Our certificate in Christian studies provides you with a comprehensive overview of theology and ministry. The courses required for this certificate are the same nine units of required courses for all of our Master of Arts degrees. After these requirements are fulfilled, you can choose a variety of courses in theology, history, ministry and mission to complete your certificate.
Highlights
- Purposeful community of learners and leaders
- Experienced and published faculty
- Theologically diverse student body
- MFT and ministry students integrated in foundational courses
- Option to study in Israel each summer
- Option to attend the Hispanic Summer Program
- Diverse practicum opportunities
- Online courses available
- Fully accredited by the Association of Theological Schools (ATS) and the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC)
Career opportunities
This certificate gives graduates a deeper knowledge of the Scriptures and a greater understanding of theology improving your current ministry leadership skills.
Program director

Brian Ross, D.Min.
Faculty

Mark Baker, Ph.D.

Tim Geddert, Ph.D.

Lynn Jost, Ph.D.

Valerie Rempel, Ph.D.
Admission requirements
- Commitment to and desire for Christian ministry and service
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited University
- Minimum GPA of 2.5
- Online application and fee ($90)
- Personal profile questions
- Three letters of reference
- Writing sample
Download the Admissions Checklist to get started
Course listing
Required Courses (30 Units)
Code | Title | Units |
---|---|---|
BIB 720 | The Church and God’s Mission in the World | 3 |
BIB 725 | Understanding, Interpreting and Teaching Scripture Must be taken as a 2 unit course | 2 - 3 |
MIN 704 | Discerning Vocation and Calling | 1 |
THEO 730 | Discipleship and Ethics Must be taken as a 3 unit course | 2 - 3 |
Electives
Select 21 units from the following
Code | Title | Units |
---|---|---|
MIN 750A MIN 762 MIN 750C MIN 750D | Cross-Cultural Encounter: Los Angeles or Exegeting and Serving Your Neighborhood or Cross-Cultural Encounter: International or Cross-Cultural Encounter: San Francisco or Intercultural Studies course | 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5 3 |
Bible courses | 3-9 | |
Theology or history courses | 3-9 | |
Ministry or mission courses | 3-9 | |
BIB 709 | Bible Knowledge Requirement Seminar Must be taken as a 0 unit course | 0 |