University Senate Approves New Framework for United Methodist Formation
By The General Board of Higher Education and Ministry
The University Senate of The United Methodist Church has approved a new Framework for United Methodist Formation, establishing a more comprehensive and flexible approach to preparing United Methodist candidates for ministry at approved non-United Methodist theological schools.
Replacing a previous reliance on memoranda of understanding (MOUs), the new framework allows approved non-United Methodist schools multiple pathways for meeting formation expectations for their United Methodist students. Schools may continue to offer United Methodist coursework through qualified United Methodist faculty or enable UM students to complete required United Methodist History, Doctrine, and Polity courses through one of the denomination’s 13 United Methodist theological schools and transfer the credits toward their degrees.
“This new framework recognizes the changing landscape of theological education while strengthening our commitment to the intentional formation of United Methodist leaders,” said Roland Fernandes, general secretary of the General Boards of Higher Education and Ministry (GBHEM) and Global Ministries, “Rather than relying on a single partnership model, it provides institutions with greater flexibility while maintaining clear expectations that students are formed for ministry in the Wesleyan tradition and the connectional life of The United Methodist Church.”
The framework also outlines expectations related to mentoring, field education, spiritual formation, connectional engagement, assessment, and institutional alignment with United Methodist doctrine and values.
Institutions currently approved by the University Senate have been notified of the new requirements and invited to indicate their intent to continue participation under the framework, which is scheduled to go into effect July 1, 2027.
The University Senate, under the authority of the UMC’s The Book of Discipline (¶1415.3), reviews schools, colleges, universities, and theological seminaries to ensure institutional integrity, sound governance, quality academic programs, and strong connections to The United Methodist Church. GBHEM supports this work through administrative, consultative, and organizational leadership.
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