The Concordia University Chicago post-baccalaureate Director of Christian Education Certification Program through colloquy is a means by which an individual with a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution may become certified as a DCE with The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. This certification would enable an individual to be eligible to receive a Call as a DCE and to be placed on the roster of the Synod as a Commissioned Minister-Director of Christian Education. Online options are available for DCE courses. Completion of previous course credits similar to required courses will be evaluated to determine if they meet the current requirements for DCE specific courses or if additional courses will be needed. Required theology courses can be fulfilled by previously completed coursework at an LCMS Concordia University or online through CUEnet. For more information, contact Dr. Debbie Arfsten, DCE Program Director, at debra.arfsten@cuchicago.edu or 708-209-3604.
Certificate Requirements
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| DCE-6320 | Administration of Parish Education | 3 |
| DCE-6330 | Youth Ministry Theory and Practice | 3 |
| DCE-6340 | Church Leadership and Development | 3 |
| DCE-6352 | Parish Teaching | 3 |
| DCE-6450 | Family and Children's Ministry | 3 |
| Total Hours | 15 | |
- Have on file an application as a non-degree-seeking guest graduate student.
- Complete, with course grades of C or higher:
- the credit hours as designated, and
- required theology courses through CUEnet or an LCMS Concordia University based on evaluation.
- All administrative obligations to CUC must be cleared in order to prompt completion of the certificate.
Every attempt has been made to include information to aid the student with information about his/her program requirements. It is, however, the student’s responsibility to complete all steps and meet all deadlines relevant to completion requirements.