UCC Ministry Preparation
Graduate Credit Certificate
7.5 credits
all online – transferable graduate credit – take any or all courses
Complete all courses, receive a certificate in UCC Ministry Preparation
(helps fulfill some requirements of local Committees on Ministry)
Enhance your knowledge of the United Church of Christ
UCC History and Polity –
Fall 2025 – 3 credits
The course will explore the history and polity of the United Church of Christ, seeking to provide an understanding of the organization, ministries, and mission commitments of the UCC in the past, and looking for clues on how the denomination’s theological trajectories may continue to develop in the future.
UCC History and Polity includes a great deal of history about our ancestor denominations, the UCC’s formation, the current structure of the National Setting, General Synod and the resolution process, our theology and ways reading of scripture, touches on writing a ministerial profile and reading a church profile, and reviews national initiatives and available curriculums.
This course is widely accepted by Committees on Ministry as the polity requirement for Members in Discernment (MIDs), those on Multiple Paths, or anyone seeking Dual Standing or Privilege of Call.
UCC Identity and Traditions –
Spring 2026 – 3 credits
Identity and Traditions goes beyond the History and Polity course, offering in-depth discussion on the Ministerial Code and ordination; the Manual on Ministry and the Manual on Church; reflection on the sacraments; denominational support and missional commitments; lifelong learning expectations and resources; our relationship to CHHSM agencies; and the importance of our core commitments to being multi-cultural multi-racial, antiracist, open and affirming, just peace, and accessible to all.
This course builds on the History and Polity course, providing a broader foundation for anyone pursuing authorized ministry in the United Church of Christ.
Marks of Ministry –
Summer 2026 intensive –
1.5 credits
The UCC’s Marks of Faithful and Effective Authorized Ministers, commonly called the Marks, are a discernment guide for reflection on one’s ministry and skills, both before authorization and across a ministerial career. The Marks are frequently referenced in ordination papers, and they are the foundation of the Ministerial Profile.
This intensive course will look at each of the 48 statements, prompting students to reflect on how they can both discern and discuss their ministerial skills in relation to the Marks.
Questions? Contact Eden admissions [email protected]
or Dr. Jill Baker, Director of Academic and Vocational Discernment [email protected]
