Certificate Programs
Center for Theological Studies / El Centro de Estudios Teológico Hispano
The Center for Theological Studies (CTS) / El Centro de Estudios Teológico Hispano (CHET) at Northeastern Seminary promotes spiritual development; biblical, historical, and theological knowledge; and provides ministry support and resources among Hispanic and non-Hispanic ministers and church leaders in upstate New York. This program offers a two-year Certificate in Ministry. The program is designed in three 12-week terms each year (fall, winter, spring) with classes occurring on Saturdays from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. All students must complete six terms (36 units) of foundational and practical ministry courses to earn a certificate. Students who complete the program may be eligible to receive up to 30 undergraduate college credits upon application and successful admission to Roberts Wesleyan College.
CTS/CHET Curriculum
CTSB 101
Survey of the Old Testament
Units: 3
This course provides a general overview of the entire Old Testament, and examines the cultural and historical background in which it was written. Students see how the documents shaped the life of a people, how these Scriptures of the Hebrew people influenced the writers of the New Testament, and why they are important in contemporary society.
CTSB 102
Survey of the New Testament
Units: 3
Students are introduced to the entire corpus of the New Testament and the historical and cultural context in which the several types of documents were written. The life and teachings of Jesus and the influence of the Apostle Paul are stressed.
CTSH 101
Survey of Church History
Units: 3
This course provides a general overview of the history of the Christian Church from apostolic times to the modern era. Students become familiar with the theological differences within Christendom, as well as the common elements.
CTSH 102
American Church History
Units: 3
This course provides a general overview of the history of the North American church form the colonial era to the present. Students become familiar with the theological and ecclesiastical differences within North American Christianity, as well as the common elements.
CTSM 151 Children’s Ministry Units: 1.5
CTSM 152 Youth Ministry Units: 1.5
CTSM 153 Adult Ministry Units: 1.5
Students learn how to work effectively with a particular age group to accomplish the congregation’s goals of training and discipleship.
CTSP 101
Pastoral and Spiritual Formation
Units: 3
Personal spiritual growth is the goal of the course. Emphasis is upon the development of the pastor as the spiritual leader of the congregation and the community. Classic writings on spirituality, devotion, and spiritual disciplines are studied and discussed.
CTSP 102
Using Technology
Units: 1.5
Students explore how technology may enhance or limit the ministry of the church. The “how to” use of technology for personal, staff, and large group, multimedia presentations will be addressed.
CTSP 201
Leadership Skills
Units: 3
This course prepares students for leadership roles in the church by helping them develop the skills needed to organize their congregations for effective ministry.
CTSP 202
Pastoral Care
Units: 3
Students develop the art of discerning and attending holistically to the needs of a congregation and the community as servant leaders.
CTSP 203
Pastoral Ethics
Units: 1.5
Emphasis in this course is on helping church leaders integrate the best ethical practices into their ministry and decision making.
CTSP 204
Homiletics
Units: 1.5
Students learn how to prepare and deliver sermons. Opportunities will be provided for students to practice in front of their peers.
CTSP 205
Church and Community
Units: 1.5
Students focus on the social obligations of the Christian gospel and how to minister most effectively within a variety of cultural contexts.
CTSP 206
Church Polity
Units: 1.5
Students work with a mentor to help them understand the discipline and polity of their particular denomination. Students from congregations independent of denominational affiliation will investigate how their group is governed.
CTST 101
Introduction to Christian Theology
Units: 3
Students are introduced to the several areas of theology, the history of the development of the discipline, and the theological differences among Christian groups. While classic Christian thinking is the thread that runs through the course, students are encouraged to explore and to interact with the best elements of all Christian traditions.
For more information on the CTS/CHET Program contact the Seminary at 585.594.6800.