Pathways
Pathways Online Courses are part of our continuing education program, meant to provide the foundational education you need to help you prepare to lead a congregation as a Commissioned Ruling Elder (CRE) or Commissioned Lay Pastor (CLP).
The program is taught by Union Presbyterian Seminary faculty and experienced practitioners. Courses are open to all, regardless of denomination affiliation or your role in the church. It is not required to be working toward becoming a CRE or CLP in order to participate.
These courses are structured to enhance knowledge and discipleship. These courses are held online, requiring attendance of live meetings on Zoom and the completion of at-home assignments. Courses do not have to be taken in any particular order. Class meetings will not be recorded.
Why Pathways?
The Pathways Online courses were created as a way to offer quality education opportunities for church members and lay leaders to become Commissioned Ruling Elders or Commissioned Lay Pastors in an affordable and accessible way*.
- We do not regulate how many courses are taken within an academic year, and there is no required timeline for completing the course.*
- Students have the ability to choose the order of their courses, choosing courses from foundational and practical ministry.
- Many students complete the program in a two-year period by taking five courses each year. However, both accelerated and delayed course timelines are common.
* Please consult with your presbytery on their particular requirements, as these courses should be taken in consultation with your presbytery or denominational office to provide educational experiences toward becoming a CRE or CLP.
The Five Foundational Courses
- Biblical Interpretation
- Reformed Theology
- Church History
- The Christian Life
- Mission & Evangelism
The Five Practical Ministry Courses
- Polity and Administration
- Teaching the Bible
- Worship and Sacraments
- Introduction to Pastoral Care
- Preaching
FAQs
- How much do courses cost?
- What’s the difference between Pathways courses and CE (Christian Educator) courses?
- How long is the program?
- Do I have to take the five foundational courses before I can start the practical ministry courses?
- What’s the Leadership Institute’s policy on the use of AI (Artificial Intelligence)?
- When will I receive my certificate of completion?
- Can I audit a course?
- Do you offer any discounts or financial aid?
- How many Continuing Education Units (CEU) are offered per course?
How much do courses cost?
What’s the difference between Pathways courses and CE (Christian Educator) courses?
How long is the program?
Do I have to take the five foundational courses before I can start the practical ministry courses?
What’s the Leadership Institute’s policy on the use of AI (Artificial Intelligence)?
When will I receive my certificate of completion?
Can I audit a course?
Do you offer any discounts or financial aid?
How many Continuing Education Units (CEU) are offered per course?
