Contextual Learning
Contextual learning—also called field education—is the space where theological knowledge flows to heart and hands. We practice what we preach. We are intentional about reflection. We grow in awareness of ourselves, our communities, and our cultural context for ministry.
Integrated across all degree programs, our transformative learning model seeks to cultivate more holistically-formed persons.
Vocational Excellence Module
We discern our identity as pastors and leaders
Explore the meaning of ordination, healthy vocational identities, ministry ethics, and the responsibilities and guidelines for licensed ministry, especially in the context of the Evangelical Covenant Church.
Intercultural Development
We develop intercultural agility
Our individual and communal stories shape our meaning and values. We use experiential case studies and our Intercultural Development Inventory to self-assess, and identify our goals and barriers to bridging differences.
Ministry Internship
We Live What We Learn
Ministry field work (internship) in local church or ministry settings is integral to our entire taught curriculum. Not only for “interns” fresh out of college—both new and experienced ministers benefit from creating, testing, and applying conceptual coursework to lived experience.
A relevant spectrum of core competencies are important. MDiv students, for example, must engage worship and preaching, management and leadership, pastoral care, intercultural development, and Christian formation.
Ministry hours are credited per semester and can be applied flexibly in part-time or full-time capacities.
Clinical Pastoral Education
We learn to care for those in need
Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) is a structured training program for spiritual advisors particularly in healthcare settings. We step into moments that stretch our pastoral skills—offering care for patients and families— and use an action-reflection model under chaplaincy supervision to learn and grow.
Required for MDiv students; optional for other programs.
Theological Reflection Module
We examine our entire journey
Many students enter seminary to grow in their knowledge of Scripture, Church History, and Theology. However, through spiritual reflection and field education, seminary becomes even more: a transformative life experience that connects content to context.
—Dr. Bret Widman
Director of the Office of Contextual and Lifelong Learning