Diploma in Biblical & Missional Theology

The Diploma program has been developed specifically for people of high Christian character who are serving or called to serve in missional ministry leadership and who are capable intellectually and academically, but who, for various reasons, have not earned a college degree or  perhaps may have earned a degree in a discipline unrelated to biblical or theological studies.  This program exists to enable such persons to gain biblical, theological, and church historical knowledge at a credible level (at a level comparable to undergraduate/college level) and hone their ministry gifts, skills, and tools, within a missional theological and ministerial framework. The curriculum seeks to cultivate Christian leaders who are biblically grounded, theologically sound, contextually astute, and spiritually faithful, useful for Christ’s service as servant-leaders of God’s people.

Why choose our Diploma program?

The goals of the diploma program reflect the goals of Missio Seminary’s Master of Divinity program; and, indeed, the program is designed in such a way that students who excel in this program may be eligible for admission into the MDiv degree program (see details below).

In addition, the diploma program is designed for people who have been out of school for a while or who may need to be re-oriented to an academic environment through a transition program that will foster confidence and promote achievement based on hard work. The diploma program is designed, like Christ does in the spiritual realm, to meet people where they are in the academic realm – and enable them and teach them how, step by step, to reach higher and go higher and achieve more.

Details on pathway to the MDiv degree

  • Students who complete the Missio Diploma Program AND are recommended by the program Director can succeed in being accepted as students in the MDiv degree program and may proceed with confidence in their ability to do successful graduate degree work.
  • While one does not have to complete the Missio Seminary Diploma in Biblical and Missional Theology to be considered for special admission into the degree program, nor does a student who has completed the diploma program have any guarantee of admission into the MDiv program, the reality remains that chances of acceptance and later success are much higher for students who complete the Diploma in Biblical and Missional Theology highly successfully than those who seek admission without such.

Enrollment in the Diploma in Biblical and Missional Theology program does not guarantee entrance into the degree program. Only students who perform in this program at an exceptional level will be recommended; and, even then, the Admissions Committee decides each situation on a case-by-case basis.

Available tracks and curriculum

 Class #Course TitleCredits
Fall Semester1The Biblical Plotline2
2Introduction to Higher Education Research, Biblical & Theological Reading & Writing2
3Biblical Genres2
4Introduction to Biblical Cultures2
Winter, Spring, June Terms5Intro to the Torah & the History of Israel2
6Academic Skills Lab2
7Exegeting My Context2
8Intro to Systematic Theology2
9Intro to Old Testament Theology2
10Intro to the Gospels2
20 of 60 total credits for the program
 Class #Course TitleCredits
Fall Semester11The Story of the Church2
12Transformational Leadership2
13Biblical Discipleship2
14Intro to the Kings & Prophets of Israel2
Winter, Spring, June Terms15Intro to Missional Theology2
16Intro to the New Testament Epistles2
17Conflict Resolution Skills for Ministry Leaders 2
18Church Organizational Administration2
19Intro to New Testament Theology2
20Developing Sound Stewardship Practices2
20 of 60 total credits for the program
 Class #Course TitleCredits
Fall Semester21Intro to Hermeneutics2
22Introductory Homiletics 2
23The Life, Ministry, & Theology of Christ2
24Developing a Biblical Worldview2
Winter, Spring, June Terms25Application of Social Media in the Church Environment2
26Basic Biblical Counseling OR Intro to Church Planting OR Pastoral Preparation2
27Transforming the Church from Attractional to Missional 2
28Homiletics Practicum2
29Evangelism in a Post-Christian Culture2
30Developing a Multi-Racial/Multi-Ethnic Ministry2
20 of 60 total credits for the program

How long will it take?

The Diploma in Biblical and Missional Theology program can be completed in three years. However students may pursue the program on a part-time basis for all or part of their course of study. Classes are scheduled for Thursday nights and some Saturdays.

What are the entrance requirements?

Missio welcomes men and women who have a high school degree or GED to apply for the diploma program. We also require a recommendation from your pastor and a PA Child Abuse History Clearance. Prior study in Bible or theology is not required. This program is for students who are U.S. citizens. If you are an international student looking for a similar program please see our Advanced Cultural Studies program.

What is the cost?

You can find the cost for tuition for the Diploma program on our Tuition and Fees page.

Ready to start your journey?

Whether you are looking for more information regarding a program, scheduling a visit, starting the application process, or just wanting to talk to someone about your dreams, our admissions department is always available to assist you and answer any question that you might have.

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