1. Why the name Ekklesia? The Greek word Ekklesia is the word for “assembly,” or “church,” in the New Testament. Since Ekklesia is a church-based seminary we chose this name to convey that important aspect of the seminary.
2. Why a seminary such as Ekklesia Seminary? Ekklesia Seminary was birthed out of the desire for theological education to be reconnected to the local church. Along with connecting the seminary to the local church, Ekklesia seeks to provide greater accessibility for those not able to obtain such theological education.
3. What does it mean to be “church-based?” First, it means that a local church, Redeeming Grace Church, in Milton, Florida, gives oversight to the seminary. Second, it means academic training should take place in the context of local church ministry. We encourage a close relationship between local church leaders and students taking courses.
Degrees and Auditing
4. What are the degrees that Ekklesia Seminary offers? Ekklesia Seminary currently offers two degrees: the Master of Divinity degree (M.Div.) and the Master of Theological Studies Degree (M.T.S.). The M.Div. is primarily designed for those wishing to be an elder, full or part-time pastor, missionary, or other such leadership position. This consists of completing 90 credit hours of courses and fulfilling the requirements set forth by the seminary. The M.T.S. degree is normally for Christian men who do not aspire to an elder equivalent position but who do desire further theological training. This consists of completing 45 credit hours and fulfilling the requirements set forth by the seminary.
5. Can I take courses without signing up for the entire program? Yes, individual courses may be taken for credit without having to complete the entire degree program.
6. Can I audit courses if I am not interested in credit for a course and only want to take the course because I am interested in learning? Yes, courses can be audited without having to complete the entire degree program.
7. Can I take courses if I do not possess an undergraduate degree? Yes, men who do not possess undergraduate degrees may gain admission to the seminary but will not be granted a master's degree until a baccalaureate degree is completed. If such a student should obtain a baccalaureate degree he may petition the seminary in writing seeking approval to receive credit toward the Master’s degree for courses taken at Ekklesia.
8. Can Ekklesia Seminary legally grant degrees? Yes, Ekklesia Seminary has received a religious exemption from the Florida Department of Education. This allows the seminary to legally grant religious degrees without the oversight of the state of Florida.
9. What about accreditation? Accreditation is a long and expensive process. For the near future Ekklesia will not be accredited. Regardless of the accreditation, Ekklesia desires to provide a quality academic education that we believe would be accepted by any accrediting agency. Concerning the high standards Ekklesia desires to maintain, the distance education aspect includes some unique challenges. We will seek to maintain high standards while making theological training as accessible as possible. The training itself is of primary importance, accreditation less so.
9. How long does it take to complete a typical Seminary degree and what is a typical course load? It depends. The M.Div. degree is designed to be completed over three years at a rate of fifteen credit hours per semester. However, many students will take longer because of life circumstances.
Applicaton Information
10. What is required to apply to Ekklesia Seminary?
* Active church membership
* Completed application form
* Transcripts
* Three references
* Personal Testimony/Spiritual Autobiography
11. What should be included in the personal testimony/spiritual autobiography? A short description of your conversion, spiritual growth, desire to serve God, and reason for wanting to take courses from Ekklesia Seminary.
12. Who should I give as references? Normally a pastor(s), professor(s), and personal acquaintances.
Other
13. What is the cost? Ekklesia provides training at the low cost of $50/credit hour ($150/three hour course) and a $100/semester enrollment fee. However, Ekklesia does not want finances to hinder those called by God and desiring theological training. As much as possible, Ekklesia will provide financial assistance to help alleviate the costs for those with needs.
14. How can you provide this training at such low cost? God’s provision. It is only as God’s people support this ministry that Ekklesia will be able to operate at low costs and provide financial assistance. One reason more Christian organizations do not offer training at such low costs is because of the tremendous cost involved.