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Certificate in Church Leadership

This program of study engages students in biblical studies for practical application in personal growth to impact their spheres of influence.

Solid biblical training from accomplished faculty with years of ministry experience.

This program is ideal for people who are already working in ministry but desire additional formal biblical training. The courses required for this program provide solid biblical and ministry training while also providing some flexibility regarding ministry focus. All of the courses within this certificate program may also count toward one of the bachelor’s degree programs at Manna U. In addition to the 31 credit hours of academic studies, students are required to fulfill the Leadership in Action requirement.

Outcomes
  • Educate (Biblical and Ministry Knowledge): Students will have a basic understanding of biblical teachings and contemporary ministry practices.
  • Equip (Practical Ministry Skills): Students will have practical skills necessary for effective church leadership in collaborative environments within ministry teams.
  • Empower (Leadership and Ministry Engagement): Students will be empowered to advance their leadership roles within their current ministry settings or to pursue further educational opportunities in biblical studies and church leadership at the bachelor's level.

Time & Cost

Many people would like to complete a degree and stay out of debt. 

The Certificate in Church Leadership program requires 10 courses + Student Orientation (or 31 credit hours), which can be completed in 1 year for full-time students. Courses are offered on-campus or online (can be entirely online). Manna U’s low tuition rates enable students to receive solid biblical training from accomplished faculty with years of ministry experience and not be hindered financially.

Total Cost: $8,650

2026 - 2027 Undergraduate Tuition Rate

Fees

Scholarships are available for students who do not use military education benefits or federal financial aid.

Courses

Full details can be found in the most recent academic catalog.

Orientation & Exit Course (1 Credit)

Course Number Course Name Credit Hours
ENG 107 Undergraduate Student Orientation 1
ENG 195 Certificate Exit Course 0

CH.L Major Courses (30 Credits)

Course Number Course Name Credit Hours
BIB 110 The Life of Christ 3
BIB 111 Introduction to Hermeneutics 3
CLG 101 Destiny & Calling 3
CLG 201 Spiritual Formation 3
CLG 401 Pastoral Ministry 3
CLG 410 Homiletics 3
CNS 130 Introduction to Counseling 3
THE 101 Introduction to Theology 3
THE 103 Introduction to Apologetics 3
THE 301 Kingdom of God 3

Admissions

To become a student at Manna U, follow these two steps:

1.  Complete an application, which includes:

  • A non-refundable application fee of $50 (linked to application)
  • An essay, written by the applicant, of his/her conversion experience (300-600 words), in a format that is typed and double spaced, using 12 pt. font size;
  • A Pastoral Reference* from the Pastor of the church that the applicant regularly attends;
  • A Personal Reference* from someone who has known you for two years or more and is not related to you.
    Applicants will enter an email address for their selected references and a link to the online reference forms will be sent once the application is submitted.

In addition, Doctoral students require:

  • At least three years of ministry experience and must hold an appropriate master’s degree plus no less than 15 credit hours in Bible or Theology from a regionally or nationally accredited college or university.
  • Additionally, students will be interviewed by the Chief Academic Officer before acceptance.

2.  Order your official high school, G.E.D., or previous college transcripts (minimum 2.0 GPA is preferred for Undergraduate Applicants, and a minimum 2.75 GPA is preferred for Graduate and Doctoral Applicants).

Note: official transcripts are sent directly from one school/college to another. You can arrange to have your transcripts sent electronically to registrar@manna.edu, or a paper copy can be sent to our mailing address:

Manna University
Attn: Registrar’s Office
439 Westwood Shopping Center
PMB 106
Fayetteville, NC 28314

All applicants applying for admission to one of Manna U’s graduate programs must submit official transcripts showing an earned undergraduate degree from an accredited institution, or an equivalent academic achievement approved by Manna U’s Academic Office. Students who plan to use military education benefits must submit transcripts from high school and all colleges attended.

Students who plan to use military education benefits must submit transcripts from high school and all colleges attended.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • No! This certificate is built entirely around essential training for ministry.

Student Story

Andre's Story

Like most of today’s college students, Andre leads a busy life. Balancing family, work, and serving at his local church is a tough act, but he sensed the need to sharpen his leadership for effective Kingdom impact.

“The divinity program is designed to challenge the student’s current perception of the world through sound biblical truths. I appreciate this the most because it opened my mind as well as my heart.”

Effective Leaders Bring Lasting Impact

Jesus chose twelve leaders who were from differing backgrounds. Many religious leaders in that time would have overlooked them. Through teaching and training, He prepared them to lead a movement that changed the world. Whatever your call may be, training at Manna U can help you engage in this kind of transformational leadership.

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