Many people would like to be able to “have a go” at areas of ministry they feel called to, but the pressures of full time work or a feeling of being ill equipped, can hold them back. With our Ministry Internship programmes, you can get both the time and the training you need.

You might be involved in a church or organisation and want to learn more about how things are done and develop ministry skills. You may need time to work out how your gifting and passion are related to areas you may already be skilled in. Whatever the situation, an internship programme might be right for you.

We offer you the opportunity to spend a year or two learning and working in your church or organisation under the care of a mentor who is currently effective in the ministry areas you wish to develop. This can be done on a part or full time basis.

Structure

The requirements of the internship are that you spend 20 hours per week in a ministry area of your choice and planned in conjunction with your supervisor.

At the beginning of each semester you make a plan, spend the next few months working it out and review it at the end of the semester.

During the semester, you will meet regularly with your supervisor and plan and timetable in detail one or two weeks ahead. During this time you will also have academic assignments to complete; normally four per year.

Length of study

The full time programme for the Certificate and Certificate (Advanced) in Christian Ministry is 40 weeks plus 6 weeks holidays.

The part time programme for the Certificate in Spiritual Formation and Pastoral Care (Introductory) is 40 weeks also, but full time, short term study is also possible to complete this course.

Start Dates and Course Work

Most students will begin their studies at the start of a year; however you can start any month of the year, except January. All programmes can be completed full or part time.

Assignments for academic courses are mainly essays. Due dates are set for each assignment and students are required to hand in assignment work on time or face penalties.

Supervision

Enrolment in a full time internship programme requires that you have a supervisor. The supervisor is the person who will oversee your ministry work. Your chosen supervisor will need to be able to give evidence to the College that they have the necessary ministry experience to properly mentor your ministry development.

You will need to take responsibility for meeting with your supervisor every one or two weeks. This meeting time will be spent monitoring your progress, discussing any problem, planning or doing course work and assignments.