New Course of Study Curriculum Simplifies Path to Completion and Expands Access

Nashville, Tenn. — The General Board of Higher Education and Ministry’s revised Course of Study (COS) curriculum will reshape how local pastors in The United Methodist Church are formed for ministry through a streamlined, 16-course structure that is more integrated, flexible, and responsive to today’s church.

Replacing the current 20-course model, the revised curriculum brings theology and practice together across fewer, more cohesive courses. It addresses longstanding challenges, including siloed learning, outdated materials, and the time required to complete the program, resulting in a clearer, more connected pathway from entry to completion. Curriculum rollout begins this summer to prepare for students enrolling in June 2027. Full implementation of the new curriculum will be complete by June 2028.

“This is not simply about reducing the number of courses. It is about strengthening formation,” said Roland Fernandes, general secretary for Higher Education and Ministry. “We are aligning theological education with the realities clergy face today, while ensuring students can move through the program with greater clarity, purpose, and support.”

The updated curriculum is the result of an extensive, collaborative review led by a 15-member Course of Study Review Team representing seminary leaders, Course of Study directors, faculty, bishops, Board of Ordained Ministry members, and recent students. From 2025 through 2026, the team examined current program structures, identified gaps in clergy preparation, and developed a renewed vision for theological education grounded in shared values, updated course objectives, and more relevant learning resources.

For students, the changes are designed to make the experience more transparent, manageable, and meaningful. A new completion audit system will help students track their progress and clearly understand remaining requirements. The redesigned curriculum also emphasizes holistic formation, connecting theological reflection, leadership development, and practical ministry in ways that can be applied immediately in ministry settings.

The flexible new structure removes distinctions between part-time and full-time participation and allows Course of Study schools greater adaptability in course delivery and scheduling, improving access for a wider range of students. All courses will move toward synchronous, hybrid, or in-person formats to strengthen engagement and community.

“Our goal is to ensure every student is supported from their first class through completion,” said the Rev. Meg Lassiat, GBHEM’s executive director of ministry. “These changes make the path more transparent, the curriculum more relevant, and the overall experience more connected to the ministry settings where students are already leading.”

Teach-out plans will allow current students to complete their coursework without disruption, with tailored guidance for those nearing completion. New students will begin the revised curriculum in summer 2027, with implementation phased in and completed by June 2028.

“This is a shared effort across the Church,” said the Rev. Dr. Trip Lowery, GBHEM’s director of ministry. “We are working closely with schools, faculty, and leaders to ensure every student experiences a smooth transition and is well-prepared for the ministry to which they are called.”

Additional resources, including frequently asked questions, coordinated communications from Course of Study schools will be released in the coming months to support students, faculty, and conference leaders.

About GBHEM

As stewards of the educational mission and intellectual life of The United Methodist Church, the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry (GBHEM) connects the church and the academy and develops transformational leaders for the ministry of the church. GBHEM also supports young adults through scholarships, leadership and discernment programs, and connects networks of more than 1,000 United Methodist and Methodist-related schools, colleges, and universities worldwide.