Program Overview
Explore theological topics that help you gain a deeper understanding of the Christian faith and equip you to better serve in the Church with theological training at Concordia.
The online ministry certification program consists of seventeen courses, all of which taken online. Courses are offered in a cohort format, with a new cohort beginning every Spring. Each course is eight weeks in length, allowing you to take three consecutive courses in a single semester. Please note that your first course and twelfth course are taken in a virtual format allowing you to connect with peers in your cohort.
Hear from our faculty:
What to Expect
Theological training is not a traditional degree, and is just as unique as you. Our hope is to provide you with the basic Christian accelerated education that fits your individual interests and needs.
The Director of Church Ministries (DCM) certificate is especially helpful for the person already working in a congregation, who lacks credentials in the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. For those of you who aren’t interested in a certificate, but just want to learn, you are free to complete as much of this program as you desire.
There are three levels within the program:
- Level 1: Foundations for Service, 16 credits
- Level 2: Practice in Service, 31 credits
- Level 3: Commissioned Minister of Religion - Director of Church Ministries (DCM) , 47 credits
If you have a bachelor’s degree, you will be eligible for certification after completing all levels of the program. If you do not have a bachelor’s degree, you are welcome to take all of these courses, but you will not receive certification. Do you fall into the latter category, but still want to be certified? You can earn your Bachelor’s through our online theological studies major as you complete this certification.
Licensure / Certifications
Students with a B.A. degree who have completed this certificate program and are a current member of The Lutheran Church - Missouri Synod will receive certification. Students may be eligible to receive a called position in a congregation or recognized service organization of the church and may be eligible to be placed on the roster of the synod as a "Commissioned Minister of Religion - Director of Church Ministries (DCM)."
