Candidates who already hold a bachelor’s degree or who are thirty-five years of age or older may be granted certification for service in the WELS as a staff minister upon completion of the religion and professional components of the program. An internship or series of practica is also required. Options exist for full-time study on campus and for part-time study through ºÚÁϳԹÏÍø summer sessions, extensions courses, and distance learning.
Program Requirements
Theology – 18 credits
THE1001Â Biblical History and Literature I
THE1002Â Biblical History and Literature II
THE2001Â Biblical History and Literature III
THE3001Â Christian Doctrine I
THE3002Â Christian Doctrine II
THE4001Â Lutheran Confessional Writings
Practical Theology – 35 credits
EDU3215Â Teaching Religion or EDU3315Â Teaching Religion 5-12
MUS4201Â Lutheran Worship
THE2101Â The Theology & Practice of Ministry
THE2103Â Biblical Interpretation
THE3101Â Introduction to Youth & Family Ministry
THE3110Â Foundations of Evangelism
THE3111Â Congregational Assimilation & Retention
THE3120Â Parish Education
THE3130Â Caring & Counseling
THE3131Â Parish Visitation
THE3140Â Organization & Administration in the Parish
THE3142Â Developing and Training Leadership
Field Experience
An internship or series of practica is required of all staff ministry candidates. The experiences are structured on an individual basis and vary depending on previous involvement in congregational ministry.
