TUMI students who have earned a CLS or CUTS may seek TUMI’s advanced program, the Ministerial Studies Diploma by completing an additional 32 credit hours of study (64 credit hours in total). Each approved TUMI satellite can work with us to design a unique combination of courses, drawing from three sources (Capstone, Foundations, and SDC). The design and submission of the MSD must follow TUMI’s guidelines:
The program begins with the completion of a required course: the Ministry Assessment Project. This course helps a student assess their gifts, calling, and ongoing direction in ministry and brings their pastoral or denominational supervisor in the process of designing their diploma program and coordinating it with their ministry responsibilities. For some, this diploma may form the basis for licensing or ordination by the candidate's church or mission.
- There must be a balance of eight credit-hours offered in each of TUMI’s Subject Areas (Biblical Studies, Christian Ministry, Urban Mission, Theology and Ethics).
- At least 50% of the coursework must be drawn from TUMI’s courses (Capstone or Foundations).
- Each site-developed course (SDC) should generally follow the same requirements as the Capstone Curriculum (i.e. 12 hours of class time, three quizzes and a final exam, 8-10 scripture memory verses, an exegetical project, ministry project, attendance/participation, 3-5 additional reading books). There is the allowance for adding or subtracting some of the elements in order to offer an SDC for 3 credits or 1 credit, respectively.
- The design of this certificate must be submitted to the Satellite Director for review, who will then make a recommendation to TUMI’s Director for final approval.
- Any changes to the certificate design (such as the addition of a new SDC) must be submitted for approval.
Application for New Certificates