Academic Programs

APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS:  The prospective doctoral candidate must hold an earned Master’s degree from an approved educational institution.  Upon receipt of the application and consultation, a determination will be made concerning the prospective doctoral candidate’s eligibility. DEGREE PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS: TUITION - $1,500 per quarter Automatic Monthly Payment Program:  $500 down and $500 a month for a total of $1,500 per quarter $18,000. Up Front Payment Program: $2000 reduction for a total of $15,000 paid at enrollment. Tuition does not include textbooks. Please purchase them at your favorite book dealer or www.Amazon.com.   ABOUT THIS DEGREE PROGRAM:  The Doctor of Philosophy in Christian Counseling degree program will increase the doctoral candidate’s understanding in the area of Christian counseling.  The Ph.D. in Christian Counseling program at Fellowship Theological Seminary Online offers an advanced, biblically grounded education that equips students to become transformative leaders in pastoral care, clinical counseling, and spiritual formation. Through a series of specialized courses, students engage deeply with subjects such as Biblical Psychology, Theology of Suffering and Healing, Advanced Pastoral Counseling Techniques, and Integration of Faith and Clinical Practice. Courses like Counseling Ethics and Christian Worldview challenge students to navigate contemporary ethical dilemmas while remaining rooted in scriptural truth. Additionally, Research Methodology in Christian Counseling empowers learners to contribute original scholarship to the field, while Spiritual Formation and Human Development provides critical insights into the holistic care of individuals across the lifespan. Each course is designed not only to deepen theological understanding but also to develop practical, Spirit-led strategies for helping individuals and families navigate emotional, psychological, and spiritual challenges. The education attained through these courses forms a solid foundation for graduates to serve in academic, pastoral, clinical, and missionary contexts with both competence and compassion. The program consists of all courses, which are the equivalent of hours using a “study-as you-go” matriculation, a dissertation, which is the equivalent of twenty hours of study plus Christian Counseling Verbatim Reports.  Texts must be selected from the list of Authorized Textbooks provided below.  Although all textbooks may be ordered simultaneously, assignments must be submitted one at a time.  Once a textbook is read, a 10-to-20-page paper describing what was read must be submitted for grading.    A four-to-six-page paper is required for each chapter.  We are simply asking students for a summary of the material for each chapter of the book required for each course. A one-to-three-page paper is required for each Christian Counseling verbatim report.  Verbatim reports are approximate word-for-word reports or summaries of actual counseling or ministry care dialogue sessions.  Verbatim reports may cover, but are not limited to, formal counseling sessions as well as time spent with someone in a helpful situation such as a hospital visit, nursing home visit or a conversation with someone at church. Each verbatim report should begin with paragraph describing the setting and should conclude with a paragraph summarizing the student’s perception of the result of the counseling or ministry care dialogue session.  Review the How to Submit Your Work tab concerning submission of assignments. SPECIFIC DEGREE PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS:  The Doctor of Philosophy in Christian Counseling degree program requires a “study-as you-go” matriculation.  This is comprised of all listed courses a dissertation (20 hours) plus ten Christian Counseling Verbatim Reports.  Three of the six required courses must be core courses chosen from the list of Authorized Textbooks provided below. Courses/Textbooks may not be utilized for more than one degree program. Step-by-Step Enrollment Instructions

1. Visit the Doctor of Philosophy in Christian Counseling page.
2. Click the “Register Now” button.
3. Review and select the degree program most suited to your current academic qualifications.
4. Click “Get Started” under the program description.
5. Use PayPal for secure payment processing. You can select the PayPal Logo or Pay with Debit or With Credit Card to complete your payment.
6. Upon completing the payment, your coursework will be unlocked. Coursework is drip-released, ensuring step-by-step progression.
7. An email will be sent to you to arrange an introductory virtual conversation via Zoom, Google Meet, Teams, etc. to welcome you, provide orientation and personally answer any questions.

Overview The Ministry Assessment & Mentorship Program at Fellowship Church & Foundation, West Orange, New Jersey, is designed to nurture and develop emerging leaders within the church community. This program is grounded in biblical principles and incorporates advanced ministerial training and remedial courses to ensure holistic development. Participants will engage in structured stages of growth, including academic and practical training, to prepare them for effective ministry leadership.  This program will require scheduling Biweekly, 60-90 minute sessions" with Dr. Buffie Whitfield virtually as a part of the mentorship program. Individual Minisry & Personal Assessment Program Developed by: Fellowship Foundation for Ministry and Personal Optimization Objective: To provide an individual or organization with a comprehensive assessment aimed at ministry and personal optimization. This program integrates biblical, business, and academic principles to evaluate current status and guide future growth. The assessment includes an evaluation of technological utilization in ministry and an academic advancement roadmap.

Master of Arts in Practical Theology (M.A.P.T.) The Master of Arts in Practical Theology (M.A.P.T.) is a graduate degree designed to prepare students for effective leadership and ministry in church, community, and global contexts. Rooted in Scripture and theological principles, this program focuses on equipping students with the practical skills and knowledge needed to engage in transformative ministry, discipleship, and servant leadership.

Program Overview

The M.A. in Practical Theology bridges the gap between theological knowledge and practical application, emphasizing the integration of biblical principles with real-world ministry practices. This degree is ideal for aspiring pastors, ministry leaders, Christian educators, missionaries, and anyone seeking to enhance their ability to serve God and others.

Program Highlights

• Holistic Approach: Combines biblical theology, spiritual formation, and practical ministry training.
• Flexible Learning Options: Courses are available in fully online, hybrid, or on-campus formats to accommodate diverse learning preferences and schedules.
• Personalized Focus: Students can tailor their studies by selecting a concentration that aligns with their ministry interests, such as pastoral care, evangelism, Christian education, or social justice.
• Practical Experience: Engage in hands-on ministry opportunities and internships to apply classroom learning in real-life contexts.
• Mentorship and Support: Learn from experienced faculty members and ministry leaders who provide guidance and encouragement throughout your journey.

Program Structure

The M.A. in Practical Theology program typically requires the completion of 36–48 credit hours, which include:

1. Core Courses: Foundational studies in biblical theology, hermeneutics, and systematic theology.
2. Practical Ministry Courses: Topics such as preaching and teaching, pastoral counseling, discipleship strategies, leadership development, and church administration.
3. Specialization Electives: Optional courses in areas of interest like worship ministry, urban ministry, youth ministry, or missions.
4. Capstone Project or Thesis: A culminating project that demonstrates the integration of theological knowledge and ministry practice.
5. Field Education: Practical ministry experience in a church or community setting, supervised by experienced mentors.

Key Learning Outcomes

Graduates of the M.A. in Practical Theology program will:

• Develop a deep understanding of biblical and theological principles.
• Demonstrate the ability to apply theology to real-world ministry situations.
• Cultivate skills in preaching, teaching, counseling, and leadership.
• Engage in culturally sensitive and contextually relevant ministry.
• Exhibit spiritual maturity and a commitment to serving others with integrity and compassion.

Admission Requirements

• A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
• A statement of purpose outlining your ministry goals and reasons for pursuing the degree.
• Letters of recommendation from pastors, professors, or ministry leaders.
• A completed application and official transcripts.

Program Benefits

• Practical Ministry Training: Gain the tools and confidence to lead effectively in diverse ministry settings.
• Affordable Tuition: Designed to make theological education accessible for aspiring ministry leaders.
• Community of Learners: Join a supportive network of peers, faculty, and mentors committed to your growth and success.
• Kingdom Impact: Be equipped to make a lasting impact in your church, community, and beyond.

Next Steps

Take the next step in your ministry journey by enrolling in the M.A. in Practical Theology program. For more information, visit www.seminary.fellowship-us.org or contact us at info@seminary.fellowship-us.org. Join a program that will empower you to lead with wisdom, serve with compassion, and glorify God through practical ministry.

Master of Theological Studies (M.T.S.) The Master of Theological Studies (MTS) program, available online or partially on campus, prepares you to participate in theological research, writing, and teaching. It provides a graduate-level understanding of several theological disciplines and an opportunity to specialize in a concentrated area.