Candidates who already hold a bachelor’s degree or who are thirty-five years of age or older may be granted certification for service in the WELS as a staff minister upon completion of the religion and professional components of the program. An internship or series of practica is also required. Options exist for full-time study on campus and for part-time study through Martin Luther College summer sessions, extensions courses, and distance learning.
Program Requirements
Theology – 18 credits
THE1001 Biblical History and Literature I
THE1002 Biblical History and Literature II
THE2001 Biblical History and Literature III
THE3001 Christian Doctrine I
THE3002 Christian Doctrine II
THE4001 Lutheran Confessional Writings
Practical Theology – 35 credits
EDU3215 Teaching Religion or EDU3315 Teaching Religion 5-12
MUS4201 Lutheran Worship
THE2101 The Theology & Practice of Ministry
THE2103 Biblical Interpretation
THE3101 Introduction to Youth & Family Ministry
THE3110 Foundations of Evangelism
THE3111 Congregational Assimilation & Retention
THE3120 Parish Education
THE3130 Caring & Counseling
THE3131 Parish Visitation
THE3140 Organization & Administration in the Parish
THE3142 Developing and Training Leadership
Field Experience
An internship or series of practica is required of all staff ministry candidates. The experiences are structured on an individual basis and vary depending on previous involvement in congregational ministry.
