Online Graduate Certificate in Christian Leadership
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If you're a pastor, ministry leader, or professional serving in a faith-based or nonprofit organization, Wesley Seminary’s Graduate Certificate in Christian Leadership will empower you to lead with confidence, character, and clarity. This certificate program provides an in-depth foundation in Christian leadership, biblical leadership strategies, and practical skills to effectively lead in today’s complex ministry and organizational contexts.
With online learning, you can pursue your calling wherever you are. Whether you're serving in church administration, leading community transformation, or strengthening your discipleship practices, this program equips you to lead with integrity and purpose.
In just 12 credit hours, you’ll formulate a personal philosophy of Christian leadership, strengthen both spiritual and practical leadership skills, and apply advanced concepts in missional leadership, communication, change management, and more. The curriculum also emphasizes biblical foundations for leading individuals and organizations, along with strategies to manage conflict resolution, financial stewardship, and strategic planning in ministry settings.
The program includes two required courses in leadership and mission, along with elective options that allow you to tailor your education to your calling. Electives include courses such as Non-Profit Management, Women in Leadership, and Emerging Trends in Church Multiplication, giving you the opportunity to customize your leadership training in a way that best fits your ministry goals.
What Makes Wesley Seminary Different?
Courses equip servant leaders for immediate service in diverse Kingdom contexts.
Personal, spiritual, and academic support—from mentorship to practical ministry experience.
Online, hybrid, and in-person learning options to fit the realities of ministry life.
Financial aid is available in the form of grants, loans, scholarships, veterans’ benefits, and employer reimbursement.
The Graduate Certificate in Christian Leadership begins with foundational studies in courses like Introduction to 21st Century Leadership and Advanced Topics in Missional Leadership, which establish a strong theological and practical framework for effective leadership. Building on this foundation, students can tailor the program to their unique ministry context by selecting from a range of electives focused on organizational strategy, spiritual development, communication, and cultural engagement.
These courses contain the program-specific knowledge. Upon completion, you should have the tools to conquer your new career with confidence. For a full list of courses and prerequisites required to complete your degree, please visit the course catalog. Click on a course below to view the description.
Required (Core) Courses - 6 credits: LEAD-510 & LEAD-605
Elective Courses - 6 credits: Choose two (2) of the additional courses listed as Leadership electives
LEAD-510,LEAD-605,LEAD-520,LEAD-525,LEAD-530,LEAD-540,LEAD-542,LEAD-545,LEAD-550,LEAD-558,LEAD-560,LEAD-565,LEAD-570,LEAD-610,LEAD-612,CHST-641,LEAD-641,THEO-615
Admission to Wesley Seminary begins with completing application forms and submitting them with official transcripts and two personal recommendations. Wesley Seminary shall determine admission status from the completed forms and student file and notify the applicant in writing of the admission status granted. Regular admission to the seminary constitutes admission to candidacy for the certificate program.
The basic criteria for regular admission to Wesley Seminary are as follows:
