The Course of Study (COS) is prescribed by the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry – Division of Ordained Ministry (Paragraph 1421.3d, 2016 Book of Discipline). It includes License School and the Five-Year Basic Course of Study or Part-Time Ministerial Leader Curriculum. In prescribing the COS, the Division of Ordained Ministry is responsible for developing curriculum, purpose and learning goals; providing resources; establishing, maintaining, and evaluating License Schools and Course of Study Schools (COS); keeping central records on all students, and reporting on student progress to each Board of Ordained Ministry every year.
Click here to apply for an Educational Grant towards COS.
After completing the basic Course of Study, a local pastor may choose to continue the process toward Provisional membership through the Advanced Course of Study. It includes 32 hours of Masters level education in a seminary recognized by the University Senate. It must include United Methodist History, United Methodist Doctrine and United Methodist Polity (Paragraph 324.6d, 2016 Book of Discipline).
Click here to apply for an Advanced COS Educational grant.
For more information about the Course of Study program, visit the General Board of Higher Education & Ministry website.