The following is a listing of courses that make up the Ministry Studies Online Program.

Courses are offered in each semester (Fall, Spring and Summer) from our foundational Ministry Studies Online courses as well as from our four tracks: Youth Studies, KidMin Studies, Pastoral Studies and Global Studies. A Certificate in one of these areas can be earned in as little as 1 year!

MINISTRY STUDIES ONLINE FOUNDATIONAL COURSES

MSO 122 | NEW TESTAMENT STUDIES: CHRIST IN THE GOSPELS AND BEYOND (3 credits)
This course will include a panoramic view of the chief events, prominent characters, main themes and salient teachings of each New Testament letter in relation to its historical, geographical, and cultural contexts. Emphasis will be placed on why we have four Gospels and the uniqueness of how each Gospel presents Christ, along with the foundation this lays for the balance of the New Testament.

MSO 133 | INTRODUCTION TO BIBLICAL INTERPRETATION (3 credits)
A practical introduction to the study of the Bible. The course provides an overview of fundamental issues of interpretation, inspiration, manuscripts, and translation. Emphasis is on basic approaches to Bible study and appropriate use of biblical reference tools and its contribution to biblical studies.

MSO 144 | OLD TESTAMENT STUDIES (3 credits)
A study of the historical settings, literary features, authorship, theological teachings, and general content of the Hebrew Bible. This survey provides factual and practical groundwork for further studies in the Old Testament. Special emphasis will be on the Pentateuch and Poetical books.

MSO 115 | THINKING THEOLOGICALLY (3 credits) (For AG Credentials, substitute MSO 116: The Spirit Empowered AG Church: Doctrine, History, Missions, & Governance)
Thinking Theologically: An investigation of the crucial doctrines, themes, and concepts that shape Christian theology. The nature of God, human nature, the person and work of Christ, the Holy Spirit, and the Church will be explored and their importance for vibrant youth ministry will be emphasized.

MSO 116 | THE SPIRIT EMPOWERED A/G CHURCH: DOCTRINE, HISTORY, MISSIONS, AND GOVERNANCE (3 credits)*
This course will examine the doctrines of the Assemblies of God, its history, missions and governance. It will bring application of the doctrines through exploring the characteristics and practices of a Spirit empowered church.

MSO 312 | MINISTERIAL INTERNSHIP (3 credits)
The MSO Ministerial Internship course is a 12-week, in-context ministry experience, including hands on opportunities for active ministry in various settings, weekly meetings with a ministry mentor, and weekly reflections on their experiences. The MSO Ministerial Internship will involve between 50-100 hours of engaging ministry opportunities in a local church context.

YOUTH STUDIES ONLINE TRACK COURSES

FSO 211 | BIBLICAL WORLDVIEW & CONTEMPORARY CULTURE (3 credits)

A worldview is a pattern of ideas, beliefs, convictions, and habits we use to make sense of God and the world around us. Establishing a biblical worldview in you and your ministry with students is crucial to the success of ministry to the emerging generations. This course will help students develop in themselves and subsequently immerse their students in the process of developing a biblical worldview as they navigate the challenges of contemporary culture.

YSO 223 | YOUTH EVANGELISM (3 credits)
This course will examine the biblical foundations for evangelism and the presentation of the Christian Gospel message. The practical aspects of sharing faith with non-believers, seeker-sensitivity and handling objections will be discussed alongside aspects of program implementation. The nature of the course (practics) presupposes weekly involvement in a local youth ministry setting.

FSO 315 | FAMILY MINISTRY LEADERSHIP (3 credits)
This course focuses on growing healthy relationships with the senior pastor, ministry staff, congregation, and community, while balancing ministry with family and personal spiritual growth. Students will learn how to develop volunteer staff, create a culture of discipleship, and plan and implement age-appropriate services, outreaches, and special events. Attention will be given to practical methods of working with multiple family types in church and community settings and partnering with parents as they disciple their children.

YSO 333 | MINISTER OF YOUTH (3 credits)
Focuses on the development of healthy youth pastors who will run well and finish strong the race marked out for them. The spiritual, physical, emotional, and professional health of the minister of youth is addressed and developed through the disciplines of journaling, personal accountability, and servanthood.

YSO 344 | FOUNDATIONS OF YOUTH MINISTRY (3 credits)
This course is designed to give an introductory understanding of the foundational elements of successful youth ministry. It includes developing a philosophy of youth ministry; personal spiritual and character formation; and strategies for continued professional growth.

KIDMIN STUDIES ONLINE TRACK COURSES

FSO 211 | BIBLICAL WORLDVIEW & CONTEMPORARY CULTURE (3 credits)

KSO 223 | KIDMIN EVANGELISM (3 credits)
This course focuses on the need and practical methodology for KidMin evangelism. Topics include: the history of child evangelism, traditional as well as current evangelism thrusts, age-appropriate evangelism techniques, how to lead a child to Christ, the art of the altar call, making the most of holidays, preparation of child evangelism materials, and how to organize and present evangelistic events for children.

KSO 333 | KIDMIN PRESENTATIONS (3 credits)

KidMin Presentations is an overview of presentational methodology used to teach and inspire in the context of children’s ministry. Practical emphasis is placed on choosing, preparing, and presenting content and concepts to children of various ages. Includes strategies for designing, producing, and overseeing children’s productions.

KSO 344 | FOUNDATIONS OF KIDMIN (3 credits)
This course provides an overview of children’s ministry with an emphasis on developing ministries and resources for kidmin in the local church from a biblical Pentecostal perspective. Developing age-appropriate programming, applying ethical practices in relationships and ministry, and other information critical to successful children’s ministry will be presented.

PASTORAL STUDIES ONLINE TRACK COURSES

PSO 211 | THEOLOGY AND ESCHATOLOGY (3 credits)
This course provides a deeper knowledge of the fundamental truths of the Church and its doctrine. A study of Christian beliefs as expressed through evangelical and Pentecostal traditions, including a study of end-time events (Rapture, Biblical Prophesies, views of the Tribulation, Millennium and Revelation) from a Pentecostal perspective; teaching on the second coming of Christ.

PSO 223 | THE ART OF PREACHING (3 credits)
This class is designed for students to enhance their communication skills in the area of preaching. You will learn the four ingredients of preaching, how to build a sermon, key elements of effectively reaching the unchurched, and how to use stories as a key element. Learn how transformative preaching goes beyond information and inspiration.

PSO 123 | ROMANS AND PRISON EPISTLES (3 credits)
An in-depth study of the Epistle to the Romans emphasizing its contribution to Christian theology and life. A study of the historical, geographical, and biographical matters of Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon, with special attention to their Christological content.

PSO 333 | ACTS: THE HOLY SPIRIT AT WORK IN THE BELIEVER’S RELATIONSHIPS, ETHICS, AND EVANGELISM (3 credits)
A study of the theological and practical teachings of the historical origins of the early Church. Special attention is given to the theology and work of the Holy Spirit in the evangelistic expansion of the Church, in believers’ relationships, and in the ethical issues of life.

PSO 344 | EFFECTIVE LEADERSHIP AND CONFLICT MANAGEMENT (3 credits)
This course is a comprehensive study of biblical leadership strategies and conflict management to equip the student for immediate real-world application. Leadership topics will cover team recruitment & development, the power & importance of humility, gaining and keeping the Spirit’s anointing, servant leadership principles, finding & casting vision, and spiritual authority/covering. Furthermore, the following topics surrounding the issue of conflict management will also be discussed: timing, anger/aggression, avoidance, internal conflicts, and righteous conflicts.

PSO 415 | THEOLOGY OF CHRISTIAN WORSHIP AND PRAYER (3 credits)
Biblical worship and prayer describe the relational dynamic with God that permeates all of our lives and relationships. This course will examine several topics through this lens including our identity and security, the importance of relational leadership, leading corporate worship, and living a life of worship and prayer.

PSO 422 | 1 & 2 CORINTHIANS (3 credits)
A study of Paul's treatment of church problems, with application to the present-day Church. Paul's defense of his apostolic call and ministry is the focus of II Corinthians.

PSO 435 | PASTORAL MINISTRY, ADMINISTRATION, FINANCE, AND LAW (3 credits)
An overview of the character, qualifications, and call of the pastor. Instruction is given in conducting common church ceremonies and pastoral ministry care, as well as the role of the pastor in financial and physical plant oversight in the local church. The student will explore their understanding of finances, resources, and management in light of the Bible and will learn principles of biblical ethics in church administration, finances, and activities.

RECOVERY STUDIES ONLINE TRACK COURSES

RSO 101 | OVERVIEW OF ADDICTION (3 credits)
Overview of Addiction is a comprehensive course that delves into the complex nature of addiction, exploring its physical, psychological, physiological, and spiritual implications. Students will gain insight into the underlying factors contributing to addiction and its impact on individuals, family dynamics, and society as a whole. Through a multidisciplinary approach, this course aims to provide a deep understanding of addiction from various perspectives, equipping students with the knowledge and skills to address this pervasive issue.

RSO 201 | SCOPE OF CARE and HEALTHY BOUNDARIES (3 credits)
This course builds upon RSO 101 and the importance of healthy boundaries when supporting individuals struggling with addiction. Participants will learn how to effectively help someone struggling with addiction, including knowing what to do and what not to do. Additionally, the course will cover when to recognize the need to refer individuals to a higher level of care. Through case studies and practical exercises, participants will develop the skills and knowledge necessary to provide meaningful support to individuals dealing with addiction while maintaining professional and personal boundaries.

RSO 221 | ETHICS IN RECOVERY (3 credits)
Ethics in Recovery is designed to explore the ethical considerations and challenges that arise in the context of addiction recovery and substance abuse care. This course will delve into the complex ethical dilemmas that professionals and other recovery workers face in the field of recovery, including confidentiality, boundaries, dual relationships, and decision-making processes. This course aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills to make sound ethical choices and uphold the highest standards of ethical conduct in the context of addiction recovery.

RSO 301 | RECOVERY MANAGEMENT (3 credits)
This course focuses on the critical aspects of long-term recovery, aftercare, coping mechanisms, and trigger awareness. It emphasizes the importance of sustained support and strategies for maintaining sobriety and wellness beyond initial recovery. The course addresses the challenges individuals may face post-rehabilitation and provides practical tools to navigate daily life while minimizing the risk of relapse. Students will explore effective coping mechanisms, develop a deeper understanding of triggers, and learn how to proactively manage their long-term recovery journey.

RSO 401 | PRACTICAL HELPING SKILLS (3 credits)
Practical Helping Skills in the context of recovery and substance abuse offers real-world applications that provide students with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively support individuals dealing with substance abuse and working towards recovery. This course will cover a range of topics including active listening, empathy, building rapport, understanding addiction, and motivational interviewing techniques. Students will also learn about the various treatment modalities and community resources available for individuals seeking recovery

GLOBAL STUDIES ONLINE TRACK COURSES

GSO 211 | BIBLICAL THEOLOGY OF MISSIONS (3 credits)
This course will examine the missio Dei as revealed in both Old and New Testaments and the implications for the contemporary church. This course will employ a diachronic approach to Scripture, survey the progressive nature of revelation, and examine the concept of the missio Dei in relation to the historical development and cultural setting of God’s people. An emphasis on the course seeks to apply principles that emerge from a biblical missiology to the contemporary world context.

GSO 355 | COMPASSION MINISTRIES (3 credits)
This course will challenge your understanding of compassion ministries. From looking at the biblical mandate and how the local church must be at the center of compassion, to the practical applications of what poverty really is and how to minister to the poor in their context. We dive deep into best practices for empowerment, ownership, sustainability, planning, monitoring and evaluation.

GSO 315 | GLOBAL MISSIONS STRATEGIES (3 credits)
An exploration of the strategic processes necessary to engage in the Great Commission including an overview of biblical examples, historical methodologies, the creation of a mission strategy, and the review of a current case study in mission strategy.

GSO 333 | CONTEXTUALIZING MINISTRY AND MISSIONS (3 credits)

This course is an in-depth study of the Missional Helix from a Pentecostal perspective to explore best practices in contextualizing missional strategies in various levels of ministry. Topics include The Missional Helix, holistic spiritual formation, missional formation, spiritual direction, training and equipping disciples, and missiological contextualization.

GSO 344 | CONTINUING THE MISSION OF GOD: AN EXAMINATION OF THE BOOK OF ACTS AND BEYOND (3 credits)
This course examines the Book of Acts to discover the inspired message of Luke regarding the establishing of the church in Jerusalem and the missional spread of the gospel to the ends of the earth under the guidance of the Holy Spirit.

ELECTIVE COURSES:

ESO 311 | LIFE FORMATION (3 credits) (For AG Credentials, substitute MSO 312: Ministerial Internship)
A practical study of the classic spiritual disciplines that are essential to lifelong spiritual formation from a Pentecostal perspective. The course will emphasize intentional and holistic applications in daily living.