25 hours of classroom time plus 25 hours in practicum projects

The following ten classes are required

Students must also complete two practicum projects

1) Inductive Bible Study Methods

Students will learn systematic approaches to observing, interpreting, and applying Scripture accurately. This foundational course emphasizes drawing meaning from the text itself rather than imposing outside ideas onto it. Learners will practice observation techniques, develop sound interpretation principles, and create meaningful life applications that maintain biblical integrity while avoiding eisegesis.

2) Understanding Your Learners: Analysis and Application

This course equips students to effectively analyze their audience to create optimal learning environments. Students also learn to identify expected results, any desired behaviors, and necessary knowledge, skills, and attitudes (KSAs) for effective teaching. The class also explores developmental stages across age groups (children, youth, adults) and how to adapt teaching approaches accordingly.

3) The Three Learning Domains in Christian Education

This course explores the Cognitive domain (knowledge and understanding), the Affective domain (attitudes, values, and spiritual formation), and the Psychomotor domain (ministry skills and Christian practices). Learners will understand how to use taxonomies and proper sequencing to facilitate genuine spiritual growth rather than merely stating information.

4) Writing Learning Objectives for Biblical Teaching

This course trains students to write clear, measurable learning objectives. Students will learn to create enabling and terminal objectives aligned with all three learning domains, ensuring that Bible lessons target not just knowledge acquisition but also heart transformation and practical ministry skills. Emphasis is placed on proper sequencing for optimal learning.

5) The 4MAT/Accelerated Learning Model for Bible Lessons

Students will learn to design Bible lessons that engage all four types of learners (Why, What, How, and What If) using the eight-step 4MAT development process for creating lessons that address all four natural learning styles. Students will practice creating activities for each quadrant, ensuring their teaching connects personally, informs accurately, applies practically, and encourages creative integration.

6) Lesson Planning and Structure for Christian Education

This course provides practical strategies for structuring individual lessons that maximize both learning and retention. Students will learn techniques that connect learners using emotionally safe methods, plus methods for balancing teaching, discussion, and application. The class includes techniques that move learners toward life transformation rather than just knowledge accumulation.

7) Creating Life-Changing Questions

Students will move beyond surface-level comprehension questions to craft discussion questions that transform lives. This includes creating questions for different age groups, developing assessment tools that measure spiritual growth, and facilitating discussions that lead to genuine life change. Learners will practice writing questions for quizzes, memory work, and discussion-based assessments appropriate for children, youth, and adults.

8) Developing Comprehensive Curriculum and Materials

This course trains students to create complete lesson plans, instructor guides, and student materials that support both learning and discipleship. Students will learn when to adapt existing curriculum versus creating from scratch, how to develop resources for multiple age groups, and best practices for resource planning in comprehensive Christian education programs.

9) Effective Classroom Delivery for Christian Teachers

Students will develop essential preparation strategies and engagement techniques for effective Bible teaching. This course covers creating emotionally safe learning environments, presentation skills, managing diverse learners and difficult dynamics, and using visual aids, storytelling, and experiential learning effectively. Emphasis is placed on practical classroom management across different age groups.

10) Leading and Overseeing a Christian Education Ministry

This class equips students to recruit, train, and support volunteer teachers while maintaining quality biblical teaching. Students will learn to create systems for continuous improvement, develop a culture of teaching excellence, and handle the practical administration of multi-age programming. The course draws from proven leadership principles for building passion-driven ministry teams.

PRACTICUM OPTIONS

1. Teacher/Curriculum Developer Path

Design and deliver a complete Bible lesson (for any age group), plus create a quarter’s curriculum for a specific age group

2. Program Director Path

Design and deliver a complete Bible lesson (any age group), plus create a comprehensive Christian education program plan

3. Ministry Leadership Path

Develop a training program for volunteer teachers, plus create a comprehensive Christian education program plan

Practicum projects are self-paced and must be completed within three months of the final class session. Students work directly with the Education Director, scheduling consultations as needed throughout the project development process.