Course of Study

The Course of Study Program is a year-round experiential and classroom learning process for licensed Local Pastors of the United Methodist Church required by the 2012 Book of Discipline (¶ 602, 315) . The five year program meets in the summer and consists of two terms of two weeks each, with two classes taken per term. Course instructors include both full-time and adjunct faculty of Wesley Theological Seminary as well as clergy from around the surrounding area. Before attending the Course of Study, students will have at a minimum a high school diploma and have completed the license to preach school offered by their annual conference. Most students are also actively engaged in a congregational ministry setting. Weekend Course of Study is offered for part-time local pastors to assist them in completing the education requirements. Additional information about the program can be found on the website of the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry.

Wesley Theological Seminary serves as the regional school for the Northeast Jurisdiction of the United Methodist Church. We offer courses in a Summer intensive format for fulltime and part-time local pastors, Weekend school for part-time local pastors and programs at two extension schools in Buffalo, NY and Philadelphia, PA also for part-time local pastors.  Information on these programs are available by clicking on the links below.

Summer Intensive Program

Weekend Course of Study

Extension Schools

Please contact Sara Sheppard, Registrar for the Course of Study, with any questions about these programs.