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Christian Leadership

Bachelor of Arts in Christian Leadership (BACL)
120 Credit Hours

General overview: The Bachelor of Arts in Christian Leadership (BACL) program at Metropolitan Christian University is designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and spiritual foundation required for effective leadership within Christian organizations and ministries. Here’s an overview of what this program typically includes:

  • Biblical and Theological Foundation: The program emphasizes a deep understanding of biblical studies, Theology, and Christian doctrine. Students study topics such as Old and New Testament studies, biblical interpretation, systematic Theology, and the history of Christianity.
  • Leadership Theory and Practice: Courses focus on leadership theory, principles, and practices relevant to Christian contexts. Students learn about servant leadership, ethical leadership, team dynamics, strategic planning, and organizational development within churches and Christian organizations.
  • Ministry Skills Development: Practical skills necessary for effective ministry leadership are key components. This includes courses in pastoral care, preaching, counseling, conflict resolution, discipleship, and worship leadership. Hands-on training and practical experiences in ministry settings may be integrated into the curriculum.
  • Ethics and Social Responsibility: Discussions on ethics, social justice, and the role of Christian leaders in addressing contemporary social issues are integral. Students explore how Christian principles inform leadership decisions and responses to ethical dilemmas.
  • Personal and Spiritual Formation: Emphasis is placed on personal spiritual growth and character development. Courses or modules may focus on spiritual disciplines, prayer, discernment, and cultivating a deep spiritual life essential for effective leadership.
  • Cross-Cultural and Global Perspectives: Some programs include studies in cross-cultural leadership and global missions, preparing students to lead effectively in diverse cultural contexts and participate in global mission efforts.
  • Capstone Project or Internship: Many BACL programs require a capstone project, internship, or practicum where students apply leadership principles in a supervised setting. This practical experience allows students to integrate classroom learning with real-world leadership challenges.
  • Professional Development: Courses or workshops on professional skills such as communication, conflict resolution, decision-making, and organizational management may be included to enhance students’ leadership effectiveness.
  • Flexible Learning Options: To accommodate diverse student needs, students may work at their own pace within the Term time frame through our online learning format. This flexibility enables students to pursue their studies while balancing other commitments or engaging in ministry activities.

Overall, the Bachelor of Arts in Christian Leadership program at Metropolitan Christian University aims to develop graduates who are not only knowledgeable in Theology and leadership theory but also equipped with practical ministry skills, strong ethical foundations, and a vibrant spiritual life. Graduates are prepared to lead with integrity, wisdom, and vision in various Christian leadership roles and organizational settings.

Total: 120 credits

Sample Course Format

Term 1: Foundations of Christian Leadership and General Education (15 credits)
  1. CLEA 1100 Introduction to Christian Leadership – 3 credits
  2. ENGL1000 College Composition I – 3 credits
  3. PHIL1000 Introduction to Philosophy – 3 credits
  4. HIS1100 History of Western Civilization I – 3 credits
  5. MATH1000 Math (e.g., College Algebra) – 3 credits
Term 2: Biblical Foundations and General Education (15 credits)
  1. BS1002 Old Testament Survey – 3 credits
  2. BS1003 New Testament Survey– 3 credits
  3. ENGL1200 College Composition: Biblical Worldview  – 3 credits
  4. SOCI1100 Introduction to Sociology: A Biblical Perspective – 3 credits
  5. SCIN1000 Science Requirement (e.g., Biology) – 3 credits
Term 3: Leadership Development and General Education (15 credits)
  1. CLEA2200 Principles of Leadership – 3 credits
  2. CETH2300 Introduction to Christian Ethics – 3 credits
  3. PSY2020 Introduction to Psychology – 3 credits
  4. SCI 2200 Science Requirement (e.g., Environmental Science) – 3 credits
  5. HIS2200 History of Western Civilization II – 3 credits
Term 4: Organizational Leadership and General Education (15 credits)
  1. CLEA2330 Church Administration – 3 credits
  2. BS2200 Biblical Hermeneutics – 3 credits
  3. BIBL2200 Introduction to Literature – 3 credits
  4. MS2222 Public Speaking/Homiletics – 3 credits
  5. MAST2223 Math/Science/Technology Requirement (e.g., Statistics) – 3 credits
Term 5: Strategic Leadership and Practical Application (15 credits)
  1. CLEA3100/2111 Strategic Planning for Church Growth – 3 credits
  2. CHIS3000 Church History II – 3 credits
  3. TS3000 Systematic Theology II – 3 credits
  4. SOSC3030 Social Science  (e.g., Economics) – 3 credits
  5. BS3999 Bible Research Methods– 3 credits
Term 6: Advanced Leadership and Ethics (15 credits)
  1. CETH3300/3311 Advanced Christian Ethics – 3 credits
  2. CLEA3670 Contemporary Leadership Issues – 3 credits
  3. MS 4040 Contemporary Issues in Pastoral Ministry – 3 credits
  4. BS4400 Christian Spirituality – 3 credits
  5. General Elective – 3 credits 
Term 7: Integrative Leadership and Applied Ministry (15 credits)
  1. TS4200 Practical Theology – 3 credits
  2. BS4000 Advanced Hermeneutics – 3 credits
  3. CHIS4100 Historical Geography of the Bible – 3 credits
  4. MS4030 Foundations in Biblical Counseling– 3 credits
  5. General Elective – 3 credits 
Term 8: Capstone and Leadership Integration (15 credits)
  1. CAPS4444 – Capstone Seminar – 3 credits
  2. MS4545 Practical Ministry Internship – 3 credits
  3. THEO 4500 Advanced Systematic Theology – 3 credits
  4. MS4100 Philosophy of Religion – 3 credits
  5. General Elective – 3 credits 
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Master of Arts in Pastoral Leadership (MAPL)
45 Credit Hours

General Overview: The Master of Arts in Pastoral Leadership Program at Metropolitan Christian University of Chicago is designed to equip students with The Master of Arts in Pastoral Leadership Program at Metropolitan Christian University is designed to equip students with comprehensive knowledge and skills necessary for effective leadership in pastoral ministry. This program integrates theological education with practical training to prepare graduates for various pastoral roles within Christian communities. Key features of the program include:

  • Theological Foundation: Courses cover biblical studies, theology, church history, and hermeneutics to provide a solid theological framework.
  • Leadership and Administration: Focus on leadership principles, pastoral care, counseling, and church administration to develop practical skills in managing and leading congregations.
  • Ministry Contextualization: Emphasis on understanding contemporary cultural and social contexts to effectively engage and minister within diverse communities.
  • Ethics and Professionalism: Exploration of ethical issues in ministry, pastoral ethics, and professional conduct, ensuring graduates uphold high standards of ethical practice.
  • Capstone Project or Thesis: Culminates in a capstone project or thesis that allows students to integrate their learning and apply it to real-world pastoral challenges.
  • Practical Experience: Opportunities for field education or internships within local churches or ministry settings to gain hands-on experience under supervision.
  • Flexible Learning: Offered in a format that accommodates both full-time and part-time students, often with options for evening classes or online learning.

Graduates of the Master of Arts in Pastoral Leadership Program are prepared to serve as effective pastoral leaders, equipped with a deep understanding of theology, strong leadership skills, and a commitment to serving their communities with integrity and compassion.

This structure covers foundational theological, ethical, and practical aspects of pastoral leadership, with opportunities for specialization through electives and a culminating capstone project. Adjustments can be made based on specific program goals and institutional requirements.

Sample Course Format

Term 1: Foundations of Pastoral Leadership (12 credits)
  • Pastoral Theology (3 credits)
  • Biblical Foundations of Leadership (3 credits)
  • Spiritual Formation for Leaders (3 credits)
  • Introduction to Church Administration (3 credits)
Term 2: Theological and Ethical Frameworks (12 credits)
  • Theological Reflection and Ministry Practice (3 credits)
  • Ethics in Ministry (3 credits)
  • The Pastor as Counselor (3 credits)
  • Biblical Ethics (3 credits)
Term 3: Strategic Leadership and Vision (9 credits)
  • Strategic Planning in Ministry (3 credits)
  • Leading Change in the Church (3 credits)
  • Visionary Leadership (3 credits)
Term 4: Pastoral Care and Counseling (9 credits)
  • Advanced Pastoral Counseling (3 credits)
  • Crisis Counseling in Ministry (3 credits)
  • The Art of Listening and Communication (3 credits)
Term 5: Church Growth and Outreach (3 credits)
  • Missional Church Strategies (3 credits)
Term 6: Capstone and Electives (6 credits)
  • Capstone Project in Pastoral Leadership (3 credits)
  • Elective 1 (3 credits)
Electives (6 credits)
  • Choose two electives based on student interest and program focus.

 

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Doctorate of Ministry in Afro-Christian Leadership (D.Min.)
- 60 Credit Hours​

General Overview

The Doctorate of Ministry (D.Min.) in Afro-Christian Leadership is designed to develop transformative leaders rooted in Afro-Christian theology, leadership principles, and cultural engagement. This program prepares students to lead, innovate, and advocate for justice within Afro-Christian contexts. Integrating rigorous academic study with practical application, the program emphasizes leadership that addresses the spiritual, social, and cultural needs of Afro-Christian communities.

Program Goals

  1. Advanced Theological Knowledge:
    Deepen theological insights with a focus on Afro-Christian contexts, emphasizing historical and contemporary perspectives.

  2. Contextual Leadership and Praxis:
    Develop leadership skills tailored to the unique challenges and opportunities within Afro-Christian faith communities.

  3. Research and Scholarly Contribution:
    Equip students to conduct original research, critically engage with Afro-Christian theology, and contribute scholarly work to the field.

  4. Social Justice and Community Advocacy:
    Prepare leaders to advocate for social justice while rooted in Afro-Christian theological ethics.

  5. Integration of Faith and Culture:
    Harmonize Afro-Christian traditions with contemporary ministry practices, fostering holistic leadership approaches.

Degree Requirements

  • Total Credits: 60 credit hours beyond the master’s level

  • Core Courses: 36 credit hours

  • Electives: 12 credit hours

  • Dissertation/Research: 12 credit hours

Delivery Format

  • Residential, Hybrid, or Online:

    • Flexible learning options to accommodate ministry professionals.

    • Cohort-based learning for peer engagement and support.

Career Outcomes

Graduates of the D.Min. in Afro-Christian Leadership are equipped for roles such as:

  • Senior Pastors and Church Leaders

  • Directors of Faith-Based Nonprofits

  • Community Organizers and Social Justice Advocates

  • Scholars and Educators in Afro-Christian Studies

  • Consultants on Afro-Christian Leadership and Theology

Accreditation and Quality Assurance

The program follows the highest standards of academic excellence, with accreditation from recognized theological and educational bodies. Graduates are prepared for impactful leadership and scholarly contributions in both academic and ecclesiastical settings.

Sample Course Format

Core Courses (36 Credit Hours)

Theological Foundations (9 Credits)

  1. AS7001 Advanced Theological Methods (3 credits)

  2. AS7002 Comparative Afro-Christian Theologies (3 credits)

  3. AS7003 History and Context of Afro-Christian Movements (3 credits)

Leadership and Community Engagement (9 Credits)

  1. AS7004 Afro-Christian Ethics and Social Justice (3 credits)

  2. AS7006 The Afro-Christian Diaspora: Identity and Belonging (3 credits)

  3. AS7007 Afro-Christianity and Globalization (3 credits)

Cultural and Historical Perspectives (9 Credits)

  1. AS4010 Introduction to Black Studies: Theory and Praxis (3 credits)

  2. AS2100 Afro-Pentecostalism (3 credits)

  3. AS4200 Reading While Black: African American Biblical Interpretation (3 credits)

Contextual and Practical Theology (9 Credits)

  1. AS5005 Research Methods in Religious Studies (3 credits)

  2. AS6100 Contextual Apologetics in African Contexts (3 credits)

  3. AS4100 African Presence in the Bible: Exploring Historical and Theological Roots (3 credits)

 

Elective Courses (12 Credit Hours)

Students select four courses from the following options or others approved by the program advisor:

  • AS5120 African Perspectives in Biblical Studies (3 credits)

  • AS5102 African Diaspora and the Bible (3 credits)

  • AS7310 The Social Teaching of the Black Churches (3 credits)

  • AS3540 Black Theology and Black Power (3 credits)

  • AS8100 Contextual Apologetics in African Contexts (3 credits)

  • AS6120 African Traditional Religions and Christianity (3 credits)

  • AS6310 African American Soul Care and Spiritual Formation (3 credits)

Dissertation/Research Component (12 Credit Hours)

  1. ASRES7011 Dissertation Proposal and Research Design (3 credits)

  2. ASRES7020 Dissertation Research and Writing I (6 credits)

  3. ASRES7021 Dissertation Research and Writing II (3 credits)

Capstone and Practicum (6 Credit Hours)

  • AS4140 Capstone Seminar in Afro-Christian Studies (3 credits)

  • AS5009 Internship in Afro-Christian Studies (3 credits)

Comprehensive Examinations (6 Credit Hours)

  • AS7010 Comprehensive Examinations (6 credits)

    • Students will demonstrate mastery of core content areas through written and oral exams.

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Doctorate of Philosophy in Theological Studies
(Ph.D.) - 60 Credit Hours

General Overview – The Doctorate of Philosophy (PhD) in Theological Studies is a research-intensive program designed to equip students with advanced knowledge and skills in theological scholarship. The program emphasizes rigorous research, critical analysis, and the development of original contributions to the field of theological studies.

Program Goals:

  • To develop advanced expertise in theological research methodologies.
  • To foster critical engagement with theological texts, traditions, and contemporary issues.
  • To cultivate skills in scholarly writing, publication, and presentation.
  • To encourage the development of original research that contributes to the advancement of theological knowledge.

Program Structure:

  • Core Courses: Advanced seminars in theological research methods, critical theory in theology, and specialized topics in theological studies.
  • Elective Courses: Opportunities to explore specialized areas of interest within theological studies, such as biblical studies, systematic theology, historical theology, ethics, comparative religions, and more.
  • Comprehensive Examinations: Typically, comprehensive exams are conducted to assess the student’s mastery of the breadth and depth of theological knowledge.
  • Dissertation: A substantial research project that demonstrates original scholarship and makes a significant contribution to the field of theological studies. The dissertation is defended orally before a committee of faculty members.

Duration: The PhD program in Theological Studies is typically completed in 4-6 years of full-time study, including coursework, comprehensive exams, and dissertation research.

Career Outcomes: Graduates of the PhD program in Theological Studies are prepared for careers in academia, research institutions, seminaries, and religious organizations. They may pursue roles such as university professors, researchers, authors, consultants, and leaders in theological education and scholarship.

Conclusion: The Doctorate of Philosophy in Theological Studies is designed for students seeking to engage deeply in theological scholarship, contribute to the advancement of knowledge in the field, and prepare for academic or research-oriented careers in theology and related disciplines.

This overview provides a foundational framework that can be further developed with specific admission requirements, course themes, and additional details as needed.

Sample Course Format

Year 1: Foundational Studies (15 credits)
Term 1: Biblical Studies
  • Advanced Biblical Hermeneutics (3 credits)
  • Old Testament Theology (3 credits)
  • New Testament Theology (3 credits)
Term 2: Systematic Theology
  • Advanced Systematic Theology I (3 credits)
  • Advanced Systematic Theology II (3 credits)
Term 3: Historical Theology
  • History of Christian Doctrine (3 credits)
  • Theological Movements and Trends (3 credits)
Year 2: Specialized Studies (15 credits)
Term 4: Contextual Theology
  • Global Theologies (3 credits)
  • Contextual Theologies (3 credits)
Term 5: Ethics and Philosophy
  • Christian Ethics in Contemporary Contexts (3 credits)
  • Philosophy of Religion (3 credits)
Term 6: Elective Courses
  • Research Seminar in Theology (3 credits)
  • Elective Course I (3 credits)
Year 3: Research and Methodology (15 credits)
Term 7: Research Methods
  • Advanced Research Methods in Theology (3 credits)
  • Qualitative and Quantitative Research (3 credits)
Term 8: Special Topics
  • Special Topics in Theological Studies (3 credits)
  • Dissertation Proposal Preparation (3 credits)
  •  
  • Term 9: Dissertation Writing
    • Dissertation Writing I (3 credits)
Year 4: Dissertation Completion (15 credits)
  • Term 10-12: Dissertation Research and Writing
  • Dissertation Writing II-IV (5 credits each term)
Dissertation Requirements:
  • Comprehensive Examination (0 credits)
  • Dissertation Proposal Defense (0 credits)
  • Dissertation Defense (0 credits)
  • Dissertation (30 credits)
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