Certificate of Achievement in Ministry Studies

Purpose

The Certificate of Achievement in Ministry Studies (CAMS) program provides a means for ministers new to the Church of the Brethren to complete coursework focused on Brethren identity and ministry. This program requires 18 hours of course work, with required courses that focus on Brethren history and theology, practical experience with the ordinances and preaching of the church, biblical interpretation, and peace studies.

Primary Faculty

Dr. Maggie Elwell, Assistant Professor of Peace Studies

Dr. Denise Kettering-Lane, Associate Professor of Brethren Studies

Dr. Dawn Ottoni-Wilhelm, Brightbill Professor of Preaching and Worship

Dr. Daniel W. Ulrich, Wieand Professor of New Testament Studies

Courses

CAMS students take six courses totaling 18 credit hours. Students can take any number of courses in a semester. Not all courses are offered every year. The certificate can be completed in one to two years.

Required Courses

• History of the Church of the Brethren
• Brethren Beliefs and Practices
• Preaching, Theopoetics, and Society
• Ritual and Reflection in the Life of Faith
• Any course in New Testament Studies
• Any course in Peace Studies

Objectives

Graduates from the Certificate of Achievement in Ministry Studies program will be able to:

1. Interpret Scripture, tradition, and theology from a Brethren perspective.
2. Communicate faith and values with contextual awareness.
3. Engage in and reflect on practical aspects of ministry from a Brethren perspective.

Admissions Process Deadlines

Fall session:           May 15th
Spring session:     November 15th

Cost

The total cost for CAMS is $8,640. Students may apply for financial aid through Bethany: Church Service Covenant Grant, Academic Excellence Scholarship and need-based aid. Aid can potentially cover all tuition costs after the base amount of $1,100 per term is paid. For full details on financial aid, payment plans, and student accounts, contact the Admissions Office.

For additional information on CAMS, refer to the Academic Catalog.