Certificate Programs
Rooted in biblical and historic Christian faith, Northeastern Seminary prepares Christ-centered men and women for faithful, effective ministry to the church and the world. The certificate programs extend the Seminary’s mission by enabling students to access theological education at a level appropriate for their chosen career path. The certificate programs may also serve as a credentialing pathway for denominations who do not require a graduate level degree for ordination but do require basic competence in preaching and teaching. The Seminary will work with partner denominations and organizations to develop course plans that meet the targeted educational requirements for ministry in particular contexts.
Northeastern Seminary offers four graduate certificate programs.
Advanced Certificate in Biblical Interpretation (Hegis 2301.00)
The advanced certificate in Biblical Interpretation prepares students to become faithful interpreters and communicators of God's Word in the context of God's world. Students grow in their understanding of the Bible within its cultural and historical contexts and how the history of doctrinal formation informs biblical interpretation. Students also grow in their ability to interpret and use Scripture in a variety of ministry contexts and as preachers and teachers who nurture new generations in Christian faith.
Advanced Certificate in Chaplaincy (Hegis 2301.00)
The advanced certificate in Chaplaincy is a graduate level certificate program designed for those students who have completed or are in process of completing a theological master’s program and desire to pursue a career in chaplaincy. Students without a theological master’s degree may complete the certificate to learn more about the ethics of chaplaincy care and ministry in multifaith contexts. Students wishing to pursue a career in chaplaincy should complete the certificate course work in conjunction with or as a supplement to a master’s program. Students in the program will complete one unit of Clinical Pastoral Education, which is required for board certification. Courses in the certificate may count toward electives in the Masters in Ministry Practice, Master of Theological Studies, or Master of Divinity Programs.
Advanced Certificate in Scripture, Theology, and Ministry (Hegis 2301.00)
The advanced certificate in Scripture, Theology, and Ministry is a custom certificate program designed for those who are fulfilling requirements for ordination or completing courses for personal enrichment in scripture, theology and ministry on top of an already earned bachelor’s or master’s degree. Students who enroll in a master’s program at the Seminary may apply appropriate courses taken in the certificate program to any master’s degree program upon matriculation.
Advanced Certificate in Spiritual Direction (Hegis 2301.00)
In the advanced certificate in Spiritual Direction, students gain insight into the history, theology, and practice of Spiritual direction and prepare to serve as spiritual directors in churches or other ministry contexts. The certificate is designed for students who have completed or are in process of completing an advanced certificate or master’s degree in theology or divinity and are seeking specialized training in the art and practice of spiritual direction. Students must have at least 18 graduate credits in theology in order to enroll in the certificate program.