Certificate Programs

Certificate in the Advanced Course of Study

Those who have completed the five-year United Methodist Course of Study may continue their education by earning the Certificate in the Advanced Course of Study (ACOS). ACOS requirements are set by the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry. Certificate students are not eligible for loan or scholarship support.

Students interested in the Advanced Course of Study or in the Basic Graduate Theological Education courses should pursue our Master of Arts in Public Theology (MAPT). All of the required ACOS courses are included in the MAPT degree. In addition, degree-seeking students are eligible for MTSO scholarship support.

Certificate in Deacon Studies

The Certificate in Deacon Studies consists of 32 hours of graduate theological education, as outlined by the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry. Certificate students are not eligible for scholarship support.

There are two options for students interested in the Certificate in Deacon Studies:

• Students who need just a few classes to complete the Certificate in Deacon Studies should enroll as non-degree students.
• Students who need the full Certificate in Deacon Studies should pursue the Master of Arts in Public Theology (MAPT). All of the Certificate in Deacon Studies courses are included in the MAPT degree. The MAPT degree fulfills educational requirements for ordination as a deacon. In addition, degree-seeking students are eligible for MTSO scholarship support.

Learn more about all of the educational options MTSO offers for students pursuing ordination in the United Methodist Church.