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PASTOR & MINISTRY
LEADERSHIP CLASSES

A flexible, leadership-focused pathway for active pastors and ministry leaders who desire theological growth, practical ministry training, and degree progress while continuing to serve.

Program Highlights

Monthly 90-minute online sessions

Designed for active ministry leaders

Distance-based coursework format

Practicum-style ministry application

May count toward Theology, Leadership, or Ministry majors

PURPOSE

Built for leaders who are already serving.

 

This program strengthens the leader’s real-world ministry experience with biblical education, structured accountability, and leadership development that can be immediately applied in the field.

Theological Reinforcement

 

Reinforce experiential ministry knowledge with sound theological education and guided written assignments.

1

Leadership Growth

 

Refine gifts, callings, ministry focus, spiritual maturity, and leadership capacity through practical coursework.

2

Ministry Connection

 

Build meaningful relationships, accountability, and peer learning with other pastors and ministry leaders.

3

How the Program Works

 

Students complete independent reading, partner interaction when applicable, written reports, and one required monthly online session for discussion and course credit.

1

Enroll Anytime During the Month

Students may begin the enrollment process at any time and will be guided into the correct course sequence.

2

Purchase and Read the Assigned Textbook

Students obtain the required textbook and complete the assigned reading before the next monthly session.

3

Complete the 5–7 Page Report

Each paper includes chapter summaries, personal integration, analysis, footnotes, and an MLA-style bibliography.

4

Attend the Monthly Online Session

Students participate in a 90-minute online session with prayer, discussion, interaction, and course review.

DEGREE PATH

Program Completion Requirements

 

Completion requirements vary based on the student’s academic track. Students should confirm their degree path with an advisor.

Required Meetings

15 Meetings

10 Meetings

13 Meetings

8 Meetings

Degree Path

Bachelor’s/Master’s Concurrent

Master’s

Master’s/Doctorate

Doctorate

REQUIREMENTS

Clear expectations. Practical accountability.

 

This program is structured for serious ministry leaders who can engage the reading, writing, discussion, and attendance requirements with integrity.

Eligibility

Active pastors

Ministry leaders

Preapproved pastors

Associate pastors

Approved ministry workers

Applicants with less than 3 years of ministry may require an interview and Ministry Experience Sheet

Monthly Expectations

Read the assigned textbook

Meet with assigned partner when applicable

Submit a 5–7 page paper before class

Attend the required monthly session

Participate in group discussion

Maintain confidentiality when sensitive ministry matters are shared

CLASS DETAILS

Monthly Online Ministry Leadership Session

 

 

Meetings begin and end with prayer and include a brief review of the previous class, current topic discussion, student participation, and an introduction to the next month’s objectives.

Time

6:15 PM – 7:45 PM PST

Frequency

Monthly, with no meetings held in December

Format

Online via ZOOM

Attendance

Required for credit. Missed classes may extend completion by one month.

REQUIREMENTS

Ready to strengthen your ministry leadership?

 

Summit Bible College’s Pastor & Ministry Leadership Classes are designed to help active leaders grow academically, spiritually, and practically while continuing to serve in the work of ministry.

Best Fit for

Pastors, ministry leaders, associate pastors, and approved ministry workers

The Process

A Clear Path Forward

1

Submit Your Application

Complete the appropriate licensing or ordination application and provide all required supporting information.

2

Leadership Review

Our team prayerfully reviews each submission for doctrinal alignment, ministry readiness, and completeness.

3

Approval & Credentialing

Approved applicants receive credentialing information, renewal details, and next-step communication.

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Why Summit Bible College

Rooted in Biblical Training and Ministry Formation

 

Summit Bible College seeks to equip ministers with biblical conviction, spiritual integrity, and practical readiness for service. Licensing and ordination exist to strengthen ministers and help confirm faithful ministry stewardship.

Need personal help?

Contact the Licensing & Ordination Office

 

Email: nduffey@summitbiblecollege.com

Phone: 661.328.1151 Ext. 1036

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Apply Now

Take the Next Step in Your Ministry Journey

Whether you are pursuing licensing for active ministry service or ordination for broader ministerial recognition, we invite you to begin the process today.

Request More Information

Equipping Christian Leaders to help those in need!

Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to Common Questions

What is the difference between licensing and ordination?

Licensing recognizes and authorizes a person for ministry service under ministry oversight. Ordination affirms a deeper level of recognized calling, character, doctrinal stability, and ministry leadership.

Can alumni apply?

Yes. Summit Bible College alumni may apply for licensing or ordination, subject to current review standards and submission requirements.

How do I start?

Begin by contacting the office or using the application button on this page to request or submit the proper forms.

How often do credentials need renewal?

Renewal schedules and required forms are communicated directly by the college. Please contact the office for the most current details.

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Programs Offered:

  • Associate of Biblical Studies (ABS)

  • Bachelor of Theology with Emphases in Pastoral Studies, Worship, Missions, Counseling, and more.

  • Master’s Degrees in Theology, Ministry, Divinity, Counseling, Business, Apologetics, and Leadership.

  • Doctoral Programs including D.Min., D.Th., D.Div., and specialized majors.

Len B., Masters of Theology / Doctor of Divinity

I am 57 years old and feel like life has begun all over again! I have a spiritual and educational experience that no one can take away from me and look forward to considering doors of opportunity...

Special Promotions & Exclusive Benefits

"Take advantage of these limited-time opportunities designed to equip you for ministry—financially, spiritually, and academically."

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We match your down payment up to $500

Service Name 

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50% off Ministry Scholarship

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Free Degree for Spouses

SBC AFFILIATES

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English (661)328-1151 | Spanish (661)328-1181 | Fax (661) 328-1191 | 

3000 James Rd. - Bakersfield  CA 93308 | 

info@summitbiblecollege.com

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© 2023 - All Rights Reserved

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Statement of Non-Discrimination:

Summit Bible College does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, sex, disability, or age. As a religious institution, Summit Bible College uses the Holy Bible as a guideline for acceptance of students and employees. All students must be living a godly lifestyle to be admitted to the college and must write a testimony of their faith. SBC expressly reserves its rights, its understandings of, and its commitments to The Word of God (The Holy Scriptures as translated in the New King James Version, and other versions).  SBC respects the purity, the sanctity, the providence, and the morals in the Holy Scriptures. SBC only employs ministers of the Gospel who support the values of the Holy Bible, and policies of the college. (See our Statement of Faith)

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