Certificate Programs

Do you feel called to better preparation for ministry but are not ready to commit to a full degree?

A KMBC Certificate is a perfect stepping stone for anyone who is interested in pursing biblical higher education but is not yet ready to commit the time and money required for a full Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree.

Each certificate is 24 credit hours and about 9 classes. You can easily complete a certificate in two semesters as a full-time student (taking 12 or more credit hours) or four semesters if you study part-time (6 credit hours per term). All certificates can be completed either on campus or online.

We offer specialized certificates in 8 areas. Once the certificate is complete, it can stand alone as official recognition of the ministry training you have received, and also all classes which you take for-credit can count towards degree completion if you choose to pursue an Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree. Please see the list below for class lists and more information about each certificate.

KMBC has played a major role in my life, not only spiritually which is to be expected, but in the professional, social and overall makeup and fibers of who I have become.

Jeff SnyderGraduate of KMBC (2000)

Program Overview

Credit Hours

24 Credit Hours

What classes will I study?

Students who complete a Certificate Program will take classes in specialized areas unique to the ministry for which they are preparing. All certificates include classes in methods of Bible study, basics of theology and faith, and holiness. Beyond that, each certificate is specifically tailored to a particular ministry, as you can see below.

A KMBC Certificate will equip you with foundational knowledge of God’s Word, biblical doctrine, holiness of heart and life, and of course the specialized skills required to excel in your particular ministry or calling. The certificate classes will also help you develop a biblical worldview and a global vision of evangelism and compassion for the lost.

1. Certificate in Pastoral Ministry

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This course is an introduction to the content, theology and history of the Bible with a special emphasis upon the major people, places and events. The various literary genres are studied in order to discover their basic teachings and place in divine revelation. The course is a prerequisite to all other courses in biblical studies. (3 credit hours.)
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A foundational course in theology designed to give the student a basic understanding of the doctrines of God, man, and sin, and emphasizes the saving relationship into which God calls all human beings. (3 credit hours.)
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An intensive study of the doctrine of Christian perfection and entire sanctification as a second work of grace as it comes to expression within Scripture and Wesleyan theology which are integrated with experiential material for the purpose of instructing, clarifying, and establishing students in their personal experience of entire sanctification. (3 credit hours.)
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This course provides an introduction to the biblical principles and practices of evangelism and discipleship and their applications to contemporary life. (2 credit hours.)
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A general overview of the art and craft of preaching. Attention is given to the preacher, study helps, and sermon development. (2 credit hours.)
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A general overview of the art and craft of preaching. Attention is given to the preacher, study helps, and sermon development. Pre-requisite MT 291. (2 credit hours.)
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This course is a practical study of the spiritual, intellectual, social, and professional life of the Christian ministers in relation to their responsibilities and duties as pastor. Emphasis is placed upon the shepherd as a model for pastoral ministries. (3 credits.)
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This course focuses upon the administration in the local church and includes organization, leadership, staff relationship, volunteers, governing boards, short and long term planning, and crisis and time management within the structure of the local church. (3 credits.)
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Choose any elective course from the Biblical Studies department.
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2. Certificate in Bible and Theology

[cq_vc_accordion contentcolor=”#333333″ titlesize=”1.4em” accordiontitle=”BI 111: English Bible Survey,TH 121: Foundations of Faith,TH 112: Doctrine of Holiness,NT 221: Gospels,OT 212: Pentateuch,NT 222: Acts,NT 271: Prison Epistles,NT 332: Romans,Bible or Theology Electives,,” accordiontitlesize1=”1.3em” accordioncontentsize1=”1em” titlepadding1=”3px 0″][accordionitem]
This course is an introduction to the content, theology and history of the Bible with a special emphasis upon the major people, places and events. The various literary genres are studied in order to discover their basic teachings and place in divine revelation. The course is a prerequisite to all other courses in biblical studies. (3 credit hours.)
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A comprehensive study of the life and ministry of Jesus presented by the four gospel writers. Pre-requisite BI 111. (3 credit hours.)
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A historical and theological study of the first five books of the Old Testament which emphasizes the characters and the covenant. The Pentateuch is examined as the foundation for the remainder of the history of God’s revelation to humanity. Pre-req BI 111. (3 credit hours.)
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The history of the origin, rise, and expansion of universal Christianity as presented in the Acts of the Apostles. Pre-requisite BI 111. (2 credit hours.)
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[accordionitem] The four Epistles of Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians and Philemon were written by Paul during his Roman imprisonment. This class will consider the theological truths and practical applications contained in these letters. Pre-req BI 111. (2 credit hours.)
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A study of the Epistles of Romans which focuses on the theological truths and their application to the Christian life. Pre-req BI 111. (2 credit hours).
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Choose any elective course from the Biblical Studies or Theology department!
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3. Certificate in Christian Apologetics

[cq_vc_accordion contentcolor=”#333333″ titlesize=”1.4em” accordiontitle=”BI 111: English Bible Survey,BI 191: Biblical Introduction,TH 121: Foundations of Faith,TH 112: Doctrines of Holiness,PH 241: Introduction to Apologetics,PH 321: Historical & Philosophical Apologetics,PH 332: Scientific Apologetics,PH 472: Cultural & Ethical Apologetics,Bible Elective(s)” accordiontitlesize1=”1.3em” accordioncontentsize1=”1em” titlepadding1=”3px 0″][accordionitem]
This course is an introduction to the content, theology and history of the Bible with a special emphasis upon the major people, places and events. The various literary genres are studied in order to discover their basic teachings and place in divine revelation. The course is a prerequisite to all other courses in biblical studies. (3 credit hours.)
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This survey of general Biblical introduction examines the four links (inspiration, canonization, transmission, and translation) of the chain that brought our Bible from God to us. The primary source for study is the Bible itself. (2 credit hours.)
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This course is designed to be a practical introduction to helping people overcome intellectual obstacles to faith. The course will focus on what apologetics is, how believers can approach academic inquiries that have implications for faith, and how to help those who are struggling with these issues. Some methodologies from major relevant disciplines will be highlighted (including philosophy, history, archaeology, and science), along with major arguments used in these fields for and against faith. Students will evaluate these arguments for themselves and discuss the most effective persuasive strategies to use in various situations, both interpersonal and public. (2 credit hours.)
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A study of the philosophy of religion, history, using logic and critical thinking. The Biblical evidence resurrection, prophecy, and archeology. Prerequisite: AP 241. (3 credit hours.)
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A study of the principles of science, origins, evolution, intelligent design, etc. Prerequisite: AP 241. (2 credit hours.)
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A study of the Christian response to the cultural & ethical issues like: Sexuality, Abortion, Critical Race Theory, Modern Issues, Postmodernism. Prerequisite: AP 241. (2 credit hours.)
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Choose any elective course from the Biblical Studies department.
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4. Certificate in Christian Historical Studies

[cq_vc_accordion contentcolor=”#333333″ titlesize=”1.4em” accordiontitle=”BI 111: English Bible Survey,Bible Electives,TH 121: Foundations of Faith,TH 112: Doctrine of Holiness,History Courses — Choose Two of the Following: ,HI 281: History of Missions,HI 241: Church History,,,” accordiontitlesize1=”1.3em” accordioncontentsize1=”1em” titlepadding1=”3px 0″][accordionitem]
This course is an introduction to the content, theology and history of the Bible with a special emphasis upon the major people, places and events. The various literary genres are studied in order to discover their basic teachings and place in divine revelation. The course is a prerequisite to all other courses in biblical studies. (3 credit hours.)
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Choose any elective course from the Biblical Studies department.
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HI 101 and 102 United States History
A survey of the history of the United States, from the discovery of the New World to the present day, which gives careful attention to the effect that Christianity has had within the history of the United States. (3 credit hours each.)

HI 111 and 112 History of Civilization
The courses survey the history of civilization from ancient times to the modern period and focus on the religious, political and legal aspects of the ancient, medieval and modern world as seen from the Christian perspective. (3 credit hours each.)
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An historical overview of the development and progress of Christian missions from its inception to the present. Emphasis is given to the personalities and methodologies which have guided the global advance of the Christian faith into the twenty-first century. (3 credit hours.)
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A survey of the development of the Christian Church from apostolic times to the present with special attention being given to councils of the Church, medieval monasticism, the Protestant Reformation, Wesley and Pietism, and the North American church. (3 credit hours.)
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5. Certificate in Christian Missions

[cq_vc_accordion contentcolor=”#333333″ titlesize=”1.4em” accordiontitle=”BI 111: English Bible Survey,Bible Electives,TH 121: Foundations of Faith,TH 112: Doctrine of Holiness,MI 141: Introduction to Missions,TH 221: Theology of Evangelism,HI 281: History of Missions,MI 282: Principles & Practices of Missions,MI 382: Cross-Cultural Communications” accordiontitlesize1=”1.3em” accordioncontentsize1=”1em” titlepadding1=”3px 0″][accordionitem]
This course is an introduction to the content, theology and history of the Bible with a special emphasis upon the major people, places and events. The various literary genres are studied in order to discover their basic teachings and place in divine revelation. The course is a prerequisite to all other courses in biblical studies. (3 credit hours.)
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Choose any elective from the Biblical Studies department.
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The course deals issues from the call to missions, the candidate’s preparation, acceptance, and assignment. The student will gain insight into missionary life both on and off the field and some understanding of the principles which are foundational for success in cross-cultural ministry today. Prerequisite: MI 141. (3 credit hours.)
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6. Certificate in Discipleship

[cq_vc_accordion contentcolor=”#333333″ titlesize=”1.4em” accordiontitle=”BI 111: English Bible Survey,Bible Elective(s),TH 121: Foundations of Faith,TH 112: Doctrine of Holiness,DS 122: Introduction to Discipleship,CE 272: Principles & Methods of Teaching,DS 282: Principles & Methods of Spiritual Formation,Discipleship Classes — Choose Two of the Following:,DS 422: Practice of Spiritual Disciplines” accordiontitlesize1=”1.3em” accordioncontentsize1=”1em” titlepadding1=”3px 0″][accordionitem]
This course is an introduction to the content, theology and history of the Bible with a special emphasis upon the major people, places and events. The various literary genres are studied in order to discover their basic teachings and place in divine revelation. The course is a prerequisite to all other courses in biblical studies. (3 credit hours.)
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Choose any elective course from the Biblical Studies department.
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A survey of the principles, content, method, and materials for directing the spiritual growth of new converts and preparing them for leadership. Emphasis is given to skill building and to program development within the local church. (2 credit hours.)
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This course focuses on basic teaching principles and basic instructional methods with the aim of creating an effective lesson plan, and explores and incorporates the teaching methods of Jesus. (3 credit hours.)
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DS 251: Children’s Discipleship
An introduction to some of the basic principles of child psychology as it relates to their education and the means and methods of evangelizing and discipling children. (2 credit hours.)

DS 362: Youth Discipleship
This course explores the developmental and spiritual needs of youths and the various theories and methods to help them grow and develop in the Christian faith. Includes an emphasis on discipling youth in various settings. (2 credit hours.)

DS 372: Adult Discipleship
This course explores the developmental and spiritual needs of adults and the various theories and methods to help adults grow and develop in the Christian faith. (2 credit hours.)

DS 382: Family Spiritual Formation
This course focuses on the theories and techniques of discipleship and educational programs in local churches for families which will build stronger families and preempt problems by laying a biblical foundation for family life. (2 credit hours.)
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This course focuses on the theories and techniques of discipleship and educational programs in local churches for families which will build stronger families and preempt problems by laying a biblical foundation for family life. (2 credit hours.)
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7. Certificate in Helping Ministry

[cq_vc_accordion contentcolor=”#333333″ titlesize=”1.4em” accordiontitle=”BI 111: English Bible Survey,Bible Elective(s),TH 121: Foundations of Faith,TH 112: Doctrine of Holiness,PS 171: General Psychology,DS 122: Introduction to Discipleship,CE 452: Christian Counseling,Helping Ministry Courses — Choose Two of the Following:” accordiontitlesize1=”1.3em” accordioncontentsize1=”1em” titlepadding1=”3px 0″][accordionitem]
This course is an introduction to the content, theology and history of the Bible with a special emphasis upon the major people, places and events. The various literary genres are studied in order to discover their basic teachings and place in divine revelation. The course is a prerequisite to all other courses in biblical studies. (3 credit hours.)
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Choose any elective course from the Biblical Studies department.
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Provides an introduction to psychology focusing on its major topics, methods, theories, and applications from a Christian perspective. (3 credit hours.)
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Focuses upon the basic concepts and techniques of Christian counseling. The student will develop broader understanding and a working knowledge of counseling skills in order to help people who have spiritual and life adjustment problems. Prerequisite: PS 171. (3 credit hours.)
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TH 221: Theology of Evangelism
A survey of the principles, content, method, and materials for directing the spiritual growth of new converts and preparing them for leadership. Emphasis is given to skill building and to program development within the local church. (2 credit hours.)

TH 232: Theology & Practice of Prayer
The Theology and Practice of Prayer is intended to be a practical survey of prayer in the Scriptures, the teaching of Christ on the subject, the people throughout history who prayed with passion, and how we can become more effective in the practice of prayer. A Biblical foundation for prayer will be advanced, and the mechanics, tools, and difficulties of personal and corporate prayer will be discussed. The global impact of prayer will also be investigated, as will what is necessary for effective leadership in prayer mobilization. (2 credit hours.)

DS 251: Children’s Discipleship
An introduction to some of the basic principles of child psychology as it relates to their education and the means and methods of evangelizing and discipling children. (2 credit hours.)

DS 282: Principles & Methods of Spiritual Formation
This course focuses on basic teaching principles and basic instructional methods with the aim of creating an effective lesson plan, and explores and incorporates the teaching methods of Jesus. (3 credit hours.)

CE 311: Sunday School & Summer Ministries
Focuses on the development and implementation of educational ministries such as Sunday School, Vacation Bible School, camping programs and other summer ministries as a part of the total program of Christian education. (2 credit hours.)

CE 322: Media Ministries
This course examines the application of various media in ministry contexts in a web-centered world. Media examined include video, audio, desktop publishing, graphics, computer presentations, and websites. Emphasis is given to integrating these media with web technologies. The course assumes the student possesses a working knowledge of typing, word processing, internet navigation, and Windows. (2 credit hours.)

DS 422: Practice of Spiritual Disciplines
This course focuses on the theories and techniques of discipleship and educational programs in local churches for families which will build stronger families and preempt problems by laying a biblical foundation for family life. (2 credit hours.)
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8. Certificate in Kentucky Mountain Holiness Association (KMHA) Religious Educational Studies

[cq_vc_accordion contentcolor=”#333333″ titlesize=”1.4em” accordiontitle=”BI 111: English Bible Survey,TH 121: Foundations of Faith,TH 112: Doctrine of Holiness,NT 221: Gospels,NT 222: Acts,NT 332: Romans,HI 241: Church History,TH 221: Theology of Evangelism,MT 291: Introduction to Homiletics,MT 361: Pastoral Ministries,MT 481: Church Administration” accordiontitlesize1=”1.3em” accordioncontentsize1=”1em” titlepadding1=”3px 0″][accordionitem]
This course is an introduction to the content, theology and history of the Bible with a special emphasis upon the major people, places and events. The various literary genres are studied in order to discover their basic teachings and place in divine revelation. The course is a prerequisite to all other courses in biblical studies. (3 credit hours)
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A comprehensive study of the life and ministry of Jesus presented by the four gospel writers. Prerequisite: BI 111. (3 credit hours)
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The history of the origin, rise, and expansion of universal Christianity as presented in the Acts of the Apostles. Prerequisite: BI 111. (2 credit hours)
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A study of the Epistles of Romans which focuses on the theological truths and their application to the Christian life. Prerequisite: BI 111. (2 credit hours)
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A general overview of the art and craft of preaching. Attention is given to the preacher, study helps, and sermon development. (2 credit hours)
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At KMBC, we are renowned for our commitment to academic excellence, spiritual formation, and practical ministry preparation. Our experienced faculty members are dedicated to equipping students with the knowledge, skills, and spiritual foundation needed to make a lasting impact in ministry. With a Certificate from KMBC, you’ll be able to show employers and congregants that you have credible expertise, education, and experience in your particular area of ministry calling.

Have more questions?

Meet Dr. Richard Endlehardt, advisor for the KMBC Certificate Programs. He will be glad to answer any questions you may have regarding these tracks of study. Otherwise, request more information to get in touch with our admissions team.

Certificate Programs

Program Overview

Dr. Richard Englehardt