grow in faith and ministry.
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Purpose

This program offers a series of foundational theology courses for lay believers, including those serving in churches or Christian organizations while employed in other professions.

PROGRAM GOAL

Goal

To equip students to deepen their personal spiritual growth and participate more effectively in ministry.

WHO SHOULD APPLY

Intended Students

Lay leaders, elders and deacons, Sunday school teachers, fellowship counselors, short-term mission workers, and early retirees devoted to full-time ministry.

Admission Requirements

  1. Graduation from an accredited four-year college, university, or seminary with a bachelor’s degree or higher and a grade point average of at least 2.67 (B− or 80%).
  2. Applicants must have experienced spiritual rebirth and salvation and have been baptized for at least two years.
  3. Applicants must demonstrate good character and spiritual maturity and provide recommendations from two pastors or church leaders. (Applicants residing in mainland China must have at least one overseas recommender and one church pastor as recommenders.)   
  4. Ability to understand spoken Mandarin Chinese.
  5. Proof of English reading proficiency: a TOEFL score of at least 470/52 (TOEFL iBT), an IELTS score of at least 5.5, or a Duolingo English Test score of at least 80. (English test scores are valid for only two years; applicants must retake the test if the scores have expired.) (Applicants who earned a college degree or higher at an institution where all instruction was in English, or who have lived in North America for more than 20 years, may be exempt.) Other equivalent evidence of English proficiency will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Duration and Location of Study

Full-time students may complete the certificate in one year. Part-time students may extend their studies for up to five years.

Required Credits

Old Testament Studies (6 credits), New Testament Studies (6 credits), Theology (3 credits), and Practical Ministry (3 credits). Students may select the remaining 6 credits according to their personal interests or ministry needs.

Program Features

Upon completion of 24 credits, students are awarded the Certificate in Christian Studies. The flexible course schedule allows students to study according to their availability and complete the program without leaving their employment. Certificate courses carry graduate-level credit; students subsequently admitted to a master’s degree program at the Seminary may transfer eligible credits in accordance with applicable regulations.