The Path to Ministry
Course of Study is a required continuing education program for licensed local pastors, those who have been certified for ordained ministry and those who are under appointment in the United Methodist Church. Students will delve into a range of topics including history of the Early Church, how to read and exegete the Bible and current practices in evangelism. Courses are taught by experts in the field, many of whom are practitioners doing this work day in and day out. Students benefit from engaging content guided by committed instructors, with an emphasis on peer-learning with new and familiar colleagues. The process provides a space where licensed pastors and others can think deeply and critically about theology and the life of the church.
Licensing School
Attending a UM licensing school is the first step toward becoming a licensed local pastor. While the school schedule varies by region, all schools are required to have a minimum of 80 contact hours with students. In this time, licensed local pastor candidates are assessed for basic skills, receive mentors and receive instruction in pastoral competencies and Methodist tradition.
Course Of Study
Course of Study is a required theological and leadership education program for licensed local pastors. Students engage diverse content that includes church history, Bible exegesis, pastoral care, evangelism, UM polity, UM doctrine and more. The 20 core courses are facilitated in ways that help students apply what they learn to the ministry context they serve. Students benefit from engaging content guided by committed instructors, with an emphasis on peer-learning resulting in a solid foundation of theory and practice.
Advanced Course of Study
After completing the COS, the Advanced Course of Study (ACOS) is a curriculum pathway that enables a licensed local pastor to meet the educational requirements for probationary membership, full conference membership and ordination in The United Methodist Church. Licensed local pastors who have completed Course of Study and who are at least 40 years old may be eligible for ordination as an elder in full connection with the completion of a minimum of 32 hours of graduate theological study.
Reading Christians are growing Christians. When Christians cease to read, they cease to grow.”
— John Wesley
Take the Next Faithful Step
Exploration 2026 provides a supportive environment for those who are questioning or considering a call to ministry in The United Methodist Church.
Join us to reflect, learn, and listen alongside others on a similar journey — without pressure to decide, and with trust that discernment takes time.
Fall 2026 Course of Study registration opens June 1 and closes July 17, 2026.
Scholarships
The GBHEM scholarship application opens in January each year. You may only submit one application per year, which will be screened for all possible eligible programs. You may indicate on the first page of the scholarship application which programs you would most like to be considered for. Award amounts below are a general estimate of awards given. Learn more.
