DIPLOMA OF
DISCIPLESHIP STUDIES (DIP.DS)
Training Elders to Lead, Guide, and Guard the Church
2 years (4 semesters)
Total Credits 64 Credit Hours
Delivery Mode Coursework + Ministry Practicum
Teaching System Semester System (Distance Learning)
Session Begin 1st March and 1st September every year
Medium of Instruction English
ADMISSION CRITERIA
Applicant must hold a Certificate of Eldership Studies, or an equivalent certificate in ministry/theology/leadership from an approved institution.
PROGRAM FEES
Per Semester
USD $200
PROGRAM INFORMATION
Department
Ecclesiastical Leadership and Applied Ministries
Faculty
Eldership Studies
Medium of Instruction
English
GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS
- Completion of 64 credit hours.
- Passing of a comprehensive examination (written and oral)
- Submission of a Final Ministry Portfolio (Practicum I–IV experiences and reflections)
- Completion of a Practical Ministry Project (e.g., Bible study group, outreach program, discipleship initiative)
RELATED PROGRAMS
View All Programs
CAREER & MINISTRY OPPORTUNITIES
Church Elder
Associate Pastor
Ministry Leader
Discipleship Coordinator
Church Administrator
Christian Educator
PROGRAM OVERVIEW
The Diploma of Eldership Studies (D.ES) is a comprehensive academic program designed to prepare men and women for biblical leadership and effective service within the local church. The program provides a strong foundation in Scripture, pastoral care, church governance, discipleship, and spiritual leadership. Through a balanced combination of theological study and practical ministry training, students develop the character, knowledge, and leadership skills necessary to serve faithfully as elders, ministry leaders, and shepherds of God's people.
LEARNING OUTCOMES
Biblical Leadership Principles
Spiritual Shepherding Skills
Church Governance Understanding
Pastoral Care Competence
Discipleship Leadership Development
COURSE STRUCTURE
Semester 1 (15 Credit Hours)
| Course Code | Course Title | Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
|
DES 101 |
Biblical Foundations of Eldership |
3 |
|
DES 102 |
Introduction to Leadership in the Early Church |
3 |
|
DES 103 |
Principles of Spiritual Authority & Servant Leadership |
3 |
|
DES 104 |
Personal Spiritual Formation for Elders |
2 |
|
DES 105 |
Communication & English for Ministry I |
2 |
|
DES 106 |
Ministry Practicum I |
2 |
Semester 2 (15 Credit Hours)
| Course Code | Course Title | Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
|
DES 111 |
Old Testament Leadership Models (Moses, Judges, Prophets) |
3 |
|
DES 112 |
New Testament Leadership Models (Jesus, Apostles, Elders) |
3 |
|
DES 113 |
Pastoral Theology I (Shepherding the Flock) |
3 |
|
DES 114 |
Church History of Leadership (Early to Medieval) |
3 |
|
DES 115 |
Communication & English for Ministry II |
2 |
|
DES 116 |
Ministry Practicum II |
2 |
Semester 3 (15 Credit Hours)
| Course Code | Course Title | Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
|
DES 201 |
Biblical Qualifications for Elders (1 Tim, Titus, 1 Peter) |
3 |
|
DES 202 |
Pastoral Theology II (Elder as Teacher, Shepherd, Overseer) |
3 |
|
DES 203 |
Systematic Theology for Elders I (God, Christ, Spirit) |
3 |
|
DES 204 |
Church History of Leadership II (Reformation to Modern) |
3 |
|
DES 205 |
Homiletics & Teaching for Elders |
2 |
|
DES 206 |
Ministry Practicum III |
2 |
Semester 4 (15 Credit Hours)
| Course Code | Course Title | Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
|
DES 211 |
Systematic Theology for Elders II (Church, Salvation, Eschatology) |
3 |
|
DES 212 |
Pastoral Care, Counseling & Conflict Resolution |
3 |
|
DES 213 |
Christian Ethics & Elder Responsibility |
3 |
|
DES 214 |
Strategic Church Leadership & Governance |
3 |
|
DES 215 |
Research & Writing for Elder Ministry |
2 |
|
DES 216 |
Ministry Practicum IV |
2
|
Ready to Take the Next Step in Ministry?
Develop biblical knowledge, ministry competence, and leadership excellence through our Diploma Program designed for meaningful Kingdom impact.
