Certificate in Christian Leadership

Calvin Seminary Certificate Program

Acquiring a seminary certificate is a trusted way to advance your ministry skills and effectiveness. Calvin’s Certificate in Christian Leadership is an intensive, high-caliber program designed to challenge and transform students and grow their theological and biblical knowledge. 

Calvin values a holistic approach to education that incorporates classroom learning as well as immersive ministry training and development of character and faith. We’ve created a haven for our students to flourish individually and in Christian community. We cultivate and nurture meaningful journeys for seminary students as they follow God’s calling for them. 

A seminary certificate is designed for students who don’t want to pursue a full seminary degree. Certificate students can specialize in an area of their interest and gain knowledge that will help them on their ministry path.

Our Seminary Certificate Curriculum

All students who are pursuing a seminary certificate must complete the core Cornerstone: Person and Biblical Interpretation for Ministry courses. These are required and foundational building blocks of a seminary education, and they will help students as they navigate the rest of their courses in the seminary curriculum.

While completing their certificate, seminary students also get to choose two of the following core courses:

  • The Mission of God in the Old Testament 
  • The Mission of God in the New Testament  
  • Systematic Theology I 
  • Systematic Theology II 
  • The Gospel in a Multicultural and Multifaith World 
  • Reformed Confessions

Through our Certificate of Christian Leadership, we offer a range of concentrations, each encompassing 5–8 credits:

  • Advanced Urban Ministry
  • Bible Instruction
  • Organizational Management and Administration
  • Discipleship and Faith Formation
  • Missional Ministry
  • Pastoral Care
  • Pastoral Ministry
  • Worship

On Campus and Online Seminary Certificate Options

Our online seminary certificate option allows you to learn from the comfort of your home with the convenience of working around your schedule. Seminary students can also choose a hybrid model, in which they can enjoy both the benefit of online classes and gain the experience of in-person seminary classes, where they can meet professors and peers. You can also choose to study fully in-person alongside a supportive residential community.

What Students Say About Our Seminary Certificate Program

“Calvin Seminary has been a wonderful experience. Great integration of scholarship, practical ministry skills, and learning in community.
—Adam R.
“I think Calvin Seminary is a great place to study, to learn Reformed theology, and to grow in faith and in knowledge of Jesus Christ.”
—Thiago S.
“Great place for study! Great community! Great professors!”
—Yuzo A.

Seminary Application Requirements

General Requirements

The Admissions and Standards Committee in collaboration with the Registrar’s Office review a potential seminary student’s professional and ministry background, as well as their academic achievements. If a student is lacking in any area of knowledge, we set them up with coursework and electives to help them further develop their skills and proficiency in that area.

Requirements for Non-Native English Speakers

Applicants who are non-native English speakers must submit their TOEFL examination results as part of their seminary application. Calvin’s institutional code 1096 dictates that a minimum score of 80 with a minimum of 23 in the writing category is required for admission.

International Student Requirements

Calvin is proud to have a diverse student body with minds from various countries across the world. International students are eligible for all in-person, residential programs at the seminary, including our certificate programs.

Admission Deadlines

The admissions deadline for the fall semester (September–December) is August 1. For the spring semester (late January–May), the deadline is November 15. For those who are applying for the summer semester (May–August), the deadline is April 1.

Tuition & Financial Aid

Tuition reduction and scholarships are available to most students of Calvin Theological Seminary.  Learn more about your possibilities through financial aid.

How to Apply

Frequently Asked Questions

How to Apply

Pursue your dreams and apply to start our seminary certificate program today. The seminary application is a simple process that we are happy to assist with.