Director of Church Ministries Certificate

Dig into the depths of theology

Let’s talk about breaking tradition. Not holiday traditions. Not even worship traditions. We’re talking about education. Maybe you’ve already gone the typical four-year, full-time, on-campus route. Maybe you’ve never attended college. Regardless, now you are passionate about pursuing collegiate-level instruction in theology… but the traditional path isn’t for you. Through this certificate program, you’ll get to learn from some of the best theology faculty in The Lutheran Church--Missouri Synod online!

Credits36

Cost Per Credit^$350

Sample Careers

Director of Ministries
Outreach Coordinator
Family and Youth Director

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Program Overview

New in 2025: now only 36 credits, you can complete your Director of Church Ministries Certificate in two years or less!

Explore theological topics that help you gain a deeper understanding of the Christian faith and equip you to better serve in the Church with theological training at Concordia.

This unique ministry certification program is exclusively online with opportunities to network virtually with peers in your program. Each course is eight weeks in length, allowing you to quickly acquire skills that can be put into practice, while building a vast portfolio of theological knowledge as you work toward completion.

Hear from our faculty:

What to Expect

The Director of Church Ministries (DCM) certificate is helpful for the person already working in a congregation, who lacks credentials in the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod, but is also helpful for the person that is feeling God's call in their life to ministry. For those of you who aren’t interested in a certificate, but just want to learn, you are free to complete as much of this program as you desire.

Licensure / Certifications

Students with any bachelor's degree who have completed this certificate program and are a current member of The Lutheran Church - Missouri Synod will receive certification. Students may be eligible to receive a called position in a congregation or recognized service organization of the church and may be eligible to be placed on the roster of the synod as a "Commissioned Minister of Religion - Director of Church Ministries (DCM)."

Admission Process

Submit your Non-Degree online application here.

We help guide you through: You will receive communication from your Admission Counselor about the DCM application process.

Review entrance requirements and submit admissions pieces:

Official transcripts
Department application
Notify references

Acceptance

When your application file is complete, it will be reviewed by the department and you will be notified of entrance status.

Schedule Advising Appointment: Once admitted, you may schedule to meet with your Academic & Career Advisor who will review your educational plan, discuss orientation steps and the CUW student portal, and assist with registering for classes.

Since non-degree students are not eligible for federal financial aid, the tuition rate has been reduced, however students should investigate financial assistance through their church and/or LCMS district office.