School of Arts and Sciences
Department of Theology
Minor in Director of Church Ministries for Related Majors
Graduates of the Director of Church Ministries (DCM) program are equipped to play a supporting role to pastors, developing and leading congregation ministries.
Program Overview
In order to meet the diverse needs of congregations, you will gain a wide range of skills through completion the church ministries minor. Students who have fulfilled a major in a field compatible with church ministries, such as parish music, parish nursing, and social work, and who wish to be certified through the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod, may be certified after completing the church ministries minor for related majors. The church ministries minor includes 24 credits.
While all courses and doctrine are taught in accord with the Lutheran confessions, men and women of any denomination are welcome to join this program. Only members of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod will receive certification and may be eligible to be rostered with the LCMS as a “Minister of Religion Commissioned—Director of Church Ministries (DCM).”
What to Expect
As a Director of Church Ministries (DCM) graduate, you will be prepared to be a professional church worker, assisting the pastor in developing and leading congregation ministries. This may include supporting Bible studies, community outreach, mercy work, and administrative duties. And because no two graduates will have the exact same roles, you’ll benefit from management and leadership courses that will help you adapt to any situation.
Licensure / Certifications
Students who have completed full program requirements 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)."
