Graduate Theological Studies FAQ

What is Graduate Theological Studies?

In cooperation with Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary, the Christian Leadership Center hosts graduate level theological studies courses. The courses are designed to meet the basic denominational requirements and degree requirements for students.

What courses does CLC offer?

CLC offers 27 credit hours (3 hours per course, 9 courses) of graduate theological studies courses on a rotational basis. These courses include the following:

  • Church History
  • Old Testament Interpretation
  • Worship
  • United Methodist Studies: Wesley – 19th Century
  • Basic Theology
  • Evangelism
  • United Methodist Studies: 20th Century – present
  • New Testament Interpretation
  • Mission

Who may benefit from these courses?

These courses may benefit anyone who has a Bachelor’s degree and is interested in graduate level theological coursework. However, students may be particularly interested if they identify with one of the following categories:

  • Deacon Candidates: For persons seeking ordination as a deacon in The United Methodist Church, these courses satisfy all the denominational requirements of graduate coursework (commonly referred to as BGTS- “Basic Graduate Theological Studies”).
  • Master Degree Students & Certification Studies Students: Courses can also benefit students seeking to satisfy a portion of their core requirements for a Master of Divinity degree (Local Pastors in Advance Course of Study, full-time or part-time M.Div students), Master of Arts degree, or Certification studies in a specialized field of ministry.
  • Enrichment Students: Courses are also beneficial for persons simply desiring further growth and training in ministry.

How much does it cost to take a course?

The Christian Leadership Center requires a one-time $250 fee. Garrett’s one-time application fee is $70, and the cost of one credit hour at Garrett is $510. Garrett offers a variety of options for financial aid and some denominations and places of employment will assist a student in the cost of their studies.

How does one register for a course?

  • Interested students can contact the Theological Studies Coordinator at Centenary’s Christian Leadership Center. The Coordinator will personally walk the prospective student through the application process and answer any questions.
  • Students must apply to Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary before enrolling in a course. Applications are available online at www.garrett.edu and www.centenary.edu/clc/theological. Students can apply for any of the following academic programs:

Non-Degree Programs

  • BGTS (Basic Graduate Theological Studies): This academic program is specifically designed for persons seeking ordination as a Deacon in The United Methodist Church. To complete this program, students must satisfy 27 credit hours (9 courses) that meet the denomination’s graduate studies requirements. CLC offers all of these courses on Centenary’s campus.
  • CS (Certification Studies): This academic program is specifically designed for students who are seeking professional certification in a specialized field of ministry including: Christian Education, Evangelism, Music Ministry, Spiritual Formation, and Youth Ministry. Through CLC, certification students can satisfy their United Methodist Studies course requirements on Centenary’s campus.
  • Enrichment Studies: This academic program is an option for the person who is interested in a particular course topic and growth in ministry. This is also an admissions option for degree seeking students enrolled at another institution, who are interested in satisfying a degree requirement on Centenary’s campus.

Degree Programs

  • Master of Divinity: This academic degree is commonly completed by persons seeking ordination as an Elder. Through CLC, Master of Divinity students can satisfy a portion of their core degree requirements on Centenary’s campus.
  • Master of Arts: Garrett offers several Master of Arts degrees, including Christian Education, Christian Education in Youth Ministry, Music Ministry, Music Ministry in Organ, Pastoral Care & Counseling, and Spiritual Formation & Evangelism. Master of Arts students can satisfy a portion of their core degree requirements on Centenary’s campus through CLC.

Once an applicant is accepted to Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary, the student can enroll in a course through Garrett’s Registrar’s office.

How are courses conducted?

Courses are taught in a variety of ways utilizing state-of-the-art simulcast technology or visiting professors. Courses are typically conducted in the following formats:

  • Two-week intensives, meeting Mondays-Fridays from 8:00am-12:30pm
  • Once a week for a semester, meeting for 3 hours per week
  • Three-weekend intensives, meeting Fridays from 1pm-9pm and Saturdays from 9am-noon.

What is Simulcast Technology?

Simulcast technology is equipment that allows a course to be conducted in multiple locations. When utilizing this equipment, a class at Centenary is a virtual extension of a class taking place at Garrett’s campus in Chicago, IL. The technology receives live video and audio feed via an internet connection and is displayed on TVs.

Do courses require a minimum number of students?

When a course is conducted by a visiting professor, a minimum of eight students must enroll in the course. When a course is conducted via simulcast technology, this minimum does not apply.

In what ways can I support Graduate Theological Studies?

CLC encourages you to consider supporting Graduate Theological Studies in any of the following ways:

  • House an out-of-town graduate student for the duration of a course (needed for January intensives and weekend courses).
  • Sponsor refreshments during a course.
  • Promote the program to your church, staff, and congregational leaders who might benefit from graduate theological studies.
  • Enroll in a course
  • Support CLC financially by participating in the 12:15 club

Who can I contact for more information?

Valerie Robideaux
Theological Studies Coordinator
318.869.5029
email

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